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15 Reasons Why Golden Retrievers Are the Worst Dogs in 2023

Why Golden Retrievers Are the Worst Dogs

Picture this: You’ve just brought home an adorable, fluffy Golden Retriever puppy. You’re excited, but little do you know, you’ve just signed up for a whirlwind of chaos, mess, and unexpected challenges. Sure, they’re cute and lovable, but are Golden Retrievers really the best dogs, or are they secretly the worst? Let’s explore “why Golden Retrievers are the worst dogs” and dive into the not-so-golden side of this popular breed.

Short Summary

  • Golden Retrievers: High energy, demanding, and shed like crazy
  • They are not ideal guard dogs & can turn home into a “disaster zone” with their messiness
  • Irresistible appeal but plenty of alternative dog breeds if they’re not your cup of tea!

Golden Retrievers: High Energy and Demanding

Golden Retriever running in the grass with a big smile on its face
Golden Retriever puppy running in the grass with a big smile on its face

Golden Retrievers are like the Energizer Bunny of the dog world – they just keep going and going! Two jaunty strolls each day, playing fetch games to their heart’s content, and taking them out for a good gallivant once a week is the exercise requirement for a Golden Retriever owner. This high energy and need for TLC might not be suitable for the chillest of chill folks who prefer a laid-back lifestyle.

These dogs also love their food, so it’s important to keep a tight watch on their food intake to avoid having a chonky pup on your hands. Maintaining a high-quality diet is essential to prevent them from overindulging and help keep them healthy.

Excessive Shedding

If you think shedding season is bad, wait until you meet a Golden Retriever. These furballs shed dog hair like there’s no tomorrow, which can be a real bummer for those who prefer a clean home. They shed more often than a bad joke – at least twice a year, especially when they change their warmer winter coat.

But fear not; there’s a solution! A top-notch diet is the key to keeping their healthy coat and shedding to a minimum. So, before inviting a Golden Retriever into your life, consider if you can handle the moderate shedding and if they are the right breed for you. It’s important to notice moderate shedding as a part of their natural process.

Barking Tendencies

Golden Retrievers are known to bark up a storm, which might make some people consider them the worst dogs. They might bark because they’re bored, anxious, territorial, excited, in pain, stressed, curious, or maybe they just like the sound of their own voice – not all Golden Retrievers bark for the same reasons.

To manage barking in Golden Retrievers, you can try diverting their attention with a command, teaching them the command “shush!”, pinpointing particular triggers, and training and behavior tweaking, which might be a challenge for those looking for a low-maintenance dog.

Health Issues in Golden Retrievers

Golden Retriever with a healthy coat and a warmer winter coat
Golden Retriever with a healthy coat and a warmer winter coat

A Golden Retriever may be cursed with hip and elbow dysplasia, aortic stenosis and heart problems, skin conditions, cancer, cataracts, epilepsy, and separation anxiety, which can affect how long Golden Retrievers live. Cancer and hip dysplasia are common health issues in Golden Retrievers but don’t worry, they still have plenty of pep in their step, just like any other purebred dog.

But wait, there’s more! They are also prone to aortic stenosis, heart problems, skin conditions, cataracts, epilepsy, and separation anxiety. Golden Retrievers have a relatively short shelf life, which might make you wish they could last as long as a laundry basket.

Lifespan Concerns

Golden Retrievers have an average life expectancy of 10-12 years, which is quite impressive for hunting dogs. However, their shorter lifespan is often attributed to their predisposition to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, heart conditions, and eye disorders, as well as their higher chance of getting cancer.

To ensure a happy and healthy life, it’s important to provide proper care, exercise, and diet to maintain a healthy coat and minimize the risk of these health issues. But, it’s tough for many owners to accept that their beloved furball won’t be around forever.

Importance of Reputable Breeders

It is absolutely essential for Golden Retriever owners to find a reputable breeder so they can keep their Golden Retriever from having any health issues – because who wants that? When buying a purebred Golden Retriever puppy, it’s crucial to find a good reputable breeder and ask for the health clearances of the puppy’s parents…or you could just get a pet rock.

Be sure to get a Golden Retriever from a trusted breeder, and don’t forget to ask for health insurance and clearance papers. To ensure your pup is as healthy as a horse, it’s important for a Golden Retriever owner to find a reputable breeder.

Training Challenges with Golden Retrievers

Golden Retriever stealing something from a laundry basket
Golden Retriever stealing something from a laundry basket

Golden Retrievers can be a bit headstrong and have a tendency to think they know what’s best, so training them can be a bit of a challenge. Early obedience training is a must for Golden Retrievers to become well-behaved dog and stay as cool as a cucumber with impeccable etiquette.

These clever canines also have a peculiar habit of pilfering and schlepping items in their mouth, which can be amusing and sometimes frustrating for Golden Retriever owners. Be prepared for your Golden Retriever to take a ‘souvenir’ home, like a glove or a tennis ball they found on the ground.

Stealing Habits

Golden Retrievers are notorious for swiping stuff and toting it around like a proud pup, which can be both amusing and challenging for Golden Retriever owners. They have a knack for swiping items and running off with them, making it a real challenge for a Golden Retriever owner to get their possessions back.

