5 comments about Dog Tricks for Dummies.

1. Nothing new here, lots of talk very little instruction. No new ways of
   teaching and no basics, just assumming you know



2. I bought this book about 2 months ago. My female dog already knows some triks, but in this book i also found some new that are interesting for my dog. She is really learning fast and i didn't have any idea what else could i learn her.
   
   Regards,
   Petra



3. I have learned so much about teaching a pup easy tricks with this book. My dog learned to ring the bell to go potty. It was easy for this dummy to pick up the concepts and pick the ones I was willing to commit to (cuz it does take practice). The pups love the attention and the stimulation. I wish my mom had a book like this to train me....Really..the book gives great tips on training tricks, but also gives information on understanding and managing dog behavior in general. I highly recommend it.



4. I'm teaching my dog some of the tricks from this book. The book helps you understand how dogs learn and develops the tricks quicker than I thought my dog was willing to learn. The only disagreement I have is the author uses a clicker, but nothing in the book says you really have to have one



5. Sarah Hodgson does a great job of giving step-by-step instructions for training tricks, something that is harder to do than it looks! Everything in here is dog friendly and fun. I taught my dogs several of these tricks, and we made up a few new ones based on what we'd learned.

   I wish that there was more content to the book, though. Perhaps 75% of it is filler. There are whole chapters on feeding, medical care and basics like sit, down and stay. Certainly, all of these topics are important, but they have only tangential relevance to trick training.

   There are several other filler chapters about dog sports. Why fill 50-odd pages with brief overviews of skijoring, carting and flyball? Each of these sports has more than a few good books that readers can refer to if they're interested. Being a Border Collie owner in Texas, I have no use for info on the Iditarod!

   I would much rather have a smaller volume filled with stuff that I want to read. All of this filler dilutes the book, and makes it harder to pick out the valuable info.

5 comments about The Dog Behavior Answer Book: Practical Insights & Proven Solutions for Your Canine Questions (Answer Book (Storey)).

1. With so many pet-related books out there, I didn't know which one would really help me out. Amazon's customer reviews on this book led me to buy it. Am I glad I did. It's sooo informative. There's so many different issues covered in the book, and covered so well. Ms. Moore really knows her stuff, and makes "user friendly" suggestions. You really think you know what's best for your dogs until it's as if she says, "You MIGHT want to try this...." AND IT WORKS! So many of the issues the author addresses are those I really needed to read. The best part of getting this book is how MY DOG reacted to my reading it. We are better friends than before....maybe because I'm a better parent??? - THANK YOU Arden Moore!



2. I just got this book the other day and have already read almost the entire thing. It has some great suggestions of how to deal with dog's behavior in everyday settings, and in situations that dog owners may encounter in the future - which will help prepare them for that. It also reiterates some training techniques that I have heard, but have not kept a part of my everyday routine with my dog, Cody. But, I will start reincorporating these things, as I now know how important they are to keep up and continue to use for further training. Thanks Arden!



3. Aha! This easy-to-read resource confirmed my suspicion as to why my new dog Lucy barks madly at the FedEx guy (see p. 97). But I never figured out why she did some other odd things until I found the answers in this helpful book. It solved such mysteries as:
   
   Page 100: Why dogs sniff the crotches of guests.
   Page 103: Why dogs vigorously, messily splash water out of the water bowl with their front paws!
   Page 107: Why dogs do the "dead fish dance," such as the time Lucy threw herself atop a dead Dungeness crab and wiggled wildly. Yuck.
   Page 95: How to get dogs like Lucy to not bark nonstop when the pizza guy comes to the door.
   
   The forward of this book is written by John Grogan, author of famous "Marley & Me," and owner of trouble-boy Marley. He includes some humorous insights, plus says The Dog Behavior Answer Book "could have helped us in a big way. Had we had Arden's commonsense expertise then, we would have better understood what motivated Marley's bad-boy behavior and been able to formulate a strategy to change, or at least, temper it."
   
   What particularly impresses me is that Arden doesn't just write about dog behavior, she lives it. My husband and I have known Arden since the 1980s. When she recently met our German shepherd mix Lucy in our home, I was nervous. Lucy barks at visitors -- looking at it most charitably, I suppose it's in hopes that she'll remain the center of attention.
   
