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[Updated January 2020]
Golden Retrievers are wonderful dogs! But do male goldens differ from female goldens? In this article male vs female Golden Retriever, you will find out how the two sexes differ, plus the reasons why I chose a female.
Just over 4 years ago my husband and I decided to get a puppy. We had recently moved into our new house and wanted to add a dog to our family of just the two of us.
I have always loved Golden Retrievers, and we decided that was the breed for us. After researching, we were able to find a reputable breeder that was going to have puppies available in a couple of months. That was a great time frame for us, and our next decision had to be gender. Do we get a male or a female Golden Retriever?
Several factors went into our decision, and we chose a female Golden Retriever, and never looked back!
Some of the reasons for our decision are explained below.
Females Tend To Be Calmer
This was going to be our first dog, so we wanted to go with a female because we had heard from other dog owners that females tend to be calmer and less hyper than males.
In general, both male and female Golden Retrievers have a calm and friendly temperament and are not considered to be a hyperactive breed.
Female dogs generally mature mentally faster than males do. A 1-year-old female acts like a 1 1/2 – 2-year-old male. Males have a longer puppy stage.
While Goldens reach their full height at the age of 1, and their mature weight at the age of 2, their mental maturity is not reached until the age of 3.
Golden Retrievers are slow to mature compared to other breeds, and they display that playful silly personality of a puppy sometimes into their senior years.
As far as females being calmer than males, who really knows? It is like saying that all women are calmer than men. This is simply not true.
I can tell you this, my female puppy was not calm. She was so hyper and full of energy and playfulness that she was hard to keep up with, and definitely a handful.
I remember a time when she was so wild my husband had to lock himself in the bedroom just to get away from her until she calmed down. (She waited outside of the door for him). He is the one that has always “roughhoused” with her from the start, and I guess the one time he just couldn’t take it LOL.
Another instance is when she would do laps inside the house and run up and down the stairs and then take a running leap onto the couch. Or when we had fresh sod laid down in our backyard, and she grabbed a piece of it and ran into the house with it.
The joys of puppyhood! I would say she calmed down quite a bit at the age of 1, she was spayed at around 6 months and that helped.
Now we have a beautiful, sweet loving and calm dog, that is not to say that she wasn’t that from the beginning, but boy was she a handful.
So if there is any truth behind females being calmer, I would hate to see what a male would be like.
Females Are More Independent
As a first dog, we wanted one that was independent, and not always clinging to us.
Some say that male dogs are more affectionate and needy, often described as goofy and big teddy bears, while females are also affectionate but more on their own terms. They will want to be petted, but then display their independence and walk away when they’ve had enough.
A lot of dog owners have stated that male Goldens are in love with you, and female Goldens want you to love them. I do not have experience with a male Golden, but because I have a female Golden I can totally agree with this statement.
My female is very affectionate but wants all the affection drawn on her. She will sit by your feet and will look up at you and expect to be petted. We have nicknamed her “Diva” because she is very much a Diva.
She expects us to bring her water while she is resting on the couch, and we have to raise the water bowl up to her so she can drink. Is this for real? you might ask, yes it is. We love her so much and she is so spoiled, I think she has trained us well. You might even say that she owns us.
As far as females being more independent than males, that is just a generalization. Although my female wants to be petted on her terms, she does have a need to be with us at all times.
Females Are Smaller
In general females of the same litter and breed will be smaller than males. Males grow to be taller and heavier than females.
According to the American Kennel Club the standard size of a male Golden Retriever is 65-75lbs (29-34kg) in weight and 22-24in (56-61cm) in height.
The standard size of a female Golden Retriever is 55-65lbs (25-29kg) in weight and 20-22in (51-56cm) in height.
The above sizing is just a generalization, and it can vary depending on the size of the parents. Some females can be larger than some males of a different litter, it all depends on genetics.
My female is tall and slim, and she weighs 77lbs (35kg).
Females Don’t Hump Your Leg
This is really what I thought! I was a total newbie. I thought only male dogs hump your leg, boy was I wrong.
I guess this is one of the biggest misconceptions about dog behaviour, that females don’t try to hump people, other dogs or things. Both males and females hump, even after they are neutered or spayed.
While leg humping is embarrassing and awkward for dog owners, especially when your dog does it in front of people, it is completely normal and common.
Some reasons that dogs hump or mount are sexual urges, displaying dominance, playfulness, easing stress, releasing energy, or compulsive behaviour.
My female dog as a puppy would hump her stuffed toys and my leg. She has been spayed, and still on occasion humps my leg, usually after playing. I see it as a way of her releasing her excess energy after she is excited.
Neutering and spaying a dog will usually decrease the humping. Also, trying to distract your dog when he/she tries to hump will help, as well as training methods to correct the behaviour.
Final Thoughts On Male vs Female Golden Retriever
There are many reasons why people prefer female dogs over male dogs or vice versa, but as far as owning a Golden Retriever, I believe you can’t go wrong with either sex.
There may be slight differences in temperament between a male and female, but both sexes are known to be friendly, gentle, loving and intelligent.
When looking for any dog or puppy, male vs female should not be your only criteria, nor should it be the most important one. You need to consider personality, temperament, and health.
If you are going through a breeder you will want to find out how to choose the right puppy from a litter.
While the reasons above were some reasons I chose a female, none of them matter to me now. I am so in love with my female Golden, all of her quirks and perks, and I have never looked back.
What About You?
Do you own a male or a female Golden Retriever? What were some of your reasons for choosing either sex?
Perhaps you own both a male and female Golden Retriever and have noticed some differences?
Please share your thoughts and comments below. I would love to hear from you.
I am the proud owner of a Golden Retriever named Ellie. She keeps me busy, and when she is resting, you can find me working on my blog. She is always close by though. I live in Stirling, ON Canada with my husband, and we both enjoy the never a dull moment life with our Ellie.
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.