Golden Retrievers are known for being intelligent, friendly, and good with children. They’re one of the most popular dog breeds in America, and families generally choose them because of their affectionate and easy-going personalities. If you love nothing more than getting cozy on the couch after a long day, you might wonder if Golden Retrievers are cuddly dogs because there’s nothing better than curling up with your dog on that cozy couch, right?
You’ll be happy to know Golden Retrievers love snuggling with their favorite humans. Of course, you need to know a few things before you rush out and get a Golden because the lovely dogs are so much more than just cuddle buddies!
Do Golden Retrievers Enjoy Affection?
Golden Retrievers enjoy when their humans show them physical affection, but just like humans, it depends on the individual dog’s personality. While all dogs have traits associated with them, you can’t bank on your dog having every characteristic of their breed.
Affection, however, doesn’t need to be displayed in the same way. Just because your dog doesn’t want to lie in your arms doesn’t mean it doesn’t like affection. It might like to receive it more subtly, like a pat on the head or a scratch behind the ears.
How to Show Your Affection
If you crouch down to your dog’s level, they will appreciate it because it’s less intimidating when you’re on their level. Gently place your arms around your dog’s neck and torso and avoid their legs; you can hug your dog without squeezing too tight and making it uncomfortable.
Your dog will also appreciate a pat on the back. Alternatively, you can hug your Golden Retriever by opening your arms and leaning into them slowly, which gives them a chance to move away if they don’t like the interaction. Hold them gently and then slowly release them after a few seconds. This will show your dog love and affection and reinforce their good feelings about hugging.
How Do You Know if Your Golden Retriever Doesn’t Like Cuddles?
Golden Retrievers that don’t like getting hugs will show you in various ways. They might go stiff or yawn and curl into a ball. If they squirm away, it will indicate they are trying to avoid physical contact with you. They may even show signs of anxiety like drooling, hiding, and panting. On a more serious note, they might bark at you, growl, scratch, or even nip you if you ignore all their warning signs that they are uncomfortable.
This might indicate that they don’t like cuddles at all or that they don’t want a cuddle at that moment. Always pay attention to your dog’s body language and how they communicate with you. If you notice any signs that your dog wants to be left alone, break contact and give your Golden time to relax.
As we’ve said, cuddles are not the only way to show affection, so if you need to leave them briefly, there are other ways to show your Golden how much you love them!
Are Golden Retrievers the Cuddliest Breed?
If a dog enjoys cuddling, we assume this means it’s more affectionate compared to a dog that doesn’t. But just because one dog enjoys ear scratches over cuddles doesn’t mean it’s less affectionate. Some dogs’ love language is to play with their humans or sit in a quiet room near them. It might be that your dog loves curling up in your lap or keeping your feet warm at night.
Golden Retrievers are certainly picked as family pets because of their outgoing, loving, and friendly personalities. As a breed, they are known to enjoy curling up with their humans, and they’re definitely affectionate and cuddly dogs. Other breeds are also particularly sweet, like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Boxer, Labrador, Bichon Frise, and the Pit Bull Terrier.
How Do Golden Retrievers Show Affection to Their Owners?
It isn’t just about you offering affection when it comes to owning a Golden. They don’t always wait for you to come to them. Your Golden will express affection in various ways, and the most obvious would be licking their owners’ hands or faces. They wag their tails and press their bodies against their owners. They might also rest their heads on your lap, which is the perfect opportunity to pat them on the head.
Final Thoughts
Golden Retrievers are affectionate and enjoy cuddling with their owners. This doesn’t necessarily mean that every single Golden will enjoy a cuddle. Every dog appreciates the affection of their humans in different ways. However, overall, Goldens are reliably cuddly and love nothing more than snuggle sessions with their humans.
It’s important to be aware of our dogs when we’re in their personal space. A dog will warn you if it’s uncomfortable, and you should always take heed of these warnings to ensure you are both safe.
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Featured Image Credit: SasaStock, Shutterstock
