Breeding Information
by Admin on 09/03/07
I am committed to a selective breeding program and my puppies are raised with the utmost commitment and care to their health and their socialization. I am a small breeder, producing just one litter a year at this time. I ensure that all of my breeding dogs are Canadian Champions before they are bred. As well, all of my dogs have gone through the proper testing. Their elbows and hips are x-rayed and rated through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA), their hearts are tested by a board certified cardiologist and their eyes by a board certified opthamologist. I have now added thyroid testing to my regimen of tests.
Reserving Your Puppy
by Admin on 09/03/07
It is a good idea to ask to be put on a waiting list for puppies, as it is very common to wait for months for a quality Golden retriever from a reputable breeder. It is standard at Hunter Kennels for us to receive visits or phone calls from potential customers so they get a sense of what my dogs and I are like.
Toilet Training
by Admin on 03/10/07
After naps and meals, and at regular intervals, carry your puppy out of the house and into the yard where you want him to go to do his business, and use a consistent command such as 'Go Pee'. Sometimes leaving a dropping at their spot will encourage consistent use of that spot. In the country, I put a few droppings into the bush or pasture where I prefer my dogs to go to the bathroom, and keep all other areas clean. Puppies have short attention spans, so scolding too long after an accident is pointless. You must catch them in the act and gently but firmly carry them to the preferred spot.
House Rules and Behavior Training
by Admin on 03/10/07
Treat your puppy consistently and do not allow behaviors that you will not allow once they are adults, such as laying on your couch or bed or entering off limit areas of your home. Be positive in your encouragements and speak firmly in your corrections. Keep commands consistent and simple, such as 'Off' or 'Wait'. Offer consistent reinforcement when beginning and teaching a new behavior.
Play and Exercise
by Admin on 03/10/07
Give your puppy plenty of attention and playtime. Include him in as many family activities and social situations as possible.
If your new puppy flops and rests during walks and playtime, let him. Your puppy is telling you he is tired and needs a rest.
At 6 months, you can walk your puppy 4-5 km with stops as he chooses. At 1 year of age, you can walk up to 10 km with your puppy.
Don't run or bike with your puppy until he is 18 months old, his hips are not fully developed until then and doing so can damage them. Do not let your dog jump down from the back of your truck, it is hard on his hips and joints. Swimming is a fun activity for dogs and great exercise. When first learning to swim, make sure your puppy can easily stand in the water. He will feel uncomfortable if he is in too deep at first. Once he is comfortable with his swimming skills, he should be able to swim in deeper water. Be sure to wipe out your puppy's ears after swimming. Watch out for red algae in lakes, it is poisonous to your dog. A blue-green algae is normal.