Practice Makes Perfect
Congratulations! Few things in life are more satisfying than giving a good home to a cuddly, loving and ravenous ball of joy-otherwise known as a puppy. But right now, before you start your search, a little research will go a long way to ensure that the puppy you take home is likely to be just the companion you hope it will be, and nothing less. That's what this section is intended to provide.
Who are we to advise you? We're Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue, a volunteer run, non-profit organization of Golden Retriever devotees with one interest in mind: to further the breed we cherish. We realize that not everyone wants an adult dog, so we've prepared this checklist to help families choose a good Golden Retriever breeder and a good puppy.
Before you fall in love with the first adorable Golden face you see, take the time in an initial phone call to ask the questions listed here. You may not find a breeder who fits 100% of these criteria, but if you receive more than two negative responses, consider another breeder.
Are you prepared to care for me for a lifetime?
At the end of the list you will find questions to ask yourself. You should be able to answer all of them affirmatively before you begin your search.
Remember: You are adding a new member to your family for the next 10-15 years. NOW IS NOT THE TIME TO BARGAIN HUNT!! Prepare to spend $800 to $1,000 or more for a well bred puppy.
You may have known someone who has (or you may yourself have purchased) a "backyard" bred dog, a pet store or puppy mill dog and had great success. However, the growing incidence of serious problems in the breed makes it prudent to be on guard. Among the undesirable traits are temperament problems including aggression, shyness or hyperactivity. Hip dysplasia, elbow problems, eye problems causing early blindness, heart defects that can severely shorten life span and autoimmune disorders such as thyroid disease and cancer are also becoming prevalent. Responsible breeders do all they can to avoid these problems by researching pedigrees and screening parents for certain inherited problems before breeding.
CAUTION! Pennsylvania is now the leading puppy mill state. Backyard breeders and dog "farmers" have found it more profitable to raise puppies than poultry.
Do not be in a hurry. If getting a Golden, any Golden, RIGHT NOW, is foremost in your plans, then you are not serious and will get what you ask for...just any Golden. You should read books on the breed and even attend dog shows or obedience trials to talk to Golden owners and breeders and LEARN.
Finally, breeders are expected to produce Goldens to high standards. They are entitled to respect and courtesy from the people they are trying to please, so always be on time for any appointments and be honest in explaining your lifestyle, family activity level, experience with dogs, and knowledge of Golden Retrievers.
Who are we to advise you? We're Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue, a volunteer run, non-profit organization of Golden Retriever devotees with one interest in mind: to further the breed we cherish. We realize that not everyone wants an adult dog, so we've prepared this checklist to help families choose a good Golden Retriever breeder and a good puppy.
Before you fall in love with the first adorable Golden face you see, take the time in an initial phone call to ask the questions listed here. You may not find a breeder who fits 100% of these criteria, but if you receive more than two negative responses, consider another breeder.
Are you prepared to care for me for a lifetime?
At the end of the list you will find questions to ask yourself. You should be able to answer all of them affirmatively before you begin your search.
Remember: You are adding a new member to your family for the next 10-15 years. NOW IS NOT THE TIME TO BARGAIN HUNT!! Prepare to spend $800 to $1,000 or more for a well bred puppy.
You may have known someone who has (or you may yourself have purchased) a "backyard" bred dog, a pet store or puppy mill dog and had great success. However, the growing incidence of serious problems in the breed makes it prudent to be on guard. Among the undesirable traits are temperament problems including aggression, shyness or hyperactivity. Hip dysplasia, elbow problems, eye problems causing early blindness, heart defects that can severely shorten life span and autoimmune disorders such as thyroid disease and cancer are also becoming prevalent. Responsible breeders do all they can to avoid these problems by researching pedigrees and screening parents for certain inherited problems before breeding.
CAUTION! Pennsylvania is now the leading puppy mill state. Backyard breeders and dog "farmers" have found it more profitable to raise puppies than poultry.
Do not be in a hurry. If getting a Golden, any Golden, RIGHT NOW, is foremost in your plans, then you are not serious and will get what you ask for...just any Golden. You should read books on the breed and even attend dog shows or obedience trials to talk to Golden owners and breeders and LEARN.
Finally, breeders are expected to produce Goldens to high standards. They are entitled to respect and courtesy from the people they are trying to please, so always be on time for any appointments and be honest in explaining your lifestyle, family activity level, experience with dogs, and knowledge of Golden Retrievers.