FAQ - Big Bend Goldens

Do you have different prices for males versus females?
- No, both sexes are the same price.
Do you have different prices for full versus limited registration?
- No but full registration is rare.
How big are your dogs?
- Our breeding dogs are within standard.
- Males 23 to 24 inches in height at withers; females 21½ to 22½ inches, plus or minus one inch. Length from breastbone to point of buttocks slightly greater than height at withers in ratio of 12:11. Weight for dogs around 70 pounds; bitches around 60 pounds.
How are puppies picked?
- At 7 1/2 weeks, my puppies are conformation and temperament tested by an outside professional. I use the results of the testing combined with my observing the puppies and watching them grow to decide which puppy matches best with the needs of with each family member.
Do You offer mentorship for someone who wants to start showing and breeding?
- Yes if interested and serious about showing and or hunting. I will not Mentor somebody who wants to breed simply to breed.
What is your stud fee?
- $1900 to $2400 depending on level of titles.
Are your breeding dogs full AKC registered?
- Yes
How many dogs are in your home?
- five dogs live with us
Where are your dogs kept most of the time?
- In the house or fenced yard. Pretty much wherever they want.
What do you do with your retired dogs?
- They are family and live out their life with us. There are rare occasions when I will rehome a dog to a friend or family member, but they have to plead a lot.
Where are your puppies born and raised?
- Born in my bedroom and raised there for about 3 weeks, Move to the dining room and spend the remainder of their puppy time in our main living areas.
What OFA certified and genetic health testing has been done on your breeding dogs?
- All testing and more recommended by the GRCA. OFA Heart, eyes, hips and elbows. I genetically test for Degenerative Myelopathy, Ichthyosis (Golden Retriever Type) 1&2, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Golden Retriever 1, Progressive Retinal Atrophy Golden Retriever 2, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Progressive Rod-Cone Degeneration, Golden Retriever Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis.
What is your goal in breeding?
- To produce sound healthy dogs that meet the breed standard with gentle temperaments. I’m also starting to hunt train my puppies at 6 months. I would like my breeding dogs to do what they are bred for. Also through selective breeding, I strive to produce offspring that are better quality than their parents.
What do you do for early neurological stimulation and socialization?
- BBG puppies are put through Early Neurological Stimulation from day 3 to 16. The program was adopted by the military for their K9’s and involves a series a exercises that stimulate the the neurological system. Studies show that the benefits noted were:
  - Improved cardio vascular performance (heart rate)
  - Stronger heart beats
  - Stronger adrenal glands
  - More tolerance to stress
  - Greater resistance to disease
- Our puppies are raised in the dining room so they are desensitized to regular household sounds and activities. I also play thunder, crying, fireworks, etc sounds loud daily after week 5. I put a running vacuum in their nursery a few times, they get several baths and blow dry, nail clipping and Dremel, tooth brushing, overhead items dangling, floating balloons, and banging pots and pans, car rides, etc.
Do your dogs show/trial/compete/work?
- Yes. My breeding dogs are shown in conformation and I’m starting a hunt training program. I also do a lot of fun titled activities like fetch, fastcat, barn hunt, and nosework.
What titles do your dogs hold?
- A variety depending on the dog. My breeding dogs are all championed through AKC, UKC, and/or IABCA (International)
What health concerns have your dogs/line had?
- I lost Tesla at 7 to lymphoma. It was devastating and I no longer breed his line. I am always concerned about cancer and feed my dogs a variety of supplements to strengthen the immune system.
What temperament do your dogs have?
- Most of my line have soft temperaments. They are snuggly and love couch time. At the same time, most love to swim, play ball, follow their humans while hiking. My dogs are NOT high drive. There are also 7 active working service dogs in my line.
What age do your lines live to and how do they die
- On average they live 13 to 15 years mostly dying of a variety of ailments related to old age. As mentioned, I did loose Tesla at 7 from lymphoma, but I no longer breed any dogs related to him,
Do you start potty training and crate training before they go home?
- Yes, potty training starts as soon as their eyes open. I use a grid system. They are not outside potty trained. Crate training starts at 4 weeks when a crate is added to the nursery.
What are the best traits in your dogs
- Intelligent fast learners
- Love to snuggle
- Can self satisfy
- Not anxious
- Confident
- Beautiful structure and correct coat
Do you have any puppy owners located near me that would be willing to let me visit?
- I can’t speak for my families, but I have a facebook group where families talk and share experiences. I also invite potential owners to come by when my dogs are showing to meet us.
How do you decide on breeding pairs?
- It is extensive. I am aware of my dogs conformation faults, and do research seeking a partner who will improve structure. I also evaluate pedigree and avoid dogs that are known to have health issues.. Longevity, champion titles, overall health, and unique pedigrees are my thing. I also LOVE pretty heads, overall balance, and well built fronts. I’m not a fan of squishy rottweiler type heads, excessive coat, or poor temperaments. Most of my breeding’s are with older studs using frozen semen. I rarely breed close to home.
What follow-up services do you provide to your puppy families?
- I offer breeder support for life. I will answer any questions and make recommendations if necessary. We also have a yearly puppy reunion!
Are you a member of an established AKC and/ or UKC kennel club?
- Yes. The Golden Retriever Club of America, Peninsula Dog Fanciers Club, and until the end of 2025 Gig Harbor Kennel Club.
How many litters do you have a year?
- Usually one, sometimes two.
What would an “ideal” owner look like for one of your puppies?
- Preferences. I’m flexible but anything considered neglect or mistreatment is a deal breaker.
  - Experience raising a puppy
  - Experience owning a sporting breed
  - Takes puppy to obedience training
  - Uses a crate or enclosure, especially as a puppy for protection
  - Never chains a dog or keeps it kenneled outside most of the time
  - Feeds quality grain INCLUSIVE food
  - Is passionate about their dog
  - Take the dog on many adventures, even if its a trip to the hardware store
  - Shares pictures
  - Asks questions
  - Doesn’t have children under 5
  - Has a fenced yard
What is your policy if an owner needs to return a dog?
- I will take back my dogs for life, no questions asked. If a puppy is not working out within 7 days, I will take the puppy back and give a refund (does not include travel and expenses, fees or deposits). The puppy must be in the same healthy condition as transfer day.
What puppy services do you provide and what’s in your puppy pack?
- BBG Canvas Bag
- AKC registration included
- Worming and parasite treatment
- First core vaccines
- Microchip and registration
- Veterinarian well-check
- Temperament tested
- Conformation evaluation
- 1 week supply of food
- Assorted toys
- Treats
- Training Clicker
- Hygiene supplies
- Puppy blanket with mamas smell
- Birth certificate
How do you keep in touch with your puppy families?
- I have a facebook group and create message chat groups for each litter.
What age do you vaccinate?
- 8 weeks.
When do your puppies go home?
- 3 days after their vet well-check. Typically 8-9 weeks
How much are your puppies?
- $3000-$4000 depending on level of parents titles.