   Arden wisely surmised that visitors typically make rapid movements and, among other things, reward Lucy's barking by giving her treats as she barks.
   
   Arden employed an altogether different strategy.
   
   Examples:
   
   1) She initially met Lucy outside the home on neutral turf.
   
   2) Arden took a seat on our living-room sofa several minutes before Lucy returned to the home from a walk. So, there never was a barkathon at the front door since Arden already was on the sofa, sitting calmly.
   
   3) As Arden sat calmly on the sofa, she kept yummy treats visibly nearby. Intelligent Lucy noticed that by acting like a polite dog, Arden occasionally rewarded her with yummy treats. That reinforced Lucy's politeness.
   
   Lucy *never* had a barkathon during the several hours she was with Arden.
   
   Thank you, Arden, for showing us Lucy can be good with visitors!
   
   
   -- Sally Deneen, co-author, The Dog Lover's Companion to Florida The Dog Lover's Companion to Florida: The Inside Scoop on Where to Take Your Dog (Dog Lover's Companion Guides)



4. I always thought that dogs only barked, but clearly they talk to one human, Arden Moore. This delightfully small-but-comprehensive book answers everything I have ever wanted to know and is also light and entertaining. I have more than 60 years of dog-loving experience, but she has taught this dog some new tricks. A must for every dog lover. Cathy Conheim, behavioral therapist



5. 
   As a physician, I always like to understand the issues facing my patients. There are many things I have wondered about with my beloved dogs. Well, now Arden Moore has given me a paw up on all the things I wondered about with dog behaviors. If you only could have one dog book, make it this one. I give it five stars and a big paws up. Donna Brooks, MD

5 comments about Everything You Ne to Know About HouseTraining Puppies & Adult Dogs!.

1. My husband and I are "cat people" and never thought of owning a dog until our children wanted one. I realized most of the work with training a puppy was going to be the parents responsibility and I wasn't sure I was ready. I bought this book 6 months before I made my decision. The book is very straight forward and addresses everything you need to know about house training dogs. We brought our puppy home when he was 8 weeks old. I bought everything on the must have lists and followed everything exactly. By 4 months old he was completely house trained. He's now 8 months old and we couldn't ask for a better situation. He even rings a bell by the back door to signal he needs to go out to "potty". I highly recommend this book.



2. This book has been very helpful since we are first time puppy owners. I would suggest that if you are thinking about getting a puppy that you should get this book first, read through it and then get the puppy. We did it the other way around and if you buy the book first it will alleviate a lot of frustration as a puppy owner.
   I would highly recommend this book to anyone considering a puppy.



3. Lora Verni, a certified dog trainer with many years of experience, gives us the advantage of her expertise with this simple, yet highly effective book on house training puppies (and adult dogs who aren't 100% trained).
   
   She guarantees that if you follow her steps, that you will have a house trained dog within one month--I found the book so effective that my dog was trained within 3 weeks!
   
   This book, in simple and easy-to-read chapters, tells you exactly what to do to get your dog to "perform" on command, how to praise him when he's right, and how and when to correct him if he needs it.
   
   In some chapters, she tells the reader that if they've understood the just-presented information, that they need to go back and read it again. She urges the whole family to be in on the house training routine--not just one "in-charge" family member.
   
   She emphasizes crate training and why this is extremely important in training dogs not to "go" anywhere but their appropriate and special "spot".
   
   All in all, if you haven't raised a dog in a while and are feeling the need for some pointers, this book will give you those and then some. In the conversational tone in which it's written, you will feel as if you're being given tips by a friend.
   
   I would recommend it for anyone bringing home a new puppy, or an older dog who is "not sure" about it all.



4. My girlfriend and I have only read the first few chapters and already learned a lot from the book. I believe some of what the author explains is redundant.



5. Material inside is a bit dated, but it has the right idea to get the job done.

5 comments about Found Dogs: Tales of Strays Who Landed on Their Feet.

1. These are without a doubt heartwarming stories that leave the reader thinking "What if that person hadn't been at that spot at that time", or other mind-bending questions, but all in all, the lack of detail provided in the stories fails to draw the reader into them, leaving a choppy feel to the whole book. This, in turn, fails, to do what the writer hoped to accomplish, which was to show the fantastic chemistry between people and dogs, and demonstrate that dogs are capable of thinking and emotions far more complicated than humans have believed thus far.



