The first year with a Golden Retriever puppy sets the foundation for a healthy, well-adjusted adult. This guide covers feeding, sleep, vet visits, teething, and daily care so you can focus on bonding instead of guessing.

Feeding Your Puppy

• 🐾Puppy formula – Use a quality large-breed puppy food to support steady growth. Our Food & Treats page includes options we trust.
• 🐾Portions – Follow the bag by weight and age; your vet can adjust for your pup’s condition.
• 🐾Meal schedule – Three meals a day until around 6 months, then two. Avoid free-feeding to help with housebreaking and training.

Sleep and Crate Training

• 🐾Puppies need lots of sleep (18–20 hours a day). A crate or pen gives them a safe, quiet place to rest.
• 🐾Make the crate positive: treats, meals, and calm time inside. See Essentials for crates and beds that last.

Vet Schedule (First Year)

• 🐾Vaccinations – Follow your vet’s plan (typically a series over the first few months).
• 🐾Deworming and preventives – Discuss flea, tick, and heartworm prevention; we use and recommend options in Health.
• 🐾Spay/neuter – Your vet will recommend timing; many suggest waiting until growth is mostly complete for large breeds.

Teething and Chewing

• 🐾Provide safe chew toys to redirect biting. Durable options are in our Toys picks.
• 🐾Frozen washcloths or approved chews can soothe gums. Never leave puppies unsupervised with items that can break or be swallowed.

Grooming Early

• 🐾Get them used to brushing, nail trims, and gentle handling. It makes grooming much easier as adults. Start with short, positive sessions.

Final Thought

Puppyhood is intense but fleeting. A consistent routine, good nutrition, and positive training pay off for years.