Cu Curran Golden Retrievers 

The Golden Retriever Club

of America has a Code of Ethics that all breeders should practice. When joining GRCA,

we agree to abide by and follow this code.  

Unfortunately however, not all Goldens or breeders are created equal. Before purchasing any Golden Retriever puppy, do your homework. Ask to see hip, elbow, eye and heart clearances on BOTH parents, and past generations if possible. You should not take a breeders' word on clearances. Require the breeder to show you official certificates of clearance and you can research some clearances yourself on the internet. You will need the AKC registered name or AKC number to search information on the sites provided below. If the breeder cannot provide clearances, ask why? If injury related, ask to see the medical records in relation to injury.

HIP and ELBOW CLEARANCE: There are two accepted registries in the United States for hip clearances and only one for elbow clearances. Hips and elbows can be certified for a lifetime after two years of age.

Hips and Elbows can be certified by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals or OFA.  Search available. If no results  posted, the clearance was not performed or the results were abnormal and the breeder did not authorize publication. 

or PennHip (hips only) No search available, information only.  

EYE CLEARANCE: Done on a yearly basis by Board Certified Opthalmologist. Canine Eye Registry Foundation or CERF.  Eye clearance form signed by Board Certified DVM and dated is acceptable.

HEART CLEARANCE: Performed by Board Certified Cardiologist after one year of age. Many times these results can also be found on OFA web site. Heart clearance form signed by Board Certified DVM and dated is acceptable.

For more information on health related issues such as hypothyroidism and cancer in Golden Retrievers visit http://www.grca.org/health/

No Guarantee

Even when a breeder follows the COE to the letter, there are no guarantees a puppy will be free of genetic problems. However, it is a start. Knowing that both parents, and generations prior, are free of problems

that we know how to screen and certify increases your chances of having a healthy companion for many years

to come.

Chosing breeders that stand behind their breeding with guantees is important. Check with any breeder about what they would do if the puppy you purchase developes a problem with a genetic disease.