Lessons In Golden Retriever Obedience Training
If you have ever had the pleasure of greeting a new litter of Golden Retriever puppies at a breeder’s home, you know how purely irresistible these pups can be. As ten-pound balls of fluff, they seem like a delightful addition to any home. However, when that bouncy, energetic bundle of fur grows into a fifty or sixty-pound puppy that is completely out of control, the cuteness factor wears off in a big hurry. This is why it is so important to begin Golden Retriever obedience training the very first day that you bring your puppy home.
This means that if you don’t want your full grown dog hopping up on your bed or sofa, don’t let your small puppy up there now. Not once, not ever. This way, your dog learns in no uncertain terms what the expectations are, so he can learn to live within the boundaries that you set for him. Beyond this basic step, there are additional obedience training tips that will help you and your Golden Retriever to live harmoniously.
Some of the earliest Golden Retriever obedience training that you will do regards housebreaking. Teaching your pup the proper place to potty is a top priority, and should begin from the first day you bring him home. Crate training is usually the easiest way to housebreak any type of puppy. By keeping your pup in his crate when you cannot watch him closely, he learns to hold it until he is taken outside, since most dogs will not go to the bathroom in the same spot where they sleep or eat.
Keep your puppy in his crate when you are not available to watch him closely. When he is out of his crate, keep an eye out for potty signals like sniffing the carpet. When you see him do this, take him to the same spot outdoors and wait until he does his business. When he is finished, praise him and bring him back indoors. It is also a good idea to take your puppy outside after meals and naps to prevent any possible accidents.
Housebreaking is just the first step of Golden Retriever obedience training. Once your puppy has mastered where to go potty, it is time to move on to other types training. The best way to do this is by enrolling you and your dog in a formal obedience training course.
If you have been through an obedience training course before, you can probably train your dog effectively at home, as long as you make sure to spend at least a few minutes every day working together.
To choose a training program for your dog, look for smaller class sizes and an emphasis on food rewards and praise. Since Golden Retrievers are eager to please their masters, this is generally the best approach to Golden Retriever obedience training. Avoid programs that emphasize punishment or intimidation as a method of training.
With clear consistent training and loads of praise and positive reinforcement, your Golden will be a delight for you and your family for many years to come.
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