Today's column is a tribute to all the new puppies out there, from those that will end up weighing two pounds to those that top 200. In today's article, I will target the psychology of the 8-14 week old dog. If this article raises questions, please don't hesitate to write them in or call the office.

Babies are a great point of reference in raising a pup - or vice versa. Both are a lot alike. They go through developmental stages, need to be pottied, and have to be taught good manners. And last but not least, they learn by positive reinforcement and structure rather than harsh discipline. The main difference between them and us, is that puppies use their mouths instead of their hands to explore their world. Remember this as yours is mouthing everything everything in sight. It's natural; completely natural.

A puppy less than 14 weeks is like a child less than a year old. Corrections don't make sense. Would you yell at a 10-month-old for grabbing your hair? I hope not. Your efforts would be as fruitless with a young pup. Sure a yell may seem affective, but a dog who gives a "knows what he's done" look, is in reality only showing fear. I know. Puppies can be really frustrating. They chew, jump, nip and pee where they're not supposed to, but after all they're just puppies and that's what puppies do.

They're not acting out of spite or to make you angry, so try to calm down. Harsh corrections or yelling will only frighten your puppy or worse - egg him on. Sure, there are ways to handle their misbehavior, But loosing your cool will only frighten them or make them rambunctious leading to… you guessed it, more naughtiness.

Like snowflakes, puppies are unique. Your puppy will have it's own special personality which will determine how you communicate with him. Does yours have a passive or active temperament?

Passive puppies like direction and shrink from making independent decisions. They feel most secure and calm near their group. If you've got a passive puppy, train him with a gentle hand and avoid corrections.

Ignore all anxious, shy or fearful responses as your attention will reinforce them. Passive puppies can develop into sweet, gentle adoring pets if they're handled properly. If given too much attention for shy or insecure behavior, however, they may develop separation anxiety or timidity.

Active puppies have a strong sense of themselves. They are outgoing, unafraid and funny. Training and moderate corrections may be needed to focus their attention. Always a part of things, they can make a dynamic addition to any household. Left untrained or isolated, they can be very disruptive, annoying and destructive.

It's important to remember that your puppy is motivated by fiive primary needs, which are hunger, thirst, sleep, energy and elimination. If at any point they have a need that is not being met, you'll know about it.

They will act out. Some dogs will bark or whine, though most start to jump and nip and act restless. If your dog is acting up and just won't quit, ask yourself, "could he be trying to tell me something?"