4 comments about Dogs: A Natural History.

1. Full of interesting facts and dog behavior insights -- and it's entertaining! Mocks the excessively scholarly a little, which is always fun. If you love dogs, or simply want to understand them better, this is a great book.



2. It's hard to like a book when you've developed a dislike of the narrator. Let's start with him being patronizing. I was already rubbed the wrong way in the preface when he explains about natural history and taxonomy. He uses a jolly avuncular tone with coy asides that conveys that he will be doling this information out on a need-to-know basis. There doesn't seem to be any expectation that the reader may have heard of say, Linnaeus before (i.e. had biology in high school).
   
   The book claims to be answering in part the question of where dogs came from. Ray and Lorna Coppinger postulated a brilliant insight to the adaptation of wolves into dogs a few years ago, in their book, Dogs: A Startling New Understanding of Canine Origin, Behavior & Evolution. Page draws upon the Coppingers' material for his book (and others' - a bibliography would have been useful).
   
   I enjoyed Page's description of his own dogs, and his exposition of dogs through the ages. Then I hit the wall at his chapter on purebred dogs, "Good Breeding". Page makes a specious connection between arranged marriages in Victorian English aristocracy and a new emphasis on dog breeds and breeding. Right.
   
   The book is strong on ancient dogs, but weak on how the dogs that live with us came to be who they are. For example, I live with a standard poodle. Sure, the transformation from wolf to village cur was the biggest step, but the transformation from cur to poodle is an interesting story too.
   
   For example, another big insight I found in the Coppinger book was about how the instinctive skills of modern breeds such as herding, pointing, and retrieving are parts of the predation chain of behaviors, but that each skill is missing an element that a predator would use (such as chasing but not attacking the sheep).
   
   If Page chooses not to train his dogs beyond house manners, that's his choice. But to watch a dog do the work that it was bred to do, to watch the dog light up from the inside in a way that has nothing to do with pleasing the human but all about being in its own groove, is an amazing thing. Page dwells only on the negative of dog breeds. Yes, purebred dogs have issues, but where humans and not nature decide who survives, these issues will always be with us.
   
   Meanwhile, Page refers to his own mutts as "crossbred", and seems to deliberately obscure the fact that while many mixed breeds may be a cross between two known breeds, or one breed and a mix, there still exist many, many dogs that have no purebred ancestors at all. He hints that his two "rez" dogs may be of this type. The discussion would have been more constructive if he had defined his terms better and differentiated between these two or three types of non-purebreds.
   
   Page concludes the chapter with a very annoying speculation on breeds of the future, without using the evidence in front of us. The breeds of the future will not be Frisbee dogs, they will be cute little lap dogs like the puggles and schnoodles and Daisy Dogs that are proliferating. The shelters may be full of Labradoodles, but the cute little dogs get adopted very quickly.
   
   If you want to learn about different species of canids in the past and present, this work is derivative but satisfactory.



3. This book is very interesting. Most of the information in it was gleaned from other books. It was almost like someones book report of many other books.
   If you want a summary of many books on the history of dogs, than read this book.



4. Dogs, A Natural History, by Jake Page is an interesting and fascinating book. The author, who has six dogs, writes about dogs throughout history and how they have evolved over time to become the much loved companions that they are today.
   
   Page writes about many of the ancient dogs that lived around the world, and what they have in common with the dogs that live with us today. He also sheds some light on why dogs don't see colors the same as we do - and according to the experts, dogs do see more than black and white! Laughter is another subject he touches on, writing about the science that shows that dogs do indeed laugh. And, as many dog people will attest, dogs certainly know how to love - and Page gives his views on why he is convinced this is indeed true. These are just a few of the many topics he covers that explain why our dogs are the way they are and why they do some of the things they do. It's a very insightful book (written by someone who obviously loves dogs) for anyone who wants to learn more about the canines they share their life with.

5 comments about Chinese Crested: A Comprehensive Guide to Owning and Caring for Your Dog (Kennel Club Dog Breed).

