I think huck18 is on the spot. You should stay with the retrieving breeds. Check out the local HRC clubs for Golden recommendations if that is what you like.

You hunt in Oklahoma right? Just so you know I see at least 2 a day while out jogging. I'm 5 miles north of Cheyenne. I was in the same area last summer and saw maybe 2 in a month.

Yep, we are between Waurika & Duncan. You are right there by the Black kettle, I've hunted there a few times, can be pretty good if you know where to go. Thanks for the report.

To the O.P., sorry for hijacking your post.

I've had labs since I was a kid and they were great around by younger brother and sisters. I've got a black lab female now that's great with my 3 and 6 year olds and a pretty good hunter too.

Who would want to deal with the Golden's hair? They are awesome dogs but the maintenance vs a lab would keep me away from them. I can't imagine picking crap out of there hair after every hunt. It would make me hate that decision.

Just something to think about. They are great pets though.

I own Vizsla, and think the something about Labs.
Great dogs but a lot more shedding.

chessies are pretty laid back inside the house...they take life way more serious than the other breeds, no horseplay please

I would bet a lot of money it's not a bench bred dog.

I saw some nice looking field bred goldens at Dr. Tatum's office yesterday.

Golden = Swamp Collie

That would be a safe bet!

Do you now?????

My GSP is the best family dog I have ever owned. I also have a chessie and the only drawback is his size however he is the best water dog I have ever owned.

Agree, mine just turned 3 yrs. old and the smartest/calmest hunting I have ever had. Looking to pick-up another in the near future.

For waterfowling you can't beat a lab. Easy to train, easy to live with. A GREAT amateur dog. Take them to a groomer every 6 weeks and there won't be a hair problem.

Next on the list is a chessie.. They are a little bit more of a head game,, but a great dog in the field and on the pond. They are a quiet dog in the house and all business in the field.

Boykins are great,,, good luck finding a good one. It's pretty tough. They are a bit of head game, very watery but VERY busy,,, They have a hard time finding their off switch.

I can't recommend a golden. Sorry can't do it. Their temperaments have gotten HORRIBLE in general and the majority can't stand having their feet get wet. Plus hunting them is a nightmare with all that coat. Just training them in any kind of cover makes me be a professional groomer again. Yikes!! I'm always removing mats and picking out seed awns and burrs.. Why?? The breed has gone soooo sideways IMHO... Plus nothing will bite you quicker without warning then a golden.

FWIW

Angie

I have a Brit and a English Pointer. Both are great family dogs and marvelous in the field.
Can't say on the indoor part, never kept a dog inside.

Put me in for a Brittany. Mine is a French Brittany which is a little smaller than the American britt field dogs. She is the sweetest and smartest dog if had. only problem is that I went out of town for a week when she was a pup and my wife put her in the bed and she still thinks its hers. She is absolutely part of the family and loves everyone.

jack russel

or a lab.

Almost forgot about a BMC one of the best breed of dogs

I have a GWP, would HIGHLY RECOMMEND. Great inside with family and a beast in the field or in the water. I was a lab guy for years, and have switched over! Just my preference

Lab! just depends on the pedigree of the dog. Check out Hunter's Creek Retrievers in Houston. John Tate knows his litters very well and picks your dog for you depending on what your looking for. a little pricey but truly you get the best house dog as wells an incredible hunting companion with plenty of drive but still content with laying on the couch.

Don't get a pointer.

I've had Labs and GSP's over the years. Both make great family /hunting dogs. I prefer the GSP.