Looking for a loving, medium-sized family dog with a gentle nature and smart, trainable personality? The O’Connell Retriever might just be the perfect match for your home.
Also known as Mini Retrievers, they are a relatively new Australian breed. Characterised by their affectionate nature, moderate size, and versatility. Developed to be the ideal family companion, this breed combines the best traits of retrievers and spaniels. In this blog post, we'll delve into the O’Connell Retriever's temperament, care requirements, and suitability as a family pet.
O’Connell Retrievers are known for their gentle and friendly disposition. They thrive on human interaction and are eager to please, making them excellent companions for families, singles, and seniors alike. Their sociable nature means they get along well with children and other pets. However, they may experience separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods, so they are best suited to households where someone is often home.
Yes, O’Connell Retrievers are intelligent and responsive to training. Their eagerness to please makes them quick learners, especially when positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise are used. Early socialisation and consistent training are recommended to ensure they develop into well-mannered adults.
O’Connell Retrievers are medium-sized dogs, typically weighing between 14 to 22 kg. They have a sturdy build, combining the robustness of retrievers with the agility of spaniels. Their size makes them adaptable to various living environments, from apartments to larger homes with yards.
Yes, regular grooming is essential to keep their coats healthy and free from mats. Their fur can be flat or wavy, with feathering on the legs and tail. Brushing two to three times a week is recommended, along with routine baths, ear cleaning, and nail trimming. They are moderate shedders, so regular grooming helps manage loose hair.
What Coat Colours Do O’Connell Retrievers Have?
O’Connell Retrievers come in a variety of colours, including:
This diverse palette adds to their visual appeal and uniqueness.
O’Connell Retrievers have moderate energy levels. Daily walks of 30 to 60 minutes, combined with playtime, are sufficient to keep them happy and healthy. They enjoy activities like fetch, swimming, and agility exercises. Their adaptable nature means they can be active when outdoors and calm indoors.
A balanced diet tailored to their age, weight, and activity level is crucial. High-quality commercial dog food, either dry or wet, formulated for medium-sized breeds is suitable. Portion sizes vary, but on average, an adult O’Connell Retriever requires about 1.5 to 2.5 cups of food per day, divided into two meals. Monitoring their weight and adjusting food intake accordingly helps prevent obesity.
The price of an O’Connell Retriever puppy in Australia can vary based on factors like breeder reputation and lineage. On average, expect to pay between $2,500 to $4,000. It's essential to choose a reputable breeder who conducts health screenings and follows ethical breeding practices. We work closely with Dr. Kate Schoeffel who is a pioneer of the breed in Australia.
While O’Connell Retrievers make excellent companions, they may not be suitable for everyone. Their need for human interaction means they can develop separation anxiety if left alone frequently. Like all crossbreeds, O’Connell Retrievers can inherit health issues from either parent breed. These might include hip dysplasia, heart problems, or eye conditions. Regular vet check-ups and a good diet are crucial, and selecting a reputable breeder can help to lower the risk of your dog developing these issues. At Lifetime Pets we take all possible precautions to ensure these health concerns are minimised, if not eliminated through our lineage. Lastly, if you're looking for a low-maintenance dog, the grooming needs of an O’Connell Retriever might be more than you're willing to handle.
The O’Connell Retriever is a wonderful example of thoughtful, ethical breeding - bringing together the best traits of beloved companion breeds to create a dog that’s gentle, trainable, and perfect for modern family life. Their moderate size, friendly temperament, and adaptable energy levels make them a fantastic fit for a wide range of homes.
If you're interested in learning more or welcoming an O’Connell Retriever into your home you can contact us HERE.
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