Ugh. I went through the same exact thing with my friend a few years ago. She was determined to get her daughter one for Christmas.... 1st time dog owner gets puppy as a cute gift. She was immediately overwhelmed and kept the poor guy tied to the banister on a 4' chain all day. Another friend and I tried to tell her that she was abusing this dog and that she should give him to a rescue so that he's find a family that would be better suited to him. She still has him, he still sits tied to the railing everyday. She couldn't deal with a big, lumbering (and VERY dumb... true, he is the dumbest dog I ever met) dog that jumped and chewed his way through everything. He also is the sweetest dog I ever met. I feel so bad that she wouldn't listen to us.... we know her and we "knew" a golden was the wrong choice for her. She needed somethng with less energy and 'oomph' - also something a wee bit older.

No wonder he always bolted as soon as he got outside without a leash.

I hope your friend is willing to take the time neccessary to give the pup (whatever breed) the time and attention it needs.