3 comments about Breaking Bad Habits in Dogs.

1. I purchased this book to help with socialization and separation problems of my beloved Morkie. Mr. Tenant's ideas helped with both these problems AND I ended up using many of the tips on other dog behavior topics as well. Since reading this book, I have a better understanding of how dogs think, which means that I now have a better behaved dog. The book is well organized, so it is easy to find information on particular dog behavior problems. The pictures complement the text extremely well. This book is by far my FAVORITE "dog behavior" book out of the many dog "how to" books that I own. I would highly recommend this book as a "must have dog book" for any dog owner.



2. This book cured my dog of moderate Separation Anxiety. I would highly recommend it. The chapters are organized according to the kind of problem, so you can find what you're looking for fast. The directions given are concise and easy to follow. Finally there are tons of pictures to help you along.



3. After adopting an out of control dog a couple of months ago, I have purchased many books on training. Most books say the same things, how to train basic commands. That would be easy if the dog would listen to you in the first place, but many dogs have behavior problems that make training impossible. Every chapter in this book was VERY helpful and informative. I would HIGHLY reccommend this book to anyone who is at their wits end with their dog. My dog behaves much better now and I am able to have guests come to my home again.

4 comments about Bull Terriers (Complete Pet Owner's Manual).

1. A MUST read for anyone considering this breed. A wonderful and very informative book. Very helpful to me in understanding many behaviors of this particular breed, although too much emphasis on AKC opinions, functions etc. Not everyone is interested in the almighty AKC opinions and standards for showing. Sometimes a pet is just that, a beloved pet, not a show dog!



2. For the price, this book gives a fair amount of info on the breed and some great pictures, good beginning book when first learning on the breed, definately recomend.



3. my husband and I had been thinking of getting a Bull Terrier. From the beginning of this book, we kept learning more and more about this wonderful, spunky breed. Well detailed information to include pictures of the different colors of breed, health issues, needs, wants, even showed a picture of the best toy for this dog: a kong. Recommend for anyone who is interested in this breed whether they're buying one soon or just want more knowledge on this "clown dog" :)



4. What a wonderful and beautifully put together book! I know the author is very knowledgable, but this was even more then I expected.
   The organization seemed to flow very well and the pictures were beautiful. This is a must have for all Bull Terrier owners, perspective owners and dog lovers.
   Thank you Mrs. Alexander for all of your hard work to give us this great book!

5 comments about Happy Kids, Happy Dogs.

1. Very good book, more geared toward introducing your dog to a new child rather than vice versa (which is what I was looking for) though it was a worthwhile purchase as it had lots of things to teach your child about dogs so that was helpful.



2. I've been teaching dog and baby classes at our humane society and local hospitals for seven years, and despite my own plans to write a similar book, I was thrilled to read this book. It's all there: great step-by-step training plans, informative photos and descriptions of body language and lots of information about how to "train" your child to be safe and to be a good friend to dogs. I recommend it as my first choice for expectant parents and parents of small children.



3. Much more informative than some other books on market for same subject. Shumannfang goes into much more detail on training tips for focusing your dog as well as the importance of remembering to be in control of all situations. Too many parents trust the dog and kids to play together with minimal to no supervision, including professionals who should know better. Shummanfang stresses the need to consult trainers and veterinarians/veterinary behaviorists to insure baby safety and to be fair to the dog. Definitely a must read. S. Loter, DVM



4. This "how to" book is a must for all dog owners who are expecting a new baby. You know how much you want to do what's best for baby and your beloved dog, too? Well, this is your answer!



5. As a dog behavior consultant and trainer I frequently work with parents seeking to prepare their dogs for the new arrival or who are already parents and experiencing difficulties with the family dog. This book provides excellent support with easy to follow, practical, step-by-step exercises, useful photos depicting dog behavior cues, a realistic portrayal of the parent-dog-child relationship and wonderful resources. It encompasses dog-child interaction from infancy to teen. I am delighted to have Happy Kids, Happy Dogs to recommend to my clients. A must for parents to be or anyone who shares their lives with children and dogs.

5 comments about Twenty One Days to a Trained Dog (Fireside Books (Fireside)).

