7 Hacks for Golden Retriever Owners That Will Make Your Life Easier
Golden Retrievers are some of the best companions you could ever ask for. They’re loyal, loving, playful, and just all-around great dogs.
But let’s be honest – as much as we love our Goldens, they do come with their fair share of challenges. From the endless shedding to their enthusiastic energy levels, living with a Golden can be an adventure.
Over the years, I’ve picked up some handy hacks that have made life with my Golden Retriever a whole lot easier. Whether you’re a new dog parent or have been living with a Golden for years, these tips will help you keep your home clean, your dog healthy, and your sanity intact.
1. Get a Good Quality Deshedding Brush

If you’re a Golden Retriever owner, you’re no stranger to shedding. Goldens have a double coat that seems to shed constantly, especially during the spring and fall.
One of the best investments you can make is a high-quality deshedding brush like the Furminator. It’s specifically designed to get rid of loose fur from both the topcoat and the undercoat, reducing the amount of hair floating around your house.
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A good deshedding brush helps you get ahead of the shedding problem by pulling out the loose fur before it falls all over your furniture and floors.
Regular brushing (at least a few times a week) can drastically reduce the amount of shedding and save you hours of vacuuming.
And hey, who doesn’t want less dog hair in their coffee?
2. Use a Kiddie Pool for Easy Bath Time

Bathing a Golden Retriever can feel like an Olympic sport. They’re big, they love water, and sometimes they’re not too thrilled about being bathed in the tub. A simple hack? Use a kiddie pool in your backyard for bath time.
Fill it up with water, grab some dog-friendly shampoo, and let your Golden splash around while you give them a good scrub.
Why It Works:
Not only does a kiddie pool give your Golden Retriever more space to move around, but it also keeps the mess outside. No more clogged drains or soaking wet bathrooms! Plus, many Goldens love water, so they’re more likely to enjoy the bath if it feels like playtime.
3. Frozen Treats for Hot Days

Golden Retrievers are prone to overheating, especially during the warmer months. To keep them cool and entertained, you can make frozen treats using their favorite ingredients.
Just blend some dog-safe fruits like bananas, blueberries, or watermelon with water or low-sodium chicken broth, pour the mixture into ice cube trays, and freeze.
Why It Works:
Frozen treats are a great way to help your dog cool down and stay hydrated. Plus, they’re easy to make, and your Golden will love the refreshing snack. On a hot day, nothing beats seeing your dog happily gnawing away at an icy treat.
4. Use a Harness Instead of a Collar for Walks

Golden Retrievers are strong dogs, and they can be pretty enthusiastic on walks. If your Golden tends to pull on the leash, consider switching to a harness instead of using a collar.
A front-clip harness can help reduce pulling by giving you more control without putting unnecessary pressure on your dog’s neck.
Why It Works:
Harnesses distribute the pressure more evenly across your dog’s chest and shoulders, reducing the risk of injury. Plus, a front-clip harness encourages your dog to walk beside you instead of pulling ahead. It’s a small change that can make your daily walks a lot more enjoyable for both you and your dog.
5. Tennis Balls in the Dryer for Dog Beds

Does your Golden Retriever’s bed start to look flat and sad after a few months? Here’s a hack to keep it fluffy: when washing your dog’s bed, toss a couple of tennis balls into the dryer.
The tennis balls help fluff up the stuffing and prevent it from clumping together.
Why It Works:
Tennis balls act like a natural agitator in the dryer, helping to redistribute the stuffing inside the bed, making it fluffy again.
Plus, if your dog loves tennis balls as much as mine does, they’ll probably get a kick out of seeing their favorite toy working its magic.
6. Dog Hair-Resistant Furniture Covers

No matter how often you brush your Golden, dog hair is going to end up everywhere—especially on your furniture.
Instead of fighting a losing battle, invest in dog hair-resistant furniture covers. These covers are designed to repel dog hair, making it easier to clean up.
Why It Works:
Furniture covers can save you from constantly vacuuming and lint-rolling your couch. When guests are coming over, just remove the cover, and you’ve got a fur-free sofa ready to go. It’s a quick, easy solution that keeps your home looking clean without much effort.
7. Use Puzzle Toys to Burn Off Extra Energy

Golden Retrievers are known for their high energy levels and love of play. If your dog has more energy than you can keep up with, try using puzzle toys to challenge their mind and keep them busy.
These toys are designed to engage your dog’s brain by making them solve puzzles to get to a treat.
Why It Works:
Puzzle toys keep your dog mentally stimulated, which helps burn off some of that boundless Golden Retriever energy without exhausting you in the process.
They also help reduce boredom, which can lead to destructive behavior in dogs with high energy levels. It’s a win-win—your dog gets to have fun, and you get a few minutes of peace.
Conclusion
Being a Golden Retriever owner is one of the most rewarding experiences, but it can come with its own set of challenges. By using these simple hacks, you can keep your Golden happy and healthy while making your life a little easier.
Whether you’re dealing with shedding, bath time, or trying to burn off your dog’s endless energy, these tips will help you enjoy every moment with your four-legged friend.
Thanks for reading, and I hope these hacks help you and your Golden live your best lives together!

I’ve spent 10+ years in dog training, digging into what makes dogs (and their humans) tick. At Smart Dog Learning, I share my no-nonsense, fun approach to training so you can enjoy life with a well-behaved, happy pup—no boring lectures, just practical results 😉