Negative Golden Retriever Attributes: [Archive] - Top Golden Retriever Sites Discussion Forums

johnwa

01-17-2005, 02:05 PM

I'm going to list a number of issues that I feel are relevant to this thread. I get to many emails from owners that want to give up their dog to a rescue because they are hyper, did not provide training when the dog was younger, did not understand anything about the breed, they got a golden retriever because the puppies where "cute", and so on.

Hyperactive(*)
If you acquire a golden retriever from field lines, chances are that you will have a high-energy, strong willed dog on your hands. If you are not prepared to provide training and exercise for your dog, then perhaps this breed is not for you. In their younger years, these dogs may continue to be "hyper", even with proper training and exercise. Remember: the golden retriever is a sporting breed, and was originally created to be a hunting and field partner.

Money(*)
Vet bills cost money. Food costs money. Grooming costs money. Accessories cost money. I can't put it any plainer than that. If you are not financially prepared for dog ownership, get a goldfish.

Health problems.
Unfortunately, the golden retriever has inherited some health problems, such as Hip Dysplasia, eye, heart, endocrine disorders, and cancer, just to name a few.

Raising a puppy(*)
Raising a golden retriever puppy can be a challenge, to say the least.

People Oriented Dogs(*)
Golden retrievers are highly social, people oriented dogs. If you are not going to be home much or if you can't provide proper socialization and interaction with your dog, the breed is probably not for you.

Obedience Training(*)
Your dog will require a degree of proper training. Again, if you don't plan to provide this, I would pass on the breed.

Hair/Shedding.
Golden Retrievers shed all year round. If you have a very low tolerance for dog hair in your home and/or carpets, or if someone in your home is allergic to dog hair, then the breed may not be for you.

Guard Dog(*)
The golden retriever was not designed to be a guard dog. They may bark at strangers that come on their territory, but that's about it. I would not acquire the breed for guard duty. Golden retrievers don't do very well when left by themselves 24 x 7 in someones backyard as a guard dog.

<br><hr><br>
<b>*</b> I don't necessarily consider this item to be a negative attribute, in the strictest sense of the word. I only mention it because many owners have approached us with problem issues regarding this attribute.

angenbear

01-17-2005, 03:07 PM

Goldens have sensitive stomach--changing food should be limited, goldens will let you know how it affects their system

Goldens are oral fixators, so they may have a trigger that makes them possessive over a toy, food

They love to put anything in their mouth.

And love to get into everything!

Dogli

01-17-2005, 07:41 PM

Shedding is a big negative and so is how they put everything in their mouths.

Harshy

01-18-2005, 03:31 AM

Shedding and also what I call the "Nosey & Taily Syndrome". Harley is always either sticking her nose into something to smell or even to just push around with her nose and also because of her size & wagging tail she can very easily knock things over. Tall wine glasses beware! I always warn guests "Watch out for Nosey & Taily"! :)

theGoldenPup

01-18-2005, 01:37 PM

Learn quickly, genetic/health problems, high drive (...taking me a looong while to learn to use it to my advantage!...), popularity.

GoldenPup

Rocky's Mom

01-19-2005, 08:19 PM

My husband thinks the non-guard dog issue is a negative.....I personally like the fact that they LOVE everyone and everything. I NEVER worry about how he will react. The most negative thing I have expereinced with both my Goldens (males) was that they were both very excitible...high energy and did not calm down easily. I didn't so much have a problem with it, but when people came to visit who weren't real dog lovers, they always felt my dogs were "too much". Both my dogs were thieves also......always took stuff that wasn't theirs!! You all have mentioned shedding year round...my first one(Joshua) lived his whole life in NJ and only shed in spring, into summer. Rocky lived 3 years on NJ and now in VA....he sheds more here, but still not all year. Along those lines, GR are not "wash and wear" dogs when it comes to swimming like Labs are.

Dogli

01-20-2005, 07:29 PM

Learn quickly, genetic/health problems, high drive (...taking me a looong while to learn to use it to my advantage!...), popularity.

GoldenPup
Personally I think that learning things quickly is a good thing.

theGoldenPup

01-20-2005, 07:37 PM

Not always! It means they can pick up 'bad' 'habits' quickly too!

GoldenPup

goodtim'n

01-20-2005, 07:49 PM

I agree, GoldenPup::: You can teach them the, WRONG, thing (without realizing it) just as fast as the, RIGHT, thing!!! :dogbark

FurryBaby

01-20-2005, 10:34 PM

I agree with all of the posts. If you're a neat freak & need your space a golden isn't the right breed for you. Shedding... EVERYWHERE.. even in your food, helping with the CLEAN dishes, CLEAN laundry, etc. etc. Golden's are attached to your hip from the moment you bring them home. Even when you go to the bathroom... forget about privacy! :p

* mischievious
* energetic- needs lots of exercise (mental & physical)
* very oral
* MUST be trained

elvira

01-22-2005, 09:23 AM

They like to lay down in mud pools, roll in dead animals or other things that smell bad. I can't understand that no one else came with this. I always have a muddy,dirty golden when it has rained. And some months ago, he found a dead deer and rolled in it. I smelled were he was, even at a great distance.

And a male can be very strong (and heavy).
Now I have a male, the shedding is less. I think labradors are worse, because those short hairs are very hard to remove.

Not guarding is a pro, for me.

Everyone wants to pet your dog. They are so sweet. I'm waiting to go further for serveral minutes because all the children think he is a fluffy teadybear.

goodtim'n

01-24-2005, 09:11 PM

When you are sitting at your puter and typing away :094 in response to a thread and all of a sudden the big, "I WANT A PET, "NOW", dog, (which is a golden) comes along and you see eveything you've been typing goes to #$@$. Gotta Love'Em :dogbark

angenbear

01-24-2005, 09:41 PM

They can destroy stuffed toys like it's nothing! Strong teeth, so they can destroy toys if not made from rubber.

lvngold

01-25-2005, 06:05 AM

Shedding has been the biggest negative but thats OK, I would not trade for anything. Thank goodness I have central vac!

