why dogs listen only to their owners

what tricks dog owners can easily teach their dogs

why some dogs come to dislike strangers

what some people expect from dogs and dog owners

enjoys finding time to play with Atticus

wants Atticus to grow to be strong

thinks Atticus is a better pet than most dogs

feels responsible for protecting Atticus

The author trusted the advice of Paige Foster, the breeder of his puppy Atticus. After a few months the author had bonded with Atticus, who is so well behaved that he does not need to be leashed or collared.

The author has a peaceful dog named Atticus. People who meet Atticus are surprised that he has not learned any tricks, such as how to put out his paw, because they believe teaching tricks builds the relationship between owner and dog.

The author established a bond with his puppy Atticus by following the dog breeder’s advice. Instead of participating in obedience training and teaching his dog tricks, the owner chose to focus on helping Atticus feel safe and happy.

The author had a conversation with a dog expert who was impressed by how well behaved his dog Atticus was. When the expert asked about the kind of training the dog had received, she was surprised to learn that Atticus had not been formally trained.