Puppy Care

Originally written in 2011. Product names, prices, and availability may have changed.

Bringing home a golden retriever puppy is one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences. These loving, loyal dogs quickly become a member of the family. But raising a puppy takes preparation, patience, and a whole lot of love. Here are some tips we've learned along the way to help you give your new golden the best start possible.

Lifestyle

Before you bring home a puppy, make sure your schedule allows for it. If you are gone for four or more hours at a time, you may want to consider adopting an older golden retriever instead. Puppies require a 24-hour commitment — they need constant supervision, training, and attention. They can also be costly between vet visits, food, supplies, and the occasional chewed-up shoe.

Items to Buy

Here is a checklist of items you will need before bringing your new puppy home:

1. Food & Treats— Ask the breeder what food the puppy has been eating and start with that. Transition slowly to a new food if needed.
2. Water & Food Bowls— Stainless steel bowls are durable and easy to clean.
3. Kennel / Crate— Buy one on Craigslist or get an adjustable-size crate so it grows with your puppy. Wire crates work great — just drape a blanket over the top to make it feel cozy and den-like.
4. Collar, Harness & Leash— Start with a lightweight collar and a standard leash.
5. Toys— Teething toys are a must. We recommend KONG Binkies and Nylabones to keep those sharp puppy teeth busy.
6. Puppy Brush— Golden retrievers need regular brushing from an early age.
7. Dog Bed / Blanket— A soft place for your pup to rest outside of the crate.
8. Carpet Cleaner— Trust us, you will need this.
9. Veterinarian Selected— Have a vet chosen before you bring your puppy home so you can schedule a first visit right away.

Introducing Your Pup

Your new puppy will cry — especially the first few nights. This is completely normal as they adjust to being away from their littermates. We highly recommend kennel/crate training from day one.

Here are some steps for successful crate training:

• Place the crate in a popular area of your home so the puppy does not feel isolated.
• Keep the crate door open at first so your pup can explore it freely.
• Place treats and toys inside the crate to create a positive association.
• Always praise your puppy when they go into the crate on their own.

The Humane Society has an excellent crate training guide with additional tips. If you already have other dogs in the home, introduce them to the new puppy slowly and in a neutral area to help them get along.

Potty Training

Puppies have very small bladders, so plan on taking your pup outside every 30 minutes. When you go out, say "go potty" so they learn to associate the phrase with the action. When they are successful, praise them enthusiastically!

Feed your puppy about one hour before bedtime and take them out right before you go to sleep. Set an alarm to take them out every four hours throughout the night. It is exhausting, but it does not last forever. Never yell at your puppyfor accidents — they are learning and need encouragement, not punishment.

Get On A Schedule

Getting on a regular schedule helps tremendously with potty training and sleep. Feed your puppy at the same times each day, take them out at consistent intervals, and establish a bedtime routine. Dogs thrive on routine, and a predictable schedule will make the transition smoother for everyone.

Vaccinations, Spaying & Neutering

Talk to your veterinarian about a vaccination schedule for your new puppy. They will need several rounds of shots in their first year to protect against common diseases.

We highly suggest spaying or neutering your golden retriever. Roxy was spayed at four months old, and the procedure went smoothly. It helps prevent health issues down the road and reduces the number of dogs in shelters.