A Bit of Background

Committed to Improving the Lives of Others

I’m Rachelle (she/her), the breeder behind Chrysus Spirit Goldens. My connection to the breed began when my child with special needs required additional support, and I saw firsthand how impactful the right dog could be. As a Registered Nurse, I approached that search through research, looking for a well-bred Golden with sound health, stable temperament, and the ability to truly support a family’s needs.

Finding that combination was not easy. Many breeders existed, but fewer prioritized health testing, temperament, and long-term quality in a way that aligned with what I was looking for. That experience shaped my perspective and ultimately led me to begin breeding with the goal of doing it better, with intention, and with responsibility.

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Chrysus Spirit Goldens has developed into a small program devoted to personally training, working, and breeding Golden Retrievers. Our dogs live with us, are handled daily, and are actively trained and worked. You will find that our dogs live and are handled, and worked by us.  What started as getting a dog for a specific need has turned into a newfound passion.  We participate in a range of activities including scent work, rally, therapy training, and other working disciplines. I am actively involved in the Golden Retriever community, including serving as a board member and treasurer for the Evergreen Golden Retriever Club. I am also a member of Whistling Wings Hunting Retriever Club.

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Our Commitment to Health & Genetics

Beyond training and temperament, we are deeply committed to protecting the long-term health of Golden Retrievers. Modern Goldens face challenges with shrinking genetic diversity, so we carefully plan each pairing with the future of the breed in mind.

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• We use advanced genetic tools (BetterBred, Institute of Canine Biology, and the Dog Aging Project) to guide pairings that lower the Coefficient of Inbreeding (COI) and preserve rare alleles and DLA haplotypes.

• We purposefully seek out underrepresented bloodlines to help ensure our puppies are not only wonderful companions, but also a part of improving the breed’s future.

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A Personal Promise

Every family deserves the joy of a healthy, well-bred Golden Retriever. I believe strongly in equity and accessibility, providing a personalized, supportive experience for each family we work with. My background as a nurse and my own journey with a special needs child have taught me how deeply a dog can impact a family’s life.

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At Chrysus Spirit Goldens, this is more than breeding dogs, it’s about building bonds, strengthening the breed, and helping families welcome the kind of Golden that changes lives.​

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