1. Having a 5 month old Crested puppy, I purchased this book to find out more about the breed, and I did. Yes, you can surf the web and get info, but in this book, the information is all together in one spot. The book is well organized and gives general information on almost every topic. What I liked about this book over other books is the fact that the book gives the differences between the hairless and the powderpuff, which is what my puppy is. For every new Crested owner, this is a great reference book.



2. I have come across millions of crested books, and this is by far my favorite. it is extremely informative, and very detailed. the pictures are great. it covers everything you would need to know, right down to alot of diseases, illness's, flea treatment, things not just associated with the breed. the history section was FABULOUS!
   
   great pictures, great book, worth every penny.



3. Very beautiful book with very beautiful photographs of the heaps of explanations for the care and grooming and in more it is not published in French , very invaluable.



4. Thoroughly enjoyed this book. Excellent detail oriented breed book for Chinese Cresteds. Lots of wonderful background information on where the breed originated. This is a must have for anyone considering or even who owns a Chinese Crested. One of the much better written breed books.



5. I purchased a hairless Chinese Crested. First, I read this book. The 8 week old pup I had flown to me developed coccidia (stress of weaning, leaving mom, travel, new home, new owners) after two days, which then led to hypoglycemia (stopped eating and blood sugar crashed) and died within one week. This book doesn't stress the fact that "toy" puppies can easily have this problem and what to do at the early signs to save its life. Unfortunately, my Vet didn't know what to do either. I learned from surfing the web, after the problem. That would be your best bet to learn about this breed, including possible problems that the book does not cover.

1 comments about Building a Basic Foundation for Search and Rescue Dog Training.

1. This book is very well written. It brings everthing together without going over board. I have read everyone of the books out currently from other authors, and this one is on my top list for recommendation to other prospective SAR persons.

5 comments about The German Shorthaired Pointer: An Owner's Guideto aHappy Healthy Pet (Your Happy Healthy Pet).

1. This is an excellent book it has helped me learn alot about the GSP. Vendor was great recevied my book a mere 4 days after ordering and I live overseas.



2. The author, Nancy Campbell, captures the true essence of the German Shorthair Pointer, their versatility, their personality, etc. As a result, folks considering adoption or ownership will discover what they need to know before they make a commitment to the breed.
   
   Becoming breed knowledgeable is extremely important so that the rate for abandonment and shelter turn-ins can lessen over time. Nancy arms the reader with more than enough information to make an educated decision "about everything GSP"! I personally recommended this book to several people over the last year and they have all reported that this book was a valuable tool in their decision making process!



3. Nancy Campbell captures the true essence of the breed in her personal, up-close approach. Her descriptions of what makes the GSP special, I found are accurate and heart warming. Not only is the book informative and extremely well organized, it is also fun reading! I especially liked some of the training techniques. I have tried them and they work.



4. We love our adopted shelter GSP dog and when were thinking of one, we bought this invaluable book. Excellent information, characterization of the breed and written with humor. This book is for current owners and potential owners. We love our dog and use this book as a reference when we have questions on him. This book accurately described his temperant, needs and how to care for him.



5. This book is intended for those considering the breed, and it is a wonderful and funny introduction. It is also a fine book for those who have owned GSPs before to enjoy and reflect on their experience with the breed. A must for a person considering getting the breed for the first time. It is in depth about the breed history, standard, and breed character. Not a training guide, but that is not its apparent purpose. Read this one BEFORE you get a GSP.

4 comments about Welsh Terrier (Comprehensive Owners Guide) (Comprehensive Owners Guide).

1. I found the book quite complete, except it teaches nothing about an important subject as stripping the Welsh Terrier, which was one of my basic reasons to buy it! Besides that, it has a lot of general info about the breed, how to take care of your dog, etc. It also has half a dozen very nice pictures of good examples of this breed.



2. A must have book for every Welsh Terrier parents, he, he. Excellent book to read.



3. Very nicely done, great pix, for the Welsh Terrier owner or fan



4. To the author, thank you! Hudson's just 18 months old, and we've had your book only a week, already we have learned so much we have a happier house and feel more confident that we can have a happier more productive relationship with this breed.
   
   The book is breed specific and each section covers important aspects of the Welsh Terrier. I've seen books like this for other breeds where as much as half the book was the same information found in other books on other breeds.
   