GoldenFrost

01-25-2005, 09:43 AM

I agree with all of the posts. If you're a neat freak & need your space a golden isn't the right breed for you. Shedding... EVERYWHERE.. even in your food, helping with the CLEAN dishes, CLEAN laundry, etc. etc. Golden's are attached to your hip from the moment you bring them home. Even when you go to the bathroom... forget about privacy! :p

rofl3
For sure, What's a sandwich without a big blonde hair in it?

FurryBaby

01-25-2005, 04:07 PM

rofl3
For sure, What's a sandwich without a big blonde hair in it?

I couldn't have said it better myself! HAHAHAHAHA!!!! rofl3

mtee1958

01-26-2005, 07:05 AM

I would say the oral thing is the biggest for me. Of course I'm in puppy stage still, so I have a very curious animal on my hands.

I can handle the shedding as I find the grooming to be fun and I like to do that - so I'm ok.

Getting in enough exercise during the cold winter months is proving a challenge.

goodtim'n

01-27-2005, 10:32 PM

If you own older males, and you have a younger bitch pup growing up with them,,,She WILL rule the roast, right from the get go!!!!!! Men they are so easy to wrap around the paw , Is that a NEGATIVE??? Or a PLUS for us, GALS!!! :029 banana cheerleade

German_Shep

01-30-2005, 09:12 AM

I have found this breed to be excessively needy. Yes, they need human interaction, but any potential owners should realize you will not only give up your own time, but any time you might devote to other people. Just my opinion.

lotsagoldies

02-01-2005, 10:21 AM

NEEDINESS!!! I LOVE my goldens w/ all my heart, but I swear I could pet Bailey for 4 hours straight and she would still not be satisfied and lift my hand up for more with her head!! :confused: Gracie, Stella and Otis are content with petting, snuggling, treats and then playing on their own, not Bailey!

Jo Ellen

02-01-2005, 11:10 AM

They like the cold.

Even in subzero temperatures, Daisy would love nothing better than to go outside and play. Gotta love her enthusiasm and I wish I could be just like her, but I'm NOT

We are at odds in the wintertime, more often than not :cool:

GoldenBlaze

02-01-2005, 01:32 PM

I can honestly tell you I don't have anything negative to say about Blaze, shedding is not a big deal for me as Blaze shedds very little. Might be his coat not sure but once the puppy fur was gone he hardly sheds at all... only when I brush him. :)
he is perfect, never did he chew a thing or touch anything he was not allowed to have. I will always have goldens now and I hope they are all like Blaze.

clement's golden rule

02-01-2005, 02:24 PM

I would say that if you've a commitment phobia, that a golden, is not for you.. they will endear themselves to you, and demand your attention.. if they don't get it, they'll devise other ways, to encourage you. I never thought that I would be commited to snowpants, and large boots, and all type of foul weather gear, but here I am, regardless of weather, beating a trail with the boyz.. they demand exercise, and if they don't get it, they'll let you know, with chewing exercises, and hyper exercises, and various other sorts of entertainment for themselves that you might find, obnoxious at the very least. I sometimes feel that they are too smart for their own good, most days, and I agree, that you have to be one step ahead of them, and thinking and rethinking, how and what you are training them to do... cuz, it'll back fire on you , in a heartbeat. they only want to learn, they don't care what it is. they will perfect it, in a matter of a week, usually a day. You have to start thinking like a dog.. That's a negative..doesn't come easy some days... I feel as though the time issue, can be a negative, if that's something that you're not willing to commit to. after that, the shedding, vet bills, and food costs, are small potatoes...

koda_dad

02-03-2005, 04:09 PM

2 words somes it up for me...

drooooooooool......and lots of it.

shedding.

Other than that....they are perfect :029 :029 :029 :029 :029

kinseysmom

02-17-2005, 12:08 AM

;) Yes..the

1. shedding BUT brush/comb daily....it eliminates shedding by like 90%. I swear!

2. Sensitive tummy? Never known that to be a problem and Kinsey's not our "virgin" Golden. If sensitive tummy is an issue (we have a severe problem with our Finny, who is NOT a Golden), I suggest a food with one protein source. A food from a specialty store. Solid Gold Holistique....California Natural, Natural Balance (try Duck and Potato) - sensitive tummies usually go hand in hand with allergies. Most often the sensitive tummy is a result of the dog and allergy to something in the food....try to avoid wheat at all cost.

3. Someone in this thread mentioned the Goldens as being "excessively needy". Oh dear. I hope that dear poster does not have a Golden in the family. Goldens think they're people. That's all there is to it. If you do not desire to treat and love your Golden as you would one of your children......do not get a Golden. Please. It's not fair to the Golden. I don't care about the human...it's not fair to the dog.

4. GoldenFrost mentioned the Goldens being "at your hip"...well, that's just cute as far as I'm concerned. And she also mentioned the Golden keeping you company in the bathroom. And? rofl3 Hey..who else will keep you company in there? I read Sports Illustrated to Kinsey. I read Tom Clancy to her. I discuss world events. I complain about my husband....heck...Goldens are people. They don't think we are part of their species....they are smart enough to realize they are part of ours!!

5. Guard dogs? rofl3 Remind me to tell you about Maddie, our first Golden and her "guard dog" qualities! rofl3 rofl3 Oh..I'll tell you now.........
The Sheriff lives directly behind us and one night my daughter and I "heard" something. I called Tim immediately. (this was pre-security system) I gave Tim our garage door opener code and told him to check everything and come in to the house and yell upstairs at me when things were secure. Well, dear "guard dog" Maddie didn't bark, growl, snarl, attack or anything when Tim came through the garage door. No...she licked and kissed him to death. Yes....we got a security system right after that!

doggles

02-18-2005, 01:00 PM

Goldens think they're people.

