3 comments about Have Dog Will Travel, California Edition: Comprehensive Guide to Over 2,200 Dog-friendly Accommodations.

1. HAVE DOG WILL TRAVEL CALIFORNIA lists over 2,200 dog-friendly accommodations in the state, includes emergency clinics and pet etiquette, and includes notes on paw parks and facilities with its city-by-city listings. Both books should be on the shelves of any dog owner residing in any of these areas and also should be a basic reference for any traveling with pets.



2. In Have Dog, Will Travel: California, pet travel expert Barbara Whitaker draws upon her considerable experience and practical knowledge to personally research almost 9,000 lodging throughout California to create the definitive travel guide and directory for dog-friendly accommodations. Now travelers with their canine companions can select from more than 2,200 hotels, motels, B&Bs, cabins, and vacation homes that will accept both owner and pet. Additionally, Have Dog, Will Travel: California informs the reader of travel essentials for their pet, var travel safety and pet etiquette advice, easy obedience commands, as well as lifesaving and first aid procedures. If you are traveling through California with your canine companion, then you need to browse through Have Dog, Will Travel: California as a substantive aid in planning your trip's itinerary whether for overnight outing, a weekend excursion, or a full-blown vacation with all the trimmings.



3. Having already purchased the Northwest edition of this comprehensive guidebook, I was delighted to find the California version. Have Dog Will Travel, California is my new perfect gift for friends who travel extensively with their dogs. As in other editions, this book completely covers the state and gives important details from "people amenities" to the location of the nearest dog-friendly park -- everything needed to locate and reserve the best lodging for both dogs and their drivers.

5 comments about ABC Practical Guide to Dog Training.

1. This book teaches owners how to train in a positive manner. The instructions and theories are easy to understand, and most importantly effective.
   Basic obedience, positive training theory, problem solving (jumping, digging etc.), off leash obedience and basic obedience are all covered in this book.
   I train service dogs and for basic obedience and leash training I use the methods and theories in this book. I can't say enough good things about it. :)



2. I really liked this book, especially the clear discussions about learning theory, using both positives and aversives correctly. How to teach most basic manners skills. I was, however, surprised by the omission of teaching a dog not to pull on leash! This is one of the most common complaints of dog owners, yet it is not covered in this book. Other than that, great stuff.



3. I am a new dog owner and have been looking for a book to help me train my new dog.
   
   After searching and reading reviews here on amazon I ordered a few books. It happened to be during the holidays so I still don't have them (that's another story). However, in the mean time, I found a used copy of this book at a local used book store. I have to say I am very pleased with it.
   
   If you read the reviews of the popular basic dog training books here on Amazon you can be really confused about what to do. Does pack theory work? Is there a dominance hierarchy? Are choke chains cruel? Can positive reinforcement alone work? What should I be expecting of my dog? Lots of questions and recommendations that seem at odds with one another.
   
   The author of this book cuts through a lot of that and really makes a lot of sense. Further, he gives practical, step by step advice on how to handle problems and do very basic dog training. Actual things you can use to make a difference to your dog. After reading about half of his book I was immediately able to make use of his recommendations and techniques and my dog responded. Obviously there is no magic, it will take work on my part, but I could see improvement right away.
   
   Further he lays out some things that seem pretty basic in hind site, but I as a new dog owner didn't realize. Important things, like don't let your dog play with cloth toys and then expect your dog not to think every cloth thing (like a sock) is a toy.
   
   He talks about different collars to use during training, on leash v. off leash training, good and bad toys, good and bad trainers. He spends a good deal of time teaching you how your dog learns and how any training is making use of those basic concepts. He also makes sure you understand that if you own a dog, all your interaction with it is "dog training" and that you may very well be teaching the dog things you had no idea you were teaching him good and bad (usually bad).
   
   His focus is always on praise and reward, but understands that actual correction is appropriate as well when done properly, however none of the specific instructions he offers that I have read so far ever include any kind of physical correction, it is always things like withdrawing attention, stern commands, a cross look.
   
