Golden Retrievers are some of the most docile, lovable dog breeds on the planet. They are happy bundles of love and energy that are very eager to please, making them one of the most popular breeds everywhere. However, they are not as easy to train as some people think. While very intelligent and loyal, Golden Retrievers still face some challenges that are always there if you want to train your dog properly.
They can be quite excitable, and are really hypersensitive to sensory stimulation. This makes them adorably enthusiastic about everything well into adulthood, but can also make them something of a handful. For this reason, we have written up this little article to help you out. Below you can find some tips and tricks on how to properly train your Golden Retriever.
Start them early
Golden retrievers are one of the more trainable breeds. However, if you really want to make the most out of their training, you need to utilize their puppy years and start them early. You can always provide them with puppy obedience school classes, where the professionals can show you exactly what to focus on. We are not saying that you should have other people do all the work. Rather, just a class or two here or there to help you figure out what’s most important. Professional advice always goes a long way.
Now, you should know that there is no grace period when it comes to puppy training. The moment you adopt your Golden Retriever puppy, you should start training it.
Stick to a routine
In order to train any puppy, you need to create a routine and you need to stick to it. However, this is especially important for Golden Retrievers. In the past, goldens were predominantly used as work dogs – they thrive off of routines. The best way to do this is to always have set times when they are supposed to eat. Furthermore, try to take them on walks at the same time every day.
When you create structure from the very beginning, you create strict rules and you organize their day. They rather quickly get used to whatever routine you give them, which makes training that much easier. They will be less cranky, and more obedient, if you tire them out through regular walks.
Early socialization and exposure
Getting the right equipment is important. Ropes, chew toys, high-quality wire crates, leashes, a good collar, barriers, portable mats… You will need to invest some cash if you want to properly train your dog. However, probably the most crucial thing needed to train your puppy is luckily also quite free – the outside world.
Namely, your dog should be exposed to the outside world as soon as possible. Have it meet other dogs, get them into different environments. Introduce your puppy to other dogs at the local dog park as soon as it’s able, and just try to have it spend as much time with you as possible. What makes this extra easy is that Golden Retrievers are very welcoming and social by their very nature. They love stimulation and they will adapt easily to new environments and to new dogs as well. If your dog run crazy and go away try best wireless dog fence to keep them within the boundary.
Positive reinforcement is key
One of the best ways to train your dog is to rely on positive reinforcement. This is especially true for Golden Retrievers because they are not one of those breeds that need a strong authoritative presence to get them under control. They are also not pack dogs that instinctively seek a leader. They are in fact very sensitive dogs that respond poorly to scolding, but flourish under a positive reward system. And while there may be moments where you do have to raise your voice, in general know that you won’t have much trouble with these cute golden babies.
You want to praise them, cuddle them, and give them treats and toys when they are being good. As long as you make things fun for them, you will keep their attention for a long time. For example, if you are potty training them, you need to use a gentle and soothing tone of voice. This may sound easy, but do understand that Golden Retriever puppies are very excitable and enthusiastic. These puppies can really drain you after some time, and may become a serious handful at the wrong times (like when you’re dead tired after work).
Conclusion
And there you have it folks, some advice on how to train your Golden Retrievers. Remember to provide them with continual positive reinforcement and to always stick to a routine. You will get the best results if you utilize their puppy years properly, socializing and training them early on, from the get-go. Stick to these tips, never stop learning, and you will definitely have an obedient and loyal companion for life.