Do they ever! My guy is only 8 months old but he has developped such a personality all of his own. He is a pure delight. The only problem is that he busts into the washroom while it's in use. He swats the door open with his paw. It's cute and all but he is needy!

I think the most difficult thing about having a golden is the puppy factor. The first 3 months that we had him were borderline hell. It was a challenge unlike any I've experienced before. I've had a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever and the experience of the early months of puppyhood were vastly different. Our golden was ridiculously needy, we could not be out of his sight and he would bark until we pick him up in our arms. It took him a long time to get used to us and our home. Now he is part of the pack and knows it. He's still needy but in a good way (wanting pets, demanding attention, needing to know the rules of football, etc..).

Goldens are also the biggest food moochers I have ever seen.

...I wouldn't have it any other way.

HenryWI

02-18-2005, 02:12 PM

It's tough to come up with a negative, but my ONLY complaints are:
1) The neediness. Now, this is partly something I love about him- he loves us sooo much and is a constant companion. However, that can lead to us feeling VERY guilty when he doesn't get his 12 hours/day of playing ball or being pet!!!
2) No protection with a Golden! I'm a petite lady and out alone with the dog quite a bit, and sometimes wish Henry would be more protective if we're approached by strangers! My mom has a Golden/Lab/maybe part Rottweiler (looks like a HUGE yellow lab!) who would scare the daylights out of anyone who tried to hurt my mom. Henry would just wag his tail and say hello!

Honestly though, my list of positives is at about 1000, so 2 negatives isn't so bad. OH- not sure if this is a negative, but any trip in public with Henry takes twice as long. Everyone we meet MUST pet this adorable friendly pup!
:p

clement's golden rule

02-18-2005, 04:16 PM

GoldenLady

02-18-2005, 05:10 PM

I think that you might be surprised, if you really were in harms way.. Goldens are sociable creatures, but I think that they have an inate sense about good/evil.. they'll come to your defense, if waggin and wigggling doesn't work...don't underestimate their charm... they have chivalry as well...

I agree - while Goldens are happy, friendly, sociable dogs under normal conditions (and "normal" encompasses all of the conditions any of us should hope to ever have to encounter!), they, like most dogs in general, are also very tuned into their owners. We've all noticed how our dogs watch us, how they listen to us when we're talking, how they respond to tone of voice and body language, and how they sometimes seem to sense our moods and feelings before we ourselves are even aware of them.... I sincerely believe that *if* the time were to come when something really bad were to happen, even a friendly, easy-going dog like a Golden *would* instinctively know something was wrong, and we just might see a very different side of them.

curlyjoe_mom

02-18-2005, 08:48 PM

My GR has protected me from several dog attacks. Otherwise he is a very sweet guy. Just remember to walk the dog on a leash!

happygold

02-26-2005, 06:10 AM

Popularity is a negative because many folks only see the highly trained Dog ....Air Bud/Fluke/commercials(That Pepsi one!)...and that inspires many first time dog owners who don't know the questions to ask before purchase.Tho with the internet many are researching...That is one reason why this site is such a service to the breed.
I also think it depends on ones family/commitment whether a quality is a negative.
There are so many folks who get a Golden Retriever for their first dog....And many times end up with a field Golden pup from a backyard breeder.(Many fieldtypes in No.Minnesota).Won't go into the potential health issues.
I can say tho that if a busy family has very young children and dosen't have time to run/exercize (with)this type of dog regularily and often and for growingly extended periods of time throughout the first 3 yrs,this isn't the dog for you.
Also Goldens need stuff to do with their mouths ...and one must be prepared to work with this early especially with young children.
I can speak for my experience with Jack(coming up 2 in April)
that a happy Golden is one that is always learning new things and polishing old skills....and generally having fun.Lots of fun.
Oh yes and they don't belong kenneled outdoors all day and night.

diiorio

03-13-2005, 06:46 AM

Negitive:

To damn cute and pretty.

Additive breed: Once you have gold, everything else is just copper.

CaynCher

03-16-2005, 07:35 AM

They are very very strong so they need obedience training. I don't have any problems with leaving my two home alone, they just sleep.

GoldenParadise

05-21-2005, 07:53 PM

As Johnwa said, Goldens are sporting dogs. They need an outlet for their energy, especially Field type Goldens. If they are not matched with the right family, it can be a disaster.

They are needy compared to many other breeds. They need a great deal of companionship, attention, exercise, and proper training to become good citizens and good members of the family.

If they don't get those things, they can quickly become incorrigable, and difficult to control.

Goldens have a lot of genetic problems. Hips, heart, thyroid, allergies, etc. They require proper nutrition to help to offset some of these problems, when young. Proper exercise is a must, as well. Too much too young can cause serious problems. Too little can cause other problems.

Grooming isn't necessarily a difficult task with a Golden. Yes, they blow coat a couple of times a year, but many are wash and wear. Towel dry, run a brush through once a week and they're fine. Bathing isn't necessary often, but it is important to dry them fully after a bath or swimming to avoid skin problems.

Many Goldens are exceptionally smart. If you don't find something for them to do so that they can use their intelligence in a constructive manner, they can become destructive and unruly.

For a family who brings home a Golden, and is committed to training it, loving it, and caring for it forever, things will be wonderful. For someone who thinks they can slide on the basics, and just have a cuddly lap dog, they're in for quite a shock.

Any Golden can learn to be a great dog, but not every family can give a Golden what it needs to fulfill it's wonderful potential.

