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©1997-2008 Golden
Retriever Rescue, Education, and Training, Inc. |
INFORMATION FOR PUPPY BUYERS
provided by
Golden Retriever Rescue, Education and Training, Inc.
P.O. Box 3069
Falls Church, VA 22043-0069
(703) 620-6593
http://www.grreat.org
Of course, we hope you will consider adopting a dog from GRREAT, but if you do decide you want a pure-bred Golden Retriever puppy, these guidelines were developed to assist you. In the past, buyers have not known what kind of questions to ask breeders, and they often did not know what answers to expect. It is our hope that these guidelines will eliminate some of those reservations, and help you screen breeders in a professional manner. Feel free to copy and circulate the enclosed questionnaire to those individuals who need assistance regarding this matter.
WHILE SHOPPING FOR A PURE-BRED PUPPY, REMEMBER THE FOLLOWING GUIDELINES.
1. Do not be afraid to ask questions! Good breeders encourage questions. If a breeder tries to intimidate you or make fun of the fact that you are asking questions, politely end the conversation.
2. If the breeder states that he does not screen his breeding stock for genetic disorders (hip dysplasia, heart, eyes) because he does not have health problems in his line, politely end the conversation.
3. If the breeder claims he tests his dogs, but simply cannot find the written results 'in order to provide you with a copy prior to the actual purchase, politely end the conversation.
4. If the breeder states that a litter was an "accidental breeding," politely end the conversation. Conscientious breeders do not have "accidental breedings."
5. If the breeder states that it is too expensive to test all dogs, politely end the conversation.
6. A reputable breeder will often ask you a lot of questions. He will be concerned about the homes 'in which his puppies will live. Answer his questions honestly and thoroughly. You may also be asked to complete an application or questionnaire which will help the breeder select a puppy that fits your needs and lifestyle. BEWARE of the breeder whose only concern is whether you can pay the purchase price.
WHEN YOU VISIT THE BREEDER'S KENNEL/HOME, LOOK FOR THE FOLLOWING:
1. Where are the dogs kept? Are the surroundings clean?
2. Are all of the dogs friendly (especially the sire and dam)? Do they have good temperaments?
3. Are the dogs clean and well kept?
4. Do they have plenty of clean/fresh water to drink?
5. Is the yard or kennel clean and free of feces, urine and debris?
6 What are your overall feelings about the environment? (Trust your instincts.)
PUPPY AND BREEDER REFERRAL INFORMATION
Washington D.C. Metropolitan Area Breed Clubs:
National Organizations:
| Golden Retriever Club of America (GRCA) |
| America Kennel Club (AKC) |