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AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T.❤️

Upholding Excellence in Every Generation

The AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. program (Health, Education, Accountability, Responsibility, and Tradition) was created by the American Kennel Club to recognize and support breeders who are committed to the highest standards of ethics, care, and lifelong learning.

At LMU Goldens, we are proud to be part of this program, reflecting our deep dedication to the health, temperament, and preservation of the Golden Retriever breed. Below is a closer look at what it means to be an AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. breeder.

Health

Commitment to Health Testing & Veterinary Care

Comprehensive Health Testing:
Every breeding dog must undergo all AKC-recommended and breed-specific health tests, including OFA evaluations for hips, elbows, heart, and eyes, as well as full-panel genetic testing. These screenings help prevent hereditary diseases and maintain the integrity of the breed.
Regular Veterinary Care:
Routine wellness exams, vaccinations, and preventive treatments are essential for both breeding dogs and puppies, ensuring optimal health at every life stage.
Detailed Health Records:
Each puppy goes home with complete veterinary documentation, including vaccination history, deworming schedule, and proof of parental health clearances.

Education

A Lifelong Commitment to Learning

Continuing Education:
Bred with H.E.A.R.T. breeders must actively engage in ongoing education on breeding ethics, genetics, nutrition, and animal welfare. The AKC offers a range of online courses, seminars, and webinars to keep breeders current with the latest advancements in canine care.
Community Involvement:
Participation in breed clubs, AKC events, and conformation shows helps breeders stay informed about evolving breed standards and best practices. It also strengthens community ties among dedicated preservation breeders.

Accountability

Transparency, Record Keeping, and Compliance

Accurate Record Keeping:
Breeders are required to maintain comprehensive and accurate records of all breeding activities, health testing, and pedigrees. This transparency reinforces trust and supports the responsible stewardship of each bloodline.
Compliance with Regulations:
Bred with H.E.A.R.T. breeders must adhere to all AKC policies and local, state, and federal laws governing animal care and breeding practices.
AKC Inspections:
The AKC conducts facility inspections to ensure that breeders maintain the highest standards of cleanliness, care, and ethical practice.

Responsibility

Raising and Placing Puppies with Purpose

Exceptional Puppy Care:
Puppies are raised in a safe, clean, and enriching environment that supports physical, emotional, and social development. Early neurological stimulation, human interaction, and exposure to household sounds help create confident, well-adjusted companions.
Careful Placement:
Breeders take time to screen and educate potential owners, ensuring each puppy is matched with a family prepared for the lifelong commitment of dog ownership.
Contracts and Continued Support:
Each puppy goes home with a comprehensive written contract outlining health guarantees, spay/neuter agreements (if applicable), and breeder–buyer responsibilities. Ongoing support and guidance are always provided to help families succeed.

Tradition

Preserving the Heritage and Purpose of the Breed

Breed Standards:
Breeders are expected to uphold the AKC breed standard, striving to produce Golden Retrievers that embody correct structure, sound temperament, and the hallmark golden spirit.
Preservation Breeding:
Responsible breeders focus on preserving the health, type, and purpose of the breed, ensuring that each generation reflects the history, intelligence, and working ability that define the Golden Retriever.
Mentorship and Legacy:
The AKC encourages experienced breeders to mentor newcomers, passing down knowledge, ethics, and skill to sustain responsible breeding practices for generations to come.

The Heart of Responsible Breeding

Being part of the AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. program is more than a title, it’s a promise. It signifies a breeder’s dedication to producing puppies that are healthy, well-socialized, and true to the Golden Retriever standard.

At LMU Goldens, this program perfectly aligns with our mission: to raise Golden Retrievers that embody health, excellence, and heart, the foundation of every dog we bring into the world.

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