Unveiling the Adorable Stars: Decoding the Relaxium Commercial Puppies

The undeniably charming puppies gracing the Relaxium commercials are English Cream Golden Retrievers, also sometimes referred to as Rare White Golden Retrievers. Their light-colored coats and playful demeanor make them instantly appealing, perfectly aligning with the commercial’s aim to evoke feelings of comfort, relaxation, and overall well-being. They aren’t a separate breed but rather a color variation within the Golden Retriever family.

Delving Deeper: The Allure of English Cream Golden Retrievers

These delightful pups are more than just a pretty face (or rather, muzzle). They’re captivating audiences with their gentle nature and stunning appearance. While the term “English Cream Golden Retriever” might suggest a distinct breed, it’s important to understand their lineage.

Understanding the “English Cream” Misnomer

The term “English Cream Golden Retriever” is somewhat misleading. It doesn’t refer to a distinct breed, but rather to a specific color variation within the Golden Retriever breed. These dogs are characterized by their lighter-colored coats, ranging from a pale cream to a near-white hue. The term originated because these lighter shades are more frequently seen in European (particularly British) lines of Golden Retrievers.

Distinguishing Traits: Beyond the Color

While their coat color is the most obvious distinction, English Cream Golden Retrievers are generally believed to adhere to the breed standards set by kennel clubs for Golden Retrievers. This includes characteristics like their friendly temperament, intelligence, and eagerness to please. However, some breeders claim that English Cream Golden Retrievers possess a calmer demeanor than their American counterparts, although this is largely anecdotal and not consistently verifiable.

Why the Relaxium Choice Makes Sense

The choice of these puppies for the Relaxium commercial is strategic. Their light coloring evokes feelings of purity, tranquility, and peace. Their playful energy is tempered by their inherent gentleness, creating a visual representation of the calming effects Relaxium aims to provide. They tap into a primal instinct: the human fondness for puppies and our inherent desire to nurture and protect.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Relaxium Puppies

This section addresses common questions and concerns regarding the puppies featured in the Relaxium commercial, providing a comprehensive understanding of these adorable canines.

1. Are English Cream Golden Retrievers healthier than regular Golden Retrievers?

There’s no definitive evidence to suggest that English Cream Golden Retrievers are inherently healthier. Health issues in Golden Retrievers, such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, certain cancers, and heart conditions, are common across all color variations. Reputable breeders of any Golden Retriever, including those with lighter coats, should prioritize genetic testing and health screenings to minimize the risk of these conditions.

2. Are English Cream Golden Retrievers more expensive?

Yes, typically English Cream Golden Retrievers are more expensive than traditionally colored Golden Retrievers. This higher price tag is often attributed to their perceived rarity and the demand for their distinctive appearance. However, it’s crucial to ensure that you are purchasing from a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs, rather than simply capitalizing on the color trend.

3. Do English Cream Golden Retrievers shed a lot?

Yes, like all Golden Retrievers, English Cream Golden Retrievers are moderate to heavy shedders. They have a thick double coat that requires regular grooming to minimize shedding. Brushing several times a week, and even daily during shedding seasons (spring and fall), is essential to manage their coat and prevent matting.

4. What is the typical lifespan of an English Cream Golden Retriever?

The typical lifespan of an English Cream Golden Retriever is generally the same as other Golden Retrievers, averaging between 10 and 12 years. However, factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, and overall healthcare can significantly impact their lifespan.

5. How much exercise do English Cream Golden Retrievers need?

English Cream Golden Retrievers, like all Golden Retrievers, are energetic dogs that require a moderate amount of exercise. Daily walks, runs, or playtime in a fenced yard are essential to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. They also excel in activities like swimming, retrieving, and dog sports like agility.

6. Are English Cream Golden Retrievers good with children?

Yes, Golden Retrievers, including English Cream Golden Retrievers, are generally known for being excellent family dogs and are typically good with children. They are patient, tolerant, and playful, making them ideal companions for families with kids of all ages. However, as with any dog, proper socialization and supervision are crucial, especially around young children.

7. Are English Cream Golden Retrievers easy to train?

Yes, Golden Retrievers are renowned for their intelligence and eagerness to please, making them relatively easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, such as praise and treats. Early socialization and obedience training are essential to ensure they develop into well-behaved and well-adjusted adults.

8. Where can I find an English Cream Golden Retriever breeder?

Finding a reputable breeder is paramount. Start with your local Golden Retriever clubs and the Golden Retriever Club of America (GRCA) for referrals. Be wary of breeders who prioritize profit over the health and well-being of their dogs. Ask detailed questions about their breeding practices, health testing protocols, and the temperament of their dogs. Visit their facilities and observe the conditions in which the puppies are raised.

9. What health tests should a breeder perform on English Cream Golden Retrievers?

Reputable breeders should perform several health tests to screen for common health issues in Golden Retrievers. These tests typically include:

• Hip Evaluation (OFA or PennHIP)
• Elbow Evaluation (OFA)
• Cardiac Evaluation (OFA)
• Eye Examination (CERF/OFA)
• DNA Tests for genetic conditions

10. What are the grooming needs of an English Cream Golden Retriever?

English Cream Golden Retrievers require regular grooming to maintain their coat and prevent matting. This includes:

• Brushing several times a week (daily during shedding seasons)
• Occasional baths
• Regular nail trimming
• Ear cleaning

11. Are English Cream Golden Retrievers prone to any specific health problems?

While not specifically unique to the “English Cream” variety, Golden Retrievers as a breed are prone to certain health conditions, including:

• Hip Dysplasia
• Elbow Dysplasia
• Cancer (particularly lymphoma and hemangiosarcoma)
• Heart Conditions (subaortic stenosis)
• Eye Conditions (progressive retinal atrophy)

12. What are the key differences between English Cream and American Golden Retrievers?

The primary difference lies in coat color, with English Cream Golden Retrievers having significantly lighter coats. Some believe there are also differences in temperament and structure, but these are not universally recognized or scientifically proven. American Golden Retrievers typically have a wider range of coat colors, from light golden to deep red-gold. It’s essential to remember that genetics play a significant role, and individual dogs within each “type” can vary considerably.