Why does your golden retriever bring you presents? An animal behaviorist explains

A random sock, a stick that’s way too big for the living room, a leaf from the backyard like it’s a golden treasure, a roll of toilet paper proudly unraveled.

If you’re the lucky owner of a golden retriever, you’re probably used to your beloved pooch bringing you “gifts” on the regular—even if they aren’t always exactly what you’d want as a present.

So what’s going on? Why is your doggo so determined to bring you things?

First, a mini-history lesson. Golden retrievers were originally bred in Scotland in the mid-19th century as hunting dogs, specifically for retrieving game birds like ducks and pheasants during hunting and shooting parties. They were bred to have soft mouths so they could carry birds without damaging them, as well as being strong swimmers.

So retrieving and bringing things to their owners is hardwired into these magnificent creatures. They were also bred to be highly intelligent, easily trained, and naturally friendly. All of which make them the great family pets they’re famous for today.

So what’s going on when a golden retriever brings you a gift?

Sarah Rutten, a canine behaviorist, author, and founder of The Canine Perspective, explained in an article featured on Parade Pets:

“Golden retrievers are hardwired for carrying things in their mouths. It’s part instinct, part offering, and deeply social. The beauty of their soft mouths is that they are unlikely to damage said object, as they were bred to carry things gently.”

And it’s the social part that’s most important for your golden retriever. Rutten adds:

“This is a dog saying, ‘I want to connect with you.’ It’s a heart-forward gesture that says, ‘Here’s something special I found. Let’s share a moment.’”

Basically, it’s the act of connecting with its owner (or pack leader, as dogs see us) that matters, not the actual item itself.

So what should you do if the gift is something you really don’t want, like a dead bird or a now-soggy TV remote? The best plan isn’t to scold your pooch, but to redirect their attention to something you do want brought to you—like a toy.

Overall, when your golden retriever brings you a gift, make the most of the moment. It’s your doggo’s way of saying, “I love you!”

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