How to Choose a Golden Retriever Puppy Breeder

Golden retriever puppies are among the most popular breeds in the United States. They are loving and make great family dogs. But how do you know which breeder to trust? 

Suppose you’re looking for a Golden Retriever puppy. In that case, you need to find a reputable breeder to ensure your puppy will be healthy and happy. Golden Retrievers are often bred by people not qualified as professional dog breeders.

One mistake you don’t want to make is to purchase your puppy from a puppy mill. A puppy mill is described as “An establishment that breeds puppies for sale, typically on an intensive basis and in conditions regarded as inhumane.” You wouldn’t want to support puppy mills because of the inhumane conditions. Instead, find a reliable breeder who cares for their dogs and puppies in the best ways possible.

4 Traits of a Reputable Breeder:

1. They produce healthy puppies.
Healthy parents bear healthy puppies. The quality breeder’s puppy parents have yearly exams that test for various health concerns. The parents are also registered, preventing inbreeding that can cause many health problems for the puppies. Each puppy should also be provided with a health guarantee.

2. They provide socialization opportunities for their dogs.
Reputable breeders socialize their golden retriever puppies to new people, children, animals, and new environments before sending them home to a new family. Socialization also provides exposure to grooming, vet visits, other dogs, etc. It is essential to obtain a healthy, socialized puppy for your family to prevent future problems. Puppies who are not socialized can be reactive, hard to handle, and fearful of people and new experiences. You can also avoid behavioral issues associated with shelter animals when purchasing from a breeder.

3. They provide a quality living environment for their dogs.
Quality breeders have spacious areas for each dog, including 24-hour indoor/outdoor access. In addition, for at least 60 minutes per day, the dog or puppy can run freely outside. They are exposed to a wider variety of surfaces, get more exercise, and have a broader range of enrichment activities than a shelter or non-reputable breeder. Reputable breeders also have a rigorous standard of cleaning each space, which adds to their dog’s quality of health. 

4. They’ve been in business for a long time.
Choosing the right golden retriever puppy breeder is crucial to the health and happiness of your pup. The most reliable breeders have been in business for a long time. It is their job to be knowledgeable about the breed and answer any questions you may have.

Golden retriever with family

Questions to Ask Puppy Breeders

It is essential to ask puppy breeders how they care for their puppies and dogs. If quality care is not important, and all that matters is the sale, you’re dealing with a disreputable breeder.

Below are a few questions you should ask a puppy breeder:

  1. How do you care for your dogs?
  2. How do you socialize the puppies?
  3. What is included with a puppy?
  4. Are the dogs and puppies registered? If so, by whom?
  5. Do you provide the dog’s pedigree, health records, and other information about the dog’s parents?
  6. Do you provide a contract?
  7. Do you have any references?

Often, puppy breeders provide this information online, but it is also a good idea to ask the questions in person. Another way to find a reputable breeder is by asking around, reading reviews, and visiting their website. 

A good puppy breeder will also ask you questions to make sure they are sending their puppies to a good home. Once you find a breeder that is a good fit for your family, prepare your heart and home for a loving golden retriever puppy who will quickly become an essential member of your family.

Disclaimer: We are not discouraging anyone from giving a home to rescue and animal shelter pets. We think adopting is very important as well, but it does not always line up with the wants and needs of the adopting family.

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