Cu Curran Golden Retrievers 

If bred to the breed standard: males 23-24 inches in height at withers; females 21 1/2-22 1/2 inches.  Deviation in height of more than one inch from the standard is a disqualification. Length from breastbone to point of buttocks slightly greater than height at withers in ratio of 12:11. Weight for dogs 65-75 pounds; bitches 55-65 pounds.

Goldens shed 365 days a year so be prepared.  Regular grooming helps get the dead coat out and keeps the skin healthy.

Goldens need to be exercised on a regular basis to stay healthy in mind and body. Goldens should be kept at a healthy weight to prevent added stress and strain on joints and heart.

Goldens are very smart and love to learn. Puppy kindergarden classes are highly recommended to get you and your new puppy started on the right path. Some Goldens are so smart they need a job. 

YES YES YES! Crate training teaches a puppy to accept down time. As well, it accelerates house-breaking because a dog does not want to soil their living quarters. Dogs are den animals by nature. The crate gives them a place where they can feel safe and secure. Using the crate for punishment is not recommended.

All dogs need to chew. Especially when teething. Provide adequate toys to entertain the puppy and satisfy the need to chew. Bitter Apple spray is a wonderful deterrent that can be applied to anything the puppy should not chew including furniture, rugs, shoes or hands. Never give your puppy an old shoe and expect them to tell the difference between your good shoes.

Currently the national average is around 10.5 years of age. Some live longer, well into their teens. Others die young of diseases like cancer. Keeping your Golden at a good weight, on a good diet and free of parasites is a start. Consider what chemicals you use around your house or on the lawn. All can cause premature death.

Goldens love kids. However there are some issues to consider before bringing a young puppy into the household with young children.

1.  Puppy teeth. Golden puppies have very sharp teeth. It is sometimes hard for a child to understand the a puppy did not mean to hurt them.
2. Any toy your child has becomes an immediate puppy toy. Barbie shoes and GI Joe need to be kept off the floor and away from the puppy. Ingesting plastic or toxic materials can require surgery or cause death.
3. Goldens are a puppy in mind until they reach 18 to 24 months of age. Even though they are full size by 12 months, they still think like a puppy.

A companion Golden Retriever from a reputable breeder is going to cost between $800.00-$1200.00.

Chances are the puppy will be sold on a limited registration which will mean the dog is not to be bred. Show quality or breeding quality Goldens range between $1000.00-$2000.00. They should be guaranteed to pass all health clearances at two years of age, as well as have no disqualifing faults.

Networking! Reputable breeders do not advertise in the newspaper. Don't believe everything you read on a web site. Do your homework. Check with local breed clubs in your area. Ask your local veterinarian. Get references. Talk to people who have purchased puppies from the breeder.

For more comprehensive information check out the Golden Retriver Club of America web site. 

Read Acquiring A Golden Retriever.

Everyone has a different answer to this question. Here at Cu Curran we personally like to see a Golden reach full size to allow the growth plates to close before surgery. Usually between 15-18 months of age. It should be understood a female could have a heat cycle or a male could reproduce before that age. All precautions need to be taken to avoid unwanted pregnancies.

Feel free to contact us with any additional questions you may have regarding purchasing or owning a Golden Retriever.