You have a puppy – or you’re about to get one? Then you already know: the first months decide everything.
This guide walks you through every stage from day one with your puppy all the way through the end of the first year. Step by step, with clear methods, concrete instructions, and solutions to the most common mistakes.
What you get:
A complete practical guide with 40 chapters – from choosing the right puppy through potty training, basic commands and socialization all the way through adolescence and life with a confident young dog. Every chapter includes proven techniques, clear training instructions, and common mistakes with direct solutions.
Chapters at a glance:
Chapter 1: Choosing a puppy – the Four-Star Check for the right fit
Chapter 2: Essential gear for a stress-free start
Chapter 3: Arrival day – a calm, stress-free arrival
Chapter 4: The first night – building a routine without stress
Chapter 5: Structuring a puppy’s daily routine
Chapter 6: Potty training – quick start plan from day 1
Chapter 7: Potty training – handling accidents the right way
Chapter 8: Reading body language – recognizing cues before they happen
Chapter 9: Reward system – timing and motivation
Chapter 10: Basic commands – “Sit” in 5 days
Chapter 11: Basic commands – “Down” without pressure
Chapter 12: Basic commands – “Stay” the fun way
Chapter 13: Basic commands – reliable recall
Chapter 14: Leash walking – how to leash your puppy properly
Chapter 15: Leash training – practicing a loose leash
Chapter 16: Leash walking – managing distractions
Chapter 17: Socialization – planning interactions strategically
Chapter 18: Socialization – handling dog encounters
Chapter 19: Socialization – people and children
Chapter 20: Socialization – sounds and everyday stimuli
Chapter 21: Preventive health care – starting with your vet
Chapter 22: Deworming and parasites – an overview
Chapter 23: Vaccinations and health schedule
Chapter 24: Nutrition – choosing the right puppy food
Chapter 25: Feeding schedule – portions and times
Chapter 26: Treats – training without upsetting the stomach
Chapter 27: Water and food transitions done safely
Chapter 28: Chewing and enrichment – meeting the need to gnaw
Chapter 29: Alone time – getting the first few minutes right
Chapter 30: Alone time – building up to a full hour
Chapter 31: Alone time – handling separation stress
Chapter 32: Physical handling – body safety and
