My family recently got a golden retriever puppy after our golden passed away back in April. It's been 10 years since we've had a puppy, and we definitely forgot how much work it really is. But, watching her grow up made me realize all of the little things that make all golden retrievers so lovable.
1. Golden puppies are, quite literally, tiny balls of fluff.
They're irresistible, but they change SO MUCH so quickly while they're growing up. Golden retriever puppyhood is short, so enjoy your golden puff ball while you can!
2. There's an entire rainbow of goldens to choose from!
Rustic red or creamy white, you never know what color your puppy may turn out to be.
3. Despite the name, goldens actually aren't all that great at retrieving.
They always try their hardest, but catching is just not their forte. Some will even refuse to bring a tennis ball back once they get it, and the game becomes more like "chase after the dog and pry the ball out of his mouth" instead of fetch.
4. They absolutely LOVE water.
If it's hot out, a golden retriever will plop down in any body of water. (And, golden puppies are known for sloshing all of the water out of their water bowls.)
5. Sometimes they just can't keep everything inside their mouths.
Hey, there's no reason to be ashamed of a little side tongue or Elvis smirk.
6. They have the floppiest, softest ears!
And whenever they hear something interesting, expect those ears to immediately perk right up.
7. They need constant love, especially hand holding.
Golden retrievers love people and hate to be left alone. All their little hearts want is to please you. They'll follow you from room to room, sit by your side for hours, demand to sit in the front seat next to you, and sometimes they need you to hold their paw (just for some extra reassurance).
8. They have cute little knobs on their heads.
Just look at this adorable pointy head!
9. Their faces turn completely gray when they get older.
But not even gray hair can make them any less beautiful.
10. Golden are the sweetest, gentlest dogs you'll meet.
There are so many more little things to love about golden retrievers: when they stick their heads out of car windows, how their whole body wags along with their tails, the way they seem to be constantly smiling, their big brown eyes. They're gentle, loyal until the end, and golden on the inside as well as the out; just ask any golden retriever lover!
