Rescues do tend to do extensive temperment tests before the animals are ever put up for adoption and are very forthcoming about the animal's short comings and strengths (IE, should be an only dog - or - loves other dogs, etc). Many are kept in foster homes before being placed and their foster family can tell you even more.


Most breed specific rescues are also going to be doing health checks as well and be pretty up front about those as well. At least that has been my experience with Golden rescues.