Are you getting the urge to take the plunge into puppy parenthood? If you are considering getting a Golden Retriever, it is important to find a reputable breeder who takes the health and welfare of their dogs seriously. Asking the right questions before making a purchase can help ensure that you are getting a healthy and happy puppy that will be a cherished member of your family for years to come.
1. Can I see the parents?
Seeing the parents of the litter can give you an idea of what your puppy may look like as it grows. Additionally, it can give you an idea of the temperament of the parents, which can be a good indicator of what to expect from your puppy. A good breeder should be happy to show you the parents and give you information about their personalities and health. In some cases, the breeder may only have the female. The sire could be owned by another breeder. I stud my boy Jaks out all the time, and am always willing to let people come visit to just see him. If they don’t want you to see the parent, then they may have something to hide.
2. What health tests have been done?
Golden Retrievers are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and certain types of cancer. A responsible breeder should have the parents of the litter tested for these issues, as well as any other genetic health concerns that are common in the breed. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) offers certifications for hip and elbow dysplasia, while the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) offers a comprehensive testing program for a variety of genetic diseases. The Golden Retriever Club of America recommends that the heart and eyes also be certified. PenHIP in some cases may be an acceptable alternative to an OFA of hips.
3. Can I see the health clearances?
If the parents of the litter have been tested for genetic health issues, the breeder should be able to provide you with documentation of their health clearances. This documentation can give you peace of mind that the breeder is committed to producing healthy puppies. Alternatively, you can ask for the full AKC names of the parents. Then at https://ofa.org/ you can look up the certifications by searching for their name. Another option is to search the name on https://k9data.com
4. What socialization and training have the puppies received?
Socialization and training are critical for a puppy’s development, and a good breeder should start socializing and training the puppies from an early age. Ask the breeder what steps they have taken to socialize the puppies and what kind of training they have done. This can give you an idea of how well-adjusted the puppies will be when you bring them home. Training at 8 weeks will be limited, but they can attempt to crate train and potty train. Exposing pups to different sounds, different textures, different people, hats, walking sticks, brooms, and vacuums are all great things to do.
5. Are the puppies registered with the AKC?
The American Kennel Club (AKC) is the largest registry of purebred dogs in the United States. Registering your puppy with the AKC can help ensure that it is a purebred Golden Retriever and can also give you access to AKC events and programs. A reputable breeder should be able to provide you with AKC registration papers for the puppies.
6. What kind of support do you offer after the sale?
A good breeder should be available to answer any questions you have after you bring your puppy home. Ask the breeder what kind of support they offer and how you can contact them if you have any issues or concerns. Some breeders may even offer training classes or other resources to help you and your puppy adjust to life together.
7. Can I speak to other people who have purchased puppies from you?
If possible, ask the breeder if you can speak to other people who have purchased puppies from them in the past. This can give you an idea of what to expect from the breeder and the puppies they produce. Additionally, you may be able to get advice and tips from other Golden Retriever owners who have been through the puppy-raising process.
8. Is there a health guarantee for the pup?
In most states, there is a required health guarantee. Most reputable breeders will offer a minimum of a one-year guarantee for genetic diseases.
9. Are the puppies up-to-date on vaccinations and deworming?
It’s important to make sure your potential puppy has received appropriate veterinary care before coming home with you. Some breeders, such as myself, give our own vaccines and deworming. However, I still have a vet check done around 6-7 weeks of age. Request for health documents of the pup so that you can take them to your own veterinarian.
10. What is the puppy’s temperament like?
A good breeder should be able to tell you about the personalities of their puppies and help match you with a puppy that will be a good fit for your lifestyle.
11. How do you select which dogs to breed?
A good breeder should have a thoughtful and intentional breeding program, and be able to explain their selection process.
Summary
Finding a reputable Golden Retriever breeder can take time and effort, but it is worth it to ensure that you are getting a healthy and happy puppy that will be a beloved member of your family. By asking the right questions and doing your research, you can help ensure that you are getting a puppy from a breeder who is committed to producing healthy, well-adjusted Golden Retrievers.
It’s important to note that while AKC registration and health clearances are important, they do not guarantee that a puppy will be completely free from health issues. It’s important to remember that even with the best breeding practices and health testing, no dog is perfect. However, by working with a reputable breeder who takes the health and welfare of their dogs seriously, you can give your puppy the best possible start in life.
So go ahead, ask those tough questions. Your future furry friend will thank you for it. Just remember, if you can’t find a good Golden Retriever breeder, you can always try your luck at the local Golden Retriever Rescue and Adoption. And who knows, you may just end up with a “pre-owned” dog that is even more perfect for you!
Sources:
- Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. (n.d.). Hip Dysplasia: Frequently Asked Questions. Retrieved from https://www.ofa.org/faqs/hip-dysplasia-faqs
- American Kennel Club. (n.d.). Why Register Your Dog with the AKC? Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/register/why-register-your-dog/
- Golden Retriever Club of America. (n.d.). Buyer Beware: Selecting a Golden Retriever Breeder. Retrieved from https://www.grca.org/about-the-breed/buyer-beware-selecting-a-golden-retriever-breeder/
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