If you have a Golden Retriever, you have likely seen your Golden gently carrying things like toys and other fun items in his mouth. Your Golden may just hold it or may show them to you. There are good reasons for this “odd” behavior, and it is perfectly normal for your Golden to do it.

Golden Retrievers were Bred to Retrieve

As the dog breed name suggests, golden retrievers were bred to retrieve. Golden retrievers were bred to be gentle carriers and to retrieve waterfowl without injuring the captured bird for their hunting owners.

This “retrieving” behavioral trait still carries over into their characteristics today. Also, this specific skill is referred to as being “soft-mouthed,” which is a common trait among many other breeds such as spaniels, and even poodles.

5 Reasons Why Your Dog Might Hold Things in their Mouth

1. Teething

Though golden retrievers are trained to hold and retrieve birds, there could be many other reasons for your golden’s behavior, one of which is teething.

A golden retriever puppy loses their baby teeth and goes through the teething process similar to human babies, and the pain resulting from incoming teeth.

If your golden is transitioning from its puppy phase, he is likely experiencing this uncomfortable reality. Much like how babies enjoy the relief of teething rings, your golden could be holding and chewing a toy, or other items to relieve his tooth eruption pain.

2. Anxiety

This behavior could also be a result of anxiety. If you notice this behavior increasing when you are getting ready to leave or have been gone for a while, your golden may be suffering from separation anxiety.

Holding an object could also be compared to a “security blanket,” which is similar to what people use when they are stressed or anxious.

Your golden may be holding a toy for comfort to release energy that may be causing additional anxiety. If your golden is being left in the house with no exercise for long periods, then it will definitely take a toll on their mental state and cause an increase in anxiety.

If you notice this behavior worsening when you leave with symptoms of pacing, depression, and destructive behavior, it is advisable to set up an appointment with your vet to discuss possible changes to help relieve your Golden Retriever’s anxiety.

These behaviors could start to branch into more forms of destruction or negative mental states for your dog. Goldens need enough exercise to release energy and maintain their overall health. Changes in how they hold their toy may indicate repetitive behavior, which could be a new sign of anxiety developing.

3. Possessiveness

Although Golden Retrievers are a family-friendly and generally non-aggressive breed, signs of possessiveness over objects can lead to them being claimed as their own.

If your golden has been carrying around the same toy or food bowl, this could be due to possessiveness. This behavior is usually rare in this breed and is likely the result of a traumatic upbringing or negative training.

The golden retriever is bred to have a gentle temperament and be hard-working. Aggression usually comes from bad experiences, but it can be trained out of your dog with some hard work and love. If your golden exhibits behaviors, along with the holding of an object, such as growling, fur standing on end, or other standoffish body language, then it is a good sign that they are trying to tell you to leave them alone.

While possessiveness may not always be paired with these more aggressive behaviors, your dog may show possessiveness by just refusing to give you the object. While this is frustrating, this is just your golden’s way of telling you, “Hey, I like this thing, I am keeping it”. If you know your dog, you can deal with the situation by observing its body language. Consistent displays of aggressive behavior and hoarding of objects may make it beneficial to look into obedience training to try and curb these aggressions.

4. Attention

Your golden may be holding a toy in its mouth to get your attention. To them, this toy is associated with play and they are enticing you to play. For example, if your dog walks up to you with a known fetch ball in their mouth, then they are likely asking you to play fetch with them. Negative attention-seeking behaviors include your dog picking up socks, shoes, or other items they know not to mess with and carrying them around with them.

Displaying bad behavior will surely get you to pay attention to them, which is their ultimate goal. Signs of bad behavior could be due to separation anxiety, a need for your attention, or a lack of exercise. If your dog has been holding a ball and unsubtly nudging you for the past few minutes, go have some fun with your dog and let them burn off some of its boundless energy.

5. To Give Something to You

Since Golden Retrievers were bred to bring in the waterfowl their owners hunted, they could be exhibiting the behavior of holding their toys in an attempt to give you something.

Golden retrievers also love bringing you their favorite toys because they associate them with love and shared attention. A slobbery ball may not seem like much, but your golden’s favorite toy is meaningful because that is how they show their love.

