Golden Retriever Breeder
How To Choose A Reputable Golden Retriever Breeder.
Golden Retrievers are the fourth most popular type of dog in America, but one common problem with popular dogs is the issue of finding a reputable breeder. Finding a good, professional breeder who really understands Golden Retrievers and their unique physiology and temperament is the only way to be assured that the dog you buy will stay healthy and happy for most of its fairly long life, and it is also the only way to know the dog your buy was bred and raised under humane conditions.
Golden Retrievers live 15 years on average, but dogs that are bred by amateurs or supplied to pet stores by puppy mills are more likely to have serious personality problems and physical issues than dogs that are purchased from a reputable Golden Retriever breeder. Whenever a dog is popular and commands a good price, unscrupulous people will always breed as many dogs as possible under horrible conditions and then sell them to make money fast. These are not the dogs you want.
Golden Retrievers are prone to a number of genetic diseases common to all large dogs, and to specific personality problems unique to their own breed. One of the most common genetic problems common to large dogs is hip dysplasia. A reputable Golden Retriever breeder will certify every breeding pair with the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, also known as the OFA. OFA certification means that the dogs the breeders use have been checked and do not carry the genetic predisposition for hip dysplasia and other common physical problems of the specific breed.
If you already have a veterinarian or know a good one, the vet’s office is an excellent place to begin asking questions about breeders. Most vets are familiar with the reputable breeders in any given area and they can also steer you away from places like pet stores where you are likely to have problems. Talk with other Golden Retriever owners too and get some breeder names and numbers, then call a few breeders interview them.
A reputable breeder will happily answer any questions you have in a direct and forthright manner, and will not be shy about showing you the kennel or the dogs. A good breeder will know a lot about the personal qualities of each breeding pair and will be able to tell you about their lineage and strengths.
A good breeder will want to know which qualities you are most interested in and will help you select a puppy most likely to have those qualities, based on their personal knowledge of each parent and of the puppies in each litter. For example, a buyer wanting a Golden Retriever to show in AKC competitions will want different characteristics in a puppy than a buyer wanting a hunting dog or a family wanting a gentle pet.
A good Golden Retriever breeder will love the breed and the dogs and this love will come through in how they speak. Good breeders want to build relationships with customers, and will care about you and your understanding of what you are getting into. They know that a poorly placed dog is bad business for them. They are about much more than just the profit that comes from brokering puppies.