   This one is specific and filled with enough information to help you understand and care for the Welsh Terrier breed.

5 comments about Guide to Owning a Labrador Retriever: Puppy Care, Retrieving, Training, History, Health, Breed Standard (Re Dog Series).

1. I have to say that I was very disappointed with this book. I was hoping for more information to be contained within the book but this is more like a book that you would give an elementary school child. The book gives only superficial information about the breed. I think that people can find more information on most online sites,i.e. Wikidpedia, etc.



2. I thought I'd say that as the owner of a sixteen-month-old female black lab I learned a lot of useful information from this book. It doesn't waste time, and always comes straight to the point: something I tried to do with this review.



3. As a person who has had the distinct pleasure of sharing my house and my life with as many as six Labrador retrievers at a time over the last 20 years (I now have five), I am acutely aware of the wonder and awe associated with getting such a wonderful companion can be. yet, sadly, I am also aware of the profound ignorance many would-be labrador-people are regarding how to select, introduce, and socialize this new member of the family. In that sense, this book , along with a number of others such as Richard Wolper's "Family Dog", can provide the wary would-be initate with all of the essentails on how to successfully transform that cute little puppy into a happy, obedient, and well-integrated member of the household.
   
   This book does offer one the expert advice one needs regarding the care and nurture of what has now become the single most popular breed in the United States, with information ranging from an impromptu history of Labrador Retrievers to such topics such as adoption options. The book also features a wealth of facts and details regarding Labrador Retrievers. It provides essential and vital information regarding nutrition, socialization, and exercise, and offers some sage advice about how to find and select a reputable breeder. In addition, it also touches on aspects of ownerships such as common illnesses and chronic problems associated with the breed. This is a book I can heartily recommend!



4. This book provides the basics on Labrador Retrievers. If you are new to the breed this is a very helpful book. It does provide enough information to get you started with a new puppy and a new breed. If you are looking for very detailed instructions on training and retrieving this book really doesn't go into enough detail.



5. This book was informative on the basics, but did not go into a lot of depth on any one topic. I bought it because I was researching the breed, but I feel I need to buy additional material in order to answer my questions, since I plan on being a new parent to a pup.

No comments about Diva Dogs: Living the Fabulous Life.

2 comments about If Your Dog Could Talk.

1. Dr. Bruce Fogle is my favorite animal behavioral author. I've read and reviewed books by the good doctor before and he always seems to provide me with a good deal of insight into my pets in a way that I can understand. If your dog could talk... is no exception.
   
   The subtitle for this book is "A training guide for humans". Basically, this text is meant to teach us humans what our dogs are really thinking. Far too often, we infer human personality to our dogs' actions. For instance, we assume Puddles is peeing on the furniture because she's angry at us. The thought that she's in heat never enters our mind. Similarly, when Sparky jumps up at us when he greats us, we think he is being aggressive or showing his lack of training. Really, he just wants some regurgitated food like his Mommy used to provide (yuck!).
   
   If you have a dog, know a dog, or are planning to get a dog buy this book. The insight you will gain will be invaluable. I guarantee you'll spend a lot more time enjoying your friend and a lot less time freaking out because you aren't sure what he or she is thinking.



2. This Doctor writes well, knows dogs as a vet and dog owner and is a real researcher. He's much more reliable as a source of real information than those that make up their own guesses about why dog behavior occurs. When it isn't known, he says so. This is my first dog, and the books by Bruce Fogle are very informative. The other books, particularly "The Dogs Mind" delve into brain anatomy and genetics to explain dog behavior.They are so differant from us, and yet so similar to us, as he makes so clear.

5 comments about The Dog Owner's Manual: Operating Instructions, Troubleshooting Tips, and Advice on Lifetime Maintenance.

