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Positive training · From eight weeks

Golden Retriever Puppy Training Manual

From 8 Weeks

Golden Retriever: retrieve games build cooperation when starts, releases and rest are part of the routine.

29 chapters · English / 中文

Watercolour illustration of a Golden Retriever puppy carrying a plush duck through a grassy field during retrieve play
Golden Retriever: retrieve games build cooperation when starts, releases and rest are part of the routine.

Breed profile

Training group
Gundogs and retrievers
Origin
The Golden Retriever originated in Scotland as a retrieving dog.
Shoulder height
51–61 cm
Weight
25–34 kg
Coat
Long double coat
Coat care
Build calm, cooperative acceptance of brushing, combing and dryer sound and airflow from puppyhood; split each handling task into small voluntary steps.
Drive keywords
Retrieving · Pleasing people · Social contact
Handling practice
Condition calm, voluntary brushing and combing of the long double coat by working in small sections and releasing the puppy before tension or avoidance appears. · Introduce dryer sound, airflow and whole-body handling as separate easy steps, alongside cooperative paw and nail handling.

General Australian reference range only; individual dogs vary considerably.

Teach the equipment before the walk

Lead skills & going outside

The first month is not about reaching the park. It is about making the equipment comfortable and teaching that a loose lead makes the world move.

Begin indoors in three steps

  1. Desensitise the fit Put the harness on, immediately deliver food, and remove it after five seconds.
  2. Drag the lead under supervision Let the puppy move indoors with the lead attached while an adult watches continuously to prevent tangling.
  3. Play the follow game Walk a few steps and mark whenever the puppy chooses to follow beside you.
Watercolour comparison of a loose lead and a tight lead
LOOSE LEASH = a relaxed J-shaped lead and continued movement; TIGHT LEASH = pulling and forward movement stops.

Go out safely before vaccination is complete

Ask your veterinarian which locations and ground surfaces are appropriate for current local disease conditions.

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