Everything you need to know about raising an English Cream Puppy

Nothing can beat the joy and excitement when you decide to bring home a puppy. Well, you can double up the anticipation if you have chosen an English Cream Golden Retriever, also referred to as an English cream puppy. These dogs are renowned for their calmness, attractive coats, and loyalty. If you are a first-time dog owner, let this guide help you understand the nuances of raising an English cream puppy in the most appropriate manner.

Factors that make the English Cream Puppy unique

Also fondly called “English Creams”, these breeds are a variation of the conventional Golden Retriever. As mentioned in their names, they sport cream-colored coats and can be distinguished from their American variants. However, the difference is not limited to their appearance only. The English Cream retriever have several reasons that make them favorites among dog lovers, and they are:

• Calm temperament when compared to other breeds of the same origin.
• They have broader heads and shorter legs, which gives them a unique look.
• The thicker and light-colored coats are incredibly soft to touch.
• English cream puppies are known for exceptional health.
• Getting your home ready to accommodate the English cream pup

Puppies, regardless of their origins, would be mischievous. Therefore, you must prepare your home accordingly before introducing the cute little friend to your world. Remember to:

• Get rid of hazardous items that include a host of items like electrical cords, houseplants, and others.
• Make sure to create a specific zone for the pup to stay. Stuff the place with crates, bed, food and water bowls, and toys.
• Ensure proper measures are taken to secure the staircases and rooms, else you might find the pups exploring these places.
• Keep the essential items ready like chew toys, puppy food, grooming tools, and a collar in close proximity.

Based on the feedback of experienced dog owners, if you pre-arrange things as mentioned here, it will help you significantly in handling or managing the puppy.

The first few days are crucial

After bringing the English cream puppy home, you should keep a close watch as the initial few days would be critical for it. The sudden change of environment can make it feel a bit nervous. Also, it can be hard for it to adjust immediately in a new place that does not have its littermates and mother. It is during this period that, as an owner, you are put into the test to instill trust and make the pup feel comfortable. You can try these steps:

• Always keep the pup close to you and avoid interaction with many people.
• Try to set up a routine related to feeding time, loo breaks, and bedtime.
• Make sure to speak to it softly.
• Make it familiar with the crate eventually, the idea is to make it believe it is the best place for retreat.

Socialization to raise an obedient dog

English cream puppies are known for their calm and gentle nature. Still, socialization should begin as early as possible. The more quickly they get familiar with other people and pets in the house, the pup will grow into a confident and happy adult dog.

When the pup is around 8-12 weeks old, based on the initial vaccination records, it is the best time to train them in socialization. Gradually, introduce it to new people, including children. For the best results, you can also take it to specialists who run puppy kindergartens. Make the English cream puppy familiar with the environment around it. Walking in the parks, sidewalks, and markets can help.  

Training tips

English cream puppies are intelligent, so training them should not be an issue. They prefer positive reinforcement, consistency, and patience. The training can include crate training, learning basic commands, leash training, and housebreaking. As you keep on training, it will help the dog to bond very well with you.  

Exercise and mental stimulation

These puppies require performing exercises daily, but you should not overdo it. Short walks a few times a day can be the best way to do it. Likewise, you can engage it with interactive playing sessions. For mental stimulation, introducing them to puzzle toys and other such games will help their minds stay sharp. As the pup grows up, its level of energy will naturally increase. That time, you must take it out for swimming, hikes, or longer walks.

Health care and vet visits

The English cream puppy, like all other dogs, needs an accurate vaccination schedule from the vet. Deworming is also another important aspect. Get all the necessary information in advance related to its dental care, flea and tick prevention, or even long-term health planning.

Be patient and shower love on your pet

All along the journey of raising an English cream puppy, you have to remain patient. Not everything would go on smoothly, and you have to deal with issues like chewed-up shoes, potty lying around your room, and at times, the pup would act stubborn, too. However, these are temporary phases, rather, you will love looking at how quickly the pup is transformed into an obedient and social dog.