English Cream Golden Retrievers, known for their beautiful cream-colored coats and affectionate personalities, have become increasingly popular among dog lovers in recent years.
As a result, more and more families are seeking out these beautiful dogs to welcome them into their homes. However, it is crucial to understand the origins, characteristics, and importance of finding a reputable breeder for this specific breed before making the commitment to bring one home.
In this article, let’s take a closer look at the breed and explore how you can find reputable breeders.
Importance of Finding a Reputable Breeder
1. Health
One of the most critical reasons to find a reputable breeder is to ensure the health of your English Cream Golden Retriever. Reputable breeders will perform health tests on their breeding dogs to minimize the risk of passing on genetic disorders, such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, eye conditions, and heart problems.
A responsible breeder will also provide health records and a guarantee for your puppy’s health.
2. Temperament
Their genetics and early socialization heavily influence the temperament of your English Cream Golden Retriever. Reputable breeders will take care to select dogs with excellent temperaments for their breeding program. They will expose the puppies to sights, sounds, and experiences to ensure they are well-socialized and confident.
By choosing a reputable breeder, you can feel confident knowing that your puppy will have the friendly, affectionate, and gentle temperament that Golden Retrievers are known for.
3. Ethical Breeding Practices
Ethical breeding practices are essential to ensure the dogs’ well-being and the breed’s overall health. Reputable breeders will follow guidelines set by breed clubs and organizations, such as the Golden Retriever Club of America (GRCA) or the AKC.
These guidelines include responsible breeding practices, proper care for the breeding dogs and puppies, and a commitment to the betterment of the breed.
Official Breed Standards
General Appearance and Size
The English Cream Golden Retriever is a strong, muscular, well-balanced dog. These dogs are slightly longer than tall, giving them a powerful and graceful appearance.
Their size ranges from medium to large, with males typically standing between 23 and 24 inches at the shoulder and weighing between 65 and 75 pounds. Females are generally smaller, standing between 21.5 and 22.5 inches at the shoulder and weighing 55 and 65 pounds.
Coat and Color
One of the most distinguishing features of the English Cream Golden Retriever is its beautiful, light-colored coat.
While the AKC and GRCA do not specifically recognize “English Cream” as a separate color, they acknowledge that Golden Retrievers can have coats ranging from light to dark gold. English Cream Golden Retrievers typically have a lighter coat color, ranging from cream to a pale gold.
The coat is dense and water-repellent, with a thick undercoat and a soft, wavy, straight outer coat. Feathering can be found on the back of the legs, underbody, and tail, adding to the breed’s elegant appearance. The coat should be groomed regularly to prevent matting and excessive shedding.
Head and Expression
The head of the English Cream Golden Retriever is broad and slightly arched, with a well-defined stop between the eyes. The eyes are medium to large, with a friendly and intelligent expression. They should be dark brown, with close-fitting rims. The ears are medium size and set close to the head, hanging down and slightly rounded at the tips.
The muzzle is straight and well-balanced, with a smooth and clean-cut appearance. The nose should be black or brownish-black, and the lips should be close-fitting and not pendulous. The teeth should meet in a scissors or level bite, with complete dentition.
Body and Movement
The body of the English Cream Golden Retriever is strong and well-built, with a deep chest, well-sprung ribs, and a level topline. The back is strong and straight, with a broad and muscular loin. The tail is set on at a natural extension of the topline, carried level or slightly curved upwards, but never curled over the back.
The English Cream Golden Retriever’s movement is smooth and effortless, with a strong, ground-covering stride. The legs should move straight and parallel, with good reach in the front and strong drive in the rear. The overall appearance should be one of strength, agility, and grace.
Temperament
English Cream Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly, outgoing, and affectionate personalities. They are intelligent, eager to please, and highly trainable, making them excellent family pets and ideal for various dog sports and activities. They are also known for their gentle nature, making them suitable for therapy and assistance work.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
- Beware of breeders who always have puppies available. Reputable breeders only sometimes have puppies on hand and usually have waiting lists.
- Be cautious of breeders who sell puppies at a significantly lower price than the average for their breed. This could indicate that they are cutting corners in breeding, care, or socialization.
- Avoid breeders unwilling or unable to show you the parents or their living conditions. Responsible breeders will proudly show you their dogs and where they live.
- Steer clear of breeders who cannot provide documentation of health testing or do not offer a health guarantee for their puppies.
- Be wary of breeders who do not ask you any questions or do not seem concerned about the suitability of their puppies for your home. Reputable breeders will want to ensure their puppies are going to a loving, responsible home.
- Avoid breeders who sell their puppies through pet stores or online without meeting you in person. Responsible breeders will want to meet you and have you meet their puppies before agreeing to sell you one.
- Be cautious of breeders who pressure you to make a quick decision or to purchase a puppy without meeting it first. Reputable breeders will want you to take your time and make sure you are making the right choice.
- Stay away from breeders who do not have a contract or are unwilling to discuss their contract terms with you.
Summary
The English Cream Golden Retriever is a beautiful and loving breed that shares many qualities with the more common Golden Retriever.
Finding a reputable breeder is crucial for ensuring that your English Cream Golden Retriever is healthy, well-tempered, and a perfect fit for your family. Do your research, ask questions, and trust your instincts when selecting a breeder to ensure you find the perfect furry companion for your family.
Majestic Manor Goldens is a family-run, premiere breeder of English Cream Golden Retrievers breeder. We proudly raise healthy, great-tempered dogs for years of love, licks, and loyalty. You’re in the right place if you are looking for an English retriever breeder. Contact us today to learn more and get started!