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A bearded older man in a plaid shirt reads a newspaper while a large golden retriever sleeps curled up across his lap. 18 / 22

Grandpa Just Wanted to Read the Paper. A Very Large Lap Dog Disagreed.

AI imagegolden retrieverlap dogreading

Golden retrievers are not lap dogs, and nobody seems to have told Honey. She has folded every bit of herself onto Gus's lap, tail tucked around, chin resting on his knee, eyes closed in perfect peace. Gus, for his part, has simply adjusted. He holds the newspaper up and a little to the side, reading over her fluffy back as if this is the most normal arrangement in the world. Pale window light falls across the room, a plant sits on the floor, and a blanket is tossed over the couch behind them.

Big dogs who try to sit on laps are usually looking for closeness and reassurance. Golden retrievers are people-oriented and often want physical contact with the members of their family. It is sweet, but a full-grown golden can weigh as much as a small child, so be mindful of knees, hips, and balance, especially for older owners. Sitting on a sturdy chair or couch and letting the dog lean in from the side can give the same comfort with less strain. Teaching a reliable "off" cue with gentle rewards also helps, so cuddles happen when it is comfortable for both of you.

Gus may not get to the sports page without a little shifting, but he does not look like he would trade this for anything. The news can wait. A sleeping golden on your lap is a story all its own.

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