1. This book came as described. It is a helpful book for a novice. It is more or less the same way I was taught to train dogs in the seventies. Tried and true although not without some physical B-moding. But if you have a strong minded pup and your new at this its a good easy back round book.



2. This book addresses training issues simply and straightforward. I tried it with our 9 month old cairn terrier and it really works. I recommend it for any dog owner who wants to teach their dog manners in a kind fashion. Only thing is we don't believe in collars but use a harness instead and it still works just as well.



3. It's an old book with techniques from the '70's (it's published in 1977). If you prefer a book with more positive reinforcements such as treats, petting, etc, I would recommend Train Your Dog - The Positive Gentle Method --it's better to visually see how to do it.
   
   Also, the title made me curious, '21 Days to a Trained Dog' but looks like it would take longer than 21 days, unless you really train your dog every day, at least five times of 5-10 minutes per day (probably even more depending on your dog). If you want a book, besides the DVD I suggested, I'd recommend The Everything Dog Training and Tricks Book--yes, this one contains easy tricks too!



4. Bought the book, was skeptical, and I turned out to be right. I couldn't teach my adult dog how to behave in 21 days unless I had all day every day to devote to it. It might work for some people, but not for me.



5. I used this book, in conjunction with other training materials. It's useful, but I wouldn't rely on it as my sole training guide. I used it to get a basic idea of how to train my dog once we had passed the 8mo. mark and were basically doing OK.

4 comments about Dogspeak: How to Understand Your Dog and Help Him Understand You (Dog Care Companions).

1. This book will really open your eyes to how our best friend thinks and try to live in mans world. If you own a dog or are thinking of getting one buy this book it is well worth the money just for the insites.



2. Dogspeak is one of many dog behavior books I have purchased in the hope of solving a few behavior problems. This book was not the solution to my dog's problem, but it did provide good information for interpreting a dog's body language. I found the photos of different ear and tail positions particularly useful.



3. I have to tell you all that this book is so incredible and helpful in raising my lab. I purchased it and read this within a matter of two nights. It helped me understand so much more about my puppy, Bailey. You will not be sorry... :) GOOD LUCK AND HAVE FUN READING THIS! A+++++ ALL THE WAY!



4. I always knew she had lots to say but I had no idea how much. Now I can begin to try and understand her and have her understand me. I found the information fascinating and informative and have developed a whole new appreciation of the emotional complexity of our canine family members and how easily we can misunderstand them.

5 comments about The Domestic Dog: Its Evolution, Behaviour and Interactions with People.

1. I particularly recommend this book for it's Chapter 9: Lockwood, Randall, The ethology and epidemiology of canine aggression.
   
   For those experts and attorneys looking for detailed information regarding dangerous dog law and breed specific legislation (BSL), Lockwood's article provides subtle but direct information regarding the unique dangers presented by pit bulls that provide a rational relationship to their regulation or prohibition.
   
   This article has been reviewed and cited by experts in the field of animal behavior as being relevant to this issue, and I found Lockwood's analysis of "fighting dogs" (read 'pit bulls') to be an objective analysis of the problem, one that is not readily acceptable to the "politically correct" members of most organizations opposed to BSL.
   
   For any governmental official, administrator, or attorney, you HAVE to read this article before making a decision on BSL. Don't get blindsided by the irrelevant issues toward propensity to bite/attack, but examine the potential for severe injury or fatal maulings from these dangerous unique behaviors by pit bulls.
   
   I am a municipal government attorney involved in litigation over BSL, so I've worked with copies of the article from the old hardcover publication - now I'm buying my own copy of the paperback version.
   
   Kory Nelson, Esq.
   Asst City Attorney
   Denver CO



2. First published in 1995, nothing else as comprehensive and as carefully researched on canine behavior and development has been published. For the general reader, the writing style may be a bit dry; however, because each chapter has different authors, the writing style, while basically academic and fact driven, varies.

   Any serious dog breeders, trainers, or owners will find themselves returning to certain chapters over and over again. Breeders and even new puppy owners would benefit from the chapter by Serpell and Jagoe on "Early experience and the development of behaviour," which updates the standard beliefs about puppy development resulting from the Bar Harbor experiments of over 50 years ago.

