SOUTHERN GOLDEN RETRIEVER SOCIETY

Buying your puppy

 

When you contact your chosen breeder, it may be that the litter is not old enough for you to see, and it is quite likely not old enough to take home. Many breeders encourage new owners to visit several times as the puppies are growing. This gives time for you to ask any questions you may have and to see the mother interacting with them. It also gives you time to be certain that a Golden Retriever is really the breed for you.

 

When you visit, you should see the puppies in their normal environment. They should not be brought to you in a different part of the premises. They should be kept in clean accommodation and be pleasant to handle. You should see their mother with them, she should show no sign of fear or aggression to you and the puppies should be confident and be happy to meet you.

 

With your puppy you should get a diet sheet and a copy of the pup’s pedigree. You should get the Kennel Club Registration document, which should be signed on the back by the breeder.  Just because they are Kennel Club registered does not mean the breeder is not a puppy farmer. Please ring or email for advice.

You should sign the Registration Document on receipt and send it with the relevant fee to the Kennel Club to have the registration of ownership transferred to your name. It is recommended that you insure your new puppy.

 

The parents may have been checked for the following hereditary diseases.

 

Hip Dysplasia -                     The best score possible is “0” the worst is “106”

                                                The breed average is currently circa “19”

 

Elbow Dysplasia -                 This is a new scheme launched in 1998, the best is “0” worst is “3”

 

Eye Certificates -                 Valid for 12 months and should be checked to see the current eye status.

                                                The certificate should be in force at the time of mating.

                                                The BVA/KC Certificate, should state the animal is “Clear/Unaffected” from Inherited Eye Disease, for the

                                                following conditions: MRD, GPRA, CPRA, HC.  European Certificates should state that the animal is “Free of

                                                evidence of Inherited Eye Disease”.

 

Remember that in genetics, there are no guarantees.

 

Breeders should be prepared to help with any problems you may experience. They should be responsible for all litters they breed. Many will insist on the dog being returned to them if you are unable to keep it and/or will help in the rehoming, or should at least be informed should ownership change.

 

Puppy Socialization classes are held by the Southern Golden Retriever Society.

 

Please contact the Hon Sec for further information of these classes.

 

The Southern Golden Retriever Society makes no warranty as to the quality or fitness of any puppies offered for sale and can accept no responsibility for any transaction between the purchaser and vendor arising from the publication of the listing.