AKC: Breed Standard
Ludwig Colorado Goldens adheres to the American Kennel Club Golden Retriever Standard which is:
"Temperament as friendly, reliable, and trustworthy; and General Appearance as, A symmetrical, powerful, active dog, sound and well put together, not clumsy, displaying a kindly expression and possessing a personality that is eager, alert and self-confident."
Our goal is to better the breed and produce beautiful, healthy, intelligent Golden Retrievers with a sound temperament bred according to this original standard.
We are dedicated to the improvement and advancement of the Golden Retriever breed (often called "the perfect family dog")!
Knowing the Difference:
ENGLISH
Generally light in color
Topline has level slope
Broader head profile
Round, level eyes
Ears are level with eyes
Tail is level with back
Heavier, Stockier build
AMERICAN
Generally gold in color
Topline has slight slope along back
Narrower head profile
Almond-shaped eyes
Ears are set behind and just above eyes
Tail has a slight upward curve
Leaner, lighter-weight build
Signs of a Responsible Breeder
Written by AKC Staff
Congratulations on deciding to purchase a purebred dog and for doing your due diligence to ensure that your pet comes from a responsible, reputable breeder. Here are some things to look for while researching breeders.
You should be able to visit the breeder’s home or kennel and see at least one of the puppy’s parents. While there, pay attention to the parent’s temperament and appearance so that you get a sense of what your puppy may be like. Also, observe the premises. Is the house/kennel clean? Odor free? Dogs and puppies should be clean, well fed, lively, and friendly. Look for signs of malnutrition (like protruding rib cages) or such signs of illness as runny nose and eyes, coughing, lethargy, and sores.
While there, interact with the puppies and dogs. Does the breeder appear to genuinely care for them? The puppies should not shy away from the breeder and should be outgoing with strangers.
Breeders should care about health of your puppy and its parents. They should be informative and honest about a breed’s physical and temperamental traits. And they should speak knowledgeably about genetic diseases that might affect their breed.
The breeder should be friendly and willing to establish a good rapport with you. A good breeder will be an excellent resource and breed mentor for you throughout the life of your puppy, and encourage you to call if your dog has a crisis at any stage of its life.
Breeders should be willing to answer any questions you have, and they should ask many of you as well. Breeders will want to make sure their puppies are going to good homes, with people who know what to expect and have made all the necessary preparations.
