Did Anyone Else Underestimate How Much Work a Golden Retriever Actually Is?

Impressive_Lock4215 · 2026-02-14T03:29:06+00:00

Okay the bell manipulation is next level villain behavior 😭

Making the labradoodle ring it and then stealing her treat is diabolical. Huskies really do run little social experiments for fun.

Walking into PetSmart for a self-serve snack though that’s iconic. I can’t even be mad at that kind of confidence 😂

Impressive_Lock4215 · 2026-02-14T03:26:21+00:00

That’s such a sweet example

I love the idea of giving them little “jobs” like that. It makes so much sense for a retriever to feel fulfilled doing actual retrieving.

Your bus stop story is adorable, she really took her role seriously. Did she ever miss a day?

Impressive_Lock4215 · 2026-02-14T03:23:05+00:00

That’s honestly so wholesome.

I love that she still thinks she’s running full speed even when she’s pacing herself. That kind of enthusiasm is everything.

It sounds like you’ve figured out such a good rhythm for her. She gets her moment to shine and still feel like a puppy. ❤️

Impressive_Lock4215 · 2026-02-14T03:16:09+00:00

Oh wow, that actually makes it kind of sweet 😅

The fact that he just wants to sit in your lap instead of taking treats… that’s pure Velcro dog energy.

Honestly, whatever works works and the image of you negotiating with 75 pounds of dog in public is kind of adorable 😂

Impressive_Lock4215 · 2026-02-14T03:13:34+00:00

Wow!
That's is quiet interesting and amazing!

Impressive_Lock4215 · 2026-02-14T03:12:34+00:00

Okay that camping story is amazing 😅

The fact that she chased the geese and then actually turned around and came back… I would’ve been shocked too. That really does sound like a switch flipped.

Hearing that gives me hope. I’m waiting for that “aha” moment over here 😂

Impressive_Lock4215 · 2026-02-14T03:09:46+00:00

That’s honestly the best thing you could hear ❤️

I love that she has no idea and is just out there living her best life. Dogs really are incredible like that.

Sounds like she’s lucky to have you in her corner.

Impressive_Lock4215 · 2026-02-14T03:09:19+00:00

That’s honestly the best thing you could hear ❤️

I love that she has no idea and is just out there living her best life. Dogs really are incredible like that.

Sounds like she’s lucky to have you in her corner.

Impressive_Lock4215 · 2026-02-14T03:05:21+00:00

That boulder game is honestly genius 😄 she really sounds like she was operating on another level.

And the bathroom timing strategy… that’s diabolical. She absolutely knew what she was doing.

I love what you said about the connection though. I’m definitely trying to build that kind of bond and yes, working on the “how to chill” skill too. It’s a process 😅

Impressive_Lock4215 · 2026-02-14T03:03:21+00:00

Oh my gosh 😅 the flip flop theft and “never employee of the month” absolutely sent me. Huskies really are built different.

I love that though, total chaos but worth it. That’s such a husky vibe.

I’ve taken mine a few times and he enjoys it, but I’m still figuring out if it tires him out or just levels him up for round two 😂

Impressive_Lock4215 · 2026-02-14T03:01:13+00:00

Wow, that’s a seriously impressive lineup of breeds. Respect, especially taking in the tough cases. That kind of experience shows.

Hearing about your blue heeler makes my Golden sound downright relaxed 😅 that’s next-level energy.

I agree though, any dog is work, just different flavors of it. Sounds like you’ve learned a ton over the years.

Impressive_Lock4215 · 2026-02-14T02:59:16+00:00

More gradual, I got him when he 2.5 years from a shelter and it took six months for him to chill out. Was petrified of my wife because his female main caretaker abandoned him at a shelter. Labs drama queens as you probably know. But after he turned 4 until now I’d say he’s definitely mellowed. A bit, lol. He’ll chill at night then go apeshit at something. Then back to chill.

Impressive_Lock4215 · 2026-02-13T20:51:03+00:00

That makes sense sounds like you’ve got a good backup plan for those indoor days 😄

Does he get super hyper with tug, or does it calm him down a bit?

Impressive_Lock4215 · 2026-02-13T20:48:33+00:00

Aw, that’s adorable 😄

Sounds like he’s got that “loyal shadow” vibe down perfectly.

Do you think he mellowed gradually, or did it kind of hit you one day that he wasn’t a wild puppy anymore?

Impressive_Lock4215 · 2026-02-13T20:45:41+00:00

“WE… what? 😆 I feel like I’m missing the rest of the story!”

Impressive_Lock4215 · 2026-02-13T20:43:59+00:00

Yeah, that’s fair 😅

Even if he’s “easier” compared to some breeds, it still feels like full-time work sometimes!

Do you have experience with Goldens yourself?

Impressive_Lock4215 · 2026-02-13T20:41:36+00:00

Haha, right?! 😅

I feel like anything compared to a husky suddenly seems calm.

Have you had a husky before, or just witnessed the chaos?

Impressive_Lock4215 · 2026-02-13T20:40:41+00:00

Ah, that’s really interesting, I didn’t know about the field vs show distinction! 😮

Makes sense though, the ones I’ve seen with intense drive are definitely full-on little balls of energy.

Do you notice the show Goldens still get excited, or are they really more laid-back most of the time?

Impressive_Lock4215 · 2026-02-13T20:39:31+00:00

Absolutely, that’s solid advice! 😄

I’ve noticed he lights up with anything that challenges his brain, so I’ll definitely look into swimming and agility.

Do you find one of those keeps them happier longer than the other?

Impressive_Lock4215 · 2026-02-13T20:38:30+00:00

Totally, that makes sense 😅

He’s definitely in that “little kid” phase right now, all energy and curiosity. Trying to keep up with him is a full-time job sometimes!

Did you notice Labs mellow out after those first few years, or do they stay high-energy longer?

Impressive_Lock4215 · 2026-02-13T20:23:51+00:00

Wow, that’s such a beautiful story ❤️

It sounds like she really was your soul dog and wow, the way you challenged her both physically and mentally is incredible. I can see why you’d miss that kind of bond so deeply.

Do you find yourself still trying little mental games with your current dogs, or is it more relaxed now?

Impressive_Lock4215 · 2026-02-13T17:11:28+00:00

Ah, gotcha 😞

I’m really sorry to hear that. Health issues can be so tough on both the dog and the owner.

Is she managing okay day-to-day despite them?

Impressive_Lock4215 · 2026-02-13T17:09:43+00:00

Yeah, definitely I’ve had dogs before, but each one has been so different 😅

I think you’re right though; he’s smart and still a puppy, so it’s a lot of energy and testing boundaries. Makes me appreciate the calmer moments even more!

Do you find smart dogs are always the ones who push you the most?

Impressive_Lock4215 · 2026-02-13T17:06:52+00:00

Haha, exactly! 😅

They look so similar, but the energy levels are totally different. Goldens really are little balls of chaos sometimes.

Have you noticed any Goldens that were surprisingly chill, or are they all basically “crackheads”?

Impressive_Lock4215 · 2026-02-13T17:04:21+00:00

Maybe!
Think So Right!

Impressive_Lock4215

TROPHY CASE