Cypress

07-26-2005, 05:58 AM

THe only really negative for me is the shedding, but we've learned to deal with it. New tile floor, lots of lint rollers.
Being needy is a positive for me -- I wanted an overly affectionate dog. But I see how some folks need more independence in a pet. Having a golden is also an investment in TIME -- time to train them properly, exercise them, play with them, take them to the vet. If you are constantly running around and have zero time to devote to the Golden Retriever, DON"T GET ONE. Puppies of course take a lot of attention, but grown up dogs need a lot of time devoted to them to keep them mentally and physically happy. It's time spent that keeps ME mentally and physically happy, too.
Vet bills, food bills come with any dog. Shedding is the most Golden specific negative I can think of....

sammygirl

08-08-2005, 10:42 AM

this is a really hard question to answer, i dont want to think anything about my sammy is negative!!! but, she does DIG like crazy, anywhere she finds dirt, she is all over it!!!! Other than that i dont even mind the shedding!!! she really is a great dog, true companion- a negative would be having to picture my life without my baby! she follows me to the bathroom (which i think is a trip), and yes she is needy, and i love every second of it, maybe im needy too!!! :032

sundog

08-20-2005, 08:44 AM

I get so much joy from my girls that the negatives aren't really there. Dogs shed, big deal.
The biggest negative for me is that they can't go everywhere with us! :) (like to work, restaurants, shopping malls, etc.)
LOL - I wish I could sew a little vest for them to say that they are service dogs! :laugh2 then maybe I could get away with it! :laugh2 Yeah, right! :rolleyes:

curlyjoe_mom

08-20-2005, 06:07 PM

I'm glad I am not the only one thinking about the vest idea!!

Sandra

08-21-2005, 01:36 AM

My dogs do not have shedding problems at all, so I can not state that is a problem. :D The only problems I sometimes acknoledge is that they are too big for going in restaurants etc. Goldens are pigs, they like their freedom, like to run, love mud, producing big holes, like to be in the house, like company, like doing things with mom etc., are very smart so you must teech them a lot to give them spirit. If you do not like that, I believe you are not fit for having a Golden. :p

Greets,
Sandra, Stanley and Whooper

Shannon

08-21-2005, 09:56 PM

I know, I'm reading the list of "negatives," going, "That's why I wanted a golden!" The shedding isn't kind to my black clothes (which I constantly wear because it goes with everything), but whatever -- I have a lint roller, problem solved.

The biggest negative for me is that even though I wanted a high-energy dog, if I'm not able to give her as much exercise on a given day as I think I should, I feel horribly guilty. I always feel like I should be doing more with her, and I feel bad if I have to go somewhere that doesn't allow dogs.

Another negative (depending on your perspective) is that goldens aren't fussy, meaning that they do not respond to deterrents like Bitter Apple (my golden and my sister's love the taste of it). Abby will eat anything. Also, my pup doesn't always act odd if she's hurt/feeling sick. She'll act completely normal, then I'll notice something and go, "Why are you so happy? You have a horrible bug bite!" or whatever the problem of the day is. So you have to be really vigilant, because goldens aren't "complainers."

Jo Ellen

08-23-2005, 09:29 AM

They've got eyes that just don't quit ...

http://pic4.picturetrail.com/VOL707/3456374/7102662/106060918.jpg

sunflowergirl

08-23-2005, 11:10 AM

As far as negatives go Goldens to me only have 1#,SHEDDING!Anything else you should expect when you have a dog!I have been around a lot of different kinds of dogs,from little bitty to giant and they all at some point,slobber,stick wet nose in your bum,steal underwear,leave muddy paw prints,smear drool on car windows,run around like a nut!.I have a good vacuum and a sense of humor! :reddogx

JennyBeer

08-31-2005, 06:26 AM

My goldie has dug up my entire back yard and killed all of my shrubs, but that's just outside stuff.. as long as she hasn't eaten shoes, remote controls, furniture, etc like my lab did, I can deal with her killing shrubs.

RooseveltUSMC

09-25-2005, 07:03 PM

My only concern with the new Golden was the size. Our first Golden Czar Niccoli (someone stole him two years ago) :( He was HUGE like Clifford the Big Red Dog...HUGE although I had seen the Bitch and the Sire he was twice their size.

My husband checked the parents of Roosevelt and also checked as to previous puppy size. Roosevelt should be average size :)

I just talked the the breeder and let her know how pleased we are with Roose :029 I told her he was VERY calm for a Golden she said the Mom they call lazy her favorite thing is to be petted.

We have hair everywhere cause we have three Maine Coon cats so a lil more won't matter. We have just installed parquet floors and its funny to watch him slide around after his bath. rofl3

The only other dog I would have is a Keeshound. We had a beautiful one for 14 years until we had to put her down. :(

JennR

10-04-2005, 04:44 PM

Our biggest problem was most certainly hair!!!! Well, and the vet bills, but when you rescue an oldie but goodie, it's worth every penny, and you just tend not to look as you write the check (or charge it so it's a little more anonymous mixed in with all the other bills). :)

To make everyone (including Lucy) happy, we decided to keep her shaved - and she is quite happy with that as well.

She is 11 now, and looks like a little wrinkled old lady!

lian

10-05-2005, 12:26 AM

Negative traits: They don't live forever.

The emotional blackmail. It's the BIG puppy eyes. It's ALWAYS the big puppy eyes.

Goldens are bad for your legs. Goldens are always too eager to jump on your lap. Even though they weigh a ton.

Note: About fur on black clothing, I'm ALWAYS happy to have fur on my black clothing because I'm proud to be a golden owner!

Arielle

10-06-2005, 01:52 PM

The ONLY negative as far as I am concerned is the health problems due to overbreeding, with cancer at the top of my list.

The shedding, the energy, the drooling, the connected at the hip, the tearing toys apart and having to pick the stuffing up ten times a day, it's all a gift as far as I am concerned. If the cancer could be eradicated (sp??) then you would never hear me utter a complaint about any of the other stuff, ever.

I've lost both my boys to cancer, and would take all of the above times ten thousand if they could have been healthy and died of old age. Just hoping Mollie doesn't get it at this point, and it's partly why I got a breed other than a Golden when I got tara, the whole cancer thing, just not ready to face it again yet. It's too prevailent. (again sp??) I know I will eventually have more Goldens (how could I not???) but I have to be ready.

