Preparing For The Arrival Of Your Golden Retriever Puppy

Scheduling A Vet Visit

Most veterinarians want to see a puppy within 48 hours of leaving the breeder’s or kennel; a clean bill of health is necessary to properly begin house training your golden retriever puppy. This would be a perfect time to get flea prevention medications, wormer, or any vaccinations your puppy may need. If you are going to spay or neuter your puppy now, it would also be a good time to speak with your veterinarian about that.

Preparing Your Family And Other Pets

Your family no doubt shared in your decision to purchase a golden retriever puppy; if they haven’t actually met the breeder, puppy, or puppy’s littermates now would be the ideal time. Teaching especially children how to handle the new puppy is also a good idea, especially if this is their first puppy. The puppy will love the attention children will lavish upon it, but it is good to be sure that manners are being instilled as well.

Other pets will not understand you simply telling it a new puppy is coming; if the breeder will allow it, perhaps you could bring your other dog to meet the golden retriever puppy. If your other pet is a cat, there isn’t anything you can do, but give the cat a way out so it’s less likely to lash out at the puppy. Putting out the puppy’s dishes and other items that will belong to them may be another way to acclimate your other pets with your pending new arrival.

Finishing Up With The Breeder

The breeder will want to settle accounts, complete all agreed upon paperwork, and give you last minute instructions and/or advice concerning your golden retriever puppy. Make sure to read and retain copies of everything you sign. If you have any deviations from the agreement, put it in writing as well. If there is some reason registration papers are not given at this time, it should be indicated in writing why, and signed by both parties. You should never be charged for these papers, it is illegal. If someone tries to charge for them report them to the AKC.

In the instructions, the breeder will likely remind you of food and exercise the golden retriever puppy will require and about your vet visit. They should also be sure you have set up and are going to the veterinarian’s office within the next couple of days. Finally, they should assure you that if, for any reason, things don’t work out with their puppy, to please return it to them, no matter how old the dog is. The breeder will also likely make themselves available to you after the sale for questions and tips for taking care of any hard spots that may occur in training.

Preparing Your Home

All the best plans are truly tested in the completion of these tasks; how well you puppy proof your house will become evident shortly after returning home with your golden retriever puppy. It is best if you can make the puppy its own space within and outside of your house. Training can be a long process, but consistency and positive reinforcement will make the process faster. Creating a living space for your golden retriever puppy will make his transition from the breeder to your family easier.

Attention: To discover how YOU can have the Happiest, Healthiest and Best Behaved Golden Retriever, get a copy of this Golden Retriever Guide NOW!