Hi everyone! I have to confess, I've never owned a golden before and would like to get one. I'm a little a nervous to be honest. I live in WI and looking for a breeder. I don't mind a little bit of travel to find the right dog. Does anyone have suggestions about how to get started? I know to check for health clearances, but how do I find a reputable breeder? I would like to show my dog in obedience, hunting, and possibly flyball. So I think I'm looking for a dog with a lot of drive, but also a dog that can be calm enough for TDI. Most importantly, I wanted a great pet, which is why I think a golden may be right for me. Is there a difference between the boys and the girls personality-wise that I need to know about?

It's commonly said that boy goldens say "I love you, I love you, I love you" while the girls' motto is "Love me, love me, love me". Of course, that's a blanket statement, but I think it holds pretty true in the breed.

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Golden retrievers think life is a party thrown especially for them

Tanbark Goldens is in Wisconsin. They breed top obedience Goldens that also hunt and I am sure can do flyball. I am sure Yvonne has dogs that do therapy work also.

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Carolyn (A.K.A. Aunt Care) and

Creekwood Tanglefoot Selchie CD, RN, AX, AXJ, CGC, CCA, (A.K.A. Selli-Belle) Golden

Valentine Byrd McDuff (A.K.A. Duffy) Golden/Sheltie

Tanglefoot Autumn Dexter CGC (My Heart Dog at the Bridge) Golden

Tanbark is a big name in competition obedience. I'll be interested to see what other recommendations people offer. Here in NY & CT, Gaylans and Sunfire are two frequent recommendations for performance dogs. You might look at AKC.org where I think you can find lists of the top national obedience competitors. There are a handful of kennel names that often come up. Topbrass might be a kennel for you to look at.

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Zoe, Rockwall Nantucket Breeze, BN, CGC, Delta therapy dog
Zeke, our introduction to the world of Golden Retrievers