Golden Retrievers are the worst dogs to own?! Is this even possible? They are one of the most popular pooches in households worldwide!
If you have never had a Goldie before, this is what you’re probably thinking. On the other hand, if you have ever owned one, you know they can be heaven and hell at the same time.
#1 Stubborn Geniuses
According to Stanley Coren’s study, which he published in the book, “The Intelligence of Dogs”, Golden Retrievers are the fourth smartest doggos in the world.
But, according to my friend, Betty, Goldens are the most stubborn doggos on the planet. Her furry buddy can do things that make her question whether it was the right decision to become a Golden Retriever owner.
Refusing to move during walks is one of his specialties, which is why she’s usually late for gatherings. I can confirm that Betty is really doing her best training her doggo, but he still has a mind of its own, just like the pooch from this video:
#2 Shedding Masters
If you own a Golden Retriever, I suppose people are already used to seeing you covered in dog hair. I know this isn’t your favorite accessory, but it is what it is.
Golden Retriever owners are probably one of the most common customers in home appliance shops, or at least Betty is.
One day, we spent almost an hour on the vacuum cleaner aisle just because she was trying to find a magic vacuum that would help her finally get rid of the dog’s fur from her carpets. Of course, the search was without success.
But, I showed her this video, and although it looks funny, it actually works for her.
Liams_Mommy, a member of the Golden Retriever Forum, shared a photo of what her living room looks like after a brushing session:
#3 They’re Everything But Guardians
The only thing a Golden pup would do if there was a trespasser in your back yard is come and ask for a pet.
If you’re looking for a dog that will guard you and your family, this is definitely a breed you should avoid.
Betty usually says this is the part she loves and hates about her doggie at the same time.
Although Betty’s super happy about the fact that she doesn’t have to keep him behind her every time people walk by, she’s also annoyed by the number of people she has to talk to during a walk simply because her dog is an extrovert (and she’s not).
Therefore, if you’re an introvert, then a Golden Retriever is probably the worst dog breed you could own.
#4 The Golden Shadow
From personal experience, and Betty’s adventures, I can definitely tell that Golden Retrievers do not become just pets, but shadows of their owner.
It’s practically impossible to leave them alone without at least another animal (if you’re not around).
Separation anxiety hits these pooches hard, and it easily turns them into a destructive mess, which leaves your furniture and slippers heavily chewed. [1]
Their bond with their owner might sound cute at first, but there’s nothing adorable about a dog following you to the bathroom at two o’clock in the morning.
Proper training and lots of patience might help, but there are still low chances that your Goldie will become completely independent and calm while you’re away.
#5 Everything Tastes Good
Goldies love to eat, and I mean they reeeally love to eat. This pooch will come to you just after finishing his meal with the cutest puppy eyes you have ever seen to ask for more food.
According to a 2012 study published by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, 62.7% of Goldies are classified as overweight dogs by their vet, which is not a surprise considering how persistent they can be until they get more food.
It would be an easy solution to just stop giving your pet more than he should eat, but you can’t always prevent them from grabbing leftovers from the table or eating food they find at the park.
Also, I don’t know why, but some people like to feed other people’s pets, so even if you don’t overfeed your doggo, someone else might; therefore, keep a close eye on your Goldie at all times.
#6 Golden Sees, Golden Takes
Yep, these American pooch sweethearts are one of the most adorable thieves that not only steal your heart, but other animals’ (or peoples’) possessions, too.
I still remember Betty’s face when her dog took her underwear from the laundry basket and proudly carried it in his mouth while marching through the living room (thank God I was the only guest she had at the moment).
Therefore, if you’re a Golden Retriever owner and you’re missing a sock, it’s probably either buried in the yard or under the couch.
#7 In Sickness And Health, ‘Till (Early) Death Do Us Part
Unfortunately, Golden Retrievers are prone to various health issues, which is why they usually don’t live as long as Chihuahuas or other long-lived breeds.
I wouldn’t say they’re the worst dogs because a lot of them get sick, but it’s really painful to watch your pooch struggling, especially if you can’t help him in any way.
However, there are still good people out there, like peeps from Morris Animal Foundation, who are leading a long-term study on the Golden Retrievers’ lifespan and health risk factors. The CEO of the foundation gave an excellent explanation on this topic in a YouTube video:
#8 The Road To The Ground Is Paved With Cuddle Intentions
Even if I tried to convince you that Golden Retrievers are the worst dogs to own, I couldn’t, considering that the American Kennel Club listed them as the third best family dog breed in the world.
However, beware of the paws that are looking for cuddles, especially if those paws are coming towards your kids. Your Golden Retriever might not be aggressive, but keep in mind that he’s not aware of his size.
A Goldie wants to be petted by everyone, even small children, and will act as a lap dog, which might result in a kid being knocked down to the ground.
But, don’t get hard on your pup if that happens – remember, he just wants to play.
#9 If He Fits, He Sits
Do you have a favorite spot in the house? Well, say goodbye to it because it belongs to the royal majesty Golden Retriever now.
Okay, to be honest, this trait isn’t exclusive to Goldens only, but that’s what usually happens when you own one.
Also, Goldens don’t really take ‘no’ for an answer, especially if they find a cozy area to lay around in. Therefore, no matter how hard you try to get your doggo from your new sofa, there’s almost no chance you’ll actually do it.
Training might help, but if you want to save your time and energy, it’s just easier to let them sit where they want.
RELATED: 7 Reasons Why Your Dog Steals Your Spot In The House
#10 Is It A Golden Retriever Or Peppa Pig?
What is a Golden Retriever’s favorite hobby? Playing in muddy puddles! Therefore, don’t be surprised when your dog turns into Peppa Pig and rolls in mud until the last strand of his fur is covered in it.
This basically means that your house will never be spotless, and you’ll probably find mud traces everywhere, especially if your pup runs into the house before you get to the wet wipes.
If this is something you can live with, then you are the perfect Golden Retriever owner.
#11 They’re Irresistible
One of the sweetest reasons why Golden Retrievers are the worst dogs is that no matter how much mess they can make, you can rarely stop with owning just one.
As Betty would say: “His puppy eyes make me forgive everything bad he does, but the worst part is that it makes me want another doggo like him.”
Do you agree with her? I do.
Wrapping Up
So, here it is – 11 reasons why Golden Retrievers are the worst dogs. Didn’t think I would make it this far, right?
Well, even the best of the best have some flaws, including Golden Retrievers. They might be all cute and stuff, but these doggos flip their lids sometimes as well.
However, this doesn’t mean their owners love them less because of their occasional naughty behavior, although Betty sometimes looks like she’s losing her mind with her Golden boy.
References:
1. ASPCA. “Separation Anxiety.” Retrieved on April 25, 2023 from https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/common-dog-behavior-issues/separation-anxiety