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If you’re trying to decide between a male vs female Golden Retriever, you’re not alone. It’s a common question for first-time dog owners.
Both males and females share the friendly, gentle personality Golden Retrievers are known for. But there are a few key differences worth knowing.
Size, how quickly they mature, and certain behavioural traits can affect which one fits your lifestyle best. Let’s take a closer look at these differences so you can choose the right Golden for your home.
Table of Contents
Male vs Female Golden Retriever: Quick Comparison
Here’s a quick snapshot of the key differences. Keep reading to learn more about temperament, behaviour, and what to expect from each sex.
| Trait | Male Golden Retriever | Female Golden Retriever |
| Size | Usually larger and heavier (65-75 pounds, 22-24 inches tall) | Typically smaller and lighter (55-65 pounds, 20-22 inches tall) |
| Maturity | Stays playful and puppy-like longer | Often matures mentally sooner |
| Affection | Very people-focused, often clingy | Affectionate but more independent |
| Energy & Playfulness | Often goofy and energetic | Playful but may settle sooner |
| Training Focus | Can be easily distracted | Often more focused during training |
Note: These are general tendencies, not guarantees. Every dog is unique, and personality, training, and genetics matter more than sex.
Personality and Temperament
Male and female Golden Retrievers can have slightly different personality styles. These differences are subtle but noticeable, especially as puppies grow into adults.
Males:
- Often stay playful longer. They enjoy chasing toys and roughhousing well into adulthood.
- Many are outgoing and eager to interact, often seeking attention from everyone in the household.
Females:
- Often mature faster, both mentally and emotionally. They may settle down sooner and be easier to manage as young adults.
- Tend to be more cautious or measured in new situations, but still friendly and gentle.
Bottom line: Temperament differences are noticeable but small. Training, environment, and personality have a bigger impact than sex.
Affection and Independence
Males and females often show love in different ways.
Males:
- Tend to be very people-oriented. They enjoy being near you and may follow you around the house.
- Many male Goldens are naturally clingy and want constant attention. This can feel very loving, but it also means they may demand more of your time.
- They are usually quick to cuddle and show affection whenever they can.
Females:
- Often more independent. They enjoy attention, but on their own terms.
- Some females will come for pets and play, then walk away when they’ve had enough.
- My female Golden is a good example. She wants attention, but she decides when and how she gets it. She’s affectionate, but not clingy.
Bottom line: Males often act like they love you constantly. Females want to be loved, but each dog is unique.
Size and Strength Differences
Male Golden Retrievers are usually larger and stronger than females. They often weigh 65–75 pounds and stand 22–24 inches tall.
Females are typically smaller, weighing 55–65 pounds and standing 20–22 inches tall. Of course, size can vary depending on genetics and the individual dog.
These size ranges align with the American Kennel Club’s Golden Retriever breed standard.
This difference can affect things like how much space they take up, how much they eat, and how strong they are during walks or play. It’s something to consider if you have a smaller living space or young children at home.
Bottom line: Both males and females are strong and active dogs. The size difference is noticeable, but it doesn’t change the breed’s friendly, gentle nature.
Trainability and Maturity
Golden Retrievers are intelligent and eager to please, so both males and females are usually easy to train.
Males:
- Often stay in a playful, puppy-like stage longer. Training may require more patience while they are still energetic and easily distracted.
- Can be very motivated by praise and attention, which can help during training.
Females:
- Tend to mature mentally a bit sooner, which can affect focus and behaviour during training.
- Can still be playful, but they often settle faster and pay attention more consistently.
Curious how quickly your puppy will grow up? See our full guide on when Golden Retrievers mature.
Bottom line: Both sexes are trainable. Males may need more patience with energy, while females often focus more quickly. Either way, consistent training works best.
Energy and Behaviour (Including Humping)
Both male and female Golden Retrievers are active dogs. But they can show differences in their energy levels.
Males:
- Often display energy in a more outward, playful way. They may be goofy, roughhouse, or seek constant interaction.
