Golden retrievers are smart. Yours is still a baby, it takes time and perseveration to train your dog. Puppies have a strong urge to eliminate after sleeping, playing, feeding and drinking. This elimination usually occurs within 30 minutes of each activity. You have to take him to that particular area (Don't set it too big!) for releasing himself (I know it is difficult if you live alone.). When your puppy gets all his shot, it's time to take him for a daily walk. The walk is not just for releasing himself, but also for socializing and burning his enormous energy (Yes, they are quite hyper).