VALLE DEL SOL
GOLDEN RETRIEVER CLUB

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I think I have decided on a Golden Retriever, how can I be sure?                     Just click here to take a test.

Q: Who should I contact if I am ready for a puppy?

A: Debbie Rice is this years puppy referral contact. Debbie Rice can be reached via e-mail @ SHASTAGLDN@yahoo.com. To list a litter with Debbie you must be an active member in good standing with Valle Del Sol for over a year and provide hip, elbow, heart and eye clearances for both the sire and dam.       

                       

Q: What Questions should I ask the breeder about the litter?
A: A breeder should welcome a lot of questions so do not be afraid to ask. If a breeder wont or cant answer the following questions it may be a sign to keep looking:

1) Why did you have this litter? ( A breeder will always have a reason for the litter and why they choose a specific Sire and Dam. A serious hobby breed will have a litter for one main reason, to try to improve the breed. They should be able to discuss in detail about both the sire and the dam as well as the strengths of each puppy.

2) Are you a member of the the GRCA ( this is the national golden retriever club ) or their local club? In Phoenix that's us ! ( Being a active member of a breed club allows a golden retriever breeder to learn from others and help to improve the breed.

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Q: What is an English Cream Golden
A: If you are considering a "Rare White Golden," keep in mind that Golden Retriever colors exist from very light to very dark, but do not include white. Purebred Golden Retrievers do not come in pure white, even though some may be extremely light cream in color.

Also, be aware that there are a number of people specializing in what they call White Goldens making them sound rare and exotic. Light-colored Goldens are just that; it is simply a color preference. When evaluating a Golden Retriever puppy as an addition to your home, color should be the last thing you should consider.

They also may be charging much higher prices for these dogs than might be charged by any responsible breeder. Make sure that you ask about genetic testing and that you actually see written reports of clearance claims.

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 Are you ready for a puppy ?

Have you done all your research?  Are all family members in agreement?  Have you talked to several breeders and asked a lot of questions?  Have you read a few books on Golden Retrievers and learned about the breed?  The Golden Retriever Club of America offers an informative booklet:  Acquiring A Golden Retriever.
 
The following information may be helpful before making your final decision:
 
Are you ready to make the commitment of taking responsibility for your Golden's veterinary care, proper housing, neutering/spaying, training, and grooming for the next 10-15 years?
 
Are you ready to spend the time and invest the money to train your Golden?  Well-behaved Goldens are not born, they are the product of your devotion and patience.  Raising a puppy is very time consuming.  If you lead a busy life, you might want to consider adopting an older Golden from a breeder or from a Golden Rescue organization.

 
Goldens are medium dogs, males 23-24", females 21 1/2-22 1/2", that require exercise and grooming.  Goldens are people-oriented dogs and do not make good "backyard dogs".  Goldens want to be part of your family.  They will shed throughout the year and heavily in the spring.  If you object to dog hair in the house, a Golden Retriever is not a good choice.
 
Select a responsible breeder that will be available to answer any questions once your puppy goes home.  A responsible breeder will want to be informed of any health or behavioral problems and accomplishments throughout your Golden's life.  If you are no longer able to care for your dog, be willing to return the dog to your breeder.
 
Golden Retrievers may acquire certain hereditary problems.  Screening for hip/elbow dysplasia, heart problems, and eye disease is recommended before any dog is bred.  Ask the breeder to provide you with copies of these health clearances on the parents of the litter.
Ask about other problems that could have a genetic component such as hypothyroidism, epilepsy, temperament, and allergies.
 
Golden Retrievers are intelligent, affectionate, and eager to please.  These qualities with proper training make the Golden Retriever a wonderful family companion.