Because golden retrievers love people, they do well in a family environment. They also love playing and participating in agility and competitive obedience. They’re also receptive to training and learn quickly. However, be sure to use a positive, happy tone when instructing your dog. Otherwise, they may respond with aggression or fear.
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They’re Friendly
A purebred golden retriever is friendly and affectionate towards all family members, including children. They are also gentle with other pets. These dogs aren’t territorial and can get along well with cats, other dogs, and even rabbits as long as they have been introduced to them from a young age. Bred to be retrievers, these dogs have a lot of energy and require plenty of activity. They do best in homes where someone is around during the day to play with them, take them on walks, and engage in other activities. They don’t do well when left alone for extended periods and may develop separation anxiety. They’re easy to train and are up for any challenge you put in front of them, including obedience training. They’re eager to please, so they’re often willing to learn tricks for treats and praise. This makes them excellent service and therapy dogs. These dogs don’t have a natural tendency to bark, but they will chew on things and dig in the yard if they aren’t given enough physical and mental exercise.
They’re Loyal
Golden retrievers love their humans and want to be around them constantly. They’re eager to please, and they take well to obedience training. They’re also excellent service dogs. They have high cognitive ability and can quickly understand complex commands. Their innate intelligence, combined with their emotional stability, makes them an ideal family dog. They’re patient and gentle with children, and they’re also good with strangers. They don’t have any aggressive tendencies, so they make great companions for seniors or people living alone. Goldens are active dogs, and they need regular physical and mental exercise. They’re suitable for apartments if they get at least two brisk walks daily and some daily play time (like playing fetch). However, they can become destructive or over-excited if they need to be exercised more. They may also tend to chew or mouth things, so you must supervise them around small objects. Also, they can develop hot spots—localized areas of inflamed and infected skin. This occurs more often in warm and humid environments or after swimming.
They’re Intelligent
Golden retrievers are a highly adaptable breed that can quickly learn obedience training, tricks, and other skills. Their intelligence also makes them great candidates for service and therapy dogs. Their natural playful dispositions make them fun-loving pets for families. They are known to collaborate with kids to create interactive games and activities in the house. However, they do best with a firm, confident pack leader to avoid behavioral issues. These dogs have high levels of physical and mental energy, so they love to exercise with their owners. They also like to go on outdoor adventures such as walks, hikes, and swimming with their people. They are good with other dogs, cats, birds, and even guinea pigs, provided they have been adequately socialized as puppies. They are affectionate and love to be touched, especially by their humans. They enjoy snuggles on the couch or bed and will act as a furry, breathing pillow while you sleep. They are also very calming when you’re feeling stressed or anxious. They’re also a great companion for road trips and other travel.
They’re Active
Golden Retrievers need regular exercise to maintain their mental and physical well-being. They love to play games, fetch, go for long walks, or run and swim. They’re natural athletes often used as service dogs for narcotics detection, search-and-rescue, and therapy. They get along well with kids and other pets. They’re also happy to greet strangers with a wagging tail and have a reserve of empathy that allows them to comfort those in need. These characteristics can sometimes result in excessive exuberance. This can lead to an aggressive temperament if not addressed early on. Fortunately, correcting aggressive behaviors through consistent obedience training and a firm pack leader is usually straightforward. Talk to a trainer or behavioral specialist if your dog exhibits these symptoms. Then, help them develop the confidence and strength to become a well-mannered member of your family.
They’re Cute
You can’t help smiling as soon as you see a golden retriever, and chances are they’ll smile right back at you. This affectionate breed is one of the most popular family dogs in America and gets along well with children, other pets, and even strangers. A kind expression, patience, and a willingness to be taught make this dog easy for new owners to train and adaptable to many lifestyles. They’re active but can also be content just hanging out and being with their humans, especially if they’ve got plenty of playtime. They enjoy romping around the yard, throwing sticks or squeaky toys into the air, and playing fetch. They’re up for road trips and love to be a part of the family while working from home or watching TV. Like most dogs, they enjoy cuddling. Cuddles release the feel-good hormone oxytocin, strengthening their bond with you and helping them develop trust. This is why they often lean on you and sometimes be reluctant to leave your side when you’re asleep! Like other retrievers, they carry things around, from food to paper, toys, and other items.
