Sparky is a documented, purebred Golden Retriever who came to us as Sparks III, SN830292/02.

He is a high-energy dog for a 6-year-old. That said, he has presented no visible challenge to Foster Mom and Dad’s smaller but dominant Golden, also a neutered male. Sparky is still interested in the family cat, but seems motivated more by gentle curiosity than a desire to harass or bully.

Sparky is obviously new to the water, but has enjoyed graduated introduction to wading and playing in incrementally greater depths. So far, he hasn't taken the plunge into full-fledged swimming. Also, he is a pleasure to watch running, with his graceful gait and obvious joy in being permitted to expend his generous supply of energy.

He is a casual fetcher of things thrown, especially sticks and balls. He has responded well to leash training. Off the leash he still has the urge to socialize, both with other people and other dogs, but has shown improvement in coming when called.

While he is friendly, he does not seem to crave personal contact and affection as much as he just needs simple attention and interaction. If ignored, he wastes no time getting into mischief. He must be supervised or given plenty of rawhides to chew. Still, he needs to be crated or confined at night.

Sparky may be best suited for an area with lots of space to run, perhaps a farm or other rural setting. If that is not feasible, he needs a busy household with interesting people, challenging outdoor activities, and lots of vigorous running daily. Because his happiness depends upon his freedom to be active, he will be exuberant if his new home and surroundings offer few physical constraints.