The Golden Retriever is a medium to large-sized family favorite. They are well-known for their golden, shiny coat (thus the name), as well as their ability in field labor (retrieving), instinctual hunting, service dogs, and search and rescue. They are a family-friendly breed that is also quite intellectual, so they enjoy learning and training. Golden Retrievers are playful, loyal, and eager to please. They enjoy outdoor activities and the water because their breed was intended to retrieve ducks. They usually like fetch, swimming, or water play.