The Golden Retriever is one of the most popular dogs in the country. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Golden is second only to the Labrador Retriever in popularity. The Golden's personality and temperament fits nicely into many families, but he is not born trained. Most of the Golden Retriever's ability to become a wonderful family dog is a result of lots of socialization and training, not a miracle of nature. Make sure you are ready for this breed's boundless energy and enthusiasm for life.