We just purchased an 8 week old golden retriever puppy from Amos and Edna. He is perfect! Our daughter is 3 and he is so perfect for her to play with. He has definitely already been around children he is up to date on his vaccines and is AKC certified. The puppies were comfortable with the adults and were playing with them while we were there as well. If we ever get the opportunity to have another puppy, we would definitely get another from this family!
Pros
America's quintessential family dog ā ranked #3 in AKC registration for decades, with an unrivaled reputation for gentleness with children
Exceptional versatility: guide dogs, therapy dogs, search and rescue, hunting retrievers, AKC titling competitors ā all in one breed
Golden Retriever Cancer Foundation-backed health research makes this one of the most scientifically studied breeds for hereditary cancer
Social and adaptable ā reliably friendly with strangers, other dogs, and animals with appropriate socialization
Cons
Cancer is the leading cause of death in American Goldens, affecting over 60% of the breed ā genetic testing cannot currently screen for this
Shedding is prodigious and year-round, intensifying dramatically during biannual coat blows
The puppy phase is extensive ā Goldens are frequently described as puppies until age three
High exercise requirement; separation anxiety is common in the breed when owner interaction is insufficient