This hands-on guide gives you everything you need to know right now to begin building a healthy and happy relationship with your new dog. From readying your home for Fido's arrival to housetraining, behavior training, and keeping him fit, Your New Dog For Dummies offers essential information on the day-to-day care of your canine companion.

• Home sweet home — step off on the right paw with help in choosing the best crate, bedding, bowls, toys, and accessories for your new dog

• Safety first — learn about common household and outdoor dangers and how to avoid them, and know what to do to make sure your dog can be identified and returned if he gets lost

• Training camp — develop a housetraining strategy and proper potty protocol for your pooch, and teach manners and basic behaviors

• Bone up on dog health and nutrition — fulfill Fido's nutritional needs, keep your dog fit with fun exercises, and know basic dog first aid and when to go to the vet

Open the book and find:

• Ways to keep your dog safe from harm

• Tips for communicating with your dog

• Help on choosing the right food for Fido

• Advice for keeping up your dog's appearance

• Ways to deal with fleas, ticks, and parasites

• Information for treating common health problems

• Tips for traveling with your dog

Learn to:

• Feed, train, and care for your dog

• Select the best gear for your dog

• Keep your dog fit and healthy

• Get your relationship with your dog off to a good start