Holding things in their mouth is a normal trait for a golden retriever

For a Golden Retriever, I can assure you a toy in their mouth is common and normal. Your golden is just trying to have fun with you.

For a golden puppy, teething is common. You can help them with teething-specific toys.

Golden retrievers were bred to bring their owners things while being very gentle, so they still do this today. Your Golden Retriever was bred to please and to retrieve, so if you are met with your dog staring at you with an object or toy, then it’s a good sign to get up and play.

Attention to all Golden Retriever Lovers! 3rd day of February every year is the official day to celebrate National Golden Retriever Day. This special big day was created by golden retriever dog mom Kristen Shroyer.

Golden Retrievers Are Great Pets

The golden retriever is one of the most popular breeds of dogs in the United States. The American Kennel Club (AKC) has consistently ranked golden retrievers in the top 5 list of most popular dog breeds for the past decade. It’s no surprise that golden retrievers are often referred to as the favorite dog breed, man’s best friend, and are great family pets.

Fun Fact – President Gerald Ford had a golden retriever named Liberty who was a beloved member of the White House family.

Golden Retrievers are great family dogs because of their adaptability, gentle temperament, and affectionate personality. They are known for being patient and having a loveable quality, which makes them great companions for children and quintessential family pooch.

In addition to being great family pets, golden retrievers also excel as service dogs. They are often trained as hearing dogs, guide dogs for the blind, therapy dogs for pediatric patients, and disability assistance dogs for those coping with physical or mental challenges.

Short History of Golden Retrievers

The golden retrievers were bred in the early 1800s in the Highlands of Scotland by Sir Dudley Marjoribanks (known as Lord Tweedmouth). He cross-bred a yellow Flat-Coated Retriever with Tweed Water Spaniel to create the ideal Golden Retriever breed.

The golden retrievers were originally bred as gundogs to help hunters and are known for their soft mouths, which allow them to retrieve game birds and other small objects without damaging them.

In 1911, the breed gained popularity in England as a “Retriever- Yellow or Golden” plus it was recognized by The Kennel Club of England. Then, in 1920, the breed name was changed to Golden Retriever.

Also, during the 1920s, golden retrievers were introduced to North America as hunting dogs and companion dogs. Then In 1925, the breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club.

The Golden Retriever Club of America was formed as an official AKC national breed club and a guide to all about Golden Retrievers. It requires a membership to join the club.

Top 3 States Where Golden Retrievers Are Found The Most

California
Texas
Florida

February 3rd National Golden Retriever Day

In 2012, Kristen Shroyer created National Retriever Day. She chose to celebrate this special day on the 3rd day of February because it was the birthday of her beloved Golden boy Quincey.

This golden event is a celebration of how amazing the breed and love of a Golden Retriever are. This national day is celebrated by all golden retriever dog lovers in the United States of America and internationally (International Golden Retriever Day).

5 Great Ways to Celebrate National Golden Retriever Day

1. Bake A Dog Friendly Special Treat
A delish way to celebrate is to make something homemade like these Peanut Butter Banana Dog Cakes, Frozen Dog Treats, and Dog Ice Cream recipes. No matter what you made, for sure your Golden will love it.

2. Support Golden Retriever Rescue Groups
Help other Golden Retrievers by donating to provide for their care and finding their forever homes. If you can, foster or adopt a golden retriever.

3. Get Outside with Your Golden Retriever
Visit your favorite park and go for a long walk or play fetch.

4. Have A Golden Movie Date
Perfect time to cuddle with your Golden on the couch and watch movies about golden retrievers like Air Bud and Homeward Bound. Here are a list of 23 Movies About Golden Retriever For The Whole Family.

5. Golden Day Photos
Capture your celebration and very special moments by taking lots of photos.

Every Day Is A Golden Retriever Day!

Golden Retrievers are a naturally sporty breed, so it is normal for them to also enjoy water and swimming. With their breed origins in hunting and retrieving waterfowl, they are well equipped for this type of exercise and most of them do love it. It is yet another way for them to let out their boundless energy, which is a plus for owners as well.