- Can get excited easily during play or when meeting new people.
Females:
- Usually show energy in a slightly more controlled way. They enjoy play and exercise but may settle faster afterward.
- Often pace their excitement and play on their own terms.
Common Behaviours:
- Both males and females may hump objects, people, or other dogs. This is normal and can be related to play, excitement, or stress.
- Spaying or neutering usually reduces humping, but it can still happen occasionally.
- Both sexes need regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
Bottom line: Both male and female Goldens are playful and energetic. Males may be more outwardly goofy, while females may manage their energy more independently, but all Goldens need activity and attention.
Male vs Female Golden Retriever: Which Is Better For You
There’s no “better” choice overall. The right Golden Retriever depends on your lifestyle, expectations, and what kind of relationship you want with your dog.
A male Golden Retriever may be a better fit if you:
- Want a very affectionate, people-focused dog
- Don’t mind a larger, stronger dog
- Enjoy a playful, goofy personality that lasts into adulthood
- Are patient with longer puppy-like behaviour
A female Golden Retriever may be a better fit if you:
- Prefer a slightly smaller dog
- Want a dog that matures and settles a bit sooner
- Appreciate affection that’s calm and on her terms
- Like a dog that often focuses more quickly during training
Both males and females:
- Are friendly, gentle, and good family dogs
- Need daily exercise and mental stimulation
- Respond best to consistent training and routine
Want to learn more about what to expect from a Golden Retriever? Check out our Beginner’s Guide to Golden Retrievers for tips and insights.
Bottom line: Pick the Golden that fits your routine and energy level. Male or female matters less than training, structure, and personality.
Why I Personally Chose A Female Golden Retriever
When deciding between a male vs female Golden Retriever, my choice came down to what felt like the best fit at the time.
This was our first dog, and after talking with other Golden Retriever owners, we liked the idea of a female maturing a bit sooner and being slightly more independent.
That didn’t mean an easy puppy. She was energetic, wild, and very much a typical Golden Retriever.
Looking back, the decision mattered far less than I expected. If we had chosen a male, I’m sure the experience would have been just as positive.
FAQs
Here are some common questions first-time owners ask when choosing between a male and female Golden Retriever.
1. Are male or female Golden Retrievers easier to train?
Both are easy to train. Females often mature and focus sooner, while males may stay playful and distracted longer. Consistent training matters more than sex.
2. Are male Golden Retrievers more affectionate than females?
Males are often more openly affectionate and cuddly. Females are affectionate too, but usually on their own terms. Both bond strongly with their owners.
3. Do male Golden Retrievers calm down later than females?
In many cases, yes. Males often stay in a puppy-like phase longer, while females tend to settle sooner. That said, all Goldens remain playful well into adulthood.
4. Is a male or female Golden Retriever better for first-time owners?
Either can be a great choice. Females may feel slightly easier early on due to quicker maturity, but males are just as loving and trainable. The individual dog matters most.
Conclusion
Choosing between a male and female Golden Retriever doesn’t have to be complicated. Both are loving, friendly, and smart dogs.
Some differences can help guide your choice:
- Males are often bigger, playful, and openly affectionate.
- Females may mature faster, be more independent, and focus more quickly during training.
No matter which you choose, Golden Retrievers make wonderful companions. Focus on the individual dog, and you can’t go wrong.
How did you decide between a male or female Golden Retriever? Share your story with us in the comments below.
Hi, I’m Jenny, the owner and content creator of First Time Dog Mom. As the proud owner of Ellie, my senior Golden Retriever, I share the insights and tips I’ve learned through my own experiences as a dog mom. With a lifelong love of animals, I hope to be a helpful resource for others navigating the joys and challenges of pet parenthood.
Re the weight guidelines….unfortunately, a lot of golden retrievers are overfed (and under-exercised) and exceed the breed standard weight range. I’ve seen males that are well over 90 Lbs which is just too much weight for their hips and joints to handle. Golden’s, like labs, are voracious eaters when they are a puppy and you just have to cut them off to keep them healthy.
