When considering buying a Golden Retriever puppy you should visit various different bitches with litters and never buy on impulse. It may well be that the first puppy that you saw and fell in love with is the best but you can always go back.

Both the Sire and the Dam should both have current clear eyes certificates (they are only valid for one year, from date of examination). They should also have their hips & elbows scored by the Kennel Club/British Veterinary Association board and have the necessary certification. The breeder should offer to show you these certificates and I would advise that you never buy from a breeder that does not have the necessary certification. Remember, the lower the hip score of the parents the better. If both parents have not had the relevant hereditary tests certified, WALK AWAY as the breeder obviously has not got the interests of the puppies at heart and is only involved for financial gain. You should always view the Dam with her litter, if this is not possible then WALK AWAY as some unscrupulous people buy whole litters from 'puppy farms' and sell them on in order to make a 'quick profit'.

The puppies should be happy, well socialised and confident little things. The area that they are living in should be clean, as should the pups and their mother. Ask the breeder about the character of the puppies, as she will have spent many hours with them and will know which ones are outgoing, confident, shy, etc. It may be that the one lying down at the back isn't shy at all, just tired after playing! Always ask for the breeder's advice but the ultimate choice is yours. The puppy's colour is not indicative of the adult coat but as a general rule, their ears will be of a similar colour to their adult coat.

Dog or Bitch?   

Again, the choice is yours but in order to be responsible, you must be prepared to have the dog either spayed or castrated if it is not your intention to breed, as there are already far too many unwanted dogs in rescue homes and you wouldn't want to add to them.

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