However, all dogs have different depositions and personalities, meaning older Golden Retrievers may not enjoy this exercise for long periods, or at all, because it requires a lot of endurance. Some Golden Retrievers may have had bad experiences or anxiety associated with water, which is another reason that could deter them from enjoying a good swim.

Why Do Golden Retrievers Like Water?

Golden Retrievers are bred for endurance and due to their sporting backgrounds, many like water because of their innate genetic connection to that type of work and exercise.

Bred to Retrieve in Water

One reason that Golden Retrievers like water is because they are genetically predisposed to be great swimmers and have the strength it takes to swim for long distances quickly.
In the days of breeding that resulted in today’s Golden Retrievers, they used crosses between certain retriever breeds and water spaniels.

So, Golden Retrievers come from a long line of water-loving dog breeds and were engineered to be wonderful swimmers and collectors of downed waterfowl. Their hunting owners would shoot ducks, geese, and other birds down into lakes, which the golden would then swim out to collect.

Coats & Body “Built” For Swimming

Something that allows playing in the water to come easy to a golden is that their coats are water repellant, which gives them opportunities to swim in the heat and the freezing cold, without affecting their core body temperatures very much.

This is also a drawback for some Golden Retrievers, however, as not all are comfortable getting their coats wet. Goldens also have webbed feet which give them an extra advantage in the water.

How Do I Get My Golden Retriever To Like Water If They Show An Aversion?

If your Golden is not as excited about water as you would like, or they show a complete aversion to it, it may just take some gentle coaching to turn them around. It is helpful to try to pinpoint why they do not like water.

If you have a Golden Retriever puppy or an older dog with little exposure to water then this is likely the reason for their aversion. If this is the case then you can start introducing them slowly and trying to get into the water with them to encourage them to join you.

You can bring their favorite toy in with you, and attempt to convince them to swim out to retrieve it. Overall remember not to force your golden to swim if they are not comfortable as this may put them off of swimming for good by giving them a negative association.

The Benefits of Swimming for a Golden Retriever

Swimming offers a wide array of benefits for a Golden Retriever; number one is a way to get out a lot of energy without as much strain on their bodies. Swimming requires a lot of stamina and gives more resistance than running. That means they can easily build muscle tone and improve their cardiac health.

Swimming also allows for less strain on the joints and muscles of your dog, so if your dog has any health problems such as arthritis, hip dysplasia, or if they appear to be getting on the hefty side, then this exercise is perfect for them. Since obesity, arthritis, and hip dysplasia can be common issues for Golden Retrievers, swimming is a great way to keep them healthy and strong without causing the additional pain that running over various terrains may cause.

How to Introduce Your Golden Retriever to Water

Many Golden Retriever owners have no trouble at all introducing their dogs to love water. While others may have Goldens who need extra training and convincing.

Keep in mind to never force your Golden into any body of water as this can give them a very negative experience and they may be scared to go near water afterward. Instead, gently coax your Golden to feel safe and comfortable.

Goldens are intelligent and notoriously good at training, so as long as you are gentle and patient with them the introduction to water should go smoothly. You can start by getting into the water with them, which will help make your Golden comfortable enough to wade in as well.

Using a fetch toy is always a great point of training and making your Golden enjoy being in the water.

Do all Golden Retrievers like to swim?

Not all Golden Retrievers like to swim, some have had no exposure or negative experiences which causes them to be wary of water.

Whatever the attitude your Golden Retriever has towards swimming, many times you can coach and train your Golden into swimming. The most important thing to remember is to be patient with them. Finally, if they don’t like water after several training sessions then it is okay, and you can both find a different activity to enjoy together.

Do golden retrievers like the beach?

Just like you and your family enjoy the beach, many of Golden Retrievers do as well! If your Golden Retriever has never been to the beach, they will likely love the ability to be off-leash, run, play, swim, and spend time with you in a new exciting environment.

It is important to remember that if they have never been to the beach, it may be a good precaution to make your Golden wear a life vest.

Can golden retrievers swim in cold water?

The Golden Retriever breed is actually more equipped to swim in cold water rather than warm water due to their unique outer and inner coats.

So if you are on a camping trip during the colder months with your Golden Retriever, and your Golden hop into the cold lake, you shouldn’t worry.

