5 comments about No Dogs in Heaven? Scenes from the Life of a Country Veterinarian.

1. Once I started this book, I could not put it down! I am a pre-veterinary student, so my opinion is of course biased, but I think that most animal lovers will love this book. The doctor's stories ranged from funny to sad, but were all enjoyable. Like another reviewer mentioned, I am hoping for a sequel! Worth every penny.



2. Dr. Sharp's poignant and humorous stories of a vet's life in a rural area remind me of the great Dr. James Harriott books that I have enjoyed. I highly recommend No Dogs in Heaven.
   
   Don in Chilli



3. I happened to pick up this book on my way to the airport. The title caught my eye. I have a 16 year old son that shares my love for dogs and I thought
   maybe he would also read it and we would have something to talk about
   during our trip. We were on the way to Hawaii and I finished the book
   before we landed. I couldn't put it down. It was so much fun to read.
   The lady sitting next to me said "You are truly enjoying that book. I have
   seen you laugh, sigh, giggle and even cry while reading it. I am going to
   buy it as soon as I get home.".
   My son now wants to become a vet his grades are good, especially science and math, and we live near
   "The Ohio State University", so he may even attend the same Vet school as
   Dr. Sharp!I have sent a copy to my parents and two neighbors.



4. On the surface this book describes the days of a small-town vet. But it goes well beyond that to illustrate the ambiance of this country when people and times were more personal, more gracious, and much more in tune with those things that still really matter no matter how "global" we are claimed to have become by the talking heads of the media and government.
   It will convince the reader that those "better times and people" really haven't disappeared, and that is tremendously Good News.



5. I think this book is adorable and well-written. I'm enjoying it!

5 comments about Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training, Vol. 3: Procedures and Protocols.

1. First lets say loud and clear: This is a great book to understand dog's behavior. It has absolute credibility since it is backed up by years of research and experience.
   
   I bought it in part influenced by other reviews stating this was a "COMPREHENSIVE" book on dog training and behavior. Not so. You see I looked up the meaning of the word comprehensive. Basically, saying this book is comprehensive is equal as saying it covers everything you would need to know about dog training and dog behavior. Again, it is not the case.
   
   Does it cover a lot more than most books? Well, it covers a lot of information... probably more than most books. But it does not cover ALL kind of training. This is important because you might be looking for specific advanced training methods that are just not covered in here. Don't believe me? Just look in the "Index" and you'll see that many advanced training (sport, protection, guide dog) are not covered.
   
   This is the main approach of the author (as I understood and in my very simple own words): Dogs can show very different behavior problems (fearful dog, aggressive dog, etc.). To overcome such problems the dog should receive basic training so that he develops further attention and control of impulses.
   
   Of course, it covers much more than just basic training. Basically it addresses a vast amount of dog behavior problems and then show you how to proceed to change the situation.
   
   So, the author tells you about basic dog training principles to help dogs overcome behavior issues -which is great! It is just that I expected to find an explanation of advanced training techniques. Still, this book is fabulous and it will certainly be of great help to understand dogs and their behavior.
   
   I wish someone could tell me about a book that does cover advanced training techniques.
   
   There are a lot of illustrations in the book but most are conceptual maps (or mindmaps if you wish) that try to represent behavior processes. But if you want to learn more about training 101 you might very well feel the illustrations could be way better.
   
   The book is certainly a must to become a better trainer or owner and to really begin understanding dog behaviour. So, it sure is a 5 stars book. Probably it is above any thing else written about dogs. I don't know if the others two first volumes cover advanced training techniques or if you should look elsewhere for that. I guess I'll find out latter when I read more books on dog behavior and training.
   
   Finally, here is a quote from the author (steven R. Lindsay) that pretty much sums up what this book is about and what are its limits:
   
   "No compendium of instructions can take the place of competent professional help for properly assesing canine behavior problems and prescribing behavior-therapy and training recommendations. The assessment procedures, instructions, guidelines, recommended devices and uses, behavior-therapy protocols, and training techniques described in Volume 3 assume that the user is appropriately experienced, knowledgeable, skilled, and qualified to apply them in a selective, competent, and safe manner".
   
   So, don't you dare think this is the only source of information you need. Read everything you can, but the real fact is that you will need to find proper training in a good school and study under the guidance of experienced people. I know that's just what I'll have to do.
   
