The DU Lounge

The dog seems to want his head up on something when resting. This is common in Labs and Goldens and both breeds like to carry soft things in their mouths.

My thought would be to designate a few items that are okay for it have and then interrupt the behavior when it tries any other items.

Also make sure that it does not have a physical issue such as a tumor near the throat or front of the rib cage (also common in those breeds at that age).