i don’t believe there is any “starter” dog breed. golden retrievers seem to be put into that “starter”/ “easy”category constantly. they do require as much work as any other dog and they are retrievers. they need “jobs” or at the very least a lot of exercise and stimulation. which on one hand, a lot of people do get them as family pets and ig the kids tire them out but it’s also just … they’re not easy. no dog is “easy” they all have unique temperaments/personalities and breed specific needs