So I finally pulled the trigger and got myself a Golden Retriever puppy! I’ve always wanted one, and let me tell you, this little furball is a bundle of energy. But with a new puppy comes new responsibilities, and one of the first things I needed to figure out was the right kennel size.
Now, I did a bit of reading online beforehand, and it seemed straightforward enough. Golden Retrievers, from what I gathered, can get pretty big – like, 20 to 24 inches tall and up to 75 pounds! So obviously, a tiny crate wasn’t gonna cut it.
I went to the pet store, and man, was I overwhelmed. There were so many options! I stood in the aisle, looking all lost and confused. And I mean, it’s not just about the size; you gotta think about whether you want a wire one, a plastic one, or one of those soft-sided things. I spent a good hour just staring at them.
Eventually, a helpful staff member came over and asked if I needed a hand. I explained my dilemma – new Golden Retriever owner, totally clueless about kennel sizes. She was super helpful. I decided to use some advice from her that said Golden Retrievers need a space that is large enough for them to stand, sit and turn around comfortably.
She pointed me towards the larger crates and explained that it’s always better to err on the side of a bit too big than too small. I remembered reading that adult Golden Retrievers usually end up around 24-26 inches tall and 65-75 pounds. So, following her advice, I ended up getting a 42-inch wire crate. It seemed huge at first, but I figured my pup would grow into it.
I also grabbed one of those divider panels. The staff member suggested it, saying it’s useful for potty training. Basically, you can make the crate smaller initially so your puppy is less likely to have accidents inside. Smart, right?
Setting it up at home was a bit of a workout. It is heavy! But once it was in place, it actually looked pretty good. I tossed in a comfy bed and some toys, and it was ready for my little buddy.
Introducing my pup to the crate was another adventure. He was a bit hesitant at first, but with some treats and encouragement, he eventually ventured inside. Now, it’s his favorite spot! He goes in there to nap, chew on his toys, and just chill out. And when he wants to be around me, which is like, all the time, he whines and I open the door.
It’s been a few weeks now, and I think I made the right call with the 42-inch crate. He’s got plenty of room to move around, and as he grows, I can just adjust the divider panel. It’s also been a lifesaver for potty training – no accidents in the crate so far!
Here is my summary
- Size: I chose a 42-inch crate.
- Type: Wire crate with a divider panel.
- Reason: Provides enough space for an adult Golden Retriever and is helpful for potty training.
- Result: Puppy loves it, and it’s been great for training and providing a safe space.
So, if you’re a new Golden Retriever owner like me, I hope my experience helps you figure out the whole kennel size thing. It might seem daunting at first, but trust me, it’s worth it to see your pup happy and comfortable in their little den!
