Not sure where the previous posters are getting there info from, but
Golden retreverses rank up in the top for smarts. In no way are they a dumb dog, but one issue you do need to be prepared for is they develop later. By this I don't mean physically but mentally as in maturity. You basically end up with a 60 something lb puppy for 3 to 5 years . In my case a 72 lb 3 year old puppy.
Very easy to train till they Figure out how to play you
But even then they learn new tricks and such very quickly. Very good with other dogs, did I mention all they want to do is play for 3 to 5 years.... very good with kids. Like being active but happy to lay around when they get older... mine isn't there yet....
You do need to be very picky where you buy them from as improper breeding brings out a few issues with them like hip problems, alergys, etc... as for breeders I don't know any in Edmonton but the one I got mine from in kamloops here has people coming from the US and all over to buy puppies when she has them. She won't breed a girl till she is over 2 and she limits litters. Not in it to get rich but rather because she shows and loves the dogs.
I have three friends that live in my area that have golden and know 4 other people in town that have them. All have experienced the same things I have.
Take your time research breeders, go visit the kennels and see how the dogs are kept. If they won't give you a tour take them off your list. Also you want to see both parents. When I went to look at mine the grandma, great grandma, and mom lived there ans dad was 1 mile away with a friend that helps he with her boarding business and is a breeder himself. I also got full pedigrees of both parents and such. Now you may ask why when your just looking for a pet. I also signed an agreement that I can't breed my guy, but the pedigrees and family trees tells you how long the ancestors lived and if there were any genetic issues in the lines. So when your looking registration numbers of both parents are important. A good breeder will have the family tree printed out for you to view or show you on the computer. If not ask about it.
Steve
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