I put a $100 deposit down on a female Golden Retriever AKC puppy (total is $300). I decided to go with a female because I read (in several places) they are generally smaller than the males. I saw the parents and he is much bigger. The owners told me he weighs 90 lbs and she usually weighs 60 lbs (but is real thin right now after just having the pups). The puppy I picked out is a darker color, which is what we wanted. They all go in for shots next week and we'll bring her home next weekend. The kids still don't have a clue, so it will be a big surprise. It will be an early birthday present by a couple weeks, but that's fine.