Hi, I’m Bessie, a 2-year-old female golden retriever mix weighing about 45 pounds. I found myself in an overcrowded shelter but thankfully I was rescued and brought to NDLB! I am a happy, playful, active, and eager-to-please girl. I love to make new friends! I’ve done great with the kiddos I’ve met, although my foster mom says any kiddos in the house should be 10+ years old or dog-savvy due to my energy level. Sometimes I mouth when I’m feeling playful, so I need to be redirected to a toy. In my foster home, I live with a 70 pound dog and we coexist just fine. The other foster dog in the home is about 60 pounds; she’s very scared from her past and I’m a bit too much for her. I make a strong first impression with dogs and tend to play rough. Other dogs in the home should be well-adjusted, patient, and willing to teach me social cues. My humans should be willing to do slow introductions and have experience with more dominant dogs like me. I’d be happy as an only dog too! Because of my prey drive, small dogs, cats, or critters are not recommended. I am potty and kennel-trained! I sleep in my kennel during the night without a peep and have been in the kennel for up to 8 hours during the day without any issues. I’m very excited on walks, so you may need to help me with my leash training. The good thing is that I’m food-motivated! I love to play, especially with my stuffed animals. My foster mom thinks I’m so cute when I carry my stuffies around in my mouth. I have to agree that I’m pretty adorable! Tug-of-war is another favorite game of mine. I do have some puppy energy and would do best in an active household. I am excited in the mornings and would love to go on a walk with my person to start the day! A fenced yard is strongly recommended. I take treats gently, am a perfect passenger in the car, rarely bark, and don’t mind having my feet/ears touched. I’m a wonderful dog with great potential. I can’t wait to find my furever people!