Golden Retriever puppies are such a popular choice for the versatility of the breed. Whether you are looking for a companion dog, a service dog or a hunting professional, there are breeders who can help steer you to the right puppy. Nobody wants to invest time and money in a dog that won’t ultimately be the right pet — so just how do you know when you have found the right dog?

Every dog breed has desirable and less desirable traits. Knowing the AKC guidelines will help you ask the right questions, while seeking out a professional trainer can make the transition to owning a puppy easier. Just what do you need to know when looking for the right dog?

What To Look For When Purchasing Golden Retriever Puppies

Choosing Golden Retriever puppies can provide you with an intelligent, loving, life-long companion. By carefully selecting a reputable breeder and picking your puppy carefully, you can rest assured that you have many good years to spend with your new dog.

Finding The Right Breeder

When buying any puppy, it is important to research your breeder. Ask what is in the contract, if the puppies are guaranteed against health defects, and how many litters the mother has birthed. You will also want puppies that have been socialized. It is best to buy directly from a breeder instead of through a pet store, since you will be able to see the parents and home.

Which Gender

The question every new parent asks — is it a boy or a girl? It’s the same thing with a new Golden Retriever. The temperament might vary slightly between the male and females, but ultimately it will be personal preference.

Males might be slightly larger than female Goldens. If this is a factor, then you will want to choose according to grown size.

If you plan on breeding your Golden, then you might be set on a female. If so, then you will need to make sure your contract allows you breeding rights on your dog so that you can register Golden Retriever puppies. The AKC is strict on breeding criteria, so you want to make sure you don’t run into a surprise once you are ready to sell puppies.

Color

Golden Retriever puppies are often born slightly lighter in color. They range from creamy to gold. The best way to find out the adult color of a puppy 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/her home. How do you check for this?

Breeders will have certifications on hips, eyes and heart. These are important health clearances, but you will also want to look at parents about allergy problems. This breed is susceptible to hot spots and skin problems. Ask back two generations when considering a puppy.

Other health concerns are fleas, clear eyes, and discharge from eyes or nose. You also want to make sure there is no scabbing on the coat, and that your puppy is plump — but not fat. Too round may indicate worms.

Personality

When you visit a litter of Golden Retriever puppies, pick one that lets you hold it without any signs of aggression or distance. Golden litters should get excited at the sight of people, and may even run to greet you. The energy of each puppy will vary as well.

Goldens are hunters by breed, so if you want a puppy that will be your hunting companion test them before buying. Take along a duck tail and try to get the puppies to respond. The one that gets most excited may even want to bring your toy back to you. This is the one you want if you are picking 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.