Now that you have decided that you want a dog, make a list of what you want your dog to do, then compare your list with characteristics of the various breeds available. If you have narrowed your choice down to the Golden retriever then there are some things you must know about selecting a golden pup.

Golden retrievers fit many descriptions. They fit if you want a beautiful animal, a good family oriented pet, a hunting dog, an obedience worker or just a playmate for your kids. Goldens are multifaceted animals. They work as guides for the blind, as tracking dogs, as narcotic detection dogs, for commercials and advertisements among other things.

Think carefully, if you are looking for a watch dog then the golden retriever is not for you. Its size and loud bark may deter the intruder, but a typical Golden is friendly, gentle and loves to carry things around in its mouth...which can easily be the intruder's flashlight!

Goldens shed hair almost the entire year, more so in spring, so if you are picky about hair then re-think your choice. Again, Goldens love to get wet so your Golden will be wet, and possibly muddy more often than not.

Take time to learn about the breed before you think of looking, talk to owners of Golden retrievers and find all there is to know. It depends on what you prefer - whether to raise it yourself, which can be quite exasperating at times, or get one that is house trained.

You surely want a healthy little fella who will grow up to be a sound, healthy representative of the breed. If you take care in your selection now, it will save you a lot of heartache and money later. Indiscriminately-bred puppies have health problems, poor temperaments, breed disqualifications etc.

Look for more than cuteness. With a sturdy build, straight legs, firm and muscular, the pup must be squirmy and active when first picked up. Then the pup should be willing to allow itself to be held and cuddled for a short time. Clean and thick coats; no discharge from eyes, no nose and ear irritation; and no pot-bellied pups are second on your list of things to look for.

Then gums should be pink, not pale and there should be dark pigment around the eyes, along with black noses and footpads. This is important if you plan to send the dog to dog shows. White markings are not accepted in shows. There are basic differences in pups of different litters.

Like there may be one litter that is genetically predisposed for a higher energy level and others who have low energy levels. Some may be very dominating, others not. So select your pup depending on the person it is for. Talk to your breeder who can give you useful information on the different temperaments of pups and whether the pup is suited to your home and vice versa.

Remember here you have a friend for the next 10-15 years so make sure you have the right qualities.