Golden Retriever Training: Why Exercise and Training Are A Necessity

By Mike Dugan

Training your new Golden Retriever should be considered an absolute must for your new pet. Goldens, of course, are naturally affectionate, but an untrained one can be difficult to manage. Keep in mind that once fully grown, a Golden Retriever can be upwards of 80 pounds, enough to knock an adult down.

Golden Retrievers like to jump, and are especially fond of jumping up on new friends. Here is where a good bit of basic training can pay off. You'll want your Golden to develop good habits early on, and unwanted jumping is something we'd like to correct.

Fortunately, Goldens take to training easily. However, it's important to note that owners should plan on putting in effort and time to develop the right habits in their Golden Retriever. Golden Retriever Training can be fun for both the trainer and trainee alike, and consistent training will pay off. Remember that your Golden does want to please you, so you both really share the same goals when it comes to training.

Here's a quick technique for training puppies that love to chew. Golden's are retrievers, after all, and spend lots of time "sampling" everything from your new sandals to your unprotected arm. Designate some specific chew toys for your Golden early on. Also, be sure to trash toys that have become damaged during play. You don't want your Golden Retriever swallowing the actual squeaking part that come out of those toys. A firm "No!" will usually stop inappropriate chewing. Be sure to then replace the inappropriate item with a designated toy. Be consistent with this training and always lavish praise on a Golden Retriever that has done well.

Golden Retrievers love (and need) to run, so you'll need to pay particular attention to your dog's exercise needs. Golden's need daily exercise. Without it, you'll have a dog on your hands that will act out in other ways -- including chewing on everything inappropriate. Plus, regular exercise will help keep your dog trim and healthy. It's surprisingly easy for a dog to put on weight if not monitored, even with regular exercise. Also, for you apartment dwellers, stay away from this breed. They need too much room to move and most apartments don't offer this. - 31844

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