Readers find Millan's approach helpful in understanding puppy behavior and establishing a strong foundation for training. Many appreciate the focus on energy and communication. However, some critics argue the book lacks specific training techniques and relies too heavily on anecdotes. The emphasis on selecting puppies from elite breeders is also a point of contention for some readers who prefer rescue dogs.
Establish a calm, assertive leadership role from day one
Fulfill your puppy's needs as an animal, dog, and breed
Prioritize exercise, discipline, and affection in that order
Master the walk as the foundation of your bond
Socialize your puppy early and consistently
Use energy and body language to communicate, not just words
Prevent common puppy problems through proactive training
Prepare for adolescence by maintaining consistent boundaries
Choose the right puppy based on energy level, not just breed
Create a structured environment for housebreaking success
Nurture your puppy's instincts in positive, controlled ways
Everything you do means something to your dog.
Be a pack leader. From the moment you bring your puppy home, establish yourself as the calm, confident leader. This means setting clear rules, boundaries, and limitations. Use energy and body language to communicate, not just words. Avoid overexcitement or anxiety, as your puppy will mirror your energy.
Respect the puppy's nature. Remember that puppies are dogs first, not babies. They need structure and guidance, not constant coddling. Allow them to explore and learn under your supervision, but don't let them have free reign of the house immediately. Start with a confined, safe area and gradually expand their territory as they earn trust and demonstrate good behavior.
Think of breed in a dog as that extra "boost" that kicks the dog's natural instincts into hyperdrive.
Understand your puppy's layers. Every dog has needs as:
An animal (predator instincts, pack mentality)
A dog (socialization, exercise, play)
A specific breed (herding, retrieving, guarding, etc.)
Provide appropriate outlets. Channel your puppy's instincts into positive activities. For example, provide digging areas for terriers, swimming opportunities for water dogs, or scent games for hounds. This prevents destructive behaviors by fulfilling natural drives in controlled ways.
Exercise, Discipline, Affection ... and in that order!
Follow nature's formula. In a natural pack, dogs work (hunt/migrate) first, follow rules second, and then relax and play. Mimic this order in your daily routine:
Exercise: Structured walks, play sessions
Discipline: Training, enforcing rules
Affection: Cuddles, praise, treats
Avoid creating instability. Giving affection at the wrong times (when a puppy is anxious or misbehaving) can reinforce negative behaviors. Always ensure your puppy is in a calm, submissive state before showering them with affection.
Walking correctly with your dog will be the most important skill you can master if you are seeking a deep, lifelong connection.
Practice proper technique. The walk is not just about physical exercise, but about establishing your leadership:
Keep your puppy beside or behind you
Maintain a loose leash
Use calm, assertive energy
Correct pulling or distractions immediately
Build a routine. Aim for at least two structured walks daily, even with young puppies (adjusting length for their age and energy level). This establishes you as the pack leader who controls resources and direction.
By socializing your puppy to dogs and people when she is young and making sure her manners are in order with both species, you are not only shaping a better life for the both of you, you are also contributing to the pro-dog society that I am committed to helping build.
Start early, but safely. Begin socialization as soon as possible, while being mindful of your puppy's developing immune system. Expose them to various:
People (different ages, appearances, etc.)
Animals (dogs, cats, livestock)
Environments (urban, rural, different surfaces)
Sounds (traffic, appliances, storms)
Create positive associations. Ensure early experiences are pleasant and controlled. Use treats, praise, and calm energy to help your puppy feel safe and confident in new situations.
Dogs speak in energy 24/7.
Learn canine language. Dogs primarily communicate through:
Energy (calm vs. excited)
Body language (posture, tail position, ear position)
Touch (nudging, leaning)
Vocalizations (as a last resort)
Be consistent in your signals. Use calm-assertive energy when giving commands or correcting behavior. Avoid excessive talking or repeating commands. A firm touch or sound (like "tssst") can be more effective than words alone.
Prevention is definitely the best medicine.
Address issues early. Common puppy problems include:
Jumping up
Nipping/mouthing
Excessive barking
Chewing inappropriate items
Pulling on the leash
Use redirection and positive reinforcement. Instead of punishing unwanted behaviors, teach and reward alternatives. For example:
Teach "sit" to prevent jumping
Provide appropriate chew toys
Reward calm behavior and ignore attention-seeking barks
If you go back to basics and stick to the guidelines you've already set, however, you will have the chance to establish an even deeper bond with your dog and to build a more mature, more meaningful connection.
Expect challenges. Adolescence (generally 6-18 months) brings:
Testing of boundaries
Increased energy and independence
Possible regression in training
Stay consistent. Maintain the rules and routines established in puppyhood. Increase exercise if needed to channel extra energy. Don't allow "teenage" behaviors to become habits.
Above and beyond breed, finding an individual dog with the right energy level for you is the most important first step you can take in creating a fulfilling lifetime with your pet.
Understand energy levels:
Very high: Constant motion, needs hours of intense exercise
High: Athletic, prefers vigorous activities
Medium: Balances activity and rest
Low: Couch potato, minimal exercise needs
Match your lifestyle. Choose a puppy with an energy level equal to or lower than your own. Consider your:
Activity level
Time available for exercise and training
Living situation (apartment vs. house with yard)
Housebreaking a puppy is not rocket science, because you've got nature working on your side.
Establish a routine. Puppies have predictable elimination needs:
After waking up
After eating
After playing
Every 1-2 hours for young puppies
Use positive reinforcement. Praise and reward for eliminating in the correct spot. Avoid punishment for accidents, which can create anxiety around elimination.
Supervise closely. When not directly supervised, keep your puppy in a confined area or crate to prevent accidents and reinforce bladder control.
Prevention at its best; I know Angel is not going to dig up my Zen landscaping in the future, because I am already fulfilling his genetic need in a much richer, more entertaining way.
Channel natural drives. For example:
Provide a designated digging area for terriers
Use fetch games for retrievers
Set up scent trails for hounds
Create challenges. Use puzzle toys, obstacle courses, or training games to engage your puppy's mind and body. This prevents boredom and destructive behaviors.
Balance instinct and obedience. Teach your puppy when it's appropriate to express natural behaviors and when to show restraint. This creates a well-rounded, adaptable dog.