Golden Retriever Training: Where New Dog Owners Can Start

People have countless different motives when answering what kind of tricks and training they give their golden retrievers. Some keep in mind dog therapy, others a semi-working status in their farm, still others are preparing the dog to be successful at the trials, and still others to make the dog just a plain simple fun household member. Behind it all is the fact that since the golden retriever is so smart, the training process itself promises loads of fun.

One way to start some solid and very practical Golden Retriever Training is to look up clicker training. Some experienced dog owners will actually not bother with "tricks" yet, and instead will just reinforce the dog on its name, plus strengthen the dog's recall which usually proves very valuable. For example, using the word 'come' several times a day, followed by a small tasty treat will send the dog the message that 'come' is followed by an enjoyable snack.

Other important lessons an owner will find practical are rock solid recall, leash behavior, and manners with company. One trick that owners will not be able to appreciate immediately, but which will prove useful in time is "go to your spot".

Owners interested in flashy golden retriever tricks may want to try helping the dog master crawl, left and right spins, walking backwards, weaving through owner's legs, rolling over, and, of course, high five.

Again, as we have seen, when it comes to an efficient Golden Retriever Training strategy, many golden retriever owners single out clicker training. In many instances, the treat is a lure. For example, if you will teach your dog to "spin," just move in a circle your hand holding the treat above the dog's head. If the dog follows, click, praise and give treat. Once the dog is following consistently, say "spin" whenever the dog is actually spinning, so that the dog can make the association. Using the treat as a lure may also work for "roll over" and "lay down". It may also happen that the dog will suggest some behaviors on its own, for you to take notice of and encourage through clicks and rewards.

In any event, any golden retriever owner is in for a very exciting and unforgettable experience, as he or she helps this very smart and multi-faceted dog to started on tricks and lessons.