As responsible breeders, one of our highest priorities is health. We don’t just want beautiful dogs—we want healthy, well-rounded companions who thrive physically and emotionally. That’s why all of our breeding dogs are fully health tested and CHIC certified. But what does that really mean, and why should it matter to you as a future puppy owner?
Let’s break it down.
What Is CHIC Certification?
CHIC stands for the Canine Health Information Center, a program developed by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) in collaboration with breed parent clubs— including the Golden Retriever Club of America (GRCA).
According to the OFA website, CHIC certification provides a centralized database for canine health screening results. Its purpose is to encourage health testing and transparency in breeding by making results publicly available.
A dog earns a CHIC number when it has completed all required breed-specific health tests—regardless of whether the results are normal. What matters is the commitment to health screening and sharing results openly.
CHIC Requirements for Golden Retrievers
For Golden Retrievers, the CHIC testing requirements (as determined by the GRCA and OFA) currently include:
- Hips – Evaluated by OFA or PennHIP
- Elbows – OFA evaluation
- Eyes – Annual exam by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist
- Heart – Exam by a board-certified veterinary cardiologist
- DNA testing – For known breed-related conditions such as PRA1, PRA2, and ichthyosis
All of our breeding dogs meet or exceed these requirements.
Why CHIC Matters to Breeders and Puppy Families
CHIC certification is more than just a title—it reflects a breeder’s integrity and dedication to the long-term health of the breed. By completing all health testing and making results public, breeders demonstrate transparency, responsibility, and a commitment to producing healthy litters.
For families, it’s a critical layer of trust. When choosing a puppy, you deserve to know that the breeder has done everything possible to ensure genetic soundness and reduce the risk of inherited disease.
Our Commitment to CHIC Certification
Every Golden Retriever in our program is CHIC certified or on track to complete certification. We take pride in going above and beyond standard requirements—not just for the sake of certifications, but because we believe in the power of informed, ethical breeding. CHIC certification is one tool that helps us uphold that standard.
We encourage all prospective puppy buyers to learn more about CHIC and how to verify a breeder’s health testing. You can explore more at the official OFA site: www.ofa.org.
Final Thoughts
Health testing is not optional in responsible breeding—it’s foundational. CHIC certification gives breeders and families a clear, accessible way to ensure that a dog’s health background is sound and traceable. If you’re considering a Golden Retriever, be sure to ask about CHIC certification and review the results yourself. It’s a small step that can lead to a healthier, happier life with your future pup.