Learn More About Our Goldens
Golden Retrievers are known to be gentle, family-oriented, and very full of energy! They are also prone to some of the health problems inherent in pure-bred dogs. Of course, every golden has their own unique personality and needs. Click on the links below to learn more about the breed's requirements and then meet our orphans individually to see why each one is special!
How to Adopt a Golden from AGA
The process for adopting one of our Golden Retrievers starts with completing an application and submitting a non-refundable $25 application fee. We have a flat fee for adoptions as follows:
Adoption Fees
All Pups Under One Year Old
$1,000
All Other Dogs, Regardless of Age
$600
International Dogs
(China)
$1,500*
Senior to Senior
Seniors 70+ who adopt dogs 9+ years old
Fee Waived
Adoption Fees
*Higher price helps pay for the transport costs to America from China.
See application for specifics. Adoption fees go to help offset the medical costs we incur for our dogs. All dogs are given a full set of vaccines, treated for infections and allergies if needed and adult dogs are spayed and neutered prior to adoption. Serious medical problems are also treated. Fees also are used for behavioral training and boarding facilities.
Gift With Adoption: Free Fi Mini Device & 6-Month Free Trial
Bring Your New Pet Home with an Extra Layer of Safety.
At Adopt a Golden Atlanta, our commitment to our Goldens doesn’t end when they find their forever home. We want to help keep them safe every step of the way. Every AGA adoption now includes a FREE Fi Mini(opens in new tab) device and 6-month membership!
The Fi Mini gives your family an added layer of protection and peace of mind as your new family member settles into their forever home. Your device and complimentary membership are provided at no additional cost as part of the AGA adoption experience. We’re excited to provide this as another way AGA can help keep our Goldens safe and give their families a little extra peace of mind as they begin this new chapter together.
The Cost Of Rescue
General medical care and the costs that all AGA orphans receive. Costs are estimates and subject to change based on the individual dog's needs and the extent of treatment. Estimated as of July 2026.
The 3/3/3 Rule
The 3/3/3 rule is a general guideline for the adjustment period of a rescue dog after adoption. Every dog is unique and will adjust differently. Please give them time to fully adjust to their new home.
Our application asks questions regarding your history with dogs, your lifestyle, and what you are looking for in a Golden Retriever. Once your application and application fee payment have been received, it will be reviewed, and references will be contacted. You will then be contacted for a phone interview and a home visit by one of our volunteers. ALL family members must be present for the home visit.
The volunteer will gather information about where the dog will spend time during the day and night, the space available, and your understanding of the needs of a Golden Retriever. The goal is to ensure a safe and nurturing environment for both the dog and the adopting family. After your home visit, our Dog Placement Team will work with you to match your family with the right dog.
We do not operate on a first-come, first-served basis; our focus is on finding the absolute best fit for both the orphan and the adoptive family.
The decision to place one of our Goldens into an adoptive home is not one that we take lightly, nor should you. Your dog will be a part of your family for a very long time; this is a commitment for the rest of that dog’s life. We reserve the right to deny any application, and we may not disclose the reason for denial.
Applications are accepted online only. Please visit the link below to start your application. We are unable to provide or process paper applications due to limited administrative resources.
Thank you for your interest in giving a wonderful home to one of our deserving dogs!
Due to a surge in volume, AGA is processing new applications in the order in which they are received. There is a continuing backlog.
