Not at all. (It is not safe to make assumptions.) It is only a personal tragedy for us because we really wished that we had had a puppy from our first Golden after she died. We didn't get another dog for a long time after we lost her because we thought there would never be such a great dog and that we would always be comparing her to the new one.
However, once we adopted Max from GRROW, we reluctantly admitted that he is even BETTER than the dog who died (although probably not quite as smart.) Well, he's more headstrong, at least. LOL.
But, we have the same problem with Max as we had with Terra. Strangers come up to us on the street and ask to breed their dog with ours. We apologize and say "no" because he is nuetered too. Of course, deep down inside I'm glad because I wouldn't want my gorgeous and sweet dog mixed up with theirs anyway! LOL.
I've known a lot more Goldens since we got our first. And I know that my original vet was right. I don't want to say that there are too many (how can there be too many Goldens?) but there are a lot of them to choose from and there will always be another one available. And he/she will be just as sweet, and just as smart, and just as loving, and just as beautiful, even though he/she will be different.
You should see all the beautiful Goldens that come to the GRROW reunions! A couple hundred Goldens milling around in the same room, or the same enclosure, with their happy "parents" is a sight to behold! Of course, I think that mine is the prettiest!
GRROW has found loving "forever" homes for more than 1000 Goldens since its founding. That is an endeavor that should be encouraged. Believe me, I had to endure a screening from them that was akin to adopting a child.
Good post, thanks.... I agree with your sentiments.