variations in coat length and texture

[puppypangs]

Hi. I am seriously considering a golden retriever for our next family dog. I have viewed many of the pictures on this website and have noticed many variabilities. I have not however read much about the different coats with respect to length and texture. Are some short and straight haired or are these dogs just groomed that way. Does trimming your retriever cause it to grow in curlier? I prefer the shorter and straighter hair-is this identifiable in puppies? Thanks.

[CanadianGolden]

If you get a field-bred dog, it will likely have a shorter, thinner, dark red coat. Try Topbrass Kennels if you want a field dog. Goldens' coats vary in length and thickness; this is not a result of grooming.

[CaynCher]

[QUOTE= I prefer the shorter and straighter hair-is this identifiable in puppies? Thanks.[/QUOTE]

:dogbark Hi, If you could see the parents of the pup or at least some pictures it might help to identify what the adult pup would look like. Also, if you are interested in the field type, the pups seem to be smaller boned & not as heavy as the others. It's hard to tell just by looking a pup whether its hair will be curly or straight. Both of my dogs had straight hair as pups but one of them turned out wavey. They both have thick medium length coats as they are from both show & field lines. Good luck finding the right pup for you.

[mtee1958]

Also be aware that many pictures posted here are of young dogs. Bailey for instance is only 8 months old. He does not have his full length adult coat yet. I believe that comes around 1 - 1 1/2 years of age (help me here - am I right?). So you are seeing alot of young dogs who still have some growing to do.

[CaynCher]

I believe that comes around 1 - 1 1/2 years of age (help me here - am I right?).


:dogbark Hi, Cayenne did not get his adult coat until between the ages of 2-3 years old. My pup at 17mths still does not have his. After they blow their puppy coat, their coat may deepen in color & length each season. Also, I feel diet has a lot to do with coat appearance & individual dogs may have different rates of reaching maturity. :050

[mtee1958]

ah, so it is a seasonal thing? Makes sense for the thickness of the coat. I will be patient then -- just can't wait for all that long feathering!