If you’re wanting to take a camping trip during the colder months, or you happen to be hiking during winter with your Golden and they hop into the cold lake, you shouldn’t worry.

Golden Retrievers’ water-repellant outer coat keeps the fluffy inner coat dry, which means it protects them from cold temperatures. This keeps their core temperature from being affected by freezing water temperatures. So, if your Golden decides to jump into a semi-frozen lake, just let them have their fun and be sure to dry them off afterward to avoid their outer coat becoming icy.

How do I know that my Golden Retriever can swim?

Many, if not all, dogs are born with the innate ability to dog paddle. That is why this popular beginner swim move is named after them. So, your Golden Retriever will have the ability to stay afloat in the water and swim.

Golden Retrievers are great swimmers because of their
high energy, long legs, double coat design, webbed feet, and endurance.

Though, if you have a Golden Retriever puppy and is not accustomed to water yet, do not force your Golden into the water without proper training and gentle coaching.

How to Keep Your Golden Safe in the Water

Golden Retrievers should be self-sufficient enough to need little supervision in water as they can maintain a paddle and have the energy to keep afloat for a very long time. However, it is crucial to remember that anything can happen and it is good practice to supervise your Golden in bodies of water.

Remember not to let your Golden Retriever swim too long in extremely hot weather with direct sunlight, as they can easily become fatigued and dehydrated. They can swim in cold waters, but it is good to dry them off immediately after so as not to risk the cold air freezing their coats and causing them discomfort.

If your Golden Retriever is new to water exposure, gentle guide your Golden. If you have a pool, make sure to watch over your Golden at all times and aware of the pool exit points.

Do Golden Retriever needs a life vests?

If your Golden Retriever is an experienced swimmer who is going to be fully supervised around water, a life vest is likely not needed. However, it is advisable when teaching young a Golden Retriever who may not seem to pick up swimming right away, to fit your Golden with a life vest.

Life vests are also necessary if you take your are going boating, rafting, or anywhere there are strong currents and deep water. Search and rescue dogs are also required to wear life vests due to the extreme situations they are placed in.

While Almost All Golden Retrievers Love the Water There Are Some That Don’t

Golden Retrievers may have been seemingly born to swim, but it is always good to remember that every dog’s experience is different. Whether your dog is inexperienced, has health conditions, or has had bad experiences, it is important to be patient and understanding while trying to enjoy the water together.

Do you own a golden retriever? If so, you may have noticed that they can sometimes smell bad. This can be pretty frustrating, especially when your dog is one of the most adorable creatures on the planet!

Odor is a common problem for golden retriever breed dog and can be caused by a variety of things, including diet, poor grooming, yeast infections, and health problems. In this blog post, we will discuss why golden retrievers smell bad and how to fix it. We will also talk about some of the reasons why they may develop an odor, as well as tips for keeping your dog smelling its best.

Do All Goldens Smell Bad?

No, not all golden retrievers smell bad. However, the breed is known for being prone to developing an odor. This is especially true if your Golden is in the water a lot or if he/she has a lot of fur. Their coat can harbor dirt, bacteria, and other things that can cause them to smell bad, even fishy at times.

Do Golden Retrievers Smell Worse than Other Dogs?

This is a difficult question to answer. All dogs have different natural smells, and some breeds are known for being more smelly than others. For example, basset hounds are known for their strong odor, while poodles are not. Golden retrievers fall somewhere in the middle. They are not as smelly as some breeds, but they are certainly not odor-free.

What Causes Golden Retrievers to Smell Bad?

There are a few different things that can cause golden retrievers to smell bad. These include:

Diet:

Believe it or not, diet can play a significant role in your dog’s smells. This is one of the least likely reasons your Golden may be stinking up your house. But, it is possible. Dogs only sweat from their feet and tongue, but even so, if they’ve been eating something that doesn’t agree with them, it can come out in their odor. For example, if your Golden is eating a lot of fish, he may start to smell like one!

If your dog has allergies, they may manifest in their skin and cause them to have an odor. This is especially true for food allergies.

