Bringing a puppy dog home can be an extremely challenging affair, even for those who previously have done it. Dogs are individuals, and I rapidly learned that what worked or didn't work for a previous canine resident didn't necessarily apply to future canines. I'm always looking for ways to incorporate a puppy into a household in as user-friendly ways as possible for both the humans and the canines. When I read certified dog trainer Kathy Callahan's highly praised—Library Journal gave it a starred review—new book Welcoming Your Puppy From Planet Dog: How to Go Beyond Training and Raise Your Best Friend, I knew I had found an important go-to guide in which she "reassures owners that success flows not from nailing an intimidating list of disciplinary tactics, but from adopting a mindset of 'trusted guide' rather than 'master.' The key to great training is recognizing that we have essentially kidnapped these puppies from their own vastly different culture."

Developing an environment of respect and trust in which you work to get your dog's consent when you ask them to do something is critical, and it's never too early to have them learn that you would like them to agree with you. Here's what Callahan had to say about a must-read for those lucky enough to welcome chewing, peeing, pooping, fun-seeking, infinitely curious pup into their lives.

Marc Bekoff: Why did you write Welcoming Your Puppy From Planet Dog?

Kathy Callahan: I’ve been guiding overwhelmed new puppy owners for 10 years. They come to me saying, 'Maybe this was a mistake! Getting a puppy was supposed to be fun, but all I feel is stress.' They’re at their wit’s end with the peeing, the destruction, the sharp puppy teeth. Adding to their misery is the........

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