IMO these guys are our earth angels, it's all plusses as far as I am concerned, it just wouldn't be the same without the fur and the drool etc. The only thing I would change is the 2 out of 3 cancer percentages, thats all. Just that.

RooseveltUSMC

10-22-2005, 07:52 PM

I will say that a Golden DOES not shed as bad as a Louisian Cathoula leopard dog. Matilda's fur (she has a beautiful short coat) just floats off in waves.
I brush Roosevelt EVERYDAY and find that he does great so far and well having him makes me brush my cats more and well :cool: I have less fur everywhere *shrug* whodathunk it LOL :rolleyes:

mybuddy

10-23-2005, 05:52 AM

Honestly, I cant think of any negative qualities. I love every second I have with my golden Buddy. I think if a person *really* understands what having a golden entails, they will never be disappointed.

Oh Lian...the hair on the clothing..I am with ya on that one!! I live in Asia and get some pretty disgusted looks sometimes when people see NASTY dog hair on my clothes. I usually pick one off very carefully, rub it under my nose, SIGH really loudly and usally say something like this "Ooooh, this is my buddy-wuddies furry wurry...just love hims furry wurries"...hmmmmm, wonder where the phrase "wacky foreigner" came from?

doreen

10-23-2005, 03:40 PM

yes i would agree with buddy there !!

Only the hair :eek: Looks good on black pants. But then its a golden hair so who cares.

We have fenced off part of our patio with a pool fence & still have some chicken wire up around the garden beds. Well yesterday thought id just check on them & there was my Monty 11 months in the fenced area !!! I dont know how he got in there :eek:Of course he was after my golden cane palms which he loves to chew on. Only last week my husband said do you think we can take that fence down now around the garden beds. LOL last night i picked up a big green frog on the patio. Lucky monty did not see it :eek: It was hard enough for me to get it.

I was abit mad at the time in the garden bed !! But with that face he could get away with anything :)

texasyankee76

11-03-2005, 01:16 PM

The fact that everything I wore or eat had blonde hair on it or in it. That I had to share a full sized bed with a full sized bed hog that also snored. The fact that every time after I got up from eating at the dinner table I would almost slip and fall into a huge puddle of doggy drool on the floor
(do all Goldens drool around food). Being woke up at 2:45 am in the dead of winter to keep a watchful eye on my baby in the back yard who instead of doing his business is burying his head in snow drifts and running around in the snow as if were insane. But of course these aren't negatives to me any more, now that hes gone their nothing less than the fondest memories.

otchwanabe

11-23-2005, 07:14 PM

If you're a neat freak & need your space a golden isn't the right breed for you.

However.....I WAS neat freak and my golden cured me! I have found something more important to me than having clean carpets! :)

Deb

ChocFullOfLabs

02-05-2006, 02:05 PM

1.) Shedding: There is nothing like seeing golden hair floating in the air during one of the "seasonal sheds".

I think that health problems are a negative aspect of the breed, thankfully something that I have avoided with Bronze - so far. Bronze is from a backyard breeding program, who at least OFA and CERF their dogs, but I was lucky to avoid any health issues. Neither her sire or dam have any type of show record. I've met my share of Goldens who came from pet stores/puppy mill and backyard breeders who had hip and elbow issues, and severe allergies.

Another problem - her "ball" drive. Bronze is very protective of me and her toys, and will not back down from another dog, no matter how big or small they are. She also likes to pretend that every tiny, muddy puddle in our yard is a lake, and that she should "swim" in it. :D

Elizabeth

Skokie

05-03-2006, 06:53 PM

I can't really think of too many negatiaves, if any. Muskoka doesn't shed much, my previous dog, a yellow lab shed a lot more than Muskoka does. I do brush her regularly though. I guess if I had to choose something it would be trimming the hair around her paws. I'm not very good at it, but I'm getting better. :reddogx

Soda

05-04-2006, 04:01 AM

Just found this thread and thought I'd put my 1/2 cent in. I think negative is in the eyes of the beholder...and what you are looking for in a dog. Since I've had various types of dogs all my life the most negative in this breed is finding a good breeder and then a pup that's healthy. Also from a good line that's not too far out of my price range.

Maine Retriever

05-17-2006, 05:53 AM

"You can say any fool thing to a dog, and the dog will give you this look that says, `My God, you're RIGHT! I NEVER would've thought of that!'" - Dave Barry

Step 1: Apply to Golden Retrievers
:)

Baylee Golden

05-29-2006, 08:52 PM

Goldens need to be around people. For us Golden lovers this is not a negative attribute, but for some people this would be a negative. Goldens do not do well if they are expected to be delegated to the back yard without much interaction from from their human companions.
Goldens are a sporting dog,and a smart one at that, they need exercise and play and lots of training.
This is not the type of dog to get if you do not have time for them. Too many end up in shelters or rescues because the owners are not aware of the amount of time this wonderful breed needs.
Goldens are strong and have big teeth and despite their cuddly looks can knock a small child down or react badly if pushed beyond their limits by unruly children.
Goldens can be GREAT companions but are not meant for all lifestyles.

dssxxxx

05-30-2006, 07:36 AM

My wife says, that it is next to impossible to get dressed for work in the morning without getting a ton of fur on her.

She yells for me to call all three out of the bedroom so she can get dressed for work....... :dogbark

People at my work, expect to see dog hair on me....:-)

konabear

05-30-2006, 08:38 AM

Shedding seems to be the common denominator here...but since we switched our GR to Solid Gold, honestly she doesn't shed as much. Besides...I always warn people, you may find a stray hair in your food, the pups help in the kitchen!

She's VERY ACTIVE, ball ball ball ball. But we play all the time and if we're home all day she gets no nappy time because she's playing or following.

Vet bills...yes, VERY HIGH. She's already spent her college fund on antibiotics, special shampoos and dermatology visits.

Protective, barks at people coming to the house. Protects her older brother (14yr terrier mix). He's a bit deaf and blind, so she goes to find him if he wanders and herds him back.