   One last thing, don't fool yourself. This is a book writen with scientific language. I'm sure the publisher must be very aware how scientific language highly reduces the market for the book. I don't have a problem with that because I've read several scientific books. But if you don't like heavy reads... this might be one of them. So, be prepared for that.
   
   Ah, did I say I absolutely love this book? It is entertaining, insightful, full of interesting facts about dog behaviour. I just love it! If you love dogs or work with them, this is probably one of the most valuable source of information you can get your hands on!



2. Steven Lindsay's three books are the ultimate reference guide for any dog trainer, breeder, veterinarian or serious dogsports competitor. Unlike most dog training books, these volumes are unique in that they do not describe the author's pet method for training a dog. Rather, Lindsay has collated information from scientific studies in order to give the reader an unbiased, scholarly reference guide to dog behaviour and training methods.
   
   The information contained here is exhaustive, unbiased, up-to-date and very well researched. Although the books are an intensive read (to say the least!), Lindsay's style is very readable, and the books contain many diagrams and photographs to elucidate his points.
   
   Although most useful as a complete set, since the later books reference material and methods covered in the earlier volumes, it is not necessary to read the first books before using the last. The material is well separated into topics and each chapter can stand alone.



3. The weighty price tag might limit this title to all but the most serious pet library holding, while its nearly 800 pages of information will appeal to professionals rather than casual owners - but any serious dog trainer will find Handbook Of Applied Dog Behavior And Training V. 3: Procedures And Protocols essential. It's all here: from reducing compulsive licking and canine aggression to different types of dominance issues and impulsive aggression behavior.



4. WOW!
   
   I have been waiting for years for such a masterpiece. For anyone in, or thinking of entering, the field of dog training and behavior this book must occupy your shelf, along with volumes one and two. I can see why it took Steve so long to get this published. I second Mary's comment...
   
   BRAVO!
   
   Kris Kates
   ANIMAL MANNERS



5. Classic, monumental and destined to be a historic work, Steve Lindsay's 3 volume Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training should be on every dog owner and instructor's bookshelf.
   
   Lindsay hits another home run with Volume 3, "Procedures and Protocols." This book provides comprehensive coverage of how to teach dogs new skills and how to handle canine behavior problems. Behavior problems such as housetraining (lack of it), destructive behavior, fears & phobias are addressed. The book provides detailed, science-based information about aggression. Additional topics include electronic
   training, clicker training, and puppy temperament testing. In Vol. 3 Lindsay has done a magnificent job combining science with a practical approach that can be easily used by practitioners.
   
   This 3 volume series, the writing of which was a 25 year labor of love, sets Lindsay apart as perhaps the leading scholar in the field today. If I could only have 3 books, I'd choose this whole set. If I could only own one book, I'd choose Steve Lindsay's Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training, Vol 3, Procedures and Protocols.
   
   BRAVO.
   
   Dr. Mary Burch
   Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist

5 comments about New Secrets of Successful Show Dog Handling.

1. It's about time someone with the experience of Peter Green write a book about showing dogs that doesn't avoid the topic of politics within the sport! Great tips are exposed, though he's a TERRIER man so keep that in mind if you show hounds, working, sporting, etc. It's inspiring and helpful to read.



2. WOW!!! what a book up to date info and so exact .
   excellent techniches and stape by stape on how to.
   you feel like you are in the show ring and when you put the book down you want to put the show lead on your dog to practice...very helpfull and inspirering.



3. Starting my second show dog's career, after blundering my way through with my first one, Peter Green and Mario Migliorini gave me excellent tips and strategies to make the handler pay more attention to his/her job. I love the section on stacking - wonderful photos to show the sublties that beginners don't see. An excellent book for someone with the basic knowledge already down who wants to take their showing to the next level.



4. This book would be helpful for anyone beginning showing dogs. They really needn't know anything. If you already know what a show is, how to enter and have been in the ring before, you're probably not going to get much out of this. I have a few books on showing that far outwiegh this one. It's basic, simple and for complete novices only...It is written well, and is easy to understand. If this is to be your first book on dog showing, then it will provide you with enough info to get you started. I preferred, The Winning Edge: Show Ring Secrets (Howell Reference Books) and Tricks of the Trade: From Best Intentions to Best in Show, Revised Edition



5. Great book for the learning dog handler. Combine it with a book like "Eye For a Dog" and you are on your way to understanding America's second longest running sport (next to horse racing).

