How to Raise the Perfect Dog

Establish a calm, assertive leadership role from day one

Everything you do means something to your dog.

Be a pack leader. From the moment you bring your puppy home, establish yourself as the calm, confident leader. This means setting clear rules, boundaries, and limitations. Use energy and body language to communicate, not just words. Avoid overexcitement or anxiety, as your puppy will mirror your energy.

Respect the puppy's nature. Remember that puppies are dogs first, not babies. They need structure and guidance, not constant coddling. Allow them to explore and learn under your supervision, but don't let them have free reign of the house immediately. Start with a confined, safe area and gradually expand their territory as they earn trust and demonstrate good behavior.

Fulfill your puppy's needs as an animal, dog, and breed

Think of breed in a dog as that extra "boost" that kicks the dog's natural instincts into hyperdrive.

Understand your puppy's layers. Every dog has needs as:

• An animal (predator instincts, pack mentality)
• A dog (socialization, exercise, play)
• A specific breed (herding, retrieving, guarding, etc.)

Provide appropriate outlets. Channel your puppy's instincts into positive activities. For example, provide digging areas for terriers, swimming opportunities for water dogs, or scent games for hounds. This prevents destructive behaviors by fulfilling natural drives in controlled ways.

Prioritize exercise, discipline, and affection in that order

Exercise, Discipline, Affection ... and in that order!

Follow nature's formula. In a natural pack, dogs work (hunt/migrate) first, follow rules second, and then relax and play. Mimic this order in your daily routine:

1. Exercise: Structured walks, play sessions
2. Discipline: Training, enforcing rules
3. Affection: Cuddles, praise, treats

Avoid creating instability. Giving affection at the wrong times (when a puppy is anxious or misbehaving) can reinforce negative behaviors. Always ensure your puppy is in a calm, submissive state before showering them with affection.

Master the walk as the foundation of your bond

Walking correctly with your dog will be the most important skill you can master if you are seeking a deep, lifelong connection.

Practice proper technique. The walk is not just about physical exercise, but about establishing your leadership:

• Keep your puppy beside or behind you
• Maintain a loose leash
• Use calm, assertive energy
• Correct pulling or distractions immediately

Build a routine. Aim for at least two structured walks daily, even with young puppies (adjusting length for their age and energy level). This establishes you as the pack leader who controls resources and direction.

Socialize your puppy early and consistently

By socializing your puppy to dogs and people when she is young and making sure her manners are in order with both species, you are not only shaping a better life for the both of you, you are also contributing to the pro-dog society that I am committed to helping build.

Start early, but safely. Begin socialization as soon as possible, while being mindful of your puppy's developing immune system. Expose them to various:

• People (different ages, appearances, etc.)
• Animals (dogs, cats, livestock)
• Environments (urban, rural, different surfaces)
• Sounds (traffic, appliances, storms)

Create positive associations. Ensure early experiences are pleasant and controlled. Use treats, praise, and calm energy to help your puppy feel safe and confident in new situations.

Use energy and body language to communicate, not just words

Dogs speak in energy 24/7.

Learn canine language. Dogs primarily communicate through:

• Energy (calm vs. excited)
• Body language (posture, tail position, ear position)
• Touch (nudging, leaning)
• Vocalizations (as a last resort)

Be consistent in your signals. Use calm-assertive energy when giving commands or correcting behavior. Avoid excessive talking or repeating commands. A firm touch or sound (like "tssst") can be more effective than words alone.

Prevent common puppy problems through proactive training

Prevention is definitely the best medicine.

Address issues early. Common puppy problems include:

• Jumping up
• Nipping/mouthing
• Excessive barking
• Chewing inappropriate items
• Pulling on the leash

Use redirection and positive reinforcement. Instead of punishing unwanted behaviors, teach and reward alternatives. For example:

• Teach "sit" to prevent jumping
• Provide appropriate chew toys
• Reward calm behavior and ignore attention-seeking barks

Prepare for adolescence by maintaining consistent boundaries

If you go back to basics and stick to the guidelines you've already set, however, you will have the chance to establish an even deeper bond with your dog and to build a more mature, more meaningful connection.

Expect challenges. Adolescence (generally 6-18 months) brings:

• Testing of boundaries
• Increased energy and independence
• Possible regression in training

Stay consistent. Maintain the rules and routines established in puppyhood. Increase exercise if needed to channel extra energy. Don't allow "teenage" behaviors to become habits.

Choose the right puppy based on energy level, not just breed

Above and beyond breed, finding an individual dog with the right energy level for you is the most important first step you can take in creating a fulfilling lifetime with your pet.

Understand energy levels:

1. Very high: Constant motion, needs hours of intense exercise
2. High: Athletic, prefers vigorous activities
3. Medium: Balances activity and rest
4. Low: Couch potato, minimal exercise needs

Match your lifestyle. Choose a puppy with an energy level equal to or lower than your own. Consider your:

• Activity level
• Time available for exercise and training
• Living situation (apartment vs. house with yard)

Create a structured environment for housebreaking success

Housebreaking a puppy is not rocket science, because you've got nature working on your side.

Establish a routine. Puppies have predictable elimination needs:

• After waking up
• After eating
• After playing
• Every 1-2 hours for young puppies

Use positive reinforcement. Praise and reward for eliminating in the correct spot. Avoid punishment for accidents, which can create anxiety around elimination.

Supervise closely. When not directly supervised, keep your puppy in a confined area or crate to prevent accidents and reinforce bladder control.

Nurture your puppy's instincts in positive, controlled ways

Prevention at its best; I know Angel is not going to dig up my Zen landscaping in the future, because I am already fulfilling his genetic need in a much richer, more entertaining way.

Channel natural drives. For example:

• Provide a designated digging area for terriers
• Use fetch games for retrievers
• Set up scent trails for hounds

Create challenges. Use puzzle toys, obstacle courses, or training games to engage your puppy's mind and body. This prevents boredom and destructive behaviors.

Balance instinct and obedience. Teach your puppy when it's appropriate to express natural behaviors and when to show restraint. This creates a well-rounded, adaptable dog.