2. I purchased Second Chances last year for my 9 year old son so I knew this book would be just as good. If you want to read very short stories about stray dogs who found loving homes, this is the book. It will make you laugh, cry, and just feel good all over.
   
   Everyone should "adopt" a shelter or stray once in their life. There is is no better feeling...they seem to have a way of "finding you."



3. I loved this book so much.I recently adopted a dog after many years of only pedigree versions. I will always save a life and adopt from now on! My other 3 dogs with papers aren't so sure of this decision!



4. As a dog lover and a current owner of 4 dogs (2 of whom were rescues) I applaud each and every pet owner in this book and I thank Elise Lufkin for putting these stories together so that they may be enjoyed by the people who rescue any animal or is thinking about rescuing. The joy and love these pets bring into a home is unbelievable.



5. As the mama of an adopted stray dog from the ASPCA I am very interested in saved cats and dogs,(I have also taken in a stray cat). To me rescued animals are the best pets. The books that I have read are all happy books, there may be a lot of saddness in them, but for the most part they have a happy ending.
   Amazon is full of books on cats and dogs, the selection can't be beat!

5 comments about Leader of the Pack.

1. I thought I had the best dog in the world until we got another little puppy. Then, my dog became very territorial with his toys. Wanting the two dogs to love each other forever, I got this book because it was recommended by the local German Shepherd rescue.
   Most of the things in the book I had already done with my first dog, but the writers explained why my dog was acting this way with his toys and how to correct it.
   My two dogs share toys now and don't fight (other that puppy play).
   Sometimes it is hard to 'think like a dog', but you have to in order to communicate with yours. These writers must be part-dog, and the book is very effective.



2. This is an excellent book for anyone who owns a dog. It gives you good insight into the heirarchy of the dog world and helps you understand how the dog thinks and should help everyone in the training of their dog.



3. I have had dogs my entire life. Unfortunately, I never realized how poor my understanding of dog behavior was. (I currently have 4 dogs--the introduction of an exuberant 1/2 American bull dog/beagle/lab mix has required the tutorial!).
   
   I would recommend that every dog owner read this volume. In fact, no one should even own a dog without understanding and implementing these basic concepts. (I know that sounds didactic; however, I would humbly submit to being called on this by any who have read no books on dog behavior and who, having read this book, finds that my comment rings false.) I read Cesar Milan's book, but felt that I was only introduced to concepts with no meaningful means to engage the concepts--more autobiographical. This book not only introduced the concepts but provided specific guidance on how to implement.
   
   This is not a book solely for problem dogs. Rather, it is a book for any person or family that wants to enjoy problem-free habitation with a dog. Providing for our dogs confident leadership, clear boundaries, safety and comfort are our responsibilities as dog owners. You will feel well-equipped to carry out these responsibilities by starting here.



4. This book is generally good and effective at explaining a good relationship between a dog and his or her owner. But, there are a few things that i have learned from my experience in numerous training classes and from working a boarding kennel that I disagree with.



5. I thought this was an excellent book. My boyfriend and I adopted a jack russell terrier. It was an older dog with some pretty severe dominance/aggression issues. This book was recommended twice to me. I think the two biggest reasons that this dog is still in our family is because of the size of our hearts and this book! We learned that our dog will always have problems, but we also learned that he can be controlled. He still slips into dominant/aggressive mode, but with the book in mind, we put him(humanely)right back into his place.

5 comments about Small Dogs, Big Hearts: A Guide to Caring for Your Little Dog , Revised Edition.

1. This well researched book covers all of the information that is needed before acquiring a small dog. Darlene Arden covers all of the breed specific information, including temperament, challenges and attributes for all of the small and toy dog breeds.
   
   It is well written, fun to read and very thorough. And... it is a must read for choosing the right breed of dog.
   Marilyn Krieger, Certified Cat Behavior Consultant



2. What a wonderful book! This book explains every concern imaginable for the small dog owner. From basic socialization, to common health problems, to reproductive issues; this book has it all. To top it off, is it loaded with some of the most heart-warming photographs I've seen in a while. You are doing yourself as well as your pint-sized buddy a huge disservice if this reference book is not the most read book in your collection. Reading this book allows you to feel the passion of the author. Feel the passion...read this book.



