From LMU Goldens to Ladybug Goldens
Before Ladybug Goldens, we were known as LMU Goldens.
Our journey with Golden Retrievers began long before we ever planned our first litter. Our very first Goldens shared an extraordinary bond with our oldest son, who had autism. Watching the patience, understanding, and unconditional love they offered him showed us just how remarkable this breed truly is. That relationship inspired our dream of raising Golden Retrievers who could bring the same love, companionship, and comfort into the lives of other families.
In May 2021, our world changed forever when our son passed away at just 13 years old.
The years that followed were filled with unimaginable grief, yet our dogs remained a constant source of comfort. They reminded us every day why we had fallen in love with the breed in the first place.
Then, in June 2023, Ladybug was born.
Her litter faced challenges from the very beginning. When the puppies were about a week old, I began noticing that several were becoming critically ill. Countless phone calls to our veterinarian, emergency visits, sleepless nights, and the heartbreaking loss of two puppies left us searching for answers. While we may never know exactly what happened, those days tested us in every way.
Through it all, Ladybug refused to give up.
She was tiny and fragile, and for days I tube-fed her around the clock until she was finally strong enough to take a bottle. Little by little, she grew stronger. Each small milestone felt like a victory, and before long she blossomed into the beautiful, loving Golden Retriever we had hoped she could become.
Ladybug entered my life during a season when my heart needed healing most.
She became my constant companion; my shadow, my soul dog. Wherever I went, she was there. She had an incredible way of bringing peace on the hardest days and joy in the simplest moments. She embodied everything I had hoped to preserve through responsible breeding: a gentle temperament, unwavering devotion, resilience, and a heart that seemed to understand people without words.
When we lost Ladybug in 2025, the decision to rename our program became clear.
Ladybug Goldens is more than a new name. It is a tribute to an extraordinary dog whose life reminded us why we do what we do. While our name has changed, our mission has not. We remain committed to thoughtfully raising healthy, well-tempered Golden Retrievers in our home, placing their well-being above all else, and supporting the families who welcome them into their lives.
Every puppy we raise carries forward the same purpose that first inspired LMU Goldens; a hope that the bond between a Golden Retriever and their family can bring comfort, joy, and unconditional love, just as it has for ours.