Hi Sid,
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I do agree with you that many Golden Retrievers are overweight, and do not get enough daily exercise. It is very important to keep a Golden Retriever on the lean side because it is better for their overall health and well-being, and because they are predisposed to hip and elbow dysplasia.
I must say that the breed standards are just a guideline and many Golden Retrievers who are NOT overweight can weigh more than the guideline suggests. It can be dependant on genes as well, and type of Golden Retriever, such as American, Canadian and English. All have slightly different weight standards.
Yes, Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers are very food motivated, and will eat non-stop if they could! This makes them easy to train, but very susceptible to becoming obese. Cutting back on treats helps, but also making sure the treats are healthy!
Thank you again for taking the time to comment. I appreciate it.
Take care,
Jenny.
I adopted a male golden retriever when he was 2-3 years old. He had been stray and it was my good fortune to have found him. He definitely rescued me. Tate was definitely not needy and extremely smart. Tell him no once and that was it. I also took him to dog training classes so I could be trained in knowing what to do. Tate was more independent but truly a gentle soul. He didn’t like water and because I didn’t know his history, I never knew why. He had been a stray during hurricanes Jeanne and Ivan in 2004 and there was a great deal of flooding in Western PA so perhaps that was it. He didn’t mind thunder but he couldn’t bear firecrackers/fireworks. 9 years after adopting Tate, I learned why. When in the emergency vet hospital, they discovered Tate had been shot twice when he was young and still had the pellets in him. I don’t understand how someone could shoot such a fine dog.
The funny thing about Tate – when I was sad, he would leave the room. He would also leave the room when I sang along with opera. The opera I understood but I thought dogs were supposed to be supportive. 🙂 Tate was great at playing hide and seek indoors. He would stay until he received his special signal (I would yell haha) and he would try to find me.
It’s been nearly 6 1/2 years since he passed and I’m just now starting to think it’s time to find another golden. I definitely want another male…
I appreciate you sharing your story and experience with your beloved golden, Tate.
So many people who rescue dogs mention that the dog rescued them, and both dog and owner rescue each other. It sounds like Tate was a wonderful companion, I am sorry to hear about his troubled past, especially being shot. I can’t understand it either how anyone could harm a dog!
You never truly get over the loss of a dog, but I am happy to hear that you are ready to welcome another Golden into your life. I think many people who have had a male dog tend to get another male and vice versa.
I wish you all the best in your search for another faithful companion.
Thanks again for taking the time to share your story.
Jenny.
Hi There! I’ve read your stories about your lovely dog(Diva), I think your dog and mine were very similar when it comes to their behaviour and traits. Actually, I have two dogs( Sam & Amber)they are both females(they are now 10 months old) and not totally 100% Golden Retriever but it turns out based also on my research that they have a lot of commonalities. But unfortunately, I started working now a mile away from them and then see them again once a week. It was so sad, hard and frustrating for me that I can’t take them, touch them or even see them every day. I’ve been with them since they were just a month until last March 11, 2021. I was thinking maybe they already suffered such loneliness or worse depression. What would I do to help them feel better if I go home? Thank you.
Hi Bernadette,
I can only imagine how tough it must be to not be able to see your dogs every day. They do have each other as companions, and I am certain that when you go home to see them they will be so happy and excited to see you. Just spending time with you when you are home is all they need to feel better.
Thanks for sharing your story,
Jenny.
Hi Jenny
After 13 months without a dog I decided on a golden for my retirement gift to myself. My boy Lab was so loving and yes needy. Could never b replaced.
So I said ok how bout now a girl.
Sophia is 5 months, smart beautiful and independent.
My problem is the way she acts in my yard when I walk around. She will turn latch on to an arm and pull. Can be scary. She does well in the house and walks and crates well. I interact with her daily. She/I have had a trainer. Shown affection often…etc..