   Excellent book!




3. For those people hungry for scientific literature on dogs and curious about what other references there are on particular dog topics, this is a must read/must have text; almost every chapter serves as a review of the scientific literature on that topic. Those who don't care for reading anything drier than James Herriot's "All Creatures Great & Small" should avoid it.

   The book is probably used as a text for graduate students and upper division majors in ethology, comparative psychology, zoology, etc. It was published in 1995 so most of the information is fairly current. The book is in its 5th printing so some professors must share my judgment of it. Let's hope that by 2005 there's a revised edition including and evaluating recent work.

   It has 17 chapters written (or co-written) by 21 specialists in their fields -- British, American, Italian -- (after an introduction) divided into 3 major divisions: I. Domestication & evolution (2 chapters) ; II. Behaviour & behaviour problems (8 ch.s); III. Human-dog interactions (6 ch.s). The chapters provide an excellent summary and the key references to the area discussed. A few chapters have a definite British flavor but American readers will be able to transpose when needed.

   Dog breeders (& many owners) may be especially interested in the chapters dealing with what's known about heritability of traits, temperament, etc., as well as the role of early experience on later behaviors, disorders, etc.

   A few chapters are filled with research results in tables and graphs. One is dense with specialist jargon. But all are readable if you're interested in learning what the applicable sciences know and do not know about the dog. All chapters have information I found important and to some, I'll refer back to many times.




4. Does it seem that retail book stores stock dog books that appear opinion-based and poorly referenced or researched? The early chapters of The Domestic Dog concerning evolution may be a little bit factual and historically oriented (read: a tad dry) but presents an excellent understanding of how dogs came into contact with humans and the resulting reliance and interations. The book, in part, looks at areas of canus familiarus and human interaction from both a biological, survival necessity to what kind of kennel should be considered based on breed selection. There are many discussions on topics not normally covered in commercial or general appeal dog books that will compliment, inform and provide insight into otherwise unknown or insufficiently covered areas about dogs. Areas of new information include (but is not limited to): pack hierarchy, dog development and growth, dog psychology and others. It is one dog book I can rely on for its research, reference material and impartial analyses into breed types. It has helped me learn more about dogs than previously possible in other purported books based on fact. I do believe that one must be more interested in dogs than just a casual manner (i.e.: one must really want to get into the nuts and bolts) to enjoy and finish this book.



5. This book is packed with easily understandable, concise information. Whether you are a behaviorist or simply a dog lover, this is a must have.

5 comments about Training Your Retriever.

1. Training Your Retriever is a fantastic book, if it's measured in terms of tried-and-true methods of training a working retriever. If you do what this book tells you to do, you will end up with a hard-charging, field-ready dog whose manners are impeccable.
   
   That said, this book was written a long time ago and times have changed, so I want to make clear, without being insulting or judgmental, that this book is not suitable for everyone. If you think of your pets as your children, talk to them in baby talk, or chat with them continuously as though they are holding up their end of the conversation, you probably will not like this book.
   
   There is no doubt that Mr. Free loves his dogs, but never for a moment does he lose sight of the fact that they are animals, not people, and they are bred and trained for a purpose. It is true that his methods of discipline might sound harsh today, but the book really isn't about beating a dog into submission. He does discuss corporal punishment, but the book and the training methods don't revolve around it. It is one tool for correcting improper behavior, and he discusses how it can be done without doing harm to a valuable animal.
   
   There is a great deal more to this book than punishment. But if you think those passages might be more than you can bear, I suggest something by Bill Tarrant. Mr. Tarrant is much more modern in his approach and attitude and offers up insight and reasoning that is very creative and effective. Personally, I like reading both. If Free is coffee that's strong, hot, and black, Tarrant adds the cream and sugar.



2. A friend suggested this book about 20 years ago. It is our bible on how to train retrievers. We've now had 5 retrievers; every one is better than the previous retriever. Now the retriever reads the book to us.



3. I have trained dogs of many breeds over the last fifteen years. Some for obedience trials, agility trials and also I have trained my certified Search and Rescue dog, as well as having taught obedience classes for several years.