5 comments about Beyond Basic Dog Training.

1. The negative reviews are 180º off the mark about this most excellent book. Not only is correction NOT encouraged at all, the word NO is NOT to be used with this method at all. Ms. Bauman teaches that to be WRONG more than OK, it is a learning opportunity for the dog. There are NO, nada, absolutely zero harsh corrections, only gentle "helps" to the dog when they don't understand the command. The (there is no other word for it)LIE that chairs were thrown or any other such horrible thing isn't even in the *realm* of truth about this book. This book stresses a method that will produce very very good results, and a methond in which the dog remains happy and pleased to do the work, a VERY far cry from the criticism that was launched at it. No "hang-head" obedience dogs will result from this book, only HAPPY, healthy, dogs EAGER to do these exercises, because it gives them such a sense of confidence. I trained a dog using this method back when the book first came out. We never went beyond novice because life got in the way. But the method is simply the best you'll find out there. There may be others that work, but you'll not wind up with a HAPPY dog to do it. With this method you will have a very happy and CONFIDENT dog.



2. Beyond Basic Dog Training is a competent, if uninspired, account of Diane Bauman's methods for training dogs to perform Kennel Club obedience routines. The book is a series of short chapters covering most obedience exercises from Novice to Utility, as well as short discussions on training equipment and trialing tips. Due to the limited scope this book will not be especially helpful to the pet owner wishing to teach basic manners and practical obedience, though it could be a useful read for an obedience competitor.
   
   The teaching methods themselves are old fashioned and rather boring. Dogs are pushed into sits, pulled into send aways, ear-pinched into retrieving. There is no discussion of other methods that can be used to achieve these behaviours (luring, shaping, capturing, etc), leaving the reader rather at a loss if the given method does not work for them.
   
   Bauman's catch-phrase is that it is "good to be wrong", which means that a dog should not be corrected in the learning phase of training. Like most good trainers, she believes dogs should only ever be corrected if they are defiant, not if they are confused or frightened. Bauman discusses how to safely fit and use several types of correction collar, and how to determine which collar is best for a certain dog.
   
   Bauman emphasises the importance of praising the dog for good work, but doesn't present a particularly coherent account on how to motivate a dog or utilise his drives. She does suggest using small food tidbits to reward dogs, but does not go into detail about how or when to deliver these. She does not discuss the use of prey drive or toy rewards at all, despite them being exceptionally useful for some dogs. Neither does she explain anything about operant or classical conditioning, or about marker words or bridges.
   
   In conclusion, although I doubt any dog would be harmed by use of these methods, I also doubt that this method will get the best obedience performance out of every dog. Some dogs need more motivation than Ms Bauman provides, or do better with "hands-off" techniques, and this book unfortunately does not cater for the learning styles of these canines. However, it is still worth a read for kennel club obedience competitors, who might well pick up some useful tips.



3. Two days ago, I was extremely excited about receiving this book in the mail. I was lulled by promises that the book would show me how to "become a thinking handler who can train a thinking dog" and how to encourage "dogs to learn by removing corrections for incorrect responses". Now here I sit utterly disappointed in having wasted money on a book that encourages people to pinch their dogs ears and to "use the collar choke approach for dogs who are not responsive to an ear pinch" (p.163 Beyond Basic Dog Training, Bauman). If you're not sure how to do the latter, the book has a picture of a dog being choked for your reference! Wow! This book is very outdated and needs to be modernized to reflect all of the advances that dog training has made in recent years. I have seen many handlers achieve stellar obedience scores through the use of positive training ...looks like I'll be turning to them for advice instead of this book.



4. Bauman's book is a no-nonsense approach to obedience training with an eye on competing. She is thorough in her discussions and accurately provides details into the how, why, where and when to create the results that are wanted with training. I found this book to be very complimentary to other positive training books I've previously read. Would recommend this read to anyone who is a novice trainer like myself who wants/needs more information than they are receiving in a class setting. Additionally, I believe it would serve the trainer who must train alone.



5. When then book originally came out it was quite forward thinking in its methodology. Fortunately for our dogs there has been a quiet revolution in dog training to a less coercive method of training. For example, her method of teaching sit involves pulling up on the collar while pushing on the dog. In short physical discomfort is being created for a command that the dog does not even know. Her methods are based on negative reinforcement. The correct response will make the discomfort vanish. This type of training can be effective if you have the right dog for the stress it will produce and if you the handler have great timing and can always perfectly and rapidly make all pressure vanish when the performance is correct.

