PUPPIES

If you're looking for a Golden puppy, contact Margaret McAra on 011-888-4316 for the latest news about litters born or expected in the near future.

We recommend you only consider puppies whose parents have been tested for hereditary eye defects such as (hc) cataract and central progressive retinal atrophy within the last 12 months prior to the mating, and have clear hip/elbow X-rays.

In order to prevent the proliferation of genetically inherited diseases, please ensure that you have your dog’s eyes tested annually and hips X-rayed before breeding.

Eye specialists:
Dr I Venter and Dr A Goodhead  011-465-1237

Veterinary Radiologist:
Dr RM Kirberger  012-529-8000

Also: Please issue diet sheets, general hints on bringing up puppies and GRC membership forms to all new owners.

Tips for the Novice Owner when considering breeding and looking for a stud dog

(Any member who has sent in his/her dog’s pedigree, and an annual approved eye and hip certificates to the Secretary of the Club is entitled to have their dog listed on the Stud dog list.)

When Considering Breeding:

1. Only breed if you are totally committed to improving the breed.
2. Don’t breed unless you have the time, means and commitment to do it correctly (it is time consuming and if done correctly it is not a profit making exercise)
3. A person shouldn’t breed for reasons such as:
   1. It would be nice for the bitch to have one litter before we spay her, or
   2. For the children
4. Don’t rush into it, read books, do your homework
5. Clear hips or as close to clear as possible are extremely important, however, temperament is equally important and other important aspects are type, soundness and working ability
6. Have your bitch’s eyes tested and obtain an eye clearance certificate before breeding (to be done annually thereafter)
7. Have your bitch’s hips X-rayed for Hip Dysplasia and obtain a certificate before breeding (this is a once off)

Tips when looking for a Stud Dog

1. The owner of both the stud dog and the bitch MUST be members of the KUSA before a litter can be registered
2. The stud fee is payable at the time of mating (unless otherwise agreed with the stud dog owner.) The norm is usually a free mating next time around if the bitch doesn’t take. 
3. Ask if the stud dog is proven (i.e. has he sired a litter yet)
4. Look at as many dogs as possible and decide which one you want to use BEFORE your bitch comes into season.
5. If possible look at progeny from the dog you are considering using.
6. Like the dog you use – your puppies may all look like him.
7. Ask about temperament (also, if you bitch is very active you more than likely should use a calmer dog or vice versa).
8. Look at the Show and Working ability of progeny.
9. Look at the teeth to make sure the bite is correct (i.e. scissor preferable or level – NOT undershot or other problems).
10. The dog you use must be entire (has two descended testicles).
11. Look for a dog that will compliment your bitch (i.e. if your dog has a narrow head, lacks bone, or is long in the body, don’t use a dog that has the same faults).
12. If you aren’t sure about pedigrees, or how to go about picking a stud dog to suit your bitch’s pedigree, ask advice, speak to 3 or 4 breeders and then make your own decision as to which dog to use.
13. Go to shows or field trials – speak to as many golden owners as possible, but ultimately the choice of dog you use must be and is yours – don’t be bulldozed into using a particular dog
    
    Remember that the owner of the Stud dog must also be happy about using his/her dog on your bitch and will ask to see your bitch’s hip and eye clearance certificates

After the birth

The club provides a service to all members to help find suitable homes for the puppies. Please remember to contact the club with details of the puppies (e.g. how many dogs and bitches, how many homed already, etc).

Golden Retrievers are NOT the right breed for everyone and breeders must take care and be responsible when selecting homes for the puppies.