   This book needs to be taken out of circulation. I am horrified that this book, which describes to the novice exactly the best method to best beat their dog, and also to pick it up off the ground and shake it without being bitten, and then often telling the reader that if the training and beatings don't work then get rid of the dog. It is obvious to me that this man never trained anything other than patient, kind retrievers. It is amazing he wasn't viciously bitten many times. It is a credit to the Labrador breed that he wasn't.

   If you are a good trainer, there will never be a moment you will need to be guided by Free's advice, quoted here: "Most retrievers can take, and *like* (emphasis mine) a lot more punishment than they ever need, without any danger of being cowed. But if you should be unlucky enough to get one who (emphasis his) can't take as much as he needs, and shows signs of being cowed - then you'd better get rid of him at once..."




4. If I could I would give it NO stars. I found some of his training advice to be horrible! Just to name some things... talking about how to beat your dog. No dog should ever be hit/beat it does not make him a better trained dog. It just makes him a sad, hurt dog. You should train your dog with love... praise, NOT BY HITTING HIM! All dogs should have a loving home, NO dog should EVER be hit. Also, talking about having him in the kennel all day, only take him out to work, it's mean and doesn't make a good dog... just a sad dog, a happy dog who gets a lot of love will be a better worker! You CAN'T keep a dog in the kennel all day, and only take him out for work, or to beat him! Dogs need someone to love them, they need to be played with, taken on walks, someone to pet them... hold them... love them.......



5. Mr. Free's book is for those who want a HUNTING dog. If you're looking for a book to train Fido to do cute tricks for your friends like retrieve the paper go elsewhere. He trained dogs for field trials and intended them to be 1-owner dogs. I plan to train my next dog to be a more serious hunter than prior dogs I've owned. Even if you want a family dog that you can take in the field without being embarassed in front of your hunting buddies you can get several great methods from this book. Mr. Free stresses the importance of getting a good pup from exceptional pedigree to save yourself a lot of heartache down the road. I plan on using about 90% of what he recommends in this book. I own about six different retriever training books and this is by far the best. BTW if you plan on training anything other than a labrador retriever you may be put off by his obvious prejudice for this breed.

1 comments about Pembroke Welsh Corgi (Kennel Club Dog Breed Series).

1. Burton's volume covers the history, characteristics, training and care of your Pembroke Welsh Corgi. As a new dog owner, this book was a pleasure to read, being packed with useful information. The pictures and layout make this volume a great coffee table book. I highly recommend it.

5 comments about A New Owner's Guide to Siberian Huskies (JG Dog).

1. ...I read it! Kudos to Kathleen for caring so much about this very special breed. I was especially touched by the book's inscription, dedicated to certain canine friends: "It hurts so much when you leave".



2. outstanding pictures. Clear explaination of how to raise and train. Recommended reading for everyone interested in Siberians



3. I found this book most interesting and useful.I have read it over and over again and i love the pictures.I do not yet own a husky but will in the future so i bought your wonderful book in advance.I have done alot of research on siberian huskies and found your book to be the most helpful!Thank you!



4. Found this book to be extremely informative! Straight and to the point from one of the most knowledgable authorities on Siberian Huskies. Thank you Mrs. Kanzler for such a helpful book!



5. to a Siberian pet owner, this one is it! It covers basic care that all pet owners need to be aware of. I especially appreciate how Mrs. Kanzler conveys on what to expect in the Siberian's temperment. This book should be given to every new Siberian Husky puppy owner, and anyone considering this breed should read it! The price is definitely affordable. The author is a top breeder world-wide, and she certainly knows her subject.

5 comments about The Bernese Mountain Dog: A Dog of Destiny.

1. Beautiful book with wonderful, accurate information regarding the breed. The photos depict the breed with great accuracy.



2. If you enjoy the BMD breed, this book is a must have. The photos capture the beauty and personality of the Berner much beter than other books that I have seen about the breed.



