How we review this book: We present the core messages of the book and our perspective from an HonestDog point of view – based on publicly available content, expert reviews, and interviews with the author(s). This review does not replace a traditional review or the book itself; it is designed to help you decide whether reading it is right for you.
"Welpentraining mit Martin Rütter" (with Andrea Buisman) was a #1 SPIEGEL bestseller in 2022 – and for many, the first guidebook they turn to when a puppy moves in. Rightly so: it is practical, friendly, and well-crafted.
What It's About
The book guides puppy parents step by step through the first weeks: settling in, bonding, house training, being left alone, early explorations in nature and the city, and basic cues like sit, come, and stay. Rütter's approach is individual, partnership-based, and force-free – focusing on positive learning, clear rules, and patience. Valued addition: he also dedicates space to choosing the right breed and breeder.
Our Perspective
As a training book, it's strong – clearly structured, suitable for everyday life, and free of outdated dominance ideology. What we add: A puppy book naturally begins once the puppy has already arrived. However, perhaps the most important decision happens before that – choosing the breed and origin. That's precisely the gap we fill. Anyone who appreciates Rütter's training philosophy will share our mindset: time, patience, and fair communication instead of shortcuts.
What Puppy Buyers Should Take Away
- Plan the first weeks consciously – rest, routine, and bonding matter more than quick tricks.
- Positive training works and protects the relationship; shock and punishment cause harm.
- Research breed and breeder before the puppy moves in – that dictates the next 12–15 years.
What Breeders Should Take Away
- Give new families realistic expectations about the exhausting, formative puppy phase.
- Early, positive experiences within the litter make subsequent training much easier.
What HonestDog Does With It
We pick up where the book stops warning you: at the origin. Through our verified breeders, you'll find puppies from responsible breeding – and our breed finder helps you determine the right breed beforehand.
The Book at a Glance
- Title: Welpentraining mit Martin Rütter
- Author(s): Martin Rütter & Andrea Buisman
- Publisher: Kosmos, 2022
- ISBN: 978-3-440-17170-7
Transparency note: This review is based on publicly available information about the book, not on a full read-through by our team. Factual statements regarding breed health and breeding on HonestDog are additionally backed by FCI, AKC, and veterinary sources.