Did you or other readers have any similar issues? I have had 2 previous dogs. Yes, I’m used to the puppy mouthing and occasional shoe destruction. But not the sudden behaviour she shows. Getting concerned.
Hi Patricia,
What a wonderful gift to yourself! Nothing better than a Golden Retriever! I love the name, Sophia, I’m sure she is beautiful!
In regards to her behaviour, there is no need for concern. My Ellie shows playful aggressive behaviour like this on occasion as well. She wants to play and show dominance, Sophia is still young and will have a lot of energy.
When Ellie was a puppy she would get very aggressive, for instance when she would dig in the back yard and we told her no and pulled her away, she would try to “attack” us, in a playful way, nothing to be worried about.
I have learned now that when she gets like that it is time to go inside because she is tired.
My suggestion is the next time Sophia latches onto your arm, say “no”, act hurt such as let out a scream like you are in pain, and turn away from her. Ignore her bad behaviour, and hopefully, she will learn that your arm is not a chew toy. With training, Sophia will learn that this behaviour is not acceptable. Just like you, I too was concerned about this behaviour, but it is completely normal and common for Golden puppies to act like this. With time and training, this behaviour will get better. That being said, my Ellie who is now 5 still gets like this, but only when she is tired.
I wish you all the best with your Sophia and enjoy your retirement.
Take care,
Jenny.
Hi, I’m going to be a guardian for a beautiful female golden retriever. She is coming from Brazil and is already 17 months old. I know she’s kennel trained and I plan on doing training classes with her. Please tell me 17 months isn’t too old to train and possibly break bad habits (that is if she has any). I’m so excited to have a golden retriever.
Hi Rachel,
Congratulations on becoming a guardian to a female golden retriever, how exciting! I am sure you will fall in love with her, and this breed! 17 months is definitely not too old to train or to break any bad habits. I believe any dog at any age can still be trained, it will take time, patience and commitment!
I wish you all the best, and I think it is great what you are doing!
Take care,
Jenny.
Are Golden females as playful and active as male Goldens?
Hi Suneet,
This is a great question, both male and female Golden Retrievers are very playful and active. This is especially true when they are puppies, they are a lot of energy and very playful! In my experience, females are active, playful and very affectionate, just as male Golden Retrievers are. Females want to be adored and loved by you, they want all the attention on them, whereas males will give you attention and affection. Regardless of sex, this breed is gentle, loving, playful and active.
Females tend to be calmer than males because they mature faster. That being said, if you give this breed plenty of daily activity, including exercise, playtime, and mental stimulation, you will have a happy, well-behaved and calm dog.
I hope this helps, thank you for taking the time to ask this question.
Take care,
Jenny.
We have a 2 year old registered Golden named Thor! This is our 3rd golden and we would not consider any other breed of dog for our family! Thor is the most affectionate dog I have ever seen! He would be in his glory if he could be petted all day! He loves water and playing fetch with his frizby! He wants to be with us at all times! We have 7 grandchildren ages 3-12 and he loves it when “his” kids come and he gets all their attention! I would definitely recommend this breed for anyone with children, I can’t say enough good things about this breed as a family dog! He is a male and he’s definitely a humper, we’ve never had a female golden so can’t say how they would be in this regard, he is getting better as he’s getting older though!
Hi JoAnne,
Thank you for taking the time to comment and share your experience with your golden, Thor.
This breed can never get enough attention, always wanting to be petted! Lol. My Ellie never got into frisbees, but loves tennis balls!
This breed is great for families, and get along well with kids. However, in my experience my Ellie is scared of kids and will run away from them. This is because when she was a puppy a kid threw a large rock at her, and since then she has been afraid of kids. When something scary happens to a puppy/dog they never forget. It is something that we are working on.
I’m glad to hear that Thor loves kids and all the attention he gets.
As far as humping, females do this too. It does get better as they get older, but I don’t think it ever completely goes away.
