The Golden Retriever is a very intelligent dog and is generally easy to train, especially if training begins while the dog is still young. Here are some practical experiences and tips for training a Golden Retriever.
1. Command training: Come
The ?come? command can be practiced during walks. If the dog comes when called, praise it immediately. If it does not come or even runs away, wait a while and call again. In everyday life, try to build the habit that when the dog is off exploring freely, it still stays within about ten meters of you and remains aware of the owner's presence.
2. Command training: Sit
At the beginning, the dog usually cannot understand the ?sit? command by itself. You may need to gently press down on the rear while giving the command so that it experiences the correct posture. Once it understands and can sit calmly, reward it with a small treat when it does well.
3. Command training: Shake hands
Only begin this after the dog already understands the sit command well. Once it sits quietly, gently lift one of its front paws while saying the shake-hands cue. Repeat the process until the dog understands and responds to the cue. Practice every day, and remember not to rush or try to teach many new actions at once before the previous one has been understood.
4. Command training: Lie down
If you want to teach the dog to lie down, choose a quiet place. Once it is sitting calmly, gently pull the front legs forward so that the body lowers into a lying position. This works best when the dog trusts the owner. Pat the dog and praise it several times when it follows through.
5. Command training: Stand
Support the puppy with your hands so that all four paws are touching the ground and the body is upright. At the same time, give the command ?stand? and use a corresponding hand signal. Help the dog hold the position for about ten to fifteen seconds, then release your hands. If the dog remains standing, have a favorite food reward ready. Repeat this procedure until it can stand as soon as it hears the command and sees the hand signal.
6. Command training: Toilet in the designated place
Place an item carrying the dog's urine scent in the chosen toilet area at home so the dog understands that this is the place where it is allowed to relieve itself. Put things there that carry familiar smells, and whenever the dog succeeds, give praise and encouragement. On the other hand, inappropriate elimination should be corrected firmly. Once the toilet spot has been chosen, try not to change it casually.