   He offers practical steps for what he calls foundation training, come, sit, stay, which to a new dog owner like myself is really important.
   
   Anyway, after only reading half the book and only using its advice for about 3 days I have to say I am 100% happy with this book.



4. Well written, funtional, intelligent, effective, practical.
   
   This is one of the best I've read so far.
   
   You will not be dissapointed.



5. ABC Practical Guide To Dog Training: Proven Techniques By A Trainer Of Trainers is an expertly written instructional by Steven Appelbaum (the President and CEO of Animal Behavior and Training Associates Inc., the largest independent dog training company in North America), designed specifically to teach the owner of a canine companion diverse behaviors on command. From learning how to make "pack theory" work to one's advantage; to the simple basics of how a dog learns; to establishing obedience; to selecting the right professional trainer, ABC Practical Guide To Dog Training is a "must-read" for anyone responsible for the behavior and training of the family pet.

1 comments about Bichon Frise (Kennel Club Dog Breed Series).

1. I really enjoy the detail in this book, I wish there was more on grooming.

No comments about Pilates For Dogs: (those special dogs that really care).

5 comments about Beyond Obedience: Training with Awareness for You & Your Dog.

1. This book is not your basic training guide. But, it takes a more in-depth approach to being a successful trainer and dog-owner. When you can't understand why your dog can't perform a task that you have taught over and over OR they won't do what you know they CAN do....this book helps give insight as to why. It's the best advice for these situations.



2. If you're interested in New Age philosophy as it pertains to dogs, this is your cup of Chamomille tea. If you're interested in practical solutions to dog behavioral problems look elsewhere. I'd stongly advise you to take the book out of the library and read it before you buy it.
   
   I found it useless in addressing my/my dog's "issues".
   
   And, hey, I've meditated for years.



3. A dog training manual for the metaphysician in everyone: you will love this book. Since you are reading these reviews, this book is for you. (When the student is ready...)
   
   If nothing more, read Chapter 4. It relates Ms Frost's extraordinary and inspiring experience with the "Vermont dogs." I am still moved and thrilled after many readings of this astonishing account.
   
   Try her unique methods. My puppy was frightened of passing traffic on our street. I visualized my puppy walking calming on his leash. We went for a walk right away, and he was hugely improved over the day before. Amazing! He's grown now and walks quietly beside me OFF-LEASH.



4. April Frost is an animal communicator who comes from a place of deep love and respect for animals. She relates to each as an individual, and works with each by communicating and explaining - as well as using the clear and consistent behavioral approaches common to animal trainers. She advises people to explore what is right in their unique relationship with their animal companions, taking into account their own personality and that of their animal.
   
   Frost has excellent suggestions and discussion on basics of training for the habits that will enable dogs and people to get along comfortably together.
   
   In addition to offering training to people and animals, Frost has dedicated much of her life to helping animals in need. She describes a remarkable rescue of 13 malnourished dogs out of larger pack that had run wild all of its life in a pen, never having known a positive relationship with humans. The dogs were wounded physically and scarred emotionally. Her approaches in healing them are an inspiration to animal lovers.
   
   Frost brings us great wisdom in this book, suggesting many ways in which we can learn to appreciate and care for the animals we choose or who choose us as companions in this great adventure we call life. Dogs are very much in the present, and can help us find our own sense of the now that opens into spiritual awareness.
   
   Talking to your animal mentally, explaining the messages you want to convey, is very potent in training them to understand ways of behaving that will help the two of you get along well. Establishing intuitive and psychic communications with animals also provides another avenue for opening into spiritual dimensions.



5. This book provides an excellent option to conventional dog training. April Frost shares her tremendous wisdom in this wonderful book that is a must read for those of us who want to build a different relationship with the dogs in our lives other than that offered by traditional obedience training. Frost offers guideance on how to build a strong and lasting relationship with our companions that is based on mutual respect, love, and understanding.