Yeast infections:

Yeast infections are common in dogs, and they can often cause a bad smell. These infections can occur on the skin, in the ears, or even in the gut. If your dog has a yeast infection, he may have a musty smell. These can be treated with anti fungal medications, but you should always consult your veterinarian first.

Skin infections:

Skin infections are another common cause of odor in dogs. These can be caused by bacteria, yeast, or even allergies. If your dog has a skin infection, he may have a foul smell, usually accompanied by itchiness. These can be treated with antibiotics or other medications, but you should always consult your veterinarian first.

Rolling in smelly dirt:

This one is pretty self-explanatory. If your dog likes to roll in smelly dirt, he’s going to smell like it! This is often the case with dogs who love to play outside. Dogs are especially attracted to the scent of dead worms and other small creatures. So, if you live in an area with a lot of these critters, your dog may be more likely to roll in their scent.

Poor grooming:

If your dog isn’t being properly groomed, this can also lead to an increase in odor. Goldens need to be brushed regularly (at least once a day) to prevent their fur from harboring dirt and bacteria. It’s important to bathe them regularly as well, but be sure to use a dog-specific shampoo that won’t dry out their skin. How often you bathe them should depend on how dirty they get.

For example, if your Golden lives in the water a lot, their fur can harbor that dampness and mildew smell if not properly dried after swimming or playing in the rain.

Health problems:

Some health problems can cause dogs to develop an unpleasant odor. For example, kidney disease and diabetes can both lead to a fruity or sweet smell. If your dog smells bad and you cannot figure out why it’s always best to take them to the vet to rule out any underlying health issues.

How to Keep Your Golden Retriever Smelling Good

Commit to a regular grooming routine:

This is the best way to prevent your Golden from developing an odor. Brush them regularly and bathe them as needed. A good rule of thumb is to brush them at least once a day and bathe them every three to four weeks. Over bathing can actually strip the natural oils from their skin and make them more susceptible to skin infections.

Use a quality dog shampoo:

When you do bathe your Golden, be sure to use a quality dog shampoo. Human shampoo is not designed for dogs and can cause irritation. Look for a shampoo that is designed explicitly for Golden Retrievers or other dogs with sensitive skin.

Use dry dog shampoo:

Yes, they make such a thing! If you don’t have time for a full bath or your dog’s skin is too sensitive to handle it, you can use a dry dog shampoo. These are powders that you simply rub into your dog’s fur and then brush out. They work by absorbing the oils and dirt from their fur.

Check their ears:

Be sure to check your Golden’s ears regularly and clean them as needed. Ear infections are one of the most common causes of foul odor in dogs. You can usually tell if your dog has an ear infection if they are shaking their head a lot or scratching at their ears. If you suspect your dog has an ear infection, take them to the vet right away.

Brush their teeth:

Just like humans, dogs need to have their teeth brushed regularly. This helps prevent plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to bad breath. You can use a special dog toothbrush and toothpaste or just a regular toothbrush (do not use human toothpaste on your dog). If you’re not sure how to brush your dog’s teeth, ask your veterinarian for a demonstration.

Invest in a good quality dog food:

A healthy diet is essential for all dogs, but it can be especially helpful in reducing odor. Make sure you take your dog to the vet to rule out any allergies if the suspected stench is coming from their diet.

Keep any personal items, dog beds, blankets, fav stuffed animals clean:

These items can hold on to smells, so be sure to wash them regularly. A good rule of thumb is to wash dog beds and blankets every two weeks and stuffed animals once a month.

By Taking Proper Care Of Your Golden, They Shouldn’t Smell Bad

If you have tried all of these things and your dog is still stinky, it’s time to take them to the vet for a checkup. There could be an underlying health issue causing the odor. Otherwise, enjoy your sweet-smelling Golden!

Do you have any tips for keeping golden retrievers smelling fresh and clean?

Looking for a good movie to watch about golden retrievers? Well, you’re in luck! We have compiled a list of some of the best movies about these lovable dogs. There is something for everyone on this list, from new releases to classics. So grab some popcorn and get comfortable on the couch – here are our favorite golden retriever movies!