BUT, she's our baby girl. Waking up in the morning with your GR snuggling next to you or kisses...we'd ebay the boat to keep our babies safe and well cared for.

Dogrunner

06-07-2006, 10:54 AM

Hmmm....negatives........I don't think shedding is an issue. I use a "rake" daily to get rid of the excess hair and buy furniture and carpet that matches the dogs (for those days that "daily" doesn't happen). I don't think they're expensive--they're much cheaper than my kids. Their toys are pretty cheap, they're not interested in theme parks or renting movies and I'm pretty sure they'll never ask me to buy them a car. In fact, the only negative I can think of is that they like to cuddle next to you at night and if Berr uses my ankles for a pillow, my feet are numb when I wake up. Other than that, they're pretty close to perfect :reddogx

my3muchachosnme2

06-08-2006, 06:43 AM

#1-Health Issues. Our William Wallace has been battling allergies for 4 years, he's also on Thyroid Meds

#2 Aggressive Behavior. He's an angel with children, but pretty picky with other dogs.........doesnt like most

RickandHelen

07-04-2006, 01:07 AM

The only "negative" would be the shedding, hairs appear everywhere and on everything! When my Mum and Dad come to visit, they wear their "Bronte clothes" as they know they don't stand a chance to stay hair free! But how can you resist all those cuddles?!
Oh, and we have had a few tummy troubles with Bronte, she has a sensitive stomach and we can rarely vary from the standard diet - not sure if this is indicative of the breed though or just Bronte! :doggface

KATERINA & TSOUFI

07-06-2006, 09:47 AM

I would only say "sheding". Thats about it. Maybe i am lucky but both my boys are not aggressive to children,(no matter what), or other dogs, (have never been in a dog fight). They hate sleeping on my bed for more than ten minutes...its too warm for them. Never did any kind of damage inside the house. Litle things and accidents dont count...I iam so clumsy that i am more of a disaster in my house..
I recently bought a Baby Saint Bernard...Dennis the Menice is NOTHING compared to her. So, i say " Goldens for EVER!!!

Furry Hugs from Greece..

Katerina & Tsoufi & Keagan

Giovanna

07-06-2006, 10:05 AM

Not sure if it's a negative trait, but Ginger is a very high energy dog, she never tires and demands our attention 24/7. Forget about coming home from work and trying to relax and ignore her....it's fetching, chewing, playing, licking, jumping counters, chasing cats, you name it.
Shedding all over, of course, but what's the big deal with that? Just brush her daily, vacuum and learn to live with dog hair all over the place. :485

Apolitical

07-17-2006, 05:52 AM

Our puppy Sunny, really doesn't have any negatives.

He sheds but there are worse shedders in our extended family than Retrievers.

I rake him almost daily, sometimes vacuum him which he doesn't seem to mind. Vacuum the house daily (almost).
Walk him early morning and late evening as in the summer, it is too hot to walk in the daytime. Our temp. last week was in the high 90's.

In the winter - it will be walking at the warmest part of the day because of the cold. Our temp. then will be about -20F, or lower.

He plays all day with our other pets and seems to get enough exercise.

At the lake he runs around the yard and never goes off the property.

The most negative thing I can think of is he doesn't go in the water - which some people would likely say is a positive attribute.

Apolitical

sabydoo

07-17-2006, 09:47 AM

As one member said about their golden, mine too does not like most dogs. She has a few friends that she likes and we actually dog sit, but besides that she can be pretty picky about her friends. She loves all humans and was raised around little kids.
The shedding, well what can I say, we have leather furniture and have just gotten used to it. For car rides we keep a blanket in the trunk at all times.
She has not cost us much at all as she's had no health problems requiring meds or creams. Her food is costly but I contribute her good heatlh to it, so I would not change it.
She is the best dog in the world, she is not overly energetic, she stays close, eats well, lets us sleep in, never chews anything (in fact she's had some stuffed toys for 2 yrs.) and certainly never pees/poos in the house. (we are dog sitting a bichon frisee this week and he poops on the floor whenever he feels like it...ugh) Abbi just looks at me with those brown eyes as if to say "what a bad dog he is" LOL.
I guess you can tell that "I really love my Golden" and I recommend the breed all the time.
Have a good week everyone, it's a scorcher here in Ottawa, Ontario....stay cool.

Kim

RomeosPerson

08-15-2006, 07:39 AM

There aren't many, but I'd list: fur (is any outfit complete without it?), "rearranging" socks and shoes (so you can not find them), insistence on joining the dinner guests (regardless of their enthusiasm).

Owned By a Golden

08-23-2006, 08:30 AM

The biggest negative aspect of the Golden is definitely shedding! But I have found that taking your Golden to the groomer at least every three weeks reduces shedding. banana

Golden_Magic

09-16-2006, 02:15 AM

The first thing when looking at buying a golden is health. Hip dysplacia, elbows, hearts, thyroid and eyes - all of these health concerns pop up in many breeds, I think you MUST do you homework when adopting ANY dog and not buy a dog that doesn't have parents who are certified for being clear of these health problems. It is the responsible thing to do, it is about supply and demand, if no one ever bought a puppy that had parents who didn't have these certificates, then there would be no supply of them. No demand = no supply.

Health concerns aside I don't personally have any negative traits to list about goldens, but that is due to my personal preferences about what I want in a dog. I work from home, so I am home all day, Goldens need to with their people. I believe that having a golden and working full time can lead to problems. Goldens need interaction, exercise, stimulation and love and they need a LOT of it every day!

Goldens are not guard dogs. They never will be and shouldn't be. If you need to protect your home buy an alarm not a dog.

Goldens need to live indoors with the people they love and crave to be with. Do NOT buy a Golden if you plan to have a dog that lives outdoors. It is not kind, not fair and why would you want a Golden if you don't want a dog that sits by your feet or on your lap for a cuddle every day? They are loving, and that can be seen as needy if you don't give them enough love and attention and stimulation. A golden will want to be near you almost all of the time. Wonderful trait and lovely for people who want that (like me :D ) but if you think you would find that irritating then maybe a golden is not for you.