4 comments about Carry-Ons: Traveling Chihuahuas (Carry Ons).

1. this book is adorable! as a chihuahua parent, i love them to death. they're my favorite breed of dog. one of the reasons why i love chihuahuas is because you can bring them around with you almost everywhere you go.
   
   it was interesting reading about other owners and other chihuahuas. the pictures are wonderfully done as well, great angles and the style is great. it was focused on the dogs themselves. highly recommended for all chi parents!



2. THIS IS SUCH A CUTE BOOK FILLED WITH PICTURES OF CHIHUAHUA'S AND THEIR DAILY "FAVORITES". MY DAUGHTER AND I JUST LOVE THIS BOOK AND LOOK THROUGH IT ALMOST EVERY NIGHT BEFORE GOING TO BED. IT IS REALLY A UNIQUE BOOK TO HAVE IF YOU LOVE CHIHUAHUA'S LIKE WE DO!



3. I bought two copies of this book on Amazon...one for myself and one as a gift. This is a great coffee table book on Chihuahuas! The book presents several pages of full-page photos on each Chi and features them doing their favorite things (hanging out at Venice Beach, being a co-pilot of their owner's plane, visiting Hollywood,etc.) Montrose, a professional photographer, has a knack for capturing the vibrant personalities of each dog. The photos are artsy, funky, and fun! Definitely not your typical book on dogs in which every picture is posed. I would definitely recommend this for any Chihuahua fan!



4. This book makes a fabulous gift for all people who love Chihuahuas! The author, a professional photographer, does a superb job of showcasing the personalities and adventures of these adorable "carry-ons." The photographs are artistic, edgy, and fun! Unlike most other pet books, this one is prime coffee table material! Several full-color pages are devoted to each pooch hanging out in their favorite haunting grounds (Venice Beach, a flat in Paris, the laundromat, cockpit of a plane, etc.). Highly recommended for all Chi lovers...I already bought two copies - one for me and one for a friend.

No comments about Coonhounds.

5 comments about The Koehler Method of Open Obedience for Ring, Home and Field,.

1. A teacher, trainer and author who worked as the Chief Trainer for Walt Disney Studios for more than 20 years, William Koehlers methods have stood the test of time. He was the head trainer for the Orange Empire Dog Club and his accomplishments would fill pages.
   
   His method of dog training was developed over the course of many years. The Koehler Method of Dog Training has been praised, championed, maligned and in some cases
   condemned.
   
   The fact is, if you follow the books methodology, the Koehler method is a logical and sensible progression in the field of dog Trainng.
   
   I personally took my first ever "show dog" and trained exclusively in the Koehler method. She has won all her obedience titles with the minimum amount of attempts (Three) with most of her placings being FIRST.
   
   Leave the cookies and clickers behind folks. Start with the first book-DO NOT JUMP AHEAD OF ANY STEP. Find a Keohler trainer to help if you need it. You will wind up with a confindent and happy dog.



2. To review this book, I must first tell a story. When I was a teenager ( awhile ago ) I enrolled with my Afghan mix in an obedience class. She was not a bad or unruly dog, but I thought a bit of obedience would not hurt. The class was "Koehler based" and the harshness of the methods turned a playful, happy dog into a terrified shut down dog. I also got to see dogs being choaked until they nearly passed out, "hung" ect. What a great example to show to a kid. I used to get queasy before the class and my dog would hide. Looking back, I actually think one of the trainers might have been a genuine sadist, but what does a 16 year old know other than "my dog is now much worse than she was". We were told to read several of Koehler's books which I did and I could see where the trainers were coming from. However, these methods *do not * work on all breeds! You can ruin a good dog! It took quite a while for my dog to recover from that Koehler based class.
   Anyone who has a Greyhound, Saluki or any other sighthound breed should not use Koehler's methods! I can't say this more strongly. There are other options. Experts in these sensative breeds now agree. I now have a Whippet very well trained using clicker training. I shudder when I think of my freaked out Afghan hiding when the choke chain and leash came out or freezing in terror.
   This book and Koehler's methods might work for "hard" stubborn dogs, or for police work, but be careful or the dog will end up worse, and you'll put more work into just bringing it back where it was. Proceed with caution!



