Retrievers are bred to bring back waterfowl that have been shot. They are typically energetic, water loving dogs with a predilection for chasing things and bringing them back. They are bred to have a soft bite, as a result they cause less damage when they attack. The above stats are for the Labrador retriever, but the same stats can be used for golden retrievers and any similar bird dog. Because of their friendly temperment and gentle disposition, these dogs make favorite family pets.