Thanks again for sharing your experience. I wish you and Thor many wonderful “golden” moments.
All the best,
Jenny.
I have been a “Golden” guy for so long, that I must comment and a question. I have preferred the females over males for so long that I must add a couple of things. 1-males “marking” their territory, or more like “who has been visiting without saying hi?”. If you know anything about how much dogs understand and the information they receive from these intense attractions, sometimes having to “drag” them away from, these areas of interest, that I sometimes wonder if it is a different animal that causes all the fuss. You are right about the lack of barking. Much more just a single woof, or maybe a couple more, if I don’t hear someone at the door. Especially food deliveries now with the Covid virus. More like a lot of excited movement is enough for me to get the message. Some time ago I discovered that 2 dogs are better than 1, at least for the dog, if and when I am gone. Yes, the dog gets lonely. At first it was a smaller dog-little in fact. I was thinking 2 big dogs would be too much. They aren’t. They find their place and the size doesn’t matter-so what about the affection level. Yes again, the female isn’t as intense as the male is-particularly with visitors-known ones especially. The male becomes dominant, and the female will be the one to bring a toy or even whimpers to get her share of the attention, which brings me to my observation and question- Why does my male dog go APE over one particular female human? He must get right in her face. She is a dog person, so the beginning of all this love is wonderful and a time of laughter. BUT, after 1/2 hour, hour, even longer. If he can get to her, it’s right back to-in her face-, both just staring in her eyes, just inches away, and licking and loving ad nauseum. He likes other humans too, but she IS my best friend and he seems to notice. The female Golden, Joy, loves her too, but comes to me for her share of the petting, while the male, Pride, gets all the petting and the poor woman will find, or be given a towel or blanket to hide her face-GAME TIME!-so that doesn’t work either. Finally comes the 2 dogs, Pride and Joy, playing war wrestling and the antics are hysterical as they get rid of their energy. Why does Pride love this one female human more than any other? After having at least 8 Golden’s in my 68 years, this guy is having this very unique behavior. The breeder and her helpers are almost all women, so that explains some of this, but how to limit this without the dog felling rejection Is the question.
Hi Joe,
Thank you so much for sharing your experience and insight into this wonderful breed. I am sure you have been through a lot having owned 8 Golden’s in your lifetime! Many wonderful stories and memories to share, I’m sure!
I am only guessing and going by what I have heard from others, that when dogs sniff other dog’s markings, they are gathering information like what the other dog or animal has consumed, their sex, age, and reproductive status. Also, when dogs sniff each other’s butts they can tell whether the dog is friendly or aggressive, as well as healthy or sick.
As far as your question about why your dog prefers this one female human over any other, it could be because your dog was given special attention by her, or a treat, or simply loves her voice and demeanour, or the way she smells. Dogs sometimes have a favourite human that they just prefer over any other! I think in general that male dogs tend to gravitate to female humans, and female dogs prefer male humans. My female golden Ellie has a very special bond with my husband but loves us both.
I hope this has helped answer your question. Thanks again for your comment.
All the best,
Jenny.
In my experience, each Golden has his or her own personality and own level and mix of characteristics – sweet, playful, active, affectionate – that aren’t really dependent on gender. We have had 3 male Goldens and my mother- and father-in-law have had one male and 2 females, and I couldn’t make any generalization based on gender.
Rocky was fiercely loyal to and attentive to and protective of my father-in-law, who was in a wheelchair after a stroke and wasn’t really interested in anyone else. Both of their girls were retired to show dogs. Annie was very regal and seemed to invite admiration, but we were never sure that she reciprocated any affection, and she didn’t seem very bright. My husband called her Barbie. Meadow, on the other hand, was tremendously affectionate, especially with women, and would stare at you with soulful eyes. She was smart and quick and great at catching balls, even in her old age.