3. I have used many different training methods over the years with several different dog breeds and have found Koehler's method of training to be 100% effective 100% of the time. I attend an obedience class with my current dog, Blue, (Aussie) two times a week and have done this for over a year. The trainer I work with uses this method in his classes and I have personally seen it be totally effective on every breed ever brought to this class. (The class is composed of puppies through seniors in every level of training.) My instructor himself states that he is not the reason that this method works but the love and praise on the dog that makes it work every time. I can honestly say that if you do love your dog, read Koehler's first book and any others he has written and them follow them exactly. There is no way you can go wrong and the bond you will form with your dog will be stronger than you ever dreamed imaginable. My dog isn't a service dog exactly but having trained him through Koehler's method has made him a valued member of my family capable of helping me with my children and many other daily responsibilities that I have. This method, when you understand it, is the best way for you to love your dog and enjoy working with him.



4. The first time I read Koehler's books I thought they sounded harsh. But after thinking about it and trying his methods I have found them to be sound. I own several Doberman Pinchers and his methods have been invaluable to me. Dobies can be a difficult breed to handle because they are protective by nature and can be agressive. His methods have proven time and again to be effective in handling my dogs. I have shown my dogs in different compations for obedience and have a display board full of ribbions to prove his methods effectivness, many thanks to Mr. Koelher. I recommend reading his first book on basic dog obedience to get a good understanding of his methods before moving on to higher levels of training.



5. Although Koehler seems cruel to the novice, it is apparent on deeper inspection that he is, in fact, a great lover and respecter of dogs. (He was the Disney trainer for years.) One of his most famous arguements about training a dog with a firm hand is that if you LOVE your dog, how could you stand BUT to have complete and firm control over it at all times? Especially if it's about to dart in front of a speeding car? The dog should respond---every time---on your very first command because there will be times when its very life depends on that. To not have a well-trained dog is to put it in danger every minute it's outside its kennel.

   To use the Koehler method is to allow your dog to learn by making mistakes, so that it discovers on its own that to be an attentive and obedient dog is the easiest path.

   I recommend first reading The Koeler Method---which outlines the logic behind his forceful and no-nonsense corrections---and THEN working into the other volumes after you have an understanding of the logic behind the discipline.

   To train using Koehler's methods requires that the trainer train him/herself more than the dog. Many people find this difficult. (And many people have horrible, uncontrollable dogs who run the household while the humans say, "oh, he's just excitable," or "she's just nervous," or "he never acts this way when we're alone.") To learn Koehler is to have a harmonious dog/master relationship based on mutual trust and respect.

   Many believe that Koehler does not take individual humans or dogs into consideration, but again, he answers that criticism in The Koehler Method and says that all dogs, being dogs, have certain things in common which can be depended on to aid in training. Read Koehler carefully and you will discover a man who dedicated his entire life to the care of dogs! He is not cruel. Read without bias and learn from an expert what you do not know---it is a truly eye opening experience.

   This book is the best book for learning how to train yourself and your dog for "remote" commands. I recommend it highly to anyone truly interested not in being a softie and having a partially trained dog, but to those who wish to offer their beloved pet the most fulfilling and balanced life they can possibly offer it.

2 comments about English Cocker Spaniel (Comprehensive Owner's Guide) (Comprehensive Owner's Guide).

1. This book is so much better than many of the other breed books out there that offer nothing but basic knowledge filler. I was skeptical about buying it, but figured what the heck. It's worth the money and has lots of good information in it.



2. This book was a true insight for us into the life of a cocker spaniel, how to train them, live with them, feed them, groom them, walk them and treat them as one of the family. It was invaluable.

No comments about Just Maltese 2009 Calendar (Just).