If you want a Golden you should be sure you love grooming, even if you plan to use a professional groomer you will still need to brush between groomings. You should be sure you want a 'velcro' dog, because that is likely what you will get. You should be sure you want a family member not a part time out door dog, that will not work with this breed (and most other breeds for that matter). You should be sure you want to walk your dog at least every day, and hopefully twice a day.

You should also be commited to training your dog. Lots of reviews of Goldens lead people to believe that they will naturally be passive, gentle, and loving. That is misleading. Whilst they DO have those traits in their personality they are still DOGS - ancestor of the wolf - they need attention, training, interaction, stimulation and lots of love to show their true potential. Lots of Goldens are hyper active in their first two-three years, they need lots of exercise walking with you on a leash during that time, and they need lots of training to become they stereotype of the perfect golden. A Golden that is left alone outdoors with little interaction, socialisation and training can become aggressive, fearful, temperamental and unpredictable just like any other breed of dog.

goldencody

11-01-2006, 12:44 PM

As someone who wanted a Golden for almost 16 years, I did a fair amount of research on the breed before getting one from a rescue group locally.I found and kept a stray for the time I was wanting a Golden and just didn't want to have 2 dogs at a time.After my mixed breed stray died in 2002, I waited until early 2005 to finally get my Golden.Things I knew going in.
1.Lots of shedding.No surprise there with hair getting into almost everything.Get a good vacuum and wash clothes alot.
2.Drooling.I had seen Goldens for years and I just seemed to notice that most drooled a fair amount.
3.Highly energetic.For some Goldens this is a predominant trait.If you don't exercise them, you can get some problems.
4.Mouthy.I knew Goldens were mouthy but didn't fully realize some are mouthy with practically everything,(socks,shoes,etc.etc.etc.)Nothing is safe if at dog's level for some Goldens.
5.Genetic traits(health issues) I was fully aware that due to bad breeding and other factors,that Goldens were prone to hip dysplasia and other disorders.Be aware of the potential money costs for these problems.
6.Finally, since most Goldens are very social,many will be practically joined at the hip to you.Certainly mine is but I never predicted just how attached they are to some owners.My Golden will follow me around the house no matter what.It doesn't matter how many times I go to another room,Cody always makes it his business to be with me without fail.He can never get enough petting and the upward thrust of his muzzle on my hands can be annoying.This is the most important trait you need to understand in my opinion if getting a Golden.They will not thrive if you don't interact with them on a daily basis.Most dogs are social but I think the Golden might take the cake for it's needs for attention.Never get a Golden if you can't interact and exercise with it a fair amount.Putting a Golden outside and then not doing anything with it is just plain cruel.They want and need human companionship.

For all these so-called negative traits,the Golden Retreiver is still a great breed to own.You are hard pressed to find a dog that is more attractive with a great personality.Goldens can be like clowns in many cases.Cody is my third dog I have owned and while my mixed breed dogs were absolutely great, I am so glad I can now say that I own a Golden.Most owners I know are very proud of their Golden and some will say they would never own anything else.Labrador Retreivers in the 3 colors are also great dogs with some similar traits to the Golden.No wonder both breeds are the top 2 on the AKC registration list.

Shamrockgirl59

04-09-2007, 02:24 PM

Shedding is the big thing. Also if you can't spend time with your golden don't get one. They are very very people oriented. they follow me from room to room. It might get on some people's nerves how much attention they demand. And they will never be a watch dog that's for sure.

Health wise, my main problem is cancer, all my previous goldens lived fairly long lives, My first was 9 years old when she got lymphoma, no treatment back then, my last two, Mandy was almost 10 when she got stomach cancer and was gone in a few weeks....heartbraking. Chrissy was 12 when she got lymphomea, was cured and died at 13 years 3 months, worth the extra time we had with her.
I am a nervous wreck when we take our new two Goldens to be checked every year, I don't sleep the night before and have a full blown panic attack in the vets waiting room sometimes. And so far the relief that they are happy and helthy is so wonderful. You have to live with the fact that they have these problems. All dogs do, but pure breds more than mutts. But we lov eour goldens and will do anything for them....they are the most loving dog I have ever owned. I call them my doggie angels. With the devil in their eyes LOL. :grwag

Carol Hollen

04-12-2007, 09:45 AM

You mean Goldens have negative traits???? ;)

Ok, maybe shedding ~ but then again I've been thinking of getting a loom and putting all that hair to use! :D

The only negative trait I can think of for real is that I fell so in love with my last golden that the grief you feel is VERY deep when they leave this life. And I didn't know how I would get another and love it just the same. But I got another and I'm in love once again. I will have at least one golden until I cannot handle a big dog anymore due to age/frailty. They are simply the best breed in my opinion.

Shamrockgirl59

04-13-2007, 08:40 AM

I understand, hubby says because we are getting a tad up in years, that these two will be our "last" goldens. You do love them so completely that when they pass it's sometimes harder than with some of our human friends/family. When Chrissy died right in front of me in my and my husbands arms wrapped around her I truly felt my heart break into pieces. I was so upset we did CPR and I did mouth to mouth but she came back for a second then died. I literally was prostrate with grief, laying on the kitchen floor hugging her and sobbing my heart out. It still haunts me. She was truly the greatest dog I have ever owned. I grieved for my other goldens, including her sister Mandy who we had to put down 3 years and 3 months before Chrissy died. Loved her so much, but for some reason, Chrissy truly broke my heart. I adore my new adopted goldens and will surely grieve for them, they are all in my thoughts and prayers daily. I sure do hope there is a "Rainbow Bridge" and all my goldens and my other dogs run to greet me, but I will say that Chrissy will get the first hugs and kisses. She was so special. Big, beautiful and smart as a whip.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Shamrockgirl87/CHRISSYMEMORIAL1.jpg

Carol Hollen

04-13-2007, 08:58 AM

Chrissy is soooooo beautiful with her white sweet angel face! Maybe her and my Budder are up there playing together. I'm sorry for your grief.