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.

3 comments about Training and Working Dogs for Quiet Confident Control of Stock.

1. If you own an Aussie, or an ACD, you don't want books on Border Collies - totally different style of working stock. It's nice to have the "loose-eyed" viewpoint represented.



2. This book tells you how to bring up a cattle dog, from selecting the pup's parents to raising the pup up right and training him or her. The other herding books I have come across are too much designed for Border Collie owners, too focused on sheep, and don't talk enough about raising a working pup. And the appendix on dog brain chemistry is fascinating,useful, but demands concentration. An essential book for owners of cattle dogs and any loose-eyed herding dog. It's great for Border Collie owners, too, but others can really benefit from it!



3. I have noticed in other reviews, regarding books on learning to control stock with dogs, that a number of people have found that there has been little or no emphasise placed on working cattle. If this is the case for you I would highly recommend finding a copy of this book for yourself. This comprehensive, easily digested book covers a number of interesting and important topics: breed selection, rearing procedures, training methods, training faults and corrections, and working multiple dogs. There is also an interesting section at the end of the book regarding the development and functioning of your dogs brain.

5 comments about The French Bulldog (Kennel Club Classic).

1. The French Bulldog by Muriel P. Lee is the definitive guide on this charming breed. The books' design, layout and lavish illustrations have as much personality as the breed itself. This text is an encyclopedic approach to the French bulldog and will appeal to both the dog fancier and the novice alike.
   The chapter "Pieces de Resistance" by Gary Bachman, who is a connoisseur of French Bulldog related ephemera, creates an extraordinary overview of objet dart ranging from a pair of Faberge smoky quartz Frenchies to unusual knickknacks, lamps, toys and tobacciana of the breed. Chapter by chapter The French Bulldog chronicles the history of the breed's popularity from the 1800's to the present with contributions of canine specialists worldwide. This book, a Kennel Club Classic, is an informative and entertaining guide that will introduce you to the Frenchie as an authoritative text and a superb introduction to unusual collectibles for every dog lover.



2. A tour de force. Muriel leaves no stone unturned. The only book about Frenchies that you'll ever need. Outstanding photos!



3. The French Bulldog by Muriel P. Lee is a must have book for any French Bulldog owner or fancier. This book comprehensively and deftly covers topics ranging from the history of the breed to the breed's portrayal in art and collectibles. The author's decades of experience with Frenchies shine through in this piece, as does the expertise of the other top notch contributors to this book. This book is one of depth, substance and beauty. The excellent text is accompanied by wonderful photos. This is a book that French Bulldog fans will enjoy reading and re-reading over the years.



4. Ms. Lee, a well-known and respected author in the industry, first made her name with the still popular "The Whelping and Rearing of Puppies: a complete and practical guide". This book follows her excellent reputation for books on specific breeds. A number of chapters are written by experts in their field such as Dr. Jan Grebe, current President of the French Bull Dog club of America, and Anne Hier, respected AKC and UKC judge. Despite the different viewpoints of the various contributors, the book is a cohesive whole and reads extremely smoothly. This must be considered one of the most complete and authoritative books on the subject for years to come, and is essential for all frenchie enthusiasts and fanciers.



5. The French Bulldog by Muriel P. Lee is not only the most complete book on the breed, but it includes a section written by Gary Bachman on Frenchie collectibles. Lee also engaged Dr. Janice Grebe to contribute a comprehensive section on health and care of this wonderful breed. French bulldogs doing utility, obedience and therapy work also are included. But for many readers, the icing on the biscuit will be the superb pictures of Frenchies being the adorable and adored family members they were born to be. Making people happy is what Frenchies do best of all!

5 comments about The German Shepherd Today.

1. The German shepherd Today, gives fairly enough about the breed and taking care of your puppy or mature dog and some information on training your dog. But nearly half of the book gives the names of the competition winner dogs or heritages of them. I have a 4,5 months old German Shepherd puppy and after finished reading the book I found myself many questions about caring or training my dog. I guess I should also buy the author's other book Expert Obedience Training for Dogs, Fourth Edition



2. Ms. Strickland covers almost everything except an important facet; The disparity and perhaps controversy between the american and german types of the breed.



