Why a Golden Retriever Should be Your Next Addition

There’s no doubt that golden retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in today’s world. Either in real life or through social medias, nearly everybody knows somebody with a golden retriever. They are often referred to as the “most basic” dog breed by people who have never owned one and experienced why they are so special. If you’ve never had the pleasure of owning your own golden, you probably think they are a little over hyped. Well, I’m here to let you know that they aren’t, and here’s why.

Patience of a Saint

Golden retrievers are one of the absolute most patient dog breeds you can find, making them great dogs to be around children of all sizes and ages. They eat up any and all attention given to them, and they don’t discriminate who! Of course, all dogs must have proper training as a puppy continuing on into adulthood, but they are willing and want to please you, making training a breeze. I’ve personally seen eight to ten week old puppies able to follow all basic commands;

• sit
• stay
• down
• shake
• speak

They are incredibly easy to train, so don’t worry about hacking up five hundred dollars for a professional dog trainer, with a couple YouTube videos you could do it all yourself!

Fits In with All Activity Levels

They are active dogs who enjoy to play, and even make great hunting dogs if you train them to retrieve! Perfect for any age. Being extra gentle and kindhearted tends to draw children their way. Goldens have a playful side, perfect for the teen who loves a good game of tug-o-war. Since they’re easy to train, they make perfect dogs to take on adventures for the young adults exploring the world.

And throughout all the people they are perfect for, they are even still perfect for an older couple who has settled down. These retrievers are as content staying home and hanging out as they are traveling the world. They have a calm nature, giving them the qualities of a phenomenal, large house dog.

Easy Puppy

While during teething stages, puppies can get mouthy with shoes, couches, or anything else they shouldn’t be chewing on. If you supply your golden with a couple teething toys to relieve their pain, they tend to be one of the less destructive dog breeds. Once they’ve grown out of their chewing stages, they know the difference between what is a toy and should be chewed on and what is off limits.

Goldens tend to pick up potty training faster than the usual puppy. Where it took months to train my Jack Russel, I had my golden retriever trained in a matter of a couple weeks. Having a set feeding and walking schedule works wonders!

The only downfall of these dogs is their tendency to be heavy shedders. This can be a turnoff for new dog owners, but with regular grooming and vacuuming, it is all very manageable. In the long run their personalities make up for it!

Social and Loving

Golden retrievers are a great family dog, as they aren’t one to pick ‘their person’ like some dog breeds. They truly love every member of the family, and while they may favor one person a little more than the other, they always make sure they show their love to everybody. But if you’re single and like to take your dog on outings, have no fear. These dogs are great at socializing, they get along just as well with other dogs as they do other people. They enjoy all company, even horses and cats!

In short, golden retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds for many reasons. I could go on for days bragging about this breed because they are nothing short of amazing, and never fail to blow your mind with their smarts and will.

If you’re in the market for your next addition, I strongly encourage a golden retriever. You will have a loyal companion by your side for the rest of their life, and you’ll remember them years past their departure.