An easy to read, step-by-step format that assists gun dog owners bt providing proven methods emphasizing socialization, exposure and conditioning during the critical first 12 months of a dog's life. Over 130 photographs show the reader how to bring your pup along, using the easy, informal, time-tested methods. Now in the new, 4th edition, 10th printing revised, this book continues to help hunters avoid making mistakes during the critical first months of a dog life, mistakes that could ruin an otherwise fine dog Gun dog editor of American Hunter, Bill McClure, said: Bailey's book is different...With enthusiasm, the author emphasizes 'use common sense, consistency, and a small dose of formal training, and you've got yourself a fine hunting dog.' that's what the book is about and believe me, it's a good one...I would recommend it to anyone about to start a young pup. Buy it before he comes home and memorize the first seven chapters. Then the next six. --American Hunter, February 1992 Outdoor Life's hunting dog editor, Larry Mueller said in the Introduction of the book: Hopefully Joan Bailey's insight into the dog's first year will at last clarify this important subject...The timely thrust of this book is how to accomplish the amazing things that can be done ONLY while the dog is but a baby...If you have a pup don't put this book aside to read later. --How to help Gun Dogs Train Themselves, page XI Quail Unlimited Dogs Editor, Stephen C Rafe said: This book is a gem. It shows you how to avoid critical mistakes in your pup's upbringing. It's loaded with good advice including topics often overlooked by other authors. Start your new pup on Joan Bailey's program for socializing and conditioning your pup for its first twelve months and you should have the bird go of your dreams. She knows her subject and her audiences, and matches them up well in a clear, concise book filled with solid guidance and numerous relevant photographs. it's a bargain for any bookshelf. --Quail Unlimited Magazine, July-August 1992, page 76 Bailey was a field judge of versatile hunting dogs for 26 years; editor of The Gun Dog Supreme for 25 years; winner of 13 awards from the Dog Writers Association of America. Her judging in the field took her to all parts of the U.S. and to Eastern Canada, and to Germany so that she is familiar with the different kinds of hunting terrain in North America. Most of her upland hunting was in Eastern Ontario, Nebraska, Montana, Eastern Oregon, and Washington.