What steps do I need to take to get a puppy?
Start by completing our Puppy Application. Once approved, you can join our Master Waitlist by placing the applicable fee. When a litter placement is offered and accepted, the Litter Placement Fee secures your position within that litter. Puppy selection is around 6 weeks, with Go-Home around 8 weeks. See our Puppy Applications page for complete details.
Can I come see the puppies before I reserve one?
Because our program is based in our home, we limit visits to families who have placed a reservation. We care deeply about the health and safety of our puppies, so we only welcome visitors on pre-scheduled Puppy Pick Day when the puppies are around six weeks old. For out-of-area families or those unable to attend in person, we’re happy to schedule a video call and provide updated photos and videos to help you feel confident in your decision.
Where are you located?
We’re located in a scenic valley just outside of San Diego, California. Our puppies are raised right in our home, surrounded by the rhythms of family life, including children, other pets, and everyday household noise. This environment plays a big role in helping them grow into confident, well-socialized companions who are ready to adjust smoothly to life with their new families.
How long have you been a breeder?
We have over a decade of hands-on experience in fostering and breeding, with deep roots in shelter volunteering and mentorship. Our AKC Golden Retrievers are home-raised and genetically health tested through Embark, with many also completing OFA hip, elbow, eye, and heart evaluations to ensure excellent health and temperament.
When can I take my puppy home?
Puppies are ready to join their new families no earlier than 8 weeks of age. This early time with their mother and littermates is essential for healthy development and socialization. We’ll send detailed guidance to help you prepare and support your puppy’s transition home.
What is included with my puppy?
Each of our puppies goes home with:
• AKC Limited Registration (for Golden Retrievers)
• First round of vaccinations and deworming
• A full veterinary exam with an after-visit summary and vaccination record pamphlet
• One-year genetic health guarantee
• 30 days of free Trupanion pet insurance
• Go-home bag with a familiar scented blanket, helpful puppy resources, goodies, and an exclusive 20% breeder discount for our recommended YEAR ONE Online Puppy Training Program
Can you deliver or ship puppies?
Yes, we have puppies all over the US. We offer several delivery options depending on your location and the time of year. Local families pick up in person, but for those farther away, we can help arrange: Ground transport with a trusted pet nanny. In-cabin flight delivery with a flight nanny (puppy travels in cabin, never cargo). Personal pickup at San Diego airport. All travel arrangements are made with your puppy’s safety and comfort as the top priority. Extra fees apply for transport services
Can you recommend some items to purchase?
Yes! We’ve put together a list of our favorite puppy products, including food, toys, grooming tools, crates, and more. These are the same items we use and love in our own home.
You can find everything conveniently organized on our Amazon storefront:
www.amazon.com/shop/redvalleyretrievers
It's a great place to start preparing for your new puppy’s arrival.
Is a fee required to secure my place?
Yes. A $250 non-refundable Master Waitlist Fee secures your priority for future availability. Once a litter placement is offered and accepted, an additional $250 Litter Placement Fee is required. For an immediately available litter or puppy, the full $500 Litter Placement Fee is required. All fees are applied toward your puppy’s purchase price.
How do I get on your waitlist for an AKC Golden Retriever puppy?
Start by completing our Puppy Application. Once approved, you’ll be invited to place a $250 non-refundable Master Waitlist Fee to establish your priority. As litter availability becomes known, placements are offered in waitlist order based on availability and family preferences. Once a placement is accepted, an additional $250 Litter Placement Fee is required.
Can you hold our puppy past Go-Home Day?
Yes, when arranged in advance. Extended boarding is $30/day beginning on the original Go-Home Day. All puppy and boarding fees are still due in full on or before the original Go-Home Day, regardless of the later pickup date. Digital payments must be completed and cleared in advance, with no pending payments accepted. A payment agreement will be required for digital payment arrangements.
How will I be notified about Mini Golden availability?
When a Mini Golden litter becomes available, we’ll send out a group email to approved applicants in the order applications were received. Families who choose to move forward will be added to that litter based on the order their deposits are submitted. This allows everyone to consider the timing and details before deciding, while still honoring both application and deposit order.
Where do I stand in line for a potential Mini Golden in 2026?
We can give you a general sense of your place on the list, but exact placement is determined once a litter is announced. Not all families ahead of you are looking for the same timing or traits, so spots are offered based on fit and when deposits are submitted.
Do you ship your Mini Goldens around the world?
At this time, we only offer delivery within the United States and Canada. International shipping outside of North America is not available due to the complexity of import requirements and our focus on hands-on, safe transportation options for each puppy. If you're located outside the U.S. or Canada, feel free to reach out and we can help explore what options might be possible.