Golden Retrievers are known for being smart, friendly, and great with kids. They are one of the most popular breeds in America because of their affectionate and easy-going personalities. If you enjoy relaxing on the couch, you might wonder if Golden Retrievers like to cuddle. There’s nothing better than snuggling with your dog on a comfy couch.
You’ll be happy to know that Golden Retrievers love cuddling with their favorite people. But, before getting a Golden Retriever, you should know that they are more than just cuddle buddies! We should tell you Do Golden Retrievers Like to Cuddle More Than Other Breeds? Dog Affective Preferences
Are Golden Retrievers the Most Affectionate Dog Breed?
There is no clear answer to which dog breed is the most affectionate. Many people find Golden Retrievers to be especially loving because of their friendly personalities. Other breeds like Bichon Frises, Labradors, Pugs, Shih Tzus, and Welsh Corgis also love being petted and cuddled by their owners.
Do Golden Retrievers Enjoy Affection?
Golden Retrievers enjoy physical affection, but it depends on the dog’s personality. Even if your Golden doesn’t want to lie in your arms, it doesn’t mean they don’t like you. They might prefer a pat on the head or a scratch behind the ears.
How to Show Your Affection
When showing affection, get down to your dog’s level. Gently place your hands around their neck and torso, avoiding their legs. You can also hug your dog without squeezing too tightly and give them a pat on the back. Hug them gently and then slowly release them to show love without making them uncomfortable.
Why Are Golden Retrievers So Cuddly?
Golden Retrievers are often cuddly because of their genetics. They were bred to be loyal companions. Reasons they might cuddle include:
- Love: Golden Retrievers are loyal and love being around their families.
- Warmth: Their double coat of fur means they love being warm, so they may seek out your warmth.
- Stress Relief: Cuddling releases oxytocin, the “feel-good hormone,” helping both humans and dogs feel better.
How Do You Know if Your Golden Retriever Doesn’t Like Cuddles?
If your Golden Retriever doesn’t like cuddles, they might:
- Stiffen or yawn and curl into a ball.
- Squirm away or show signs of anxiety like drooling, hiding, and panting.
- Bark, growl, scratch, or nip if they are very uncomfortable.
Always pay attention to your dog’s body language. If they want to be left alone, give them space to relax.
Are Golden Retrievers the Cuddliest Breed?
If a dog enjoys cuddling, we might think they are more affectionate. But dogs show love in different ways, like playing with their owners or sitting quietly near them. Golden Retrievers are chosen as family pets because they are outgoing, loving, and friendly. They enjoy curling up with their humans and are generally affectionate and cuddly.
How Do Golden Retrievers Show Affection to Their Owners?
Golden Retrievers show affection by licking your hands or face, wagging their tails, pressing their bodies against you, or resting their heads on your lap.
Why Do Goldens Like Physical Affection from Humans?
Golden Retrievers need human interaction to:
Physical contact releases oxytocin, promoting happiness and bonding. Petting your Golden can also reduce your stress and anxiety, making them love physical affection from humans.
How to Cuddle Your Golden Retriever the Right Way
To get the most out of a cuddle, hug your dog by gently placing your hands around their neck and torso, not around their legs. You can also put them on their back, which many dogs appreciate. If you crouch down to your dog’s level, they will feel more comfortable.
How to Tell If Your Golden Retriever Doesn’t Like Being Cuddled
A Golden Retriever that dislikes cuddling might:
- Be tense or stiff.
- Yawn or curl up in a ball.
- Squirm away or show signs of anxiety like hiding, panting, or drooling.
- Growl, bark, scratch, or nip if they feel very uncomfortable.
If you notice any of these behaviors, give your Golden time to relax and reconsider your approach to showing affection.
Many Goldens Don’t Like Human-style Hugs
Most Golden Retrievers enjoy being cuddled, but some might find it uncomfortable or even scary. According to the American Kennel Club, most dogs don’t like human-style hugs because they may feel trapped. Watch your dog’s body language to see if they enjoy being cuddled.
Other Ways to Show Your Golden Retriever Affection
You can show your Golden affection by giving them verbal praise, petting them, and giving them treats. Spending time with their loved ones is often enough for Goldens. They enjoy playing fetch or other physical activities with their owners. Some dogs might appreciate a bath, nail trim, or brushing more than cuddling.
You’re Not a Bad Pet Parent If Your Dog Doesn’t Like to Cuddle
Not all dogs enjoy petting. Some dogs don’t like physical touch and prefer to show love in different ways. If your dog doesn’t like cuddling, it’s okay. They have their own ways of showing that they love you.
What Causes a No-Cuddle Dog?
There are several reasons why a dog might not like cuddling, including:
- Previous abuse: Dogs that were mishandled in the past might be afraid of human hands.
- Pain: Dogs with pain or injuries might avoid petting because it aggravates the pain. A vet can help determine if your dog is in pain.
- Wrong method or body part: Some dogs don’t like certain types of petting. For example, a small dog might not enjoy head rubs, while a larger dog might find light pats annoying.
Signs That Dogs Don’t Like Petting
Dogs that don’t like petting might:
- Walk away or avoid you.
- Lean away or lick their lips.
- Yawn or curl up in a ball.
- Show signs of anxiety like hiding, panting, or drooling.
What Makes Golden Retrievers Happy and Friendly?
Golden Retrievers are confident, extroverted, dedicated, patient, joyful, intelligent, receptive, good-natured, docile, and active. These traits make them friendly and great companions.
Why Golden Retrievers Are Everybody’s Best Friend
Golden Retrievers are loyal, affectionate, and easy to train. They have a strong desire to please their owners, making them great companions. Their friendly nature and ability to adapt to different situations make them one of the most loved dog breeds.
Final Thoughts
Golden Retrievers are affectionate and enjoy cuddling with their owners. However, not all Goldens will enjoy a cuddle. Every dog appreciates their owner’s love in different ways. Overall, Goldens are reliably cuddly and love snuggle sessions with their humans.
It’s important to pay attention to your dog’s body language. If they are uncomfortable, give them space. Cuddles are not the only way to show affection, and there are many other ways to show your Golden how much you love them.