Our first Golden, Ozark, was bigger than average and beautiful and a good companion to our boys. He loved to run and hike and fetch. He was affectionate, but he wouldn’t take any guff from the other dogs at the dog park – I didn’t realize a Golden could be alpha, but he was. Unfortunately, he developed lymphoma when he was only four, so we lost him very young. It was many years before my boys could face the possibility of another loss. When we did finally get another dog, we got lucky with Shadow. He was one of Meadow’s grandsons, and he had her sweet temperament. He was intelligent and affectionate. We always said that Meadow was sweet, and she was smart enough, and that Shadow was smart, and he was sweet enough. He always carried a stuffed animal around in his mouth, and never tore them up, and loved to lean on or lay against any human in his family. He was a great companion for long walks after I retired, but he couldn’t be bothered to play fetch.
Our current boy, Ryker, turns 1 year old today, so it’s hard to predict what he will be like when he is fully mature. So far, he is a little sassier than any of the other dogs we have had and probably brighter. He’s full of energy, interested in starting chasing games, and very bright at learning tricks, and training us – if he gets a treat for one behaviour he’ll come up with something similar later to see if that will work, too. I can’t tell you how many socks, tissues, plastic bags, etc., he’ll scavenge up and bring me to trade for a piece of kibble a day! But he’s slightly stand-offish – laying on our feet, but not leaning up against us, definitely not a Shadow or a Meadow.
Hi Anita,
Thank you so much for offering your experience and insight! I do agree that each Golden has their very own personality and character traits that are not dependant on gender. In general though, and from what I have experienced and from what other Golden owners have mentioned is that females tend to want the affection, and males will give you the affection. Maybe you have experienced this as well?
It’s amazing how dogs become someone’s protector especially when they need it the most, such as Rocky protecting your father-in-law. This breed is certainly loyal and very protective in a friendly and gentle way of the ones they love.
You have definitely had a lot of great moments and experiences with this breed, and I wish you all the best with your golden Ryker! Happy belated birthday to him!
Thanks again for taking the time to share your experience.
All the best,
Jenny.
I am looking for a Golden Retriever puppy too. The same question between male vs female. I live in an apartment condo, so size is a big concern. We don’t want anything other than a golden retriever too. So from your article, I guess female would be smaller than the male :).
I will update what I get! :=D
Hi Sai,
Female Golden Retrievers are generally smaller than males, but they are still considered large-sized dogs. On average females tend to weigh 55-65lbs and males 65-75lbs, according to breed standards. This is on AVERAGE! I own a female golden who is at her ideal healthy weight and she weighs about 78-80 pounds. I meet a lot of Golden Retrievers who weigh anywhere from 80-100 pounds, it is all dependant on their genetics.
Golden Retrievers are not the most ideal apartment or condo type dogs (in my opinion), they need plenty of room inside as well as outside. Inside they will take over your furniture, and they require plenty of exercise, playtime, mental stimulation, and they really love the water so taking them swimming is ideal. That being said, these dogs generally don’t bark, and if they are given enough daily exercise they could do okay in an apartment.
I can understand why you would want a Golden Retriever, they are the best loving and gentle breed. Just know that this breed will not do well if they are left alone for any length of time. They love human contact and need to be around their humans at all times. If you have to leave them alone while you are at work, consider a dog walker or taking them to doggie daycare.
I wish you all the best with your decision, and I hope you really think it through. Please share with us what you have decided.
Thank you for your comment.
Jenny.
We have an Ellie too! She helped us heal our ?when we lost our first golden cross border collie Indee last year from heart cancer. Ellie is 1 now and puppyhood was a shock for us after 11 years ?. She is a gorgeous girl and very affectionate.
Hi Lynette & Garry,
Thanks for stopping by and commenting. Ellie is such a great name! Sorry to hear of the loss of your dog Indee. Losing a dog is such a painful loss to go through, and you never really get over it, but I’m happy that your golden Ellie has brightened your days, and kept you busy and entertained. I can certainly imagine how puppyhood came as a shock to you, as dog owners we somehow forget how much work that stage is after having gone through it and gotten used to the more calm and well-mannered adult dog.