ZoeysParents

04-19-2007, 12:26 AM

I was raised primarily with German Shepherds and they were wonderful, protective dogs.

My wife introduced me to the idea of a Golden Retriever about four years ago.

The negatives?

How much time do you have?

We had her one week when she came down with Parvo. (I found on the Net that it is not that common in Goldens-we just got lucky.)

As a puppy, Zoey destroyed a beautiful back yard.

We kept hearing differing opinions on "When will she calm down?

First we heard one year. (Nope)

Then we heard "After you spay her." (Nope)

After that, "Two years, maybe 2 1/2 years." (Nope)

Finally at three she started to slow down.

She is easily the most expensive dog I've EVER owned.

Special dog food because of her allergies. Her anal glands have to be supressed at least every three weeks. (The vet, in an attempt to save some money, showed me how to "do it myself.") After watching her...I'll pass.

Sheds all the time (although I'm encouraged by the new brush I bought.)

Terrible watch dog.

Constant pest.

I describe her as "Like having a large, lumbering teenager bouncing through your house daily."

I'm scared to death of potential health issues down the road.

Do I sound like a bitter owner that would never EVER own a Golden?

Quite the contrary.

She is the most loving, devoted, pain-in-the butt I've ever owned.

I don't think I'll ever own another dog that isn't a Golden.

I know people have said for years "She's one of the family."

Given how expensive she is...there's no question.

:dogbark

prl

04-19-2007, 04:35 AM

Shamrockgirl - what a poignant post. I had to compose myself (here at work) before I could reply. Chrissy was one lucky girl to have been loved so much. What a beautiful white face! After having gone through a similar trauma when our Ashley died, at this point I don't think I could ever go through something like that again. I can't even think about losing Daisy or Isabel. I can literally get sick even thinking about it.

Shamrockgirl59

04-19-2007, 10:42 AM

Thank you for your kind thoughts. She was one in a million. But it was so lonely here after she was gone, and it seemed every commerical and movie showed goldens, I was going crazy with missing having them around. So adoption was wonderful.

Yes a piece of my heart goes with every critter, but heck I hope it's big enough for many more during my lifetime.

The are loved so much and give so much love back. :reddogx :reddogx

Shamrockgirl59

04-19-2007, 10:52 AM

I

Do I sound like a bitter owner that would never EVER own a Golden?

Quite the contrary.

She is the most loving, devoted, pain-in-the butt I've ever owned.

I don't think I'll ever own another dog that isn't a Golden.

I know people have said for years "She's one of the family."

Given how expensive she is...there's no question.

:dogbark

Wow that pretty much sums up owning a golden in a nutshell.....but hey they are special that's for sure.....won't have any other kind of dog either.
And I have two LOLLOL double the fun and double the trouble and the love, it's more than double.

These are my two new babies Blake doing his "happy roll" in the backyard and Blair with her swet face they are so wonderful.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Shamrockgirl87/IM000123.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Shamrockgirl87/IM000125.jpg

my3muchachosnme2

04-21-2007, 06:02 AM

William Wallace is our lemon! But we wouldnt have it any other way.

1). Allergies
2). Thyroid
3). Aggressive towards other dogs (not all, but most)
4). He's a poacher! Anything on the floor or countertops is his!!!
5). My husband would say this is negative, I think its funny. He bargains with William for "his" side of the bed......it's really William's side of the bed!

JakeandMe

08-09-2007, 10:41 PM

A Golden's need for exercise is both a blessing and a curse. Jake and I walk twice a day, every day. I'm much healthier and in much better shape for it, and Jake has to have it - he has so much energy, if we don't get rid of some of it by walking and playing ball, you can believe I pay for it! I live in the midwest and right now we're enduring a heatwave. So we're out trotting around before 6:00 a.m. in the mornings and waiting until as late as possible to go for our evening walk. Sometimes it's dark when we get home. But it's just too darned hot and humid during the day for these furry guys to be trotting around out there. And the ball - what can I say. My house has become the ball park. I'm surprised he's content to play in the house instead of the backyard, but he doesn't seem to mind. Although this really shouldn't be a surprise because we all know as long we they have our attention, they're happy. So far, we've been very fortunate. No health issues, no food issues, not a lot of shedding. So I would say my only negative point is the unbreakable rule for exercising. Sinus headache? Go for a walk. Upset stomach? Go for a walk. Stone bruise on the bottom of your foot? Go for a walk. Just plain tired and grumpy? Go for a walk. That's life with a Golden. Wouldn't trade it for anything!

Janet

08-10-2007, 02:50 PM

Negatives? Marley is 1 1/2 now and I say from the heart......there are NO negatives. The love, adoration, gentleness, intelligence, ease in training and sense of fun that are all part of the package makes her 100 Positive. She LOVES everyone...human and animal, no health, skin, or diet issues......I could not ask for more :)

Yes, she sheds and I have to vacume alot....but oh well. EVERY DAY I am soooo happy to have Marley in my life and I love her to bits..... :003

Duke's Dad

08-30-2008, 07:00 PM

I had Rusty for 15 years until I lost him to cancer. I am about to pick-up Duke, a 7week old from the breeder tomorrow. There really are no negatives,but I would suggest a couple of things. They need structure, a walk or retrieving play EVERY day. A pup, like any other pup, must be taught rules, tone of voice can be a great tool with a Golden. DO NOT play roughhouse with a pup and expect him not to want this same play when he weighs 65lbs! If you can afford it, training will do wonders, not only for the Golden, but it will be great for you too. ALL dogs are "pack" animals, and if you are not the ALPHA dog in your house, guess who will be! In conclusion I will say this, you will never have anyone, Human or otherwise, love you more unconditionally, than a Golden Retriever!!