Life with a Golden Retriever: Ross and Sailor’s Story

When it comes to loyal companionship and endless affection, few breeds compare to the Golden Retriever. But what’s life really like with one of these sunshine-filled dogs?

We sat down with Waggel co-founder Ross Fretten and his Golden boy, Sailor, to talk about what it’s really like to live with one of these famously friendly dogs, from shedding and training to the beautiful bond they share and the reality of raising one of Britain’s favourite breeds.

Ross: I actually chose Golden Retrievers because an internet quiz told me to! I was looking for a medium-sized dog that would be adaptable, affectionate, and happy to come to work with me. I took a quiz online that asked things like how much exercise I could offer, my tolerance for shedding or drool, and whether I wanted a companion or working dog. Golden Retriever came up as the clear number one.

They’re intelligent, easy-going, and tend to be calm in an office environment, unlike a Border Collie or Husky, which need a lot more stimulation and exercise. I found Sailor through a site called Champdogs; the breeder happened to have a litter due at just the right time. Sailor was born in mid-October, which meant I could bring him home in December and spend my Christmas break training him before he started joining me at work in London.

R: Sailor definitely needs a delicate touch. He’s incredibly cuddly and affectionate, a total softie, and he loves a bit of TLC. I’d describe him as a stunning blond who lacks dignity and decorum. He’s also not a fussy eater, though that might not make it onto the dating profile!

R: Back in the UK, a typical day means three walks: a long one in the morning, a shorter one around lunch, and another in the evening. I usually add one last quick trip before bed, too. On weekends or dry winter days, I’d try to get him out for a good two-hour walk.

I’ve found that mental stimulation can be just as tiring for Sailor as physical exercise. We’ll play games like tug-of-war or scent training, which keep him happy and engaged. After a bit of training or play, he’ll usually curl up and nap for an hour, which is how I know he’s content.

R: Honestly, I don’t do as much as I probably should! Sailor goes to the groomer every three months or so, and I give him a proper brush about once a month using a Furminator. They’re pretty low-maintenance overall. Their coats don’t mat easily, and they’re naturally quite clean dogs.

I brush him mainly when he starts to shed a lot, which helps keep the hair under control. I think the regular petting and attention also help with grooming. I’m always running my hands through his fur, which probably keeps it cleaner and smoother. He also gets a bath at the groomer or after a swim, just to keep things fresh.

R: The biggest challenge has definitely been anxiety. Sailor was very anxious from day one, and I’ll admit I didn’t handle it perfectly at first. He really struggled with being left alone and especially hated fireworks. For a while, he wouldn’t let me leave the house without getting distressed.

I eventually tackled it with exposure therapy. I started by leaving for just a few seconds, then built it up slowly over several months until he could handle being alone for longer stretches. It took patience, but it worked. These days, he’s much more settled, and having a second dog has helped too, since the companionship makes a huge difference.

Now, he’s fine being left for a few hours, though I try not to push it beyond four. If I’m away for too long, he’ll just be a little clingier when I get back, which is fair enough.

R: I think the breed matters less than understanding how a dog fits your lifestyle. If you’ve done your research and you’re realistic about what you can offer, you’ll be fine. But what I wish I’d realised more clearly is how much of a long-term commitment it is.

When I got Sailor, I thought the hard parts would be training, walking, and day-to-day care. What I didn’t think about was how much a dog shapes your life over the years: your travel plans, your schedule, even where you live. It’s a big responsibility, and it limits your spontaneity a bit.

That said, I wouldn’t change it. I just wish I’d gone into it fully aware of the scale of the commitment, not to scare anyone off, but to make sure you’re really ready for it.

R: For me, it’s companionship, pure and simple. There’s a kind of love you have with a dog that transcends human love. Human relationships, no matter how good, are always a mix of emotions and compromises. With a dog, it’s just unconditional.

Being around Sailor feels like a constant source of calm and joy, almost meditative. He’s always there, always happy to see me, and that sort of uncomplicated connection makes everything worthwhile.

Ross and Sailor’s story is proof that sometimes, the internet really does know best. Golden Retrievers might come with fur, drool, and the occasional muddy pawprint, but they also bring joy and happiness into every corner of life.

Thinking about getting a Golden Retriever (or any dog)? Make sure you’re ready for the commitment - and covered for the unexpected. With Waggel Pet Insurance, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your best friend is protected, plus access to behaviour and vet consultations whenever you need them.