I wish you all the best with your sweet Ellie!
Take care,
Jenny.
We have just picked out a female golden retriever. My husband sort of wanted a male, but I leaned towards a female. We will get to pick her up in two weeks? Funny thing is, her name Ellie Mae! Our previous dog was a Newfy/golden retriever. She was such a sweet dog! She died just before she turned twelve. We are looking forward to having this little girl! I’m a little nervous about if we can train her. It’s been a while. We would also like her to have a litter of puppies. What are your thoughts on this?
Hi Debbie,
Congratulations on getting a female Golden Retriever puppy! I must say I love the name, but I may be a little biased Lol! Ellie Mae was the name I wanted for our female Golden, but my husband didn’t like it and we ended up with just Ellie. How exciting that you will be able to bring your new puppy home in 2 weeks, there is no need to be nervous, I am sure you will do just fine with all of the training.
Great choice on choosing a female, although either sex is just wonderful! I am sure your little Ellie Mae will become a Daddy’s girl in no time, I think females gravitate towards their male owners more. This is certainly the case with our Ellie. The way she looks at my husband with dreamy eyes and follows him everywhere like he is all that! (I may be a little jealous lol.)
I am curious as to why you would want her to have a litter of puppies if it is for health reasons or if you are planning on breeding her more often. Many people are under the misconception that having a litter of puppies will benefit their female dog health-wise, but this simply isn’t true. There are many health risks associated with a female dog giving birth. Your female could die trying to give birth, or the puppies could die, also your female could get a serious infection, and other complications could occur. Not to mention that the puppies will need to find forever homes, and you will be contributing to the over pet population. I am by no means trying to tell you what to do, but I am just offering my thoughts. I think it takes a bit of research to determine what is best for your female. I recently wrote an article on when to spay a Golden Retriever, and there are many pros and cons to spaying, as well as when spaying is performed. There are also other options to a traditional spay, and I also discuss if spaying is the right thing. You might find it interesting.
Either way, whatever you decide with Ellie Mae, I wish you all the best! I know you will have so many wonderful moments together, and trust me, it will never be boring!
Thank you so much for taking the time to comment, and to share your thoughts.
Jenny.
My roommate’s golden had puppies. 10 long weeks later we gave 7 of the 8 puppies to amazing families. My puppy PICKED ME. She is wilder than sin, with more energy than I think she even knows what to do with. She does things on “her time” and won’t come when I call when she knows she is being naughty. She is very independent AND YET still needs to know she is close to either my roommate or me. She isn’t exactly the “lick your face, jump in your lap” type that I was somewhat expecting, but little by little I started to realize my little girl shows her affection in other ways if it be pawing me gently then rolling over on her back or wanting to be held while she power naps after we play, but the most heartwarming… she sleeps right next to me in her crate and before bedtime she will take the shirt or sock I have worn that day and bring it into her crate with her and use it as a pillow.
So yah half the day she spends acting like a “diva”, but the other half she’s a big ole softie and I wouldn’t want her to be any other way…
Hi Taylor,
I loved reading your comment because it sounds all too familiar! Especially when you mentioned she does things on “her time”, that is so true in my case!! My Ellie is not a lick your face or cuddle in your lap type either, but instead wants to be petted constantly. How sweet that your girl takes your shirt or sock and uses it as a pillow. I just love hearing how females act as compared to male Golden Retrievers, and it sounds like your female is just like mine, a Diva but a softie at the same time.
Thank you so much for sharing your experience. Enjoy the many moments and memories that you will have with your “Diva”.
Take care,
Jenny.
Thanks for taking the time to reply Jenny, being a first time mom, I have googled more things than I want to admit, your article was the first out of hundreds I read that actually brought peace of mind.! Pawzzy Osbourne and I have much to learn and lots of memories to make. Thank you again.
