5 comments about Getting in TTouch with Your Dog: An Easy, Gentle Way to Better Health and Behavior.

1. I have a dog with health problems, this book has a lot to offer to make her life easier. You don't have to be a Vet to use this.



2. This book has great pictures and easy to follow dialogue that explains the T Touch technique , the reason to use it and what you can expect from it. I found it easy to follow and useful for my dogs.Getting in TTouch with Your Dog: An Easy, Gentle Way to Better Health and Behavior



3. This is a simple guide book for dog owners who are interested in learning some easy hands-on techniques to help calm their pet. The information was easy to follow and my dog loves to be petted using these techniques.
   I learned the basic philosophy after reading the book once.



4. I previewed this book via the library and then opted to purchase a copy for myself. Learning T-Touch isn't something that I have done quickly but it does seem to be helping me to help my dogs relax.



5. Very useful read for anyone who has dogs.

5 comments about Home-Prepared Dog & Cat Diets: the Healthful Alternative.

1. If you are feeding or thinking of feeding a homemade diet (raw or otherwise), and you want to understand the scientific and nutritional basis for these diets, this is the book for you.
   
   Having read everything I could get my hands on about canine nutrition, raw diets and homemade diets, I was thrilled to find a book that explained the nutritional side of these diets. There are plenty of books that tell you what to do, but few delve into WHY.
   
   This is not a book of stories about animals' lives changed by a miracle diet. It is a fully referenced book about the nutritional needs of dogs and cats, including the digestability and availability of nutrients in different types of foods. The author explains how this information is used by dog food companies to formulate their foods and the shortcomings of commercial foods that result. The book has an in-depth discussion the needs of dogs and cats with various medical conditions, as well as babies and seniors.
   
   I have to admit that I have a background that made the nutritional information in the book easy to understand. I don't know how accessible some of the material would be for some readers. But even if you were to skim the technical information, you could get a lot out of this book.
   
   The author has his own diet that he designed using computer programs that nutritionally balance the diet. Personally, I feed a raw diet, not the diet the author recommends. But his diet makes sense. Actually, this book doesn't discuss raw feeding at all. But now I have the scientific validation that what I'm feeding is correct from a nutritional standpoint. I've also made a few changes in the diet and supplements I feed based on the information in this book. I found it very helpful, and it gave me peace of mind.



2. I'm surprised at the amount of complaining with the cat recipes. I found the recipes for both dog and cat to be plentiful, well written, and easy to follow. I also obtained bone meal in powder form, but is it really that difficult to read the bottle, it tells you how much to give. I have used this book since purchasing it in June 2007 and have never been happier. We were about to lose our dog to Protein Losing Enteropathy (PLE)even though she was on a bunch of stuff from the vet, and this book is what brought her back. My vet was so impressed with the book that they bought a copy for themselves. I found it easy to find the recipes I needed just by going to the index. I had no dissapointments with this book and have recommended it to several people with both dogs and cats.



3. I have several dogs, have been feeding them a raw meat diet for 2 years and have read many books on the subject. I wanted to make sure that I am including the correct nutrients so bought this book for the recipes. What a shame! All of the recipes in this book were variations of the same recipe: Cooked meat, bonemeal tablet and 1 multivitamin. Don't waste your time or money on this book. This is the first time I've ever sent a book back for a refund.



4. What a disappointment! I am really angry about the way this book misleads you into believing that the recipes are formulated to provide complete nutrition for dogs & cats with home-prepared FOOD. I am trying to find nutritionally well-balanced home-prepared dog food recipes and was really looking forward to finding them in this book. The book claims to provide "complete nutrition" recipes & does seem to give a lot of information about the nutritional needs of dogs & cats as a prelude to the "complete nutrition" recipes. On page 79 (Chapter 5: "Feeding a Normal Dog or Cat") the author states that "the following diets are all nutritionally balanced and complete." And on page 80, just before you get to the recipes, he writes: "When the diet cannot be balanced with natural foods to provide vitamin and mineral requirements, it is necessary to supplement with a vitamin-mineral preparation." HE THEN GOES ON TO INCLUDE A MULTIPLE VITAMIN-MINERAL SUPPLEMENT AS A NECESSARY INGREDIENT IN EVERY SINGLE RECIPE. THAT'S RIGHT: EVERY SINGLE RECIPE REQUIRES A VITAMIN-MINERAL SUPPLEMENT TO BE NUTRITIONALLY COMPLETE!!!!! In other words, NONE of the recipes are nutritionally balanced based on the food ingredients, they are totally dependent on vitamin supplements. What a ruse--BUYER BEWARE!



