To begin with, when you are house breaking your golden retriever, you should allow him restricted freedom. He will have to work really hard to get used to you, your family and your surroundings. It would be appropriate not to encourage any bad habits.

Do remember that once pets get used to bad habits, it becomes really difficult to alter them. If you begin to apply rules when your golden retriever is young, he will easily fit into the routine and the rules that you would like him to follow.

Secondly, confine him/her. Ideally, he should not be allowed free movement around the house or the yard. If he steps out of the house or the crate, keep a close watch on him and his actions.

Chances are that he would inculcate bad habits if you do not manage to keep a watchful eye on him. For example, if he has once relieved himself on the floor or elsewhere inside the house, he would stick to the same area.

Dogs usually use their sense of smell, and keep relieving themselves in the same area. If you do not correct it initially, it will become tougher at a later stage.

You also need to ensure that your golden retriever is following routine regarding the crate. It is better if he is not allowed to spend time outside his crate. This is one of the most important rules of housebreaking your golden retriever.

The golden retriever is unfamiliar with the surroundings and you need to keep strict vigil. This is to ensure that he does not meet with accidents or other unpleasant happenings.

It is also important to train the right way to relieve himself when you are house breaking him. Be encouraging and commend him when he relieves himself at the right place. An option is to crate him at night and lead him to the right spot the next morning.

Many a times, you may need to have a litter box inside the house, if the puppy is not able to get out and relieve himself. It is of course not a nice idea to keep your golden retriever restricted to the house all the time. Allow him watchful and limited access to the outside, maybe the backyard, during the initial days.

A doggy door may be an option here, and he/she can enter and exit without disturbing you and your family.

If you have decided to get him home, house breaking may take some time. But rest assured that the time taken is worth it. In course of time, a well-trained pet will be a pleasant addition to you and your family.