Golden Retriever puppies are such a popular choice for the breed’s versatility. Whether you are looking for a companion dog, service dog, or hunting professional, there are breeders who can help you find the right puppy. Nobody wants to invest time and money in a dog that will ultimately not be the right pet, so how do you know when you have found the right dog?
Each breed of dog has both desirable and less desirable traits. Knowing the AKC guidelines will help you ask the right questions, while finding a professional trainer can ease the transition to having a puppy. What do you need to know when looking for the right dog?
What to Look for When Buying Golden Retriever Puppies
Choosing Golden Retriever puppies can provide you with an intelligent, loving, and lifelong companion. By carefully selecting a reputable breeder and choosing your puppy with care, you can be sure that you will have many good years to spend with your new dog.
Finding the right breeder
When buying any puppy, it is important to research its breeder. Ask what is in the contract, if the puppies are guaranteed against health defects, and how many litters the mother has given birth. You will also want puppies that have been socialized. It is better to buy directly from a breeder rather than through a pet store, as you will be able to see the parents and the home.
What gender
The question all new parents ask themselves: is it a boy or a girl? The same goes for a new Golden Retriever. Temperament may vary slightly between men and women, but ultimately, it will be personal preference.
Males may be slightly larger than female Goldens. If this is a factor, then you will want to choose according to the adult size.
If you plan to breed your Golden, then you may be targeting a female. If so, you will need to make sure that your contract allows you the breeding rights of your dog so that you can register Golden Retriever puppies. The AKC is strict about breeding criteria, so you want to make sure you don’t run into a surprise once you are ready to sell puppies.
Colour
Golden Retriever puppies are often born slightly lighter in color. They range from creamy to golden. The best way to find out a puppy’s adult color is to check the ears. This is a pretty good indicator of mature color.
Health
Your new puppy should be healthy when you bring him home. How do you verify this?
The breeders will have certifications in hips, eyes and heart. These are important health clearances, but you will also want to consult parents about allergy issues. This breed is susceptible to skin problems and hot spots. Ask two generations when considering a puppy.
Other health problems are fleas, light eyes, and discharge from the eyes or nose. You should also make sure there are no scabs on the coat and that your puppy is plump, but not fat. Too round can indicate worms.
Personality
When visiting a litter of Golden Retriever puppies, choose one that allows you to hold them without any signs of aggression or distance. Golden litters should get excited when they see people and may even run to greet you. The energy of each puppy will also vary.
Goldens are hunters by breed, so if you want a puppy to be your hunting companion, give it a try before you buy. He wears a duck tail and tries to get the cubs to respond. The one who gets the most excited may even want to bring you their toy. This is the one you want if you are choosing a hunting dog.
Golden Retriever puppies are an amazing, beautiful, and intelligent dog. Choosing the right puppy will help you enjoy your dog for years to come.