Using Cool Tools and Groovy Gadgets

  In This Chapter Training your puppy with positive reinforcement Using treat cups and snack packs as training devices Discovering clicker-based training Improving communication with targeting and point training Believe it or not, you can solve more problems with positive feedback than with discipline. I’ve used every technique in this chapter, often simultaneously, and I…

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Getting Everyone Involved

  In This Chapter Encouraging consistency among your family and friends Creating a clan of helpers Comparing puppy schools and private trainers Bringing up a well-rounded puppy in today’s society is definitely not a one-person job, even if you do live alone. However, if you’re surrounded by family members or friends, striking a balance between…

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Kids and Puppies

  In This Chapter Helping your kids and puppy bond Discouraging your puppy from nipping and tugging Overcoming Sibling Rivalry Syndrome One of the hallmarks of my childhood was my dog, Shawbee, who was a Husky-Shepherd mix. She was my constant companion, waiting for me at the bus stop, hanging outside the church while I…

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Socialization and Civility

  In This Chapter Calming your puppy during socialization Conditioning your puppy to accept people of all sizes, races, and genders Introducing your puppy to wild animals, noises, and other interesting objects Handling a pup’s wary or defensive response Your puppy is hard-wired with a prime socialization window. During this window, which is between 8…

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Home Sweet Home

In This Chapter Shopping for supplies you’ll need immediately Checking out training collars and leashes to be used later on Readying your house and your family Making introductions Getting through the first week Mom’s right again: First impressions really do count. To make your puppy’s transition into your home as smooth as possible, you have…

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Finding and Choosing Your Puppy

  In This Chapter Deciding where to look for your puppy — breeders, shelters, newspaper ads, or pet stores Asking and answering all the right questions about your prospective puppy Testing your puppy’s temperament and personality Considering an older pup Let the search begin! You can find a puppy in so many places, from serious…

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