Taylor
Hi Taylor,
First of all, I love the name “Pawzzy Osbourne”, so cute. Second, thank you so much for your kind words about my article. I am glad that it has given you peace of mind. Being a First Time Dog Mom is certainly a learning experience, and Google quickly becomes your best friend. I hope you and your dog share many wonderful memories together. If you ever have any questions, please feel free to contact me and I will gladly help if I can and maybe offer some insight.
All the best to you.
Jenny.
We are hoping to add a Golden Retriever to our family soon and are having a hard time deciding on male or female. I love the fact that females are calmer and more independent. Thank you, Jenny, you make it much easier for us to know which one to go for.
Regards!
Hi Jordan,
Thanks for taking the time to comment. I am glad that my article has helped you to decide between a male and female Golden Retriever. You really can’t go wrong with either sex because they are such wonderful dogs, but if you decide on a female you’ll be really happy.
I wish you all the best,
Jenny.
Good article and it makes me wonder if there is a common denominator among male and female dogs of other breeds in terms of personality, or if males and females of different breeds act in a different manner. I’ve always been one to compare larger dogs versus smaller dogs rather than gender; believing larger breeds to be more calm than smaller ones, but at the same time each would have their advantages and disadvantages.
Hi Todd,
You certainly raise some good points. There are definitely some advantages and disadvantages when comparing large breeds to small breed dogs. For one, small breed dogs have a longer lifespan which is a plus, but larger dogs are calmer because they mature and age faster.
It is hard to say if there is a common denominator among males and females of different breeds, but I would say there are probably some differences in behaviour. Simply because of the different sex hormones.
Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts.
Jenny.
Female dogs are definitely calmer. The only reason why I have not considered getting a pet, a female one at least; is because then all the male dogs will come over. haha
Seriously. However, their calmness and caring nature as mothers are so much like humans. They are noble, loyal and caring but fierce combined with genuine.
Hi Linda,
Yes, when you own a female dog the male dogs tend to show a bit of interest. I am glad you agree that females are calmer than males, you obviously have experienced that. I notice it quite often and I always jokingly say that I wouldn’t get a male dog because they are more hyper. But when it comes down to it both male and female Golden Retrievers are really wonderful. Some people just prefer one sex over the other.
Thank you for sharing your experience and taking the time to comment.
Jenny.
I have a male golden retriever. He is just three months old and I am in love with him ?
Hi Saumya,
Thank you for your comment. Golden Retrievers are so easy to love, they are the best! Hope you enjoy many adventures, and make wonderful memories with your golden puppy. Enjoy, they grow up so fast.
Jenny.
Hi Jenny, we chose a male Golden Retriever because they generally are bigger dogs and that is what we prefer. We had a golden before we got Duck Hudson, but unfortunately the hardest part of loving any pet, they reach that age and pass on. Brooklyn was just 13 when we lost him, he started about 6 months before having small seizures, his last one was quite big and it robbed him of many of his faculties. We chose to lay with him for a couple days as per the vet’s recommendation to see if he would regain his faculties. Unfortunately, this did not happen so we made a very tough decision to put him down. That was the hardest thing, he was such a loving pet. Our house was so quiet for months, so we decided it was time to love another pet. We got Duck when he was 10 weeks old, he was so easy to train, but busy. My husband and I were older so we found that we would be tired from playing but Duck was anxious to continue. Thankful our grandchildren would visit and fill in the gaps where the old folg’s were beat. LOL The thing I find so remarkable is Duck is just about a carbon copy of Brooklyn, they both are incredibly faithful, loving and fun dogs. Is the picture at the top of each page Ellie, if so she is a beautiful girl.
Mary
Hi Mary, thank you for your comment. Ellie is the dog you see at the top of the page, she is our first dog. The bond we have with her is so strong, I cannot imagine losing her, it is definitely the worst part of being a dog owner, losing a loving member of the family. I am glad you found another Golden to love, they are high energy when they are young and can be a handful. Love the name Duck Hudson. Hope you have many wonderful moments and adventures with him.