Some people think of dogs as if they where humans, but they are not, they need to be taught different things in different ways. Since dogs lack human form of judgment, being able to tell right from wrong escapes them. Instead, they operate on a principle of response, guided by the actions you give them. Most pet owners train their dogs in such a way that they don't do certain things out of fear, afraid of what their owner might do to them, not because they are aware of their wrong doing.
There is another way of training, coming from a completely opposite direction. The use of praise when your dog does something right is a positive method of training, and one which your dog will appreciate a lot more. This method of training simply requires that you pay attention to your dog's behavior, and whenever he is caught doing something right, quickly move to praise him for his good action. Letting your dog know that he did something right, will encourage the dog to do the right thing again and again. However, if you happen to be the owner of a naughty dog, which needs to be reminded of his wrong doing, a simple no, in a sober yet affirming voice with suffice.
During your dog training efforts, you will find that timing is the most important factor. The minute your dog steps out of bounds, you should quickly correct. Doing the potty in the rug is a good example of wrongdoing, where you should jump in the act, pick him up and take him to the assigned spot. In case of mischief, like scratching the sofa, you should reprimand with authority without raising your voice too much.
In general, to stop your dog from doing some activity you would rather see him not do, be firm and consistent precisely at the moment he is caught in the act of performing such activity. Understand that it will take some time and quite of bit of patience before you can successfully convey your message to the animal.
On the positive side, make sure to provide your dog with lots of praise in the event he actually did something right. Praise can be magnified by adding a snack, then your dog will be really happy and probably add power to your message. If your timing is wrong and fails to come at the moment he did the good deed, there is a chance you will loose your opportunity and the message will be lost. Generally, if you follow the instructions and provide praise and reprimands with proper timing you should start seeing results in as little as two weeks.
Remember patience is crucial for the success of the exercise; the same process will need to be repeated several times before he gets it. Training is essential at a young age, and will allow you to enjoy the company of your dog even more as he grows. Training should bring you and your Golden Retriever closer, not the other way around. Don't spend all the time at training, which can be too stressful, spend some time playing dog games just to break the ice before you get on to business.
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