Goldens are very intelligent and exuberant, and they respond very well to training. In fact, the first three dogs to win obedience titles were Golden Retrievers. Because they excel in obedience trials and are gentle and affectionate, Goldens are often used as guide dogs for blind, deaf, and other handicapped individuals. They are also used as therapy dogs for residents in nursing homes and for emotionally disturbed children. Golden Retrievers shine as show dogs, in tracking, narcotics detection, field trials, and agility training.