I Hate Golden Retrievers: Addressing The Love-Hate Relationship!

Are you tired of the endless praise Golden Retrievers get and feel like you’re the only one who can’t stand the hype?

You might find yourself rolling your eyes at those sappy dog videos wondering why everyone adores these fluffy companions while all you can do is say; I hate golden retrievers! Why?

Golden retrievers are the worst dogs in the first years, 1 to 3 years, and are most difficult between 5 and 18 months of age which is their prime adolescent period. However, they drastically change from year 3 to calm, loyal, and affectionate dogs.

In this article, I’ll take you through the world of Golden Retriever fandom and uncover the reasons behind your frustration with this breed.

Stick around as I reveal interesting perspectives that may just change your mind or, at the very least, help you navigate your feelings better.

I Hate Golden Retrievers: Why Is This So Common?

This is so common especially from people who don’t understand the difficulties with Golden Retrievers during the first years.

There’s no doubt that Golden Retrievers tend to become anxious around other dogs around 5 to 6 months, whether you socialized them earlier or not.

Moreover, not all Golden Retrievers will behave this way. This is often a trait that comes with dogs from backyard breeders (BYB).

Some of the nagging behaviors with Golden Retrievers include barking, especially when they have not received enough exercise and mental stimulation.

So, ensure you exercise your Golden Retriever to release the accumulated energy. For mental stimulation, you can opt for puzzle games.

With that said, let’s look at some of the reasons people hate these wonderful dogs.

What Are the Disadvantages of Golden Retrievers?

1. High Energy:

Golden Retrievers, being a high-energy breed, demands an active lifestyle to thrive.

Unlike most other dogs, that are calm and quiet, you may find it challenging to cope with the constant need for physical and mental stimulation.

Golden Retrievers are known for their playful and energetic nature, but this aspect of their temperament can be overwhelming for individuals who prefer a more relaxed and laid-back companion.

2. Growling and Stubbornness:

Golden Retrievers exhibit growling behavior when faced with tasks or situations they dislike, and they can also be stubborn in complying with commands.

This behavior can be concerning and difficult to manage, especially if you’re unaccustomed to such responses from a pet.

You may feel frustrated and anxious about addressing these behavioral issues effectively.

3. Exercise Needs:

Despite providing regular exercise, the Golden Retriever’s energy seems boundless, leading to excessive play with the smaller rescue dog.

Thus, you may worry about the safety of the smaller dog during these intense play sessions.

Golden Retrievers have a strong retrieving instinct, and if not adequately exercised, they may resort to rough play or destructive behavior as a means of releasing their pent-up energy.

4. House Damage:

Golden Retriever’s habit of scratching doors to go in and out has resulted in considerable damage to the wooden doors in your house.

This behavior, though unintentional, can be distressing for you and your spouse, if you’re blessed to have one like me, as it affects the aesthetics and value of your home.

Also, read: 14 Reasons Why Golden Retrievers Are The Worst!

5. Responsibility:

The stress level in the household has escalated due to the lack of support from owners.

The primary responsibility falls on you, which can be overwhelming and exhausting, given the dog’s high energy levels and behavior issues.

Therefore, you may feel resentful about the uneven distribution of pet care duties.

6. Lack of Affection:

You may have had expectations of a more affectionate and loving relationship with their Golden Retriever, akin to your previous experiences with dogs.

However, Golden Retriever’s temperament might not align with these expectations, leading to disappointment and a sense of unfulfillment in the relationship.

7. Attention-Seeking Behavior:

Golden Retrievers constantly demands attention, hindering your ability to relax or spend quality time handling your other duties.

This neediness can be emotionally draining and challenging to manage, particularly if you have other responsibilities or need personal downtime.

8. Inability to Participate in Family Activities:

Golden Retriever’s behavior limits your family’s ability to engage in certain activities that you used to enjoy with previous dogs.

As a result, you may feel a sense of loss or nostalgia for those shared experiences, adding to your frustration and discontent.

9. Social Anxiety with Other Dogs:

Golden Retriever’s develop social anxiety around other dogs, something that presents a significant obstacle in taking them to places like doggy daycares or social gatherings.

So, your concern for their well-being and the potential for stressful situations further complicates the ability to find appropriate outlets for your pet’s energy.

I Hate Golden Retrievers: Do Golden Retrievers Ever Calm Down?

Although many Golden Retrievers typically start to mellow out around the ages of two to three years, others may take until they reach four years old to exhibit a more composed demeanor.

However, it’s essential to recognize that some Golden Retrievers will retain their puppy-like zest for life indefinitely.

The calming process in Golden Retrievers varies from one individual to another and depends on various factors, including genetics, early socialization, training, and overall health.

Generally, as they mature, they tend to become more settled and less hyperactive. Consistent training, adequate exercise, and mental stimulation can contribute to a smoother transition into a more relaxed adulthood.

Some Golden Retrievers might always possess a certain level of playful energy and enthusiasm, which is a characteristic deeply ingrained in the breed’s nature.

Despite the potential challenges of managing their energy levels, Golden Retrievers’ loving and loyal nature often make them cherished members of families and great companions for various activities.

I Hate Golden Retrievers: What Are Golden Retrievers Weaknesses?

One significant aspect to consider is their need for vigorous exercise. These dogs thrive on physical activity and require a substantial amount of it daily.

A minimum of 40-60 minutes of exercise is essential to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. Without adequate exercise, they can become restless, prone to weight gain, and may develop destructive chewing habits.

This breed’s exercise demands might not suit everyone’s lifestyle, making it crucial to assess your ability to meet their requirements before bringing a Golden Retriever into the family. Failing to provide sufficient exercise can lead to behavioral issues and an unhappy dog.

Moreover, Golden Retrievers have a propensity for being affectionate and loyal, which can also be seen as a weakness. They thrive on human interaction and may struggle with being left alone for extended periods.

Separation anxiety is not uncommon in this breed, and it’s important for owners to be mindful of their pet’s emotional needs.

Additionally, their friendly and trusting nature, while endearing, can be a weakness in certain situations. They may not make ideal guard dogs due to their tendency to befriend strangers rather than being protective.

Furthermore, Golden Retrievers have a relatively high shedding rate. Their thick, water-resistant double coat sheds seasonally, requiring regular grooming to keep their fur in good condition and to minimize the shedding around the house.

Final Thoughts

It’s completely valid to have strong feelings, whether positive or negative, about specific dog breeds, including Golden Retrievers. These emotions stem from various factors such as personal preferences, past experiences, and the dog’s individual temperament.

While some individuals may not find compatibility with Golden Retrievers due to their high energy, stubbornness, or other specific traits, it’s essential to remember that every dog is unique.

Responsible breeding, proper training, and early socialization play crucial roles in shaping a dog’s behavior.

Instead of generalizing or harboring resentment, let’s embrace the diversity in our canine companions and respect each other’s choices with understanding and compassion.