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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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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Picking the Right Kind of Puppy for You

  In This Chapter Pinpointing your ideal breed or mixed breed Understanding what makes a breed (or mix of breeds) unique Getting the scoop on the terms “breed groups,” “designer breeds,” and “hybrid vigor” Sure, almost all puppies love dog biscuits and a scratch behind the ears, but the similarities pretty much end there. All…

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