Was thinking I might like a field Golden

[John Robinson]

To the OP, regarding the price of a pup, I remember balking at $350.00 when I bought my first pup, and thinking $2,000.00 for a started dog was just crazy talk. I have since learned that paying more upfront for a well bred pup is money very well spent, and relatively meaningless over the life of that dog compared to training cost, entry fees and vet bills.

John

[John Robinson]

Great Photo,
Yep, that could be a sedge chessie!

I always feel a special bond with the Chessie guys. Actually three of my favorite field trial judges all run Chessies.

John

[Judy Chute]

I am starting to kick around the idea of adding a retriever to my kennel to run hunt tests and retrieve ducks when the weather gets too cold for my versatile dog. I had a Labrador in the past and with the exception of the health problems ( knee's ) she was a wonderful dog, I am a bit gunshy about Labs for this reason. I have looked at a couple of kennel websites and couldn't believe the price people want for Golden's. $1500-$1800 REALLY? Is this the norm? I plan to make it too a few hunt tests in 2013 and hopefully I can watch some Golden's work.

Is the possible new Golden Retriever addition to be a house dog?..as well as hunting and trialing?

Golden Retrievers do not make good full time kennel dogs.

http://www.rockerinkennels.com/... RockErin Golden Retrievers were the first very "curly" fur that I saw when first becoming aware of the offerings all across the country. The Sunfire pedigree in our "Ranger" started the introduction of the great old FT Goldens.

The Brassfire pups mentioned are, IMHO for a very experienced, exellent trainer, field person...or performance home. ..nothing but compliments on the pedigree combination Or if someone new to the sport, an exellent mentor and training group as resources..or exellent pro to work with.

Sue's pups...hoping she would post to this thread.

As already said, consider what you will do with the pup and look for a pedigree combination that is best for that purpose....and a reputable breeder that will honestly try to match you with an exellent puppy.

Judy (again, though, ....live in the house?)

[Pals]

I was thinking the same thing Judy. To the OP--good idea to go watch some Hunt Tests, while there make sure to talk to the owners about their dogs. Goldens love their people, A LOT and vice versa. The cost of a puppy is the least of my concerns when looking for my next golden pup, 1500 to 1800 is indeed the norm for a well bred field golden~~and higher. (Edit-don't want to sound snobby~coming up with the money is a concern~~and worth every penny.)

marsh mutts gone bad momma

[Bait]

That is one beautiful photo!!

Sure is!

[huntinman]

I always feel a special bond with the Chessie guys. Actually three of my favorite field trial judges all run Chessies.

John

Just when I was starting to think you were "normal"

[John Robinson]

Sure is!

I should have given proper credit; Bait's wife Kathy took that shot last month.

[labsforme]

I too would vouch for the Brassfire litter if there are any still available. Jetta is a very nice dog even though she's not black. Chris is a very knowledgeable breeder and trainer.

Jeff

[Bait]

I should have given proper credit; Bait's wife Kathy took that shot last month.

Yeah, she thinks she's cool. She doesn't need her head any bigger. (and Alex is very photogenic) I did kinda like that one she got from behind you, pulling that double on the mallards tho.

[Bait]

I too would vouch for the Brassfire litter if there are any still available. Jetta is a very nice dog even though she's not black. Chris is a very knowledgeable breeder and trainer.

Jeff

I agree with your whole post, Jeff.