• Hips (OFA certified at the age of two)
• Elbows (OFA certified at the age of two)
• Eyes (Certified by an ophthalmologist annually)
• Heart (Certified by a cardiologist after the age of one)
• Genetics (DNA testing after birth)

Our puppies are free from any health issues, and are true to the Golden Retriever temperament. We have been very selective in our breeding program. Our greatest aim, as a breeder of Golden Retrievers, is to ensure that we are producing healthy, sound dogs, as described by the American Kennel Club. We strive for excellent health and temperament. Our goal is to produce dogs that will excel in any activity you choose to pursue, whether it is conformation, agility, obedience, hunting, or as a cherished family companion.  All of our puppies are AKC registered and sold with limited registration (*Full registration for those who qualify).

No one can guarantee you will never have health issues, but an ethical breeder will have proof that they are trying to eradicate the most prevalent ones. We have researched our lines very carefully for longevity and especially cancer risk. Just because two dogs are AKC registered, does not mean they should be bred. Please do your homework on the breed, first and foremost.

Unfortunately, not every breeder tests their dogs according to the Golden Retriever Club of America standards.  At minimum, a golden retriever should be tested for Hips, Elbows, Eyes and Heart.  It is equally as responsible, in our mind, to also test for additional genetic components, such as Hereditary blindness, skin conditions, etc.  At Sleepy Morning Goldens, we know that it is our duty, not only as a responsible breeder, but to take the necessary steps to better the breed.  If you purchase a puppy from a breeder that does not test all these categories, it could could end up costing you thousands of dollars, not including an unsurmountable amount of heart ache for family and pain for your dog.

The cost of surgery to fix Hip Dysplasia is around $4,500, and the cost of a total hip replacement can be upwards of $14,000.  It is a red flag if a breeder were to say that some of their dogs were tested, and some that were not "because their parents passed," or "we have never had a problem."  It is very likely that they failed the test, but are just not telling you, or the failed exam was not submitted to OFA for reporting, because they are heavily invested in the dog.  Some may not even test for certain categories, as they fear they may not pass.

Don't just take our word for it, do some of your own research at the Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA) website, and find out exactly why we test for these very important things.

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA):

Health Testing Requirements: https://www.ofa.org/recommended-tests?breed=GR

Hips: https://www.ofa.org/diseases/hip-dysplasia

Elbows: https://www.ofa.org/diseases/elbow-dysplasia

Eyes: https://www.ofa.org/diseases/eye-certification

Heart: https://www.ofa.org/diseases/other-diseases/cardiac-disease