Based on the Puppy Culture material I've used for years, I bought these booklets to give to each of my new owners thinking they would have valuable information. However, I was disappointed in the content; it wasn't at all what I expected it would be. I've raised and trained many dogs and am a trainer myself (agility). Don't get me wrong, I totally believe in being an advocate for your puppy and all your animals and the advice to ask questions and not take everything people say at face value is certainly relevant. However, my interpretation of the content is that you should overly-protect your puppy and not let him have any bad experiences. In agility training, if a dog falls off the teeter or dog walk (and isn't hurt obviously), the worst thing you can do is run over to your dog upset and fawning over him like a little baby - "oh my god, are you okay, are you okay? Poor baby". That gives the dog the message that 'wow, I thought I just slipped and fell but, based on mom's reaction, something really bad just happened and I should be afraid of it'. What we tell people is to say "holy cow you silly, look what just happened! Let's go back and try that again". Even if a dog is hurt, treating him like a baby just reinforces the fear imo. Anyway, I was disappointed and am sorry if anyone takes this the wrong way but, I will be donating these to the local library because I don't want to give them to my new owners.

fast

Well done Jane. This topic needed to be handled. Too many people fon't stand up to their vets. Be it vets, neighbours, families or unqualified old style trainers. If only folks would ask their breeder more. But the booklet is a great tool.

It wasn't what I thought it would be about. I'm sure the information is super helpful to many, it just wasn't for me.

The booklet gives an outstanding overview of exacte that that I believe in and this knowledge is what I would like to bring across to my puppy buyers. It is common sense but it is excellent to have available as documentation. Great booklet!