Breeding Philosophy

 We do not breed often having had 8 litters since 1984. Our main objective is to produce physically sound puppies that will become life-long companions. When a breeding is planned we do so with considerable research into the health, temperament, and pedigree of the sire and dam. Both animals are certified by veterinary specialists to be hip, eye, and elbow clear. We also encourage the use of cardiac clearances for SAS and Pennhip information in the planning of our breedings. These health clearances hopefully decrease the incidences of inherited health problems that affect the golden retriever breed.
Our commitment to the Golden Retriever breed, our investment in time, training and the trialing of our dogs and our total belief in proper up to date health clearances is reflected in the price of our puppies. While we are not breeding prospective bench champions we do strive to produce working retrievers that conform to the GRCA standard. Working retrievers should possess traits such as desire to retrieve, drive, trainability, and eagerness to please. Acquiring titles at performance events, such as hunt tests, field trials, agility and obedience trials etc., is a means of testing these traits. At Otterbrook we breed only dogs, bitches included, with advanced working titles. Lastly, all Otterbrook puppies are sold with AKC limited registrations. After all proper health clearances have been obtained and a performance title has been earned, full registration will be granted. This allows us to ensure that only Otterbrook Goldens with proper health clearances and demonstrated working abilities are eligible to be bred.