Congratulations on your new puppy! Raising a puppy is no small undertaking and puppy owners often find that they get conflicting information from their friends, family members, veterinarians and groomer.
This section is to provide you with the most current links, books and information on raising a puppy, as well as information on the puppy services we offer.
IMPORTANT PUPPY INFORMATION
What Nobody Told You About Raising a Puppy
Before You Get Your Puppy, by Ian Dunbar
See the follow-up book, After You Get Your Puppy, below.
Sirius Pup Behavior Blueprints
Everything You Wanted to Know About Puppies
New Puppy Supply Checklist
It is a violation of California law
to sell/adopt a puppy
before
the age of 8 weeks
These first 8 weeks are critical in the development of your puppy's behavior. Puppies removed from the litter too soon are at significant risk of developing behavior problems around dogs and humans. Developmental Stages & Socialization |
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SOCIALIZATION
You only get one chance in your puppy's life to provide them with early socialization and that period ends around the time your puppy reaches 12 weeks of age. The following links provide information on how to do it positively and safely.
Vaccinations vs. Socialization
The vet says your puppy shouldn't go anywhere until fully vaccinated, but you've heard that it's important to socialize your puppy. Which is right?
Socialization: Beyond the Dog Park
Dog parks are great...for some dogs. But dog parks are not always a good place to socialize your puppy.
Socialization Check List
It can be hard to think of everything to expose your puppy to. Handy guideline from 6 weeks to 6 months.
Socialization Excuses
Do you hear yourself saying one of these excuses for not socializing your puppy?
Teaching Your Puppy to Like and Respect People
One single person can have a dramatic impact on your puppy's personality - for better or worse.
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4PAWS UNIVERSITY PUPPY SERVICES
 PUPPY HEAD START: In-Home Training
For puppies too young to start group classes or for help with issues not covered in group classes, such as housetraining, chewing, etc.
PUPPY KINDERGARTEN: Socialization and Beginning Obedience Group Class for puppies 14 weeks to 5 months. This class focuses on basic obedience skills and manners as well as prevention of behavior problems.
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RECOMMENDED BOOKS FOR PUPPY OWNERS
 ULTIMATE PUPPY TOOLKIT
Get a jump start on your new puppy's training and socialization, or give as a gift to the new puppy owner. Only $20.00, this helpful kit includes valuabel information on socialization, prevention of problem behaviors and training, as well as other helpful information. A valuable tool for the new puppy owner!
Available for purchase at the 4Paws University training site or through your 4Paws trainer. |
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AFTER YOU GET YOUR PUPPY - Dr. Ian Dunbar
Now you have your puppy, the clock is ticking and you need to meet three more developmental deadlines before your puppy is five months old. Covers Household Etiquette; Home Alone; Socialization with People; Learning Bite Inhibition; The World at Large; Homework Schedules, and a shopping list of books and videos.
Every puppy should come with a copy of this book! |
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PARENTING YOUR DOG - Trish King
Analyzes each stage of a dog's physical, mental, and emotional development in great detail; includes sections on puppyhood, adolescence, adulthood and aging, plus problem behavior. Offers numerous tips and guidelines detailing how dogs can adjust to and become part of the family dynamic. Formatted for quick reference.
Practical advice and information. Trish is one of our favorites! |
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THE OTHER END OF THE LEASH - Patricia B. McConnell, PhD
When humans communicate with dogs, a lot can get lost in the translation. Focusing on human behavior, Dr. McConnell teaches readers how to retrain themselves to speak consistently in a language dogs understand and avoid sending conflicting and confusing messages.
4Paws University highly recommends this entertaining book to anyone wanting a better understanding of their dog! |
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THE ONLY DOG TRICKS BOOK YOU'LL EVER NEED - Gerilyn Bielakiewicz
We agree! This little book is packed with great information and tips on basic obedience and tricks from beginners to advanced. Gives step-by-step instructions on how to condition a dog to the clicker, a great tool for teaching refined behaviors necessary for the best tricks. |
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