The Golden Retriever is a people-oriented breed.  Golden Retrievers should not be relegated to the backyard.  Goldens who are not allowed to interact with their people can get bored, which causes problems -- digging, jumping the fence, tearing up landscape, chewing (the fence, the house, the garden hose, etc.)  If you are not prepared to let the Golden live with your family, please consider a different, more independent breed. 
 

Golden Retrievers shed.  There's no getting around it.  If you are not prepared to vacuum golden hair off the floor, your furniture, and your clothes, maybe you should consider a different breed. 
 

The Golden Retriever is subject to several health issues.  Consider this before you acquire one.  Your puppy's purchase price may be a smidgen of what you spend over its lifetime. Think ahead to 10-15 years of veterinary bills and the importance of choosing a puppy whose ancestors have been screened for common health issues which have a genetic basis.  Get more information about health issues here.
 

Remember: You are adding a new member to your family for the next 10-15 years. NOW IS NOT THE TIME TO BARGAIN HUNT!! Be prepare to spend $1000 to $1500 or more for a well-bred, healthy puppy.  The breeders listed on this site do not cut corners breeding and raising their puppies.  The expense in breeding dogs is extensive.  Reputable breeders do not breed for profit.  They generally breed to improve the breed and to acquire a puppy for themselves.  The old saying "You Get What You Pay For" is so very true when looking for a puppy. 
 

AKC registration simply means the sire and dam of your Golden Retriever are the same breed. It does NOT guarantee health, temperament, structural soundness, or breeding quality.
 

Read more important information
  http://www.grca.org/PEC/