The papa wolf is the main protector and provider. He's the one who has experience and knowledge of the world around them. The puppy, on the other hand, is the source of much of the story's charm. It represents new life, curiosity, and the need for protection and nurturing in this fictional world.
Another plot could be that papa wolf and the puppy discover a new, mysterious part of their territory. There, they meet strange new animals and have to figure out how to interact with them. The puppy might be scared at first, but papa wolf's presence gives it courage.
Spice and Wolf started as a novel. Later, it was adapted into a manga. So, it's both, but it originated as a novel. The novel provides the base story that the manga builds upon.
First, establish a routine for training. Set short, frequent sessions. Use toys to make it fun. Also, socialize your puppy early to prevent behavioral issues. Consistency is key!
Detective Dog 1 was a novel about police dogs. It told the story of a smart but unfit dog and a healthy but unintelligent sheriff who became a detective dog after surgery. This novel might be a good choice.