Rey

GOLDEN LAKE’S THE CHOSEN ONE BPISS UKC BIS CCA

Rey has always been the epitome of a perfect companion. She was the pick of the litter from my 2017 Maggie × Chase breeding—a pairing I repeated in 2018 that produced a total of 18 beautiful puppies. From the moment she was born, Rey stood out, earning her place as the pick puppy from the first litter.

Early Promise and Show Career

Blessed with beautiful breed type and balanced conformation, Rey made an immediate impression in the show ring. Her lovely head, clean front, and strong topline caught judges’ attention at a very young age. Just days after turning six months old, she was awarded Best Puppy at the Tarheel Golden Retriever Specialty.

At ten months old, Rey earned her first major in Greensboro, NC—a 3‑point major that was only one entry shy of being a 4‑pointer, an impressive accomplishment for such a young dog. A few weeks later, to keep her in show condition, we entered a United Kennel Club show in King, NC. Although Rey was typically professionally handled, I took her in the ring myself that weekend. She was awarded Best in Show over all entries. The judge remarked, “I never award Best in Show to a puppy as a rule, but I couldn’t take my eyes off this beautiful little girl.”

From there, we traveled to St. Louis, MO for the Golden Retriever National. Rey showed with heart and confidence, making the judge’s first cut in a large and competitive 9–12 month puppy class—all before her first birthday.

A Shift in Focus

Rey continued to earn wins and points as she matured, but over time it became clear that she no longer found joy in the show ring. We shifted our focus to completing her health clearances and preparing her for motherhood.
In 2020, Rey delivered a magnificent litter of ten puppies, followed by a second beautiful litter of seven in 2022. She embraced motherhood wholeheartedly—nurturing, attentive, and content. It was clear that Rey preferred the quiet fulfillment of raising puppies and being a beloved companion over the excitement of competition.

Retirement as “Squish”

Today, Rey is a sugar‑faced senior who has retired from our breeding program and fully embraced her role as the perfect pet. Affectionately known as “Squish,” she spends her days playing ball, relaxing, and staying close to whatever room I happen to be in.
Rey’s legacy is defined not only by her early achievements and beautiful puppies, but by her unwavering devotion and gentle presence. She remains one of the most cherished companions I have ever had.