5. I was disappointed in this book. It uses very few ingredients, and just offers a number of variations on those ingredients. Also there is no explanation of why each ingredient has been chosen, which makes it difficult to substitute when necessary. I have a number of other pet-food books, and most of them are more useful.

5 comments about Bones Would Rain from the Sky: Deepening Our Relationships with Dogs.

1. I read the very low star reviews.
   Then I read the 5 star reviews.
   It seems to me that the 1 star people, sadly, just don't get it.
   The book's about LIVING.



2. In my opinion, no one should ever even think about owning a dog before owning this book. For me, the main thrust was this: when trying to get our dogs to behave in certain ways, we keep expecting them to think like we do, when in fact, the key to success is learning how to think like they do. It's the difference between creating harmonious relationships with them or frustrating ones. This book will get you into your dog's head.



3. This is one of the first books on dog training I read, and it got me started looking into dog training techniques. Based on the chapter "Things Timmy Never Did to Lassie", I checked out some of Hearne and Koehler's books and decided they are not for me.
   
   My dogs have responded well to the positive training methods she recommends.



4. Suzanne Clothier has written a book that will have one thinking about their relationship with dogs past and present. Her gentle approach to dog training is to be admired and learned from. The personal stories she tells throughout the book wil have you either in tears or laughter. A must read for all dog lovers and any one trying to train a more difficult dog. Suzanne Clothier is the true Dog Whisperer.



5. Suzanne Clothier's book is fun to read, full of wonder, wisdom, and insight! She opens her book with stories from her childhood that parents (and children like her) will appreciate. Ms Clothier is someone who sees. She shares what she sees with us as stories, observations, and ponderings. She speaks of training as teaching a dog to be attentive to the owner but her stories, better than most how-tos, teach us how to be more attentive to our dogs. Learning to train a dog is kinesthetic learning. This book is alittle kinesthetic learning for the heart.

4 comments about PuppyPerfect: The user-friendly guide to puppy parenting (Howell Dog Book of Distinction).

1. I am not a professional dog trainer but found this book this book to be extremely helpful in dealing with specific behavioral issues I was having with my 15 week golden-doodle. The book as a whole is very good and the index leading to specific problems (such as "mounting") were invaluable. There are alot of books out there, but this one is head and shoulders above the rest.



2. What a great book. Loads of information on choosing a puppy and what to do with it after. Loads of good training information. I recommend this book for anyone who is considering a puppy or have a new puppy in the home



3. As a total novice in the dog owning/training department I read every dog book I could get my hands on before our puppy came home. A lot of those books were good, but focused on house/obedience training an older puppy (4+ months). We were getting our puppy at 7 weeks and I just wasn't sure what I should be doing at this early stage. This book walks you through all of your puppy's ages starting at 8 weeks and gives you weekly projects to start working on, which I found most helpful. I now know what I can reasonably expect of such a young pup and feel that while my puppy won't learn it all right away at least I'm not sending us down the wrong path from the very beginning. I felt comfortable with the author's teaching style (calm, fun, easy-going, but authoritive) and relieved to know that it's ok to get down on the floor and roll around with your new puppy without losing your puppy's respect as her leader (as some books implied would happen). I would definitely recommend this book to anyone getting a new puppy.



4. I thought I had it all in "The Dog Bible" but this is now THE PUPPY BOOK I am going to be recommending. There are methods and ideas here that are uniquely Sarah Hodgson's and she has such a logical, kind and fun way of helping you to train your pup that you will look forward to having an active part in raising a civilized dog! This is a great gift for those friends who are first time puppy owners...you'll be doing them AND yourself a favor (their puppies won't make your life miserable!)

5 comments about Dog Anatomy: A Coloring Atlas.

1. Wonderful. Easy to use, great educational aid in learning the musculature of the dog and a general overview of the dogs physical attributes. Reccomend for any student or interested dog owner to help learn how the dogs body works.



2. This was a good book, I think a little to expensive for what you get. Should cost about $20-$25.00. Dont think it is worth $35.00



3. It is a good book, especially if you like to color.....but that is the only great thing about it. It lacks important detail, thus it is a coloring book only!



