AKC Golden Retriever Puppies in Arizona FAQ’s
What is the average cost of a Golden Retriever puppy in Arizona?
Prices can vary by breeder and pedigree, but our Golden Retriever puppies typically range from $2,000 to $3,500. This includes AKC registration, early socialization, vet care, and our puppy starter kit.
How do I reserve a Golden Retriever puppy from Turquoise Trail Retrievers?
You can contact us through our website to learn about upcoming litters and join our reservation list. We require a deposit to secure your spot, and we match families with puppies based on temperament and lifestyle fit. Deposits are typically 10% the total cost of the puppy, meaning that one of beautiful Golden Retrievers priced at $2500 would require a $250 deposit to secure your puppy. We accept Cash, Venmo and Zelle.
Are Your Golden Retriever puppies AKC registered?
Yes. All of our puppies are AKC-registered and come with limited registration paperwork unless otherwise discussed. We accept full registration if you are requesting full registration at an additional cost at a person to person basis. We want to make sure that our puppies are going to other like minded individuals and do not want one of our puppies to end up being bred against breed standards.
Where are you located, and how far are you from Phoenix, Flagstaff, and Prescott?
We’re based in Cottonwood, Arizona, in the Verde Valley region, just about 25 minutes from the beautiful red rocks of Sedona. We're about 90 minutes from Phoenix, 1 hour from Prescott, and 90 minutes from Flagstaff; an easy drive from most parts of Northern and Central Arizona.
What should I bring when picking up my Golden Retriever puppy?
Bring a crate or soft carrier, a collar and leash, a towel or blanket, and water for the drive home. We’ll also provide a puppy pack with food, medical records, and helpful tips. In the puppy pack we will send you with additional food for your puppy (the same food we have been feeding them here, to help with their transition), blankets that were used in their living space (so they will always have their mothers scent), toys from their litter mates and more.
Do you offer health guarantees or puppy contracts?
All of our puppies are vet checked multiple times from our vet. If they do not pass the vet screenings, they will not go home. Once they are in your care we hope you are responsible with your puppy. Until your puppy is fully vaccinated it is susceptible to multiple viruses/illnesses. In Phoenix, Valley Fever is a definite worry. Along with parvo and coccidia being prevalent at many dog parks throughout the valley. As a plea, do not take your unvaccinated puppy to a dog park or too many places as it can significantly alter the life of your new pet. Parvo can live underground for up to 10 years and has a very high mortality rate for puppies. It is extremely expensive to treat and doesn’t have a great success record unless caught early. When you take your puppies home from us, they are in your care.
How do you socialize your Golden Retriever puppies before adoption?
Our puppies are raised in our home and interact daily with adults, children, and other dogs. They’re exposed to household sounds, textures, car rides, and gentle handling to support confident development. We raise our puppies on the Puppy Culture program and have found great success with that. This program helps the initial stages of potty training, manding, and other important lifelong skills your dog/puppy should have.
What type of food should I feed my Golden Retriever puppy?
We’ll let you know what food your puppy has been eating and recommend keeping them on that diet during the transition. We use high-quality, grain-inclusive kibble suited to large-breed puppies. Purina Pro Plan 30/20 is our go to for most everything. It is an all around stable food that is high quality and great for your dogs. If you decide to transition as stated above, we will provide you with enough extra food for your little one so that you have zero hiccups and hopefully no upset bellies.
When you are transitioning your puppies, or any dogs food, do it in increments of 10% each day.
Day 1 - 90% old food 10% new food
Day2 - 80% old food 20% new food
Day 3 - 70% old food 30% new food
And so on, this will make sure your dog has a healthy and easy transition to its new food.
What’s the difference between field-line and show-line Golden Retrievers?
Field-line Goldens are typically leaner and more energetic, bred for hunting and working drive. Show-line Goldens have heavier builds and a calmer demeanor. We breed for balance: dogs that are beautiful, intelligent, and adaptable.
Do you ever have English Cream or darker Golden Retrievers?
Our litters can range in color from light cream to rich golden red, depending on the parents. We don’t breed for color alone but for health, temperament, and structure. One thing we have noticed, is that the lighter the color, the goofier and dopier they are, whereas, the darker the color the more energetic they seem to be. (that has zero science behind it, but it is an interesting observation after years of breeding and having Golden Retrievers).
When can I visit the puppies or meet the parents?
Visits are welcome by appointment once the puppies are around 2-4 weeks old. You’ll also meet the dam (mom) and, if available, the sire (dad). We do not allow early visits earlier to that, to protect the health of the litter.
When you do visit our puppies, we ask you to please take your shoes off either at the front door or directly inside, and then before you handle the puppies; please wash your hands with soap and water.
We do not allow outside animals to come in and visit our puppies during their time here with us.
How often do you have new litters available?
We are a small hobby breeder with just a few carefully planned litters each year. The best way to stay updated is to follow us on social media or join our interest list.
Can Golden Retrievers do well in the Arizona heat?
Yes, with proper care. Golden Retrievers should always have access to shade and fresh water. We recommend early morning or evening walks and avoiding hot pavement during summer months. Grooming is essential for the health of your retriever. They are prone to ear infections and matting of their fur. So daily brushing is always helpful and always be mindful of what an ear infection looks like in your dog.
Do your puppies come with their first vaccinations and vet checks?
Absolutely. Every puppy receives age-appropriate vaccinations, deworming, a thorough vet exam, and a health record to take home.
Do you offer delivery or airport pickup for out-of-town puppy parents?
We are happy to try to accomodate to the best of are abilities. We go to Phoenix quite often and have delivered puppies all the way to California and other parts of the USA. During the summer months we do not send dogs on planes out of Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport as it is too hot for them. In turn we quite often will meet people halfway if they are from out of state, or will use pet delivery services if you are on the Eastern Side of the USA. We are always trying to get your puppy to you in the safest and best way possible and are willing to work with you. Contact us to discuss options.
Are Golden Retrievers good with kids and other pets?
Yes, Golden Retrievers are known for their gentle, social nature. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and even cats if properly introduced.
What makes us different from other breeders?
We raise our puppies in-home with full attention to socialization, early development, and individual care. We prioritize long-term health, structure, and temperament over volume or trends.
Do you have a waitlist or application process?
Yes and No. We update our litters through our website and social media. If you are interested please reach out. Our past puppy parents do have a slight priority compared to first time puppy parents. We want our puppies to go to the best homes possible and with that, we do ask questions to learn about you and your lifestyle but we do not have a standard waiting list.
How can I tell if a Golden Retriever breeder in Arizona is reputable?
Look for breeders who have both parents in the home and will allow you to come and visit. You want to be able to see the living conditions of your future puppy. Ask if your breeder provides AKC registration, and focus on temperament and health, not just color or quick sales. Ask questions and trust your gut. You want whatever breeder you decide to go with to be open and honest about their breeding program. They should be willing to answer any and all questions you may have. They should be knowledgeable about the breed and breeding standards. Your breeder should be able to give you definitive answers on do’s and do-nots with your new puppy.
What should I expect during the first week with my new puppy?
Get your puppy on a schedule. Expect lots of bonding, short naps, potty training, and learning curves. Keep things calm and consistent. We’ll provide a guide to help make that first week smooth and successful.