1. This is now my favorite dog book of all time! My favorite part of the book is the Top Selling Models page where thay talk about some well known breeds. A lot of my favorite breeds are on it like the German Shepherd, Chihuahua,Yorkshire Terrier, Doberman Pinscher, American Staffordshire Terrier, Collie, Poodle, Dachshund, Basset Hound, Beagle, Akita, Boxer, Jack Russell Terrier, Greyhound, Pug, Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever and the Newfoundland!! My "model" is a Newfie. What they said about them is so true. They drool A LOT but they are just sweethearts, and the ideal owner is someone with a large house and yard and we have that. and I was so happy that they are in it but only in one picture which is my favorite picture. It's the picture of the Top Selling models on pages 30, 31, and on 36, and 37.This book is very informative too. I never knew that raw carrots and air popped popcorn without butter and salt could be good snacks for dogs nor did I know that if dogs eat too many onions they're red blood cells will burst. Ever since I learned that I give my "model" raw carrots all the time! He also loves bannanas. But I knew some facts already like NEVER leave your dog in a car in hot weather and never feed dogs chocolate. So all in all this is a really great book just keep in mind for those of you who are parents there are some pictures in this book that aren't appropriate for kids. So if your looking for a "model" to love and have a friend GET THIS BOOK!!!



2. What makes this the perfect book for new dog owner is its readability. The authors keep you entertained from cover to cover, while providing you with all the information you need. In addition to being a good book for new owners, it's also something that you can easily refer back to whenever you have questions because it's well-organized into logical, bite-size bits of information.
   
   When I got my new puppy, I received this book and "The Art of Raising a Puppy." I read The Dog Owner's Manual in one sitting; I never made it past the first few chapters of "The Art of Raising a Puppy." Why read a novel when you a highly entertaining version of Cliff Notes!?



3. This book is incredibly informative and hillarious at the same time. Talks about the dog as if it's a new car or microwave and not a living thing. Information is given in a way that's easy to understand and entertaining so you might actually read the whole thing. Also got the guide for babies for some new parents I know and they found it quite amusing as well.



4. If you've never owned a dog, it's a good place to start. If you own a dog or are getting a new puppy soon, it's a fun way to brush up. Loved the illustrations!



5. This book is the funniest book i have read in a long time. While it is very informative, I would highly recommend it as a gift for anyone, dog owners and people without a dog.
   
   It had my friend and I in stitches and tears the whole half hour trip home from the city. Anyone on the train would have sworn we were on something other than just sugar and happiness.
   
   Would not recommend as a book for young dog owners as some of the pictures are rather inappropriate.
   
   Buy it, you won't regret a cent of what you pay.

5 comments about Yorkie Doodle Dandy: Or, the Other Woman Was a Real Dog.

1. Being a Yorkie lover, I really did enjoy the story. Smoky was quite a dog - they are an exceptional breed. I think any pet lover/history buff would enjoy the book.



2. I love this book about Smoky, and I almost didn't buy it, because a reviewer said it was poorly written. But I find it quite well done, and I have read some self published books that were not. This is really a lovely little book. I think anyone would enjoy it. Certainly, dog lovers will be most interested, but those who don't care about dogs might find themselves a dog lover by the time they finish this book. The photos are great, too. I have a little Yorkie, so I especially love this story. I'm going to buy the book for some older relatives who fought in WWII. I think they'll be charmed.



3. I first learned about Smoky through a Wikipedia link where she immediately captured my interest. Buying the book was the next logical step in learning more about this amazing and wonderful dog, but sadly none of my local vendors had it and was in fact greeted with several different smirks when given the name of the book to search for. Thankfully Amazon had it in stock, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone. The story of Mr. Wynne and Smoky seems almost unreal during the War and the story of their life home and on the road will keep you captivated to the teary end.



4. When Bill writes of his experiences with Smoky it feels as though you are right there along side both of them,experiencing what they are going through.Well written and he even gives you training tips to train your dog with.Yorkie doodle dandy is a must have for any family library.Way to go Bill and thanks for bringing Smoky back for us all to enjoy!!!



5. Yorkie Doodle Dandy is not just another story of a man and his dog. It is a real life story of a miracle and I guess what is meant to be will be. Mr. Wynne finds his little Yorkie literally in the middle of nowhere on an island during a war. I don't want to give the story away but it shows the bonding that can take place between owner and pet and what sacrifices will be made for each other. Be prepared to laugh and cry. If you have Yorkies, like I do, run and get this book. If you don't have Yorkies, read this book and you will want a Yorkie. My deepest respect to Mr. Wynne who is one of those rare people who truly understands dogs.