Golden Retrievers respond well to predictability and love having things happen at scheduled times. You don't have to be rigid about it, but feeding, walking, and exercising your Golden on a relatively predictable schedule will help him learn to trust that all his needs will be met. Having a routine is a great way to build confidence and help your Golden learn to be alone.

When introducing a new dog to your home, try bringing him home on a Friday afternoon, and free up the weekend to be with him. Decide where and when he will be taken out to potty and where his crate, bed, toys, and food dishes will be put. Feed your Golden twice a day, in the morning and again around dinnertime. Keep a chart to track his potty trips.