Some new owners are having uncertainties as to when is the best time to start their golden retriever puppy training. They probably think that pups aging eight weeks are too young, vulnerable and most of all, too adorable to go through serious training. But that’s not the case actually. What a few of them failed to figure out is the fact that, training ought to start the moment the new puppy comes home.
While they might be too young to roll over or play dead, training at this age must include lessons on socialization and getting him accustomed to the new environment he is into. When your puppy arrives home, do not give him free access to the whole house. Set rules and limitations in regards to what he is allowed to do or where he is allowed to go and reinforce the rules firmly.
Introduce him to the members of the family, including pets if there’s any, in a gradual manner. Make every meeting or experience enjoyable so that he will be able to adapt quickly. Anyway, golden retrievers are naturally friendly and kind breed so it wouldn’t be too challenging to get him used to other living creatures within your house.
When it comes to housebreaking, start off your dog training by designating a place where he’s permitted to do his business. It could be a shady spot in your backyard or a small room covered with paper, that depends which works best for you and your dog. Set a schedule for toilet breaks and stick to that schedule as much as possible. The best times for potty breaks are: soon after waking up in the morning, after eating or drinking, after exercises and prior to going to bed at night.
The puppy’s first night at home can be stressful to you as it is to him. He may feel lonely after being separated from his mother and littermates the first time in his life. But don’t let this be the basis for him to overthrow you from your bed. Let him sleep in his crate or bed but place it near your bed or inside the room where he can see you. This is to assure him that he does not have to feel frightened because you are there. During the next few nights, try to transfer his bed/crate a little farther from your bed and even outside your room.
Golden retriever puppy training can be a sensitive issue hence should be carried out correctly to help him grow up the way you wanted him to be.