My name is Cooper, and I am a 3-year-old Golden Retriever currently looking for my new forever family.
When I first came to GRRA, I had a few things that I needed help with. I’ve spent the past few weeks working hard in a board-and-train program with Rucker Dog Training, where I am learning how to trust people and also to work on basic obedience and structure.
My life before arriving at GRRA was a bit unorthodox to say the least. I was crated during the work week for up to 12 hours while my owner worked and then again at night when it was time to go to bed. This made me a bit anxious to say the least since I wasn’t able to get out to do my business or have access to water during these times. Needless to say, I got a bit protective of my water bowl when I was finally given access and tended to drink too much in one sitting.
I’m proud to say that I have come a long way. The trainers say that they have had no issues with me and my water bowl, and that I am doing great, so much so, in fact, that they are saying that I am ready to transition into a permanent home! I have also heard them say that I am just your typical “goofy golden.” That said, continued training and consistency will be important as I adjust to a new environment.
Here’s what you should know about me:
I absolutely love people and have been described as a “Velcro dog”—I like to stick close to my humans. I’m very energetic and thrive with daily exercise like walks, hikes, and playtime.
I am generally a very laid-back boy. Although I do have a mind of my own if I am on a mission – did someone say squirrel?,
I have been around lots of kids and do well with them but due to my size and energy level, I may be better suited in a home with older ones.
I absolutely love car rides and am happy either looking out the window or settling in for a nice nap.
I haven’t lived with
cats yet, but I have seen them around the neighborhood and tend to just ignore them.
I’m great on leash and will just walk right by you, not a puller at all, and have a good handle on my basic commands.
I haven’t lived with another dog yet, though I have enjoyed playing with the few that I have met. Although I must confess that I am a bit submissive and have sometimes been known to submissively urinate when we first meet.
I totally go bonkers over balls and will even bring them back to you when we play fetch. I have a fondness for plush squeaky toys, but I will shred them to get to the squeaker.
I am crate-trained and will need to continue being crated when I’m home alone or unsupervised until I become a bit more trustworthy. No blankets or beds in my crate, please, since I have a habit of chewing them up.
A fenced yard is not required, as long as my exercise needs are consistently met.
I’d love to be included in your daily life—whether that’s outings to dog-friendly restaurants, breweries, or adventures around town.
My future family MUST participate in a 3-week Paws for Success (PFS) Foster-to-Adopt (FTA) period with support from the training team to ensure a successful transition.
If you’re looking for a loyal, active companion and are committed to continuing my training and structure, I might be your perfect match.
Oh, and one more thing, if you have a pool, I am your man. I absolutely love to swim!🐾💛,