The golden retriever is one of the finest dog breeds, and a great choice for a pet. Bringing home a cuddly golden retriever puppy requires as much care as it delights. It is best to buy a puppy from a specialist breeder. Specialist breeders conduct hereditary checks before breeding. They also provide Kennel Club registration, pedigree and diet sheets. The buyer can go back to the breeder for help.

Usually, one has to order beforehand and wait for the puppy to be born. It is best to look at the mother to ensure the suitability. A puppy is ready to be brought home once it is 7-8 weeks old. The transition from the breeder to home is very difficult, and the puppy requires utmost care during this phase. The first few months of its stay at home determine the temperament of the puppy. If this period is filled with affection and warmth, the puppy will grow into a friendly and lively dog.

The puppyhood of your golden retriever will last three or more years. You will have the pleasures and the responsibilities almost like those of raising a child. It will be like a roller-coaster ride with its ups and downs. There will be times when you will have to be soft, and times when you will have to be strict, so that your puppy keeps away from danger. Regular exercise and grooming, timely inoculation and worming and consistent training will ensure the health and well-being of your pup. What else do you need for your puppy? A cute name, and then you are ready for a good ten years of unadulterated joy and love.