What Is a Golden Retriever Boyfriend?

Golden Retrievers (yes, the dogs!) are known for being friendly, loving, playful, and loyal, which is why they’re one of the most popular pup breeds in America. Those positive qualities aren’t just prized in pets, though; they’re also valuable traits for a romantic partner, hence the “Golden Retriever Boyfriend” trope that's been gaining popularity over the past few years. If you're a regular social media user, you’ve probably scrolled past some GRB (Golden Retriever boyfriend) jokes or references on TikTok or X/Twitter. So, what is a Golden Retriever Boyfriend? It's a term for a partner (male or female) who is outgoing, optimistic, loyal, supportive, and super friendly. This type of partner is also a stark contrast to the trendy “Black Cat Girlfriend," which describes a significant other (also either male or female) who is more introverted and aloof. Together, they can be a winning combo, and that's because their radically different personalities balance each other out. Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift are the perfect example of this type of pairing.

Sure, it may sound silly to describe your significant other this way, but there's no denying that Golden Retriever boyfriends (or girlfriends) exist, and, depending on your personality type, this could be the type of partner you'd want to seek out. Why are GRBs being so widely discussed today? It's not just the Travis Kelce effect, Dr. Shaakira Stewart, a licensed psychologist based in New York, affirms. “I think the Golden Retriever Boyfriend has been trending for the past few years because, after the pandemic, people are looking for authentic and genuine connections," she notes. "They realize that life is too short and no need to waste it on dating those ‘bad guys.’” 

Here’s what to know about the Golden Retriever boyfriend and the pros and cons of dating one, according to three experts.

The Traits of a Golden Retriever Boyfriend 

Relationship expert and astrologer Bethany Nicole notes that GRBs often show up shortly after a bad relationship and can help someone rebuild their confidence, feel loved, and regain their value once more. “They can often be a friend who gets upgraded to boyfriend status or even an old flame reignited,” she explains. “They’re basically an emotional support service human. They perform all the exemplary duties of a great boyfriend: responsive to texts, emotionally supportive, tells her all the great things about herself, sends flowers, meets her friends, does what she asks, and is overall usually a genuinely good guy.” 

New York-based psychologist Dr. Catherine Nobile seconds the “good person” status. “It’s the kind of partner who’s comforting, reliable, and empathetic, desirable at a time when emotional intelligence and compassion are increasingly important,” she says, noting honesty and commitment as two standouts. 

The Pros of Dating a Golden Retriever Boyfriend

Just like the dog breed, GRBs are reliable, optimistic, and fun. “They provide security and safety by making you feel seen through their tenderness and acts of loyalty,” explains Dr. Stewart. “They are also easygoing and enjoy new experiences with excitement. In essence, they live life authentically and intentionally and with joy.” Dr. Nobile adds that GRBs are emotionally open and express their love through physical touch, which can be refreshing, especially if you’ve dealt with ghosting, emotionally closed-off partners, or been through a rough patch in the dating world. “He is thoughtful and often a people-pleaser. He doesn’t fight unnecessary battles and prefers to have differences instead of fights,” she says. “This role model is in stark contrast to the emotionally distant, ‘bad boy’ type, which represents the emergence of a new appreciation for emotional accessibility, empathy, and teamwork.”

Whether you date one for a few months, a few years, or forever, GRBs can play an essential role in your self-worth and your feelings about relationships as a whole. “They can really help bolster up someone especially after a bad breakup or relationship, but their inherent value in my opinion is helping someone expand their vision of what a relationship can be like, and set their new bottom line or minimum standard to that,” says Nicole.

The Cons of Dating a Golden Retriever Boyfriend

Golden Retriever dogs can be a bit clingy, and so can the Golden Retriever boyfriend. Dr. Stewart warns that they can easily lose themselves in the relationship, as they’re so focused on their partner. “It is important that they also feel seen, heard, and loved by you. Reciprocation is key,” she says.

GRBs have a tendency to be people-pleasers, says Dr. Nobile. “It can lead to him disregarding his own well-being to please his partner. He tends to defer to his partner rather than share his opinion,” she explains. The lighthearted approach to life may also be frustrating on occasion and may cause conflict. “Though his overpowering optimism can feel encouraging, it can impede processing the emotional issues beneath because he avoids sharing uncomfortable feelings,” she shares. A GRB will create a nurturing, loving environment, but they also need to prioritize honesty and authenticity, especially when things aren’t so rosy. 

What to Know When Dating a Golden Retriever Boyfriend

A GRB really wants to make you feel loved, so lean into it! “They bring excitement, loyalty, a positive perspective, and attentiveness” to a relationship, says Dr. Stewart. Dr. Nobile notes that a GRB’s listening skills and desire for harmony and happiness helps build emotional bonds, and they serve as an “unshakeable support system” in a relationship.

However, remember that GRBs can be passive, so clear, open communication is key to success here. “You can have a stable, loving relationship with a GRB, but it’s also important to encourage him to have his needs and beliefs heard, too, so both people are equally satisfied,” says Dr. Nobile.