Basic obedience is useful and important, but life skills are more important for the mental and emotional well-being of your Golden. A dog that accepts having its feet, ears, nails, eyes, and tail examined is more likely to have a good experience at the vet and the groomer. Teaching a scared dog how to cope with loud noises, stairs, or a slippery floor is essential to his emotional health and well-being and will definitely make him a better pet.