4. I am extremely happy with the purchase of this particular book. As a student of Animal Bowen Therapy, I require information that is explanatory and easy to understand. This book is all of that and more. The pictures are simple and it is very easy to see the different aspects of the anatomy of a dog.
   I received the book in wonderful timing and as always, found the transaction to be easy and non fuss. I will continue to shop for my books this way as it is 9 times out of 10 the cheapest and best way to do it.
   Virginia Ede
   Australia



5. Beautiful pictures with clear information. This book is required for the Comparative Anatomy class that I am taking. I would highly recomend this book for any vet tech students suffering from information overload. Great help in understanding the basics.

5 comments about The Shih Tzu Handbook (Barron's Pet Handbooks).

1. Yes, it talks only about Shih Tzus but I was looking for more about their extreme habits. This was all positive and mentions the stubborness in the cutsey way. No emphasis on their negatives which all dogs have, such as the possessive nature toward the dog's master. Tell me the negative. I can handle it.



2. This is an excellent book for the new Shih Tzu owner. It has many helpful tips on what to expect and covers grooming, feeding, diseases, illnesses and training. I got it from the library first and liked it well enough to purchase it.



3. In an attempt to educate myself before bringing my shih tzu puppy home I stumbled onto this book. I have purchased others and this by far provided the most information that was helpful to me. Many others focus on showing these wonderful dogs and that is fine but not what I intend to do. This book gives basic info about this specific breed and their needs. I would highly recommend this book.



4. This book is by far the best to get when you purchase a new Shih Tzu. I bought three books ( including this one ) and this was by far the most useful information without too much fluff. The other books were more into show dog do's and don'ts. As I bought my dog for companionship and to be a great dog for my kids, which he is without question, I didn't need that. Highly recommend it...



5. This book is a great book to own if you own a Shih Tzu! Great Pictures!Very good instructions on how to care for your new addition! Enjoy....

5 comments about Australian Shepherds (Complete Pet Owner's Manual).

1. This book was amazing for people thinking about getting an Australian Shepherd or for those already with an Aussie. I found this book to be very detailed and full of really usful information in an easy to read and understand way. My husband and I both read the book and we think it helped us to understand our puppy better and better train/raise her.



2. Has all the basic information you need to know about the breed. Very good book for the price.



3. I've bought several Aussie books and this one is definately the quickest and most efficient read. For the price, I'd say its the best one available. It's written so everyone can understand and easily find what they're looking for



4. The same information is available in most books about dogs. I was hoping this books would be more specific. The pictures are helpful because Aussies come in such a wide variety of colors.



5. This is an outstanding book that is chock-full of information and easy to read. It's easily worth 2 or 3 times what it's selling for. A must-have for anyone who owns (or is thinking about owning) an Aussie!

5 comments about The 10-Minute Retriever: How to Make an Obedient and Enthusiastic Gun Dog in 10 Minutes a Day.

1. this is prolly the 3rd best book ive read on hunting dog training, quick and easy, give it a try



2. I was pleased with the book until I realized that one chapter was missing. I ordered a second one and had the same problem. I also had to take the time to return the first one and kept the second one, which is still missing a chapter. Perhaps your books should be scanned after printing to avoid misprints being mailed out.



3. How B. Blazer's review was determined to be Spotlight material baffles me. His review makes it patently obvious that he knows precisely nothing about training dogs, has never spent time with professional trainers and has never run a dog in a field trial or hunt test.
   
   Force fetch is an essential part of training retrievers. It is the foundation upon which advanced training is based and all competitive retrievers undergo force fetch training. Yes, you create stress in the dog through the ear pinch or toe hitch because competing and hunting yield stressful situations for the dog as he works through terrain, challenging wind conditions, cold and dozens of other factors that come into play during a retrieve. A dog not trained to handle that stress will exhibit major performance issues when the going gets tough, from popping, ignoring handling or, worse, a total no-go.
   
   To address B. Blazer's little numbered list:
   
   1.) At no point do the authors of Ten Minute Retriever call for the use of a whip. The tool is called a heeling stick. It is never suggested that the heeling stick be used to abuse the dog. It is merely a way to extend your reach to deliver taps and swats for immediate correction of issues like breaking.
   
   2.) At no point do the authors suggest "tying the dog's mouth shut around a dummy". For a dog who chronically spits the dummy during hold training, the authors suggest that a lead may be looped about the dogs muzzle while you reinforce the hold command verbally.
   
   3.) I just explained ear pinch, which is one of the most common practices in retriever training, only slightly less common than...
   
