PUPPY INFORMATION
What to ExpectOUR PUPPY application & selection process incorporates finding out as much about our families as we can and pairing them with the dog that suits their lifestyle. we spend a great deal of time gettin to know our pups and rely on you to let us take a peak into your household.
❋ Important FoundationThank you for your interest in one of my Golden Retriever puppies. I am a small hobby breeder of AKC Golden Retrievers. I am a member of the Golden Retriever Club of America, the Atlanta Golden Retriever Club and the Sandlapper Golden Retriever Club. I have been raising dogs since 1968. My dogs compete in AKC Conformation, Obedience, Rally and Dock Diving among other venues. My dogs are health tested for every known genetic and inheritable disease per the Golden Retriever Club of America Ethical Breeder recommendations as well as genetic testing per the Orthopaedic Foundation for Animals guidelines and the stud dogs I use are also screened as strictly. This does not mean that dogs cannot develop conditions like hip dysplasia, but it greatly reduces the chance. There are also environmental and lifestyle conditions that contribute to those conditions (i.e., diet and weight control, over exercise, etc). I do my due diligence in looking for dogs that come from healthy lines and longevity, but unfortunately Cancer is everywhere and all you can do is try not to double up on those things when planning a breeding. If someone tells you they don't have cancer in their lines, they are most likely unaware of it because it is everywhere. I had a dog in the Morris Foundation Golden Retriever Lifetime Study and saw firsthand that there are no clean lines from Cancer.
❋ Expert FacilitationRaising healthy Golden Retriever puppies takes far more than love alone—it requires intention, knowledge, and unwavering commitment. From thoughtfully pairing health-tested parents to providing exceptional prenatal care, early neurological stimulation, proper nutrition, and a clean, enriching environment, every stage matters. Responsible breeders invest countless hours in monitoring development, socializing puppies to people and everyday experiences, and laying the foundation for confident, well-adjusted companions. Health doesn’t happen by accident; it’s the result of careful planning, ethical breeding practices, and a deep dedication to doing what’s right for both the puppies and the breed as a whole.
❋ A Supportive PartnershipA dedicated breeder’s role doesn’t end when a puppy goes home—it expands through a strong network built to support both puppies and their families for life. By cultivating relationships with veterinarians, trainers, groomers, fellow reputable breeders, and breed clubs, responsible breeders connect puppy buyers with trusted resources and expert guidance. This network provides ongoing education, mentorship, and support, helping new owners navigate everything from training and nutrition to health concerns and breed-specific needs. Through open communication and a well-established community, breeders ensure their puppies and families are never navigating the journey alone.A dedicated breeder’s role doesn’t end when a puppy goes home—it expands through a strong network built to support both puppies and their families for life. By cultivating relationships with veterinarians, trainers, groomers, fellow reputable breeders, and breed clubs, responsible breeders connect puppy buyers with trusted resources and expert guidance. This network provides ongoing education, mentorship, and support, helping new owners navigate everything from training and nutrition to health concerns and breed-specific needs. Through open communication and a well-established community, breeders ensure their puppies and families are never navigating the journey alone.
the application process
Are you sure you want a golden retriever?
I strongly recommend anyone interested in getting a Golden retriever do their research on the Golden Retriever Club of America Website, below are some of the links to their pages. There is so much information about the health as well as pitfalls to watch out for when interviewing breeders, since not all Golden Retriever breeders are honest and genuinely care about the health of the breed, the purpose and the look of the dog. With the boom in pet sales, many are just out for money.
Is a Golden Retriever Right for You?
Learn More about Golden Retrievers here
Breed Health
Learn More about Breed Health here
Are you looking for a puppy, or an adult dog?
Click to find out more information on your choice
What is a responsible Breeder?
Click here to watch a short video
Questions to ask a breeder
Thank you for your interest in one of the Etch/Antoine Puppies. I may have 1 girl available for a show home. Contact me via email: rayagoldens@yahoo.com
Submit your completed application to rayagoldens@yahoo.com. I will review your application and references and let you know if you are on the list for a future puppy. Pet puppies are sold on a spay/neuter contract with limited AKC registration, which means you will not be allowed to breed your puppy. Puppies will be required to be spayed or neutered after 2 years for the best health outcomes.