Golden Retrievers

WHY A GOLDEN RETRIEVER?

Intelligence:

Golden Retrievers have ranked time and again in the top five smartest dog breeds based on multiple tests and studies over the years.  A study done by a canine psychologist, Stanley Coren called upon 200 judges to rank 80 dog breeds based upon adaptive intelligence (i.e., figuring stuff out), working intelligence (i.e. following orders), and instinctive intelligence (i.e. innate talent) - not to mention spatial intelligence, kinesthetic intelligence, interpersonal intelligence, and more.

Golden Retrievers consistently proved themselves to be one of the brightest working dogs, who could learn a new command in less than five exposures and obey at least 95 percent of the time.  A google search of the most intelligent dog breeds will always show Golden Retrievers at the top of the list.

SEE: The intelligence of Dogs by Stanley Coren

Personality:

The golden retriever is even-tempered, intelligent, and affectionate. Golden retrievers are playful, yet gentle with children, and they tend to get along well with other pets and strangers.

These dogs are eager to please, which probably explains why they respond so well to obedience training and are such popular service dogs. They also like to work, whether it involves hunting birds or fetching their guardian's slippers.

Golden retrievers are not often barkers, and they lack guard instincts, so do not count on them to make good watchdogs. However, some golden retrievers will let you know when strangers are approaching.

Just for the Smiles:

Golden Retrievers have the best smile of any dog breed.  That may just be my opinion, but just look at this smile and see if it doesn't melt your heart!