Golden retreiver too big for 4 year old?

[Chatter101]

Hello All, Please let me know your experiences of a golden retriever and your small child.

We have a 4 year old son, and are looking to buy a GR. Because of their size and exuberance I was wondering how they got on with your youngster.

Mainly in terms of did they knock your child over ( with play and love obviously), did your child get scared, was the dog when adult size too intimidating for your small child etc.

We love the GR character, but we are just a little reluctant about their size, in our house, and for our son.

TIA

Golden retrievers are lovely dogs. The puppy stage is difficult and they are nicknamed land sharks. They will literally eat anything, jump and mouth a lot! However, after about 18 months they do calm down. They are very loving dogs. Flat coat retrievers are also absolutely beautiful (they have softer mouths as well).

My son has just got a lab..he sometimes jumps up at younger people...late teens etc. who come through the door but he never jumps up at the grannies who are small and frail..he senses they are fair game..I'm quite sure your proposed pup would be the same with your lad.