Anyone ever own a Golden Retriever???

Get him. I have a black lab/golden retriever mix. He practically housebroke himself, and when I got another lab, he trained her (I think, she totally housebroke herself by following his example). I've had him 15 years. the hip problems started showing at around 10-12 years old, but with meds, which aren't very expensive, he does fine. I live in San Diego, so it would probably be worse in a colder climate. He's extremely loyal. If he barks or growls at someone, you can bet that there's something shady about them. They do shed a lot, but it's a small trade for what you get in return.

Oh yeah, he did love going through obedience training. Very easy to train and eager to please.