Our Story
Raised with Love
We're a small family kennel in Southern California dedicated to breeding Golden Retrievers of exceptional health, temperament, and beauty — dogs that become the heart of your home.
How It All Began
SoCal Sunset Goldens was born from a simple truth: the right dog changes everything. Our journey began over a decade ago when our first Golden, Rosie, walked into our lives and never left our hearts. Her warmth, patience, and boundless joy showed us what this breed is truly capable of.
We spent years studying pedigrees, visiting top kennels across the country, and learning from mentors in the Golden Retriever Club of America. Every decision we make — from the dogs we select to the homes we approve — is guided by one question: is this best for the puppy?
Today, our small program produces one or two litters per year. We keep it that way intentionally. Every puppy is whelped in our home, socialized underfoot, and placed only with families we know and trust.
Health & Genetics
Our Health Testing Philosophy
We believe health testing isn't optional — it's the foundation of responsible breeding. Every dog in our program is fully health-tested before being bred, following the GRCA's recommended protocols.
OFA Hip & Elbow Evaluation
Radiographs evaluated by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals to screen for hip and elbow dysplasia — the most common orthopedic conditions in the breed.
CAER Eye Examination
Annual eye exams by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist, registered with the Companion Animal Eye Registry, screening for hereditary eye conditions.
OFA Cardiac Evaluation
Cardiac exam by a board-certified cardiologist to screen for subvalvular aortic stenosis (SAS) and other congenital heart defects.
Embark DNA Panel
Comprehensive genetic health panel screening for over 200 inherited conditions, including PRA, ichthyosis, and degenerative myelopathy.
Thyroid Testing
Annual thyroid panel to screen for autoimmune thyroiditis, which has a higher prevalence in Golden Retrievers than most other breeds.
Do Your Research
Trusted Resources
We encourage every prospective buyer to do their research. These are the organizations and tools we rely on and recommend.
American Kennel Club (AKC)
The AKC registers purebred dogs and sets breed standards. Verify a breeder's registration and learn about the Golden Retriever breed standard.
Golden Retriever Club of America (GRCA)
The national breed club for Golden Retrievers. An excellent resource for breed health, breeder referrals, and the GRCA Code of Ethics.
Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA)
Search the OFA database to verify a dog's health certifications for hips, elbows, heart, eyes, and more. Always ask to see OFA numbers.
CHIC Program
The Canine Health Information Center issues CHIC numbers to dogs that have completed all breed-recommended health tests. Our dogs are CHIC-certified.
Embark Veterinary
The gold standard in canine DNA testing. We use Embark for all genetic health screening and are happy to share full results with buyers.
GRCA Breeder Referral
Looking for additional breeders? The GRCA's breeder referral list connects you with member breeders who have agreed to uphold the GRCA Code of Ethics.
Buyer Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Apply?
We'd love to learn about your family. Fill out our puppy application and we'll be in touch within 3–5 business days.