These furry thieves are known for stealing food, toys, and other miscellaneous knick-knacks. To curb their theft, owners can provide plenty of physical and mental activity, as well as keep valuables beyond their grasp.

Chewing Tendencies

Golden Retrievers have a proclivity to chomp on objects and to nibble your hands, which can be amusing, but their shedding can also result in a lot of dog hair around the house. They love to chew – it’s like they can’t help themselves, which can leave your house looking like a warzone and be a challenge for any Golden Retriever owner.

To prevent your home from turning into a demolition site, provide your Golden Retriever with plenty of chew toys and inspect your home for any suspicious wreckage. A content and well-exercised Golden Retriever is less likely to turn your house into a chew toy graveyard.

Not Ideal Guard Dogs

Golden Retriever playing in the mud
Golden Retriever playing in the mud

Contrary to popular belief, Golden Retrievers are not ideal guard dogs. They are overly friendly and greet strangers with a wagging tail and a slobbery kiss, which can be both endearing and sometimes overwhelming for a Golden Retriever owner. So, if you’re looking for a guard dog, you might want to consider another breed.

Someone who prefers to be a hermit and not mingle with the public should steer clear of a Golden Retriever, as they might not be the best fit for all Golden Retriever owners. These dogs are more likely to invite strangers in for tea and biscuits than to protect their territory.

The Messy Side of Golden Retrievers

Golden Retriever with a lot of dog hair
Golden Retriever with a lot of dog hair

Golden Retrievers are messier than a toddler’s playroom because they shed more than a snowstorm and love to get dirtier than a pig in mud. They often bring the great outdoors inside with mud and water, which can be both amusing and sometimes frustrating for Golden Retriever owners.

If you are a neat freak who likes to keep things simple and spanish, a Golden Retriever might not be the best choice for you. With their penchant for messiness, these dogs can leave a trail of chaos in their wake, making your home look like a disaster zone.

Separation Anxiety and Dependency

Golden Retriever with a sad face

Golden Retrievers are the canine equivalent of a clingy best friend – they suffer from separation anxiety and become hopelessly devoted to their owners, needing all the attention and companionship they can get. This can be both endearing and sometimes overwhelming for Golden Retriever owners.

To help these poor pups manage their separation anxiety and dependency woes, it’s essential to give them lots of exercise, mental stimulation, and companionship. With proper care and attention, your Golden Retriever’s dependency on you can become more manageable.

The Irresistible Appeal of Golden Retrievers

Golden Retriever playing with a tennis ball
Golden Retriever playing with a tennis ball

Despite their drawbacks, Golden Retrievers have an irresistible appeal that makes them one of the most sought-after four-legged family members around the globe. Their delightful characteristics and the owners’ own addiction to their cuteness make it hard to resist these charming dogs. So, while they may not be perfect, there’s no denying the allure of this lovable breed.

Golden Retrievers are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and friendly nature. They are.

Better Companion Options: Alternative Dog Breeds

If you’ve decided that a Golden Retriever isn’t the right fit for you, don’t worry – there are plenty of other dog breeds to consider. Labrador Retrievers, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, Great Pyrenees, Irish Setters, and Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are all charming alternatives with their own unique qualities.

Each breed has its pros and cons, so take the time to research and find the perfect canine companion to suit your lifestyle as a dog owner.

The Low Down

Golden Retrievers may be adorable and lovable, but they come with their fair share of challenges. From shedding and barking to health issues and separation anxiety, these dogs are not for everyone. However, their irresistible charm and unwavering devotion make them a popular choice for many dog owners. If you’re considering adding a Golden Retriever to your family, make sure you’re prepared to handle their quirks and provide them with the love, attention, and care they deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is bad about having a Golden Retriever?

For all their lovable qualities, Golden Retrievers require a lot of grooming to keep their double coats healthy, and can get quite large if overfed.

Daily workouts of 40-60 minutes are also essential for this breed to stay active and happy.

Do Golden Retrievers turn on their owners?

Although golden retrievers are usually gentle, there are circumstances that might lead them to become aggressive. Ultimately, it is best to stay vigilant to ensure that any potential issues do not escalate.

What age are Golden Retrievers the worst?

Adolescence – usually 6 months to 2 years old – is the worst age for Golden Retrievers, full of pent-up energy and unruly behavior. Don’t worry, though; you’ll get through it!

Are Golden Retrievers bad pets?

Golden Retrievers can make great family pets. They’re friendly, gentle, and high-energy, and with good socialization as a puppy, they will fit in well.

So don’t worry – Golden Retrievers are not bad pets!

What are some common health issues in Golden Retrievers?

Looks like our furry friends aren’t so invincible after all – Golden Retrievers can suffer from a range of health issues, including cancer, dysplasia, heart problems, skin conditions, and more.

These health issues can be serious and even life-threatening, so it’s important to be aware of them and take steps to keep your pup healthy. Regular vet visits, a nutritious diet, and plenty of exercise are all essential for keeping your pup in tip-top shape.

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2 Responses

  1. I have read the full article about golden retrievers and agree with some of the points mentioned especially the health issues and separation anxiety . Personally though on a positive note i could not speak highly enough about my son’s golden retriever . His temperament and loving nature makes my day when I see him .I love him dearly

    1. Like most dogs, and humans in fact, we all have our ‘issues’ but that’s what makes dogs people alike unique!

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