The Complete Guide to Raising a Puppy

The Complete Guide to Raising a Puppy



A gentle, science-led handbook for raising a confident, calm, and well-adjusted puppy.

This comprehensive, force-free guide walks new guardians through every stage of puppyhood with kindness, clarity, and evidence-based support. Inside, you’ll learn how to build strong foundations from day one — without overwhelm, pressure, or outdated methods.

What’s Inside

Choosing & preparing for your puppy

Ethical breeder checks, rescue considerations, essential equipment, and setting up a safe, calm home.

Understanding development

Clear explanations of socialisation windows, adolescence, emotional growth, and how these stages shape behaviour.

Building connection

Relationship-first guidance that prioritises trust, communication, and emotional safety.

Routine & wellbeing

Sleep needs, creating balanced structure, toilet training, reducing biting, and helping puppies self-regulate.

Handling & grooming confidence

Gentle, step-by-step introductions to touch, vet prep, and cooperative care.

Socialisation done right

Quality-over-quantity exposure so your puppy becomes curious, not overwhelmed.

Calmness & independence

Foundations for future alone-time, managing greetings, and supporting secure attachment.

Enrichment & problem prevention

Brain games, activities that soothe the nervous system, and common pitfalls to avoid.

Bonus training section

Step-by-step guides for sit, down, stay, off, recall, loose lead walking, settle, and leave it. All taught the force-free way.

Perfect for…

New guardians, first-time puppy parents, and anyone wanting a compassionate, modern approach to raising a well-rounded, emotionally secure dog.

Tone & Ethos

Rooted in modern behavioural science and the Biscuits Buddies philosophy:

no force, no fear - connection before correction.