Hi. I'm new to this board and have already learnt sooo much just by reading everybody elses posts :). At the moment I am dogless, but we are now eagerly awaiting the arrival of our new labrador pup who was born on last Friday! I have now got 8 weeks to prepare and all of a sudden it seems imminent!! I would like to know if anybody can recommend a good all-round reference book on owning a puppy - with advice on training, feeding etc etc etc!!! I went on Amazon, but there were just so many! I didn't know what to choose. Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks
Katie

I posted this same question before I got my Lab pup a few months ago. The book I was recommended was 'The Perfect Puppy' by Gwen Bailey. Having bought it and read it (numerous times already!) I can follow on the recommendation. A good book to have both before and during puppy ownership:)

Whereabouts are you, I know of some good trainers in Kent and Sussex areas. For general doggy health the 'Doglopaedia' is good. If you are getting a bitch then 'Book of the Bitch'. I have a lovely labrador book, so I'll check the title and let you know. What line is your puppy, is it working or show stock? ps, don't bother with bedding plants this year, your little angel labrador will probably be a keen gardener, and decide that the bedding plants should all be dug up. My poor garden is still recovering from last summer with my lab puppy! Lucky you, and so sensible too for planning ahead.
Lorna

Thanks so much for the replies:) I have ordered the "Perfect Puppy", but would love to know the name of the other book Dudley :). Also thanks for the gardening tip!!! And I was getting so into Alan Titchmarsh's "How to be a gardener"...sighs! Never mind, the pup is worth it!! Unfortunately, I live in Cheshire, so a bit far for the trainers!!! But, that brings me nicely on to a new question (am I allowed 2 on one post? - hope so :) ). Does anybody else know of any good vets/trainers in Cheshire? Please help because local residents are beginning to think I am a bit mad - I keep stopping dog walkers and asking them which vet they go to!!!I have had some funny looks, I can tell you :D

Hi, where abouts in cheshire? I live in Warrington and there are several good vets and dog training classes nearby, if you are local let me know and I'll sort you out with some telephone numbers etc.

Hi Shadow. I live about 15 minutes south of Warrington, just through Antrobus (do you know it)? Any contacts you have would be fantastic, particularly training club recommendations:) Thanks so much