The Central Oregon Golden Retriever Club is committed to promoting the health, temperament, and responsible breeding of Golden Retrievers.
Our breeder referral program is intended to help connect prospective owners with breeders who strive to uphold ethical breeding practices and who prioritize the long-term health and welfare of their dogs. Breeders listed through this program have indicated that they follow recommended health screening practices and support responsible placement of puppies.
Prospective owners are strongly encouraged to ask breeders about health testing and to verify results through publicly available databases when possible.
Recommended Health Testing for Golden Retrievers
At a minimum, prospective owners should ask breeders about the following health clearances, which are recommended for Golden Retrievers:
Hip evaluation (OFA or PennHIP)
Elbow evaluation (OFA)
Cardiac evaluation by a board-certified cardiologist
Annual eye examination by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist (CAER)
Additional health testing may be appropriate based on pedigree, family history, or emerging research.
The Club encourages prospective owners to familiarize themselves with these health considerations and to have open, informed discussions with breeders when evaluating a litter or breeding program.
Important Disclaimer
The Central Oregon Golden Retriever Club does not endorse, guarantee, or evaluate individual breeders or litters. Inclusion on a referral list does not constitute an approval or recommendation by the Club. Prospective owners are responsible for conducting their own research and determining whether a breeder is a good fit for their goals, lifestyle, and expectations.
For breeder referral inquiries, please contact us at: president@centraloregongoldenretrieverclub.com
Show Lines and Field Lines: What to Expect
Golden Retrievers are bred for a variety of purposes, and within the breed there are lines that tend to emphasize different strengths. Prospective owners may hear breeders refer to show (conformation) lines and field (performance) lines. Both are purebred Golden Retrievers and can make wonderful companions, but they may differ in energy level, drive, and typical temperament.
Show (Conformation) Lines
Show lines are generally bred with an emphasis on meeting the Golden Retriever breed standard, including structure, movement, and overall balance. Dogs from show lines often display:
A more moderate to calm energy level
A steady, easygoing temperament
Strong suitability for family life and companion homes
An appearance that closely matches the written breed standard
Many show-line Goldens also participate successfully in obedience, rally, agility, and therapy work.
Field (Performance) Lines
Field lines are typically bred with an emphasis on working ability, drive, and performance in activities such as field trials and hunt tests. Dogs from field lines often display:
Higher energy and endurance
Strong retrieving instinct and prey drive
High trainability and enthusiasm for structured work
A need for regular physical exercise and mental stimulation
Field-line Goldens often thrive in homes that enjoy training, outdoor activities, and dog sports.
Important Considerations
While these general tendencies can be helpful for prospective owners, it is important to remember that:
Individual temperament varies widely, regardless of line
Responsible breeders prioritize stable temperament and sound health in all breeding programs
Many Golden Retrievers are bred from dual-purpose lines that successfully combine conformation and working ability
Prospective owners are encouraged to discuss their lifestyle, goals, and expectations with breeders to help determine which type of Golden Retriever may be the best fit for their home.