3. I enjoyed this book immensely! She, once again, touches on all the aspects of training, caring for, maintaining a strong bond with your dog, list goes on. I didn't give 5 stars only because there were so many pages of champions.



4. This book is without a doubt the best german shepherd dog book on the market today. It has a little something for everybody in it. History, training tips, pictures, its got it all. I especially like her inclusion of German dog show information. If there is anything that you need to know about this breed, it is definately in this book.



5. This is an excellent book recommended to me by my dogs breeder. I have read just about all of the GSD books written in the English language (available in my country) and this one is the most complete. She is good at discussing the differences between the German lines and American lines in such a way to be very non biased! Amazing... did not think it could be done. It walks you through the basics right through the more complex aspects of the German Shepherd world. Good stuff! Not just a must read but a must own!!

5 comments about Clara: The Story of the Pug Who Ruled my Life.

1. Erica Asahan wrote:
   
   I just got done reading this wonderful book! There are parts where I laughed so hard and a couple of areas where I was scratching my head, because I did not quite understand? And I am very saddened to learn that Margo K., has passed away, RIP. Over all, I do love this book and will own it till the day I go. Clara is so much like my Bota. She is amazing!



2. I was looking forward to this book when I picked it up, but by the time I was halfway through, I was looking forward to putting it down.
   
   I love books about animals, and have enjoyed many other authors in the genre, but this one was a big disappointment.
   
   The author is a columnist, and the writing shows that. It is snappy, sassy prose that beats you over the head with jokes and observations about life, but it fails to build a cohesive story that gives the various episodes a greater significance.
   
   A book that lauds a dog must be careful to maintain a semblance of believability, and the best dog books celebrate the dog's character without losing sight of the dog's essential "dogness." Kaufman, on the other hand, anthropomorphizes every tilt of the head and blink of the eye, to the extent that we are asked to celebrate Clara's humanity.
   
   I can get behind this to an extent, but the characterization of Clara is so unrelenting and insistent that I found it to be a huge turnoff. I had the same problem with Farley Mowat's account of his dog Mutt, but Mowat is at least a hardcore, rough and tumble writer who was looking at his childhood pet through the haze of years and sentimental youth.
   
   Kaufman, on the other hand, comes across as pampered, sheltered, and rather foolish, treating Clara more like a human child than a dog. I have no problem with loving a dog, but fooling yourself into thinking that a dog has human tastes is a disservice to that relationship.
   
   This book will probably appeal to a certain brand of pet owner, the kind that feel their animal is unbearably precious, and is even moreso when dressed up in darling outfits.
   
   But for anyone who is more concerned with animals maintaining a semblance of dignity, this book will not impress.



3. I remember the first time I read this book a few years ago and I laughed so hard. I am just now re-reading it and am loving it all over again. I'm not sure why the author wasn't more popular in her lifetime - she has a great way of writing, very easy to read and very witty. It's fun hearing about her rich mom in NYC and her beachfront bohemian neighborhood and her husband and her effort to adopt a Chinese baby, all thrown into the book. If you've ever loved a pet, you'll recognize yourself in her humorous retellings of dealing with her pug Clara, a little furry diva.



4. I was sad to learn that Margo Kaufman died of cancer in 2000. This is a delightful book and no doubt many others were eagerly anticipating more "Clara" stories. The morbidly obese pug, (obese pugs are called "fluffy pugs" in pug circles) barrels her way into readers' hearts. Clara was a delightful fluffy pug, all wrinkles and curly tail who found a home in many hearts.
   
   Kaufman gave her curly tailed dog a "voice" and her humor was the thread that kept this story woven together.
   
   This is an ideal book for anybody who wants a good laugh and a foray with a fluffy pug. I love pugs and everybody, pug lovers and those who merely tolerate the adorable curly tailed dogs will find a lot of fun with Clara.



5. After stumbling upon this book in a tiny country bookshop, i read it in just a few days and fell deeply in love with pugs. i was completely charmed my the author's dogs, especially Clara, and soon i had rescued my own little black pug from a shelter. My pug goes with me everywhere, and as the author states, "is living proof that god has a sense of humor." these little dogs make me laugh every day, and this book will make you laugh on every page. Clara, Margo, and their adventures in LA will have you splitting your sides, and whether this is your first introduction to pugs, or your a long time lover of the breed, you will relate to and be touched by this book in unexpected ways.

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.