As exciting as getting a new puppy is, it is also a scary proposition. A puppy means you will now be responsible for a creature that can’t communicate its needs in words but has all the emotions. If you are not scared to get a puppy for the first time, then perhaps you are not ready for one yet.
As a new puppy owner, you need to understand that you are now a parent. You need to make sure they remain physically and mentally healthy and never experience any kind of abuse or trauma in your care. Fortunately for you, there are some amazing books out there that teach you everything you need to be taught as a new puppy owner. We’ve picked some great ones for you. Here are some of the best books for new dog owners:
Don’t Shoot the Dog! The New Art of Teaching and Training by Karen Pryor
The days of punishments are over, but few people seem to know that. New dog owners are usually eager to train their dogs but when the doggo slips, they can’t help but resort to punishments. This book by the trainer Karen Pryor emphasizes positive reinforcement and guides the dog owners on the right ways to do it. Not just that, this book convinces many dog owners to change their methods by proving that positive reinforcement is much more effective in behavior modification.
The Other End of the Leash: Why We Do What We Do Around Dogs by Patricia B. McConnell
As a new dog owner, it will boggle your mind to see your pup immediately fall in love with the one dog or form instant hate with another or to see one of your dogs love the hugs and the snuggles while the other one is hating it. Another confusing process is when two dogs respond differently to the same training. These questions and many more are answered in this book as McConnell takes us inside the mind of our canine friends and helps us understand them better. The cherry on top? She does it hilariously, so you’re guaranteed to have a good read.
The Art of Raising a Puppy by the Monks of New Skete
This book is for people who’ve never taken care of another being their entire lives and are now suddenly responsible for a cute little puppy. The text in this book is like an old and experienced friend who’s there to guide you every step of the way. This book almost makes puppy rearing looks quite easy. Stick with the teachings of this book and train your puppy accordingly, and we assure you, you won’t go wrong. I must mention that the Monks of the New Skete are renowned in the dog world for their 30 years of experience in all things canine.
Much like raising a child, pet parenting is an on-going learning process. However, we suggest reading these books first and then heading out to bring a new furry member into your home and life to cultivate a healthy relationship and raise a happy pet from the very beginning.
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