3. This book sets the standard of "compleatness" on the Bernese Mountain Dog. It is way beyond that of just a typical guidebook. Bernd Guenther has left, proverbially, no stone unturned here. The author's breadth of research, resources, insights, and details are on a level of the highest competence as to be priceless; this kind of preliminary (for the new and even seasoned owner) information cannot be overestimated.
   But it's more than just an information book for breeders and owners; you are made to completely inhabit the world of this legendary, mythological breed. Guenther takes you on a delightful life-guide of several Berners, noting distinct personality traits, whimsical anecdotes, and a good deal of sharp-viewed observations. Without ever being heavy-handed, Guenther takes the reader onto a serious study of the breed. As he makes clear, this is an extraordinary dog, one that needs like considerations. No prospective Berner owner should be without this book, as the author has the kind of sagacity and knowledge that was gleaned as a true lover and connoisseur of not just his own dogs, but for the breed in general. Indeed, some of the information is not to be taken lightly, especially genetic problems, and some tough sacrifices one must potentially make. And - this is a good thing - the book will either make you say a firm "yes" or "no" when considering bringing a Berner into your life. On the one hand, this beautiful, loyal, human-like dog may have you on the phone tomorrow looking for one; on the other, the responsibilities can be made to seem overwhelming - be prepared to GIVE UP your life BB (Before Berner) as you have known it! You cannot get any dog as if you would a piece of furniture, but with Berners, there are absolutely no options: the dog has to be a total part of your family, your life. Guenther makes clear as to what adoption of a Berner entails. Freedom will be limited. Berners are not for jet travelers or workaholics. After reading Guenther's precise requirements, a prospective owner will be made to realize the exacting responsibilities involved. Berners are frighteningly intuitive creatures, and to compromise the existence of them would be sheer misery for them.
   
   Crowning this achievement are the astonishing photos; they will literally make you gasp. Some will bring tears to your eyes. You will see why this breed is the King of Dogs: their physical magnificence is almost unreal. Perhaps the most fascinating set are of one dog, captured from the time of near birth, from every few months, and then to yearly intervals, to near the end of its life.
   
   This is more than just a book: it is an incredible generosity of spirit. Don't even THINK of bringing a Bernese Mountain Dog into your home without it.



4. The Bernese Mountain Dog: A Dog Of Destiny by Bernd Guenter (a member of the Dog Writers Association of America and the World Dog Press Association) is so much more than just a simple coffeetable book of wonderful photographs showcasing a specialized canine breed. The superbly presented and "user friendly" text commences with an introduction and history of the breed, then addresses the "Bernese Mountain Dog Standard". Then their are entire chapters devoted to puppyhood, the adolescent Berner, the adult Berner, showing the Berne (European Style), breeding the Berner, and health issues (including veterinarian selection, vaccinations, deworming, experternal parasites, and specific health problems affecting the breed). Enhanced with appendices for Breed Standards; Useful Addresses; Bibliography; and List of Abbreviations, The Bernese Mountain Dog is comprehensive, exceptionally well written, superbly illustrated throughout, and a "must" addition for the reading list and reference shelf for anyone who's canine companion is the Bernese mountain dog.



5. Every photograph in Bernd's book is literally a work of art. The detail in the photographs and the background scenery just takes your breath away. I especially love the photographs in "The Berner Circle of Life" on pages 134 through 141. Bernd chronicles the life of a newborn berner through his senior years. He has posed the Berner in the same stance from ages 5 weeks through 9 years. It is fascinating to see the progression from a young puppy, to a gangly teenager, to a full grown adult male who is absolutely gorgeous!!

   It is not just the photographs that make this book a "must have" for every Berner person and for those who are seeking information about Berners; the text is also excellent. Bernd Guenter is from Germany and his command of the English language is absolutely amazing!! This fantastic book is full of great
   information about the breed - you can tell that Bernd has lived with Berners and has been around Berners and their people for many years and from many countries. He is able to take his knowledge of Berners and turn it into a most informative and delightful book that is easy to read.

   You will find yourself shaking your head in agreement, laughing at the antics of the Berners, gaining a lot of knowledge about Berners and staying up late at night to finish just one more chapter. It a book that you will treasure forever.

   THANK YOU, BERND, for writing and photographing such a lovely coffee table book about our Berners!!!!!!