If you're looking for a collection of every information you could ever possibly need in order to have the perfect dog, this is it. This book is so much more than a training guide. Adam Spivey goes into deep detail from prepping your life to make room for a puppy to picking the best one for you to everything it will need to training tips to a timeline of what to expect from your dog as it grows up. Really, you'll never need another guide book again.

This book is easy-to-read and organized into logical categories that you can refer back to whenever you need. Heads-up! It does have f-bombs (although asterisked) and it is meant for adults. I find the cursing unnecessary in a book like this, but I also understand that to be part of Adam Spivey's brand. If the cursing won't bother you, I recommend for anyone who's new to this. (If you grew up with dogs or have owned them before, you'll likely know most of what this book has to say. It is definitely meant for the newbies who know nothing!)

The book itself is nothing special, BUT for what it is, I'll give it five stars. It's a great place to start for anyone who's coming in blind to owning a dog.



Thank you so much for Netgalley and Rodale Books for trusting me with an honest review of the book.

I've found that it always helps to reaffirm the knowledge we've all been taught along the way. Adam's book Is good common sense training and proves quite helpful for training new puppies as well as brushing up on the skills of older pups as well. Most importantly, it gives the reader the necessary confidence when working with their dog.

I'll keep this as a solid resource and also happily recommend it to others.

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.

This was a great book. I enjoyed reading it very much, and I am looking forward to putting it to good use.

How to Raise the Perfect Dog is a gem for dog owners. Spivey's guide is like a breath of fresh air, cutting through training complexities with practical and heart-centered advice. It's concise, interesting, and delivered in a conversational tone. From choosing the right breed to bedtime routines, it covers all the essentials. Spivey's emphasis on understanding your specific dog, not generic rules, sets this guide apart. It's a game-changer, offering insights that resonate with both seasoned and first-time dog owners. A must-have manual that speaks directly to the heart of canine companionship.

How To Raise the Perfect Dog: Everything you need to know from puppyhood and beyond.
Doggie Language
101 Dog Tricks
Brain Teasers for Dogs
Adam Spivey
While a dog is constantly learning and adapting the first year of his life is the most important when it comes to training. However, it is never too late to begin training your dog. A dog will respond to positive reinforcement much better than a scolding. Some dogs are easier to train than others but that is usually the fault of the owner. A dog wants to please his owner. He wants an owner that will lead. It is unfortunate that some owners have not learned that concept and the dog end up being the leader. Even small dogs must be trained. There are certain behaviors that small dogs are allowed to get away with because they are small again I cannot stress enough the owner must lead or the dog will.
Author Adam Spivey offers advice to dog owners. As a dog owner we should be consistent in our relationship with our 4-legged children. Our language and our body language must be concise. A dog must be mentally challenged.