So you’ve decided to take the plunge so to speak and get a new golden retriever puppy? Congratulations! It is a great time in your life to take a dog from puppy to adult, but be prepared. You’ll find all kinds of great experiences with your new puppy, and some not so great. But all the good and bad experiences will shape your adult dog’s personality and the relationship he has with you and the rest of your pack.
To get off on the right foot with your new pup, it’s best to start with the right breeder. To find the right breeder, who will be a good and responsible individual, you must be armed with the right questions. The following is a list of things to think about or ask your breeder.
Does the breeder really care about dogs? It’s easy to understand. Look for pride in your operation and pride in your dog farming. Check their living conditions, look for prizes and medals from dog shows, things like that.
Does your breeder take steps to make sure your pets never end up in a shelter? Or are you only concerned with the bottom line? A good measure of this is the return policy. A good breeder will allow returns if his circumstances are such that he cannot keep the dog.
Is your breeder using shady sales tactics or pressure? If this is the case, they are more interested in money than in a good doghouse. Turn to the other side and leave.
How old is your puppy? Never consider taking home a puppy less than 8 weeks old, he is just not ready. Your breeder will not consider this regardless of the price of the puppy.
Were the puppies born at the facility? This should be a simple yes, no, yes, or goals.
Is the breeder a member of a canine club? This is a sign of pride and it is great to have a breeder show it to you. Most will offer it immediately.
Are mom and dad (father and mother) at least two years old? This is a dead giveaway if you don’t get a straight answer. You should get a resounding yes to this one.
Does the breeder have a post-sale contact program? Good breeders will want to check the dog’s temperament. They will want this information for quality control purposes.
How many different breeds are there for sale here? The answer to this question should really be one. If there are more than 2, this person is not a responsible dog breeder.
Is there a health testing system to ensure your puppy is at the highest level before purchasing?
Is your golden retriever breeder happy to answer these questions or reluctant to do so? If they are a little offended, fine, it is a sign of pride, but they are evasive or rude, then this breeder is not for you.
You can decide to what level you want to push this line of questions, but these are basic, standard questions that any breeder should answer without the slightest hesitation. If you feel good after an informal interview like this, chances are you are on your way to a healthy and happy long-term relationship with both your puppy and your golden retriever breeder.
