Many dog breed books have information on raising puppies that is applicable to all breeds, and in fact the experienced breeders who write these books are probably the best sources of this advice. “Belgians from Start to Finished” by Sallyann Comstock is no exception—it contains a wealth of good information on puppy care and training.

For example, I love the section on three-week-olds. Ms. Comstock says, “The best puppies will appear to be well balanced most of the time. . . . Be particularly aware of the puppy who appears proud, confident and likes to show off. He will carry that trait into the show ring.

Regarding care at this age: “The puppies should be receiving individual attention at least twice a day. Weather permitting, take them outside on grass for very short periods. Expose them to as many different types and textures of flooring as you can; for instance, your cement garage or patio, papers, rubber mats, and floor tile. Place a radio near the play pen and alter both volume and stations. Encourage them to be confident as you introduce them to new textures, sights, and sounds. Reassure them if they are frightened, but do not allow them to hide or run away. However do take care not to deliberately frighten them. At this age a puppy should never be corrected. The word “no” should not be used with them now. A puppy that is always hanging back is one to be concerned about. . . . Take extra time with this puppy. . . .”

“Tolerance of restraint should be learned at this age. The puppy that screams and struggles when you pick him up should be held gently, talked to quietly and calmly until he settles down.” Such good advice for any puppy at three weeks!

Comstock takes the reader through puppy handling and care week by week, including puppy testing at about seven weeks and choosing pick of the litter. While she is writing about Belgian shepherd breeds, much of her advice is applicable to puppies of all types. In addition to temperament testing, a chapter on evaluating temperament introduces the reader to the American Temperament Test Society and discusses testing for working dogs.

I consider this one of the best breed books out there. It’s a good source of in-depth care and training advice for owners and breeders of all types of dogs, and especially the Belgian breeds. Belgians from Start to Finished is available from Alpine Publications, phone 800-777-7257 or fax 970-921-5081, www.alpinepub.com.