Getting a new puppy is such an exciting time! We want to make the transition as smooth as possible for you, so please read the following information carefully.

 

Here is a list of supplies to have ready:​

• Puppy food (see note below)

• Treats for training (we often use Zuke's Dog Treats because they are small and easily chewed)

• Food and water dishes

• Crate (to be replaced by a bigger one as he/she grows, or a crate with an adjustable divider)

• Puppy house training pads, if necessary

• Bedding (keep it simple until the puppy is out of his/her teething phase)

• Dog gate(s) 

• Soft, adjustable collar (about 8-12" long)

• Leash (we recommend a 4- or 6-foot leash, not retractable)

• Variety of puppy-appropriate chew toys (the more the better—toys can be rotated)

• Soft-bristle brush and sturdy metal comb

• Gentle puppy shampoo (never use human shampoo on your dog)

• Quality dog-nail trimmer

• Collar ID tag

• Patience 

• Love (lots of it!)

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Puppy Food:

We selected Diamond Naturals Large Breed Puppy Lamb & Rice Formula for our Golden Retriever puppies and have consistently seen excellent results. Made with pasture-raised lamb, probiotics, DHA, omega fatty acids, superfoods, fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants, it provides optimal nutritional support during early development. We encourage families to keep their puppy on the same food for at least the first month to help reduce stress during their transition to their new home. If you do decide to switch to a different food later on, we suggest making the change gradually over at least seven days. You can do this by slowly decreasing the amount of their current food and increasing the amount of new food. This will help your puppy’s digestive system adjust smoothly. When selecting a new brand of food, it is important that it is labeled "puppy food," so that it has the nutrients your puppy needs to grow well. In addition, always check that the first ingredient is meat-based rather than plant-based. Dogs digest meat-based foods more easily than plant-based.

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We recommend feeding your puppy 3 times per day. This helps the puppy maintain a steady metabolism as he grows rapidly. Smaller, more frequent meals also help with house training, since dogs naturally want to relieve themselves after eating. Once your puppy is about 6 months old, you can cut back to 2 feedings per day. Sometimes a puppy may not eat much the first week because of his new environment. This is normal. Give him time and his appetite will return. 

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Adult Food:

After our puppies turn a year old, we transition them to Diamond Naturals All Life Stages Chicken & Rice. Through extensive research and firsthand experience with our Golden Retrievers, we've found this formula to be a reliable choice for maintaining their long-term health. Made with real chicken as the first ingredient, it provides a high-quality source of protein to support strong muscles and overall vitality. This food is also enriched with probiotics for healthy digestion and antioxidants to strengthen the immune system. Its ingredients include vegetables, fruits, and omega fatty acids for digestive support. We believe in feeding our dogs a balanced, nutrient-rich diet that supports their well-being at every stage of life.

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Vet Appointment:

We recommend scheduling an appointment with your local vet within 72 hours after your puppy arrives. We will give you a copy of your puppy's vaccination and deworming schedule to take to your vet. Your vet will be able to tell you which vaccines the puppy needs next and set up a monthly deworming schedule. Different geographic regions sometimes use different vaccines, which is why it’s important to visit your local vet.