The best dog for you is the one you won't grow tired of. However, for a first-time dog owner, I'd suggest a basic dog unlike the poster above me. A lot of dogs that excel in one thing really lack in other areas, making them somewhat difficult to raise. For example, Border Collies may be smart, but they are very activity-focused and will go crazy without something to do. Great Danes may be laid back and chill, but they will be very expensive to feed (with huge poos). German Shepherds are also pretty smart, but can be viciously loyal to the point of aggression. These all come from experience raising these different breeds.
No matter what breed you pick, dogs are prone to behavior problems. Sometimes they will grow out of these problems, and sometimes they won't. Dogs will pee and shit in the house, chew up your stuff/furniture, bark excessively, and go crazy around other dogs. You should expect one or all of these issues if you are getting a new dog. Dogs are a lot of work, but they're also very rewarding.
If you're set on a Golden, get a Golden. I, however, would suggest a Lab for a first-time dog owner. Labradors and Goldens really are base dogs. They don't grow too big, are smart enough without being neurotic, and are easy to train.