Here are a few things to keep in mind when you are searching for a Golden.

1. Responsible breeders compete in dog events to prove their dogs are worthy of breeding. Their dogs earn Canadian Kennel Club, American Kennel Club, Golden Retriever Club of Canada and Golden Retriever Club of America titles.

2. Responsible breeders screen their breeding stock for all genetic disorders common to the Golden Retriever. For example,you can find out if a particular dog has hip and elbow clearances by searching these websites http://www.offa.org or http://www.ovc.uoguelph.ca/cfmx/hip-elbow/search/advanced.cfm  The first one is an american organisation and the second is canadian.You need the dog's registered name without his or her titles in order to search.
When you find the dog on one of these websites click on it's name. Then you can be sure that it as both hip and elbow clearances by the information presented.
 Goldens should also have a heart clearance signed by a cardiologist and an eye clearance by an opthamologist that is no older than about 1 year.

3.Responsible breeders breed for themselves. They keep puppies from their litters in order to improve their breeding program. They don't breed for the sake of producing puppies or to pay the bills!

4. Responsible breeders will ask you plenty of personal questions about your lifestyle, your neighbourhood and any other dogs you've owned.

5. Responsible breeders include a clause in their contract saying that if you can't keep the dog it must be returned to them. They never want to add to the work of rescue groups and shelters.

6. Responsible breeders will explain the importance of obedience training and exercise for your puppy/ dog.

7. Reponsible breeders are available to answer any questions you might have for the life of the dog.

All the best.

Kristina, Jan and all our Goldens!