We've owned four dogs over the last 25 years but it's nearly 11 years since we last had a puppy and we'd forgotten just how much work they need. Our old guides had been passed out to friends and family but the breeder of our new pup recommended Gwen Bailey's book as a refresher and it really does have everything you need to know in one book, from early socialisation to the first steps in obedience training.
Whether you are getting your first puppy or like us are out of practice, reading this book before you take your new puppy home will prepare you for what you need to do and give a great source of reference throughout the all important first year of its development.

Excellent book, read it three times, cover to cover, explains in great detail about breeding, from the mating to the labour then to looking after the puppies, and many more helpful topics. Also tells you what other experiences professional breeders have undertaken and gives great advice on how to get the puppies loving homes.

Dont breed without it!

A well written and appealing book. However, compared to 'The Perfect Puppy' by the same author, it is somehow basic. Excellent for children and novice owners, but if you want something more detailed, 'The Perfect Puppy' offers a more comprehensive guide.

We breed hovawarts and our prospective puppy owners often ask me which book I recommend to help them getting things right from the start with their puppies. This is always the one I tell them about. It is short and clear and cover the essential, not only to prevent puppy problems, but also to get a great relationship with your puppy and to teach basic commands in a positive and rewarding way.
It has been written for adults, but because the style is easy to understand, parents can read sections with their children so they can also learn to interact with the puppy in the right way.
A definite 5 stars for me!

This amazing book dedicated for the first-time potential breeder, fascinates and informs as well, active fanciers with years of experience in the field. This serious work is very well illustrated with appropriate photographs and is interjected with a marvelous sense of humor through numerous illustrations. The book includes not just the ideal experiences, but also the "what if ..." occurrences. The chapters proceed in a logical progression. Included is an extensive glossary of terminology. The indexing by individual subject or problem is a complete referral. This piece of artistry painted with words has saved the lives of innumerable dams and offspring. Even the most experienced breeders are now whelping their litters "by The Book"! This rarity in the realm of dogs and breeding is destined to become a classic in its own time and beyond.

We read several puppy books, got advice from the vets and researched puppy training courses to be fully prepared for the arrival of our puppy...however, we were overwhelmed by conflicting advice and just a little put off by some methods used with regard to training, diet etc. Then we discovered this book. Thank god for Patsy Parry. If you're getting a puppy get this book. It's down to earth, easy to follow and covers all the basics. Finally someone who can offer invaluable advice without being condescending. Brilliant.