Famous for their loyalty, intelligence, and trainability golden retrievers are among the most popular dog breeds in the United States. And it’s no wonder – they make great companions! Did you know that there are also several movies about these wonderful golden retriever dogs? If you’re looking for a good film to watch with your family or friends, check out our list of the best golden retriever movies.

23 Movies About Golden Retrievers for Kids and Adults

Marley & Me

This tearjerker tells the story of a family’s love for their golden retriever, Marley. Through the ups and downs of life, Marley remains a loyal and faithful friend to his family. This movie will make you laugh, cry, and appreciate the furry members of your own family a little bit more.

A Dog’s Purpose

Based on the bestselling book of the same name, this film follows the life of a dog who is reincarnated multiple times. Each life brings new experiences and lessons, but his ultimate goal remains the same – to find his purpose in life. His journey as Bailey, a golden, is sure to touch your heart and leave you feeling inspired.

The Art Of Racing In The Rain

Enzo, a golden retriever, tells his story from his death bed in this touching novel-turned-movie. Through his observations of the humans around him, Enzo comes to understand the importance of family, friends, and living life to the fullest. This film will make you laugh and cry and maybe even help you see the world through a dog’s eyes.

The Trial of Old Drum

This heartwarming film is based on a true story of a boy and his dog who stand up for what’s right. When Old Drum, a golden retriever, is wrongly accused of killing another dog, his owner takes him to court to prove his innocence. This film is sure to tug at your heartstrings and leave you feeling proud of Old Drum’s bravery.

Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey

This heartwarming classic follows the story of three pets who are lost in the wilderness and must find their way back home. Along the way, they meet new friends and face challenges that test their courage and determination. Featuring an all-star cast, this film is a must-see for any animal lover.

Homeward Bound 2: Lost in San Francisco

The sequel to the beloved classic, this film follows the three pets as they get lost in the city and must find their way back home. With humor and adventure, this film is sure to please any fan of the original.

Air Bud Franchise

This feel-good movie is about a basketball-playing dog who helps his human friend, Josh, win the state championship game. Air Bud is a true underdog story that will have you cheering for the good guys (and pooches) all the way to the end. As of now, the franchise has a total of 5 movies released in all.
Air Bud (1997)
Air Bud: Golden Receiver (1998)
Air Bud: World Pup (2000)
Air Bud: Seventh Inning Fetch (2002)
Air Bud: Spikes Back (2003)

Air Buddies Franchise

The Air Buddies franchise is a series of family-friendly films about the adorable puppies of Air Bud. These lovable pups get into all sorts of mischief, but they always manage to learn valuable lessons along the way. If you’re looking for some light-hearted fun, these movies are sure to please. The Franchise includes:
Air Buddies (2006)
Snow Buddies (2008)
Space Buddies (2009)
Santa Buddies (2009)
The Search for Santa Paws (2010)
Spooky Buddies (2011)
Santa Paws 2: The Santa Pups (2012)
Treasure Buddies (2012)
Super Buddies (2013)

Napoleon

This lighthearted movie follows the misadventures of a golden retriever puppy who is accidentally left behind when his family goes on vacation. Napoleon must fend for himself in the big city, and along the way, he learns some valuable life lessons. This film is sure to put a smile on your face.

The Retrievers

Pilot, the golden retriever, sets out to reclaim her puppies after they are given away. This action-packed adventure is sure to keep you entertained from start to finish.

Bailey’s Billion$

Golden retriever Bailey has a special talent – she can talk! Not only that, but she just inherited a billion-dollar fortune that some people will stop at nothing to get their hands on. This fun and the family-friendly film is sure to have you laughing out loud.

Golden Retrievers Make Great Hollywood Dogs

Golden retrievers are a breed of dog with such intelligence, loyalty, and courage that they have been featured as the star in many films. The golden retriever movies listed above will help you find new favorites to enjoy.

Whether you’re looking for an old favorite or something new to watch with your family, these golden retriever movies are sure to please. So curl up with your favorite furry friend and enjoy one of these wonderful films. And don’t forget the popcorn!

Do you have a favorite golden retriever movie that we didn’t mention? Let us know in the comments. And be sure to check out our other list posts for more movie recommendations. Happy watching!