Bringing Home A New Puppy:
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In broad terms, there is no substitute for spending time with your puppy now. It would be best if the primary caregiver of your Golden Retriever puppy could take a week off after the puppy arrives home. This makes the puppy's transition into your home immeasurably easier, and you get to really know him very quickly. I realize that in our day-to-day busy lives, it is not always possible to spend time as we want. But to the extent that you can, you should make the effort. Try to time bringing home a new puppy with when you have some vacation time.
The puppy has just left the comfort of his doggy mother and siblings and is exploring new territory. This is also the time when the puppy starts to learn about you as an owner, companion, friend, and parent. Use this time wisely. Make sure to devote plenty of time to play with the puppy -- helping promote a solid bond and foster a deep connection. This will be richly paid back to you once you see your puppy grow into a well-mannered, loving and devoted dog for life.
| Visit the Vet One of the most important things to do in the early days is to make an appointment with your vet. Note that most reputable breeders will take the Golden Retriever puppy back if the vet notes any significant health issues on this visit. The vet is a wonderful resource for all your questions/concerns. Make sure to take your puppy's vaccination record . As I mentioned before, I am not a vet -- so please do consult the vet for any specific information you need. |
Now let's get more specific. Below is a list of some common issues particular to owners of new puppies:
- 1. Toilet training -- a very important one from a practical perspective.
- 2. Teething this can cause quite some pain (being chewed upon) and agitation (furniture destroyed)
- 3. Spaying/Neutering
- 4. Basic training -- Remember that it is never too early to start teaching basic commands -- puppies are shown to have adult-level brainwaves beginning at 7 weeks. So while his attention span is short, your puppy certainly has the ability to start learning now.
- 5. Socializing -- Make sure you socialize your puppy really well. Expose your puppy to all kinds of people and animals, in different kinds of situations. It is now that the puppy learns how to interact with his surroundings.
| There is some disagreement on when the puppy should be socialized with other dogs -- before or after his vaccinations. Some favor socialization shortly after bringing home a new puppy. They feel early socialization helps bring out the Golden puppy's personality, making her more outgoing and friendly. Those on the other side of the fence believe early socialization may be dangerous. The feel it is risky to expose the puppy to potentially serious diseases (such as Parvovirus). Personally, I decided to take the middle road with my puppies. I did not take them to puppy class, walks or parks before completion of the vaccinations. But, I did have her socialize with several dogs on a one-on-one basis. These are dogs I personally know to be happy and healthy. There is, of course, still the small risk that those healthy dogs could still be a carrier of some diseases, but this was a measured risk that I felt okay with. Consult your vet and see what she thinks. What decision you ultimately take has to be one that you feel comfortable with. |
Visit Out And About With Your Dog.com for a frank and amusing account of the puppy-hood days of a Golden Retriever called Georgie. This website also has a monthly dog photo contest and lots of great dog-friendly info.
Bringing home a new puppy is an important step. Try your best to spend plenty of time with your Golden Retriever puppy in the early days -- this is the best time to bond.
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