   4.) ... the electronic collar. B. Blazer seems to take exception with the verb "burn" but then goes on to claim that he is not against the "proper" use of the e-collar. The ONLY purpose of the electronic collar is to deliver an electric shock or burn unless Tri-Tronics has a new Rainbows and Unicorn Ponies model I am unaware of.
   
   B. Blazer's conclusion that the training methods outlines in this book serve only to break a dog's spirit is one of the most pathetically laughable statements I have ever seen in an Amazon review. This books methods are straightforward, basic retriever training of the type one can find from top trainers like Danny Farmer or Mike Lardy. There is a logical progression from puppy yard drills and basic obedience through refinement of line manners, multiple marks and basic handling. The information in here will yield a solid field dog or provide a foundation for Derby work in field trials.
   
   Like any training program, steady progression, intense repetition and, most importantly, PATIENCE are what is required. If it were impossible, as B. Blazer foolishly suggests, to both instill desire and passion for retrieving in a dog while also applying direct and indirect pressure during training, every competitive retriever in the world would be an empty husk of a dog - an assertion so baseless and without merit as to be laughable.



4. I highly recommend this book as it breaks the training down to what is most successfully. 10 minutes a day is one of the best ways to train a dog, especially for retrieving. I enjoyed how this book was broken up with true stories about the authors experience with their own dogs and it brought a lot of life into the reading of this book. The photos and diagrams were very helpful as well. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and I would recommend it to anyone working on training any type of dog for retrieving.



5. This is a very helpful book. It really works on our lab pup!

4 comments about Positive Training for Show Dogs: Building a Relationship for Success.

1. It's hard to know how the author got so much information into a slender volume. I knew a bit about clicker training and a bit about conformation but never felt confident or natural with either. The author does a great job of explaining how to train to show and how to actually show all based on positive training. Five clicks on the clicker from me.



2. Author Vicki Ronchette, CPDT has worked with dogs for over twenty-two years. She offers her experience as well as the latest scientific research to dog handlers of all skill and experience levels in Positive Training for Show Dogs: Building a Relationship for Success. A no-nonsense guide to teaching show dogs how to behave in the ring, from raising people-friendly animals from puppyhood to teaching one's dog how to stack or gait to which pieces of equipment to use and more, Positive Training for Show Dogs walks the reader through necessary steps and guidelines with detailed text and numerous black-and-white photographs. Clear enough for novices yet packed with so many tips, tricks, and techniques as to be useful to seasoned professionals, Positive Training for Show Dogs is enthusiastically recommended for show dog owners everywhere.



3. Vicki Ronchette's new book on positive training for show dogs simply works. I breed and show my dogs and have used her techniques in and out of the show ring - successfully!
   
   Her book is clearly written, easy to follow and really is a step by step method to help anyone, from beginner on up - to win at dog shows.
   
   Plus, your dog(s) will be happier if you use these steps!



4. New to showing dogs and want to do it positively? This is your book! If you're a cross-over trainer, and would like to have your dog sparkle in the show ring, this is your book to learn how to bring back the joy for your dog in the show ring.
   
   All show behaviors are positively outlined. There's even steps on how to train for 'tail up' and for after you win your ribbon - getting the photo you want to highlight your success.
   
   Those of you like me with a mixed breed dog, this book is also for you, to show in a Mixed Breed dog show.

5 comments about Training Your Beagle (Training Your Dog Series).

1. This is an amazing book. In a short time you can change your beagle behavior. But you need patience and a lot of love for yor Beagle.



2. This book is very helpful in learning about Beagles. Buy the book before the puppy. Information was very helpful in training my puppies.



3. this book definately helped me to understand my pup. i was able to teach him to shake in just one ten minute session. but it does lack on more extensive tricks and training. but i love the different games it recommends.



4. This book started off to be very helpful, but then we don't plan on showing our beagle, so a lot of the chapters weren't geared for our purposes. But again, this is just our opinion. Good reading.



5. This book has been an absolute Godsend! We just got Baxter 3 and 1/2 weeks ago, he's now almost 12 weeks old and neither myself or my husband have had a dog since we were children. So we were clueless!
   
   We're doing everything the author says to do regarding housetraining, crate training, etc. and it is working wonderfully. We purchased a few other books as well, but this one is proving to be the most helpful by far.
   
   Kristine Kraeuter is the Beagle Pro and other reviews that I read about this book prompted me to buy it and I am elated I did.
   
   Thank you so much! If anyone who is considering a Beagle puppy, this book is for you!