3. I purchased this book as an expectant toy breed mother. It is a light hearted but informative book on the joys and pitfalls of having a toy breed in your house. I was a little disappointed in the lack of information on my particular puppy, a Chinese Crested, but then I didn't expect a lot of info on the Cresteds since most people know little about them. For more breed specific information, it's advisable to get a breed specific book. However this is a great reference for those who are looking at the toy breeds and don't know a lot about them. It's an easy read and the general information is great. The breed specific information is just enough to perhaps help someone choose which breed is a good fit for their family.



4. As the owner of 4 small dog rescues, I have found all of Darlene Arden's books extremely helpful and "small dogs, big hearts" is certainly no exception. It is filled with valuable information and should be a must read for anyone who has or is even remotely thinking about getting a small dog. Like all her books, this one is well written in Ms. Arden's easy to follow and understand style. I especially like the fact that this book contains mixed breeds and all the pictures are a wonderful addition.
   I applaud Darlene Arden for emphasizing that these small breeds are not toys to be played with, but real dogs with real dog issues and needs.



5. I was very anxious to get this book. In fact by the time I realized there was a second edition of the Irrepressible Toy Dog, I had been waiting several months. This lead me to several other small dog/ breed specific books. This book is definitely top notch However, I was a little biased having read similar information in several other books before reading this book. This made me less excited about its content, however I have to say that it is extremely well compiled, lots of good information and has the best health section on small breed specific disease that I have seen to date. The picture sections are cute, however it could have included more breeds instead of the same breeds over and over. It however was not as much fun as other books, and lacks in the training section when compared to other books. It is a great overall guide on toy dogs and every toy dog owner should keep a copy for a reference guide.

4 comments about Bulldogs For Dummies (For Dummies (Pets)).

1. This book was very helpful with our new bulldogs. It shares their history, health, behavior, attitude- it covers everything! It even has helpful hints I wasn't expecting to find! I would recomend to any new bulldog owner or to someone who is interested in owning bulldogs.



2. great book. had everything and more than i would ever want to know about my dog. i refer to it over and over again. i love the little stories and tips that are littered throughout the book.



3. I thought the book was just "okay." I was disapointed because it didnt seem to be specifically written about the English Bulldog breed - many comments were just general helpful hints on how to train dogs, etc with just a few known bulldog specific comments like how the breed is prone to overheat. I dont even think the writer, Susan Ewing has owned or does own an english bulldog - her credits read other breeds of dogs she has owned and english bulldog was not listed. I'd get another book or do research online. I've read several bulldog books and still found the best stuff on breeders' websites. Good luck!



4. I liked this book. It was easy to read and I went thru it quickly. I bought several bulldog books and although this wasn't my favorite one I did like the info in it. The dummy line of books are pretty good and this one is too.

3 comments about Modern Dog: 20 Years of Poster Art.

1. As a graphic designer and fine artist I found this collective of poster design to be both inspiring and extremely funny. It's refreshing to see such a creative design studio not taking itself too seriously while at the same time doing work that is both timely and powerful. The joy of loving what you do shines through on each page. Bravo Modern Dog.



2. I am a professional freelance artist who specializes in poster design, and I found this book to be a wonderfully inspiring collection.
   
   No two posters look alike; each have their own distinctive feel and approach and the stories behind them are equally interesting. I had never heard of Modern Dog before, and now I wonder where they've been all my life.
   
   A throughly solid art book, I wish it had been twice as long!



3. This is a very entertaining book from a group of very talented designers at Modern Dog. I heard the founders of Modern Dog being interviewed by Debbie Millman= and thoroughly enjoyed listening to the Modern Dog story. I highly recommend this book to all fans of the protest poster, and hilarious graphic communication.

4 comments about Cesar's Way Journal: A Resource and Record Book for Dog Owners.

1. I was hoping for a little more information than I found in this book, but it is a very unique and nice quality book/journal.



2. this was bought as a birthday present for my mam and she absolutely loves it as it incorporates sections of both of his boks along with giving you space to write in how the training is going and any important information like vaccination due dates operation dates all the things you would need to keep regarding your dog and their health, it is a really pretty little journal inside and out.



3. It is 99.9% you and only 1% the dog and Cesar once again describes it all in this book. He is one of the first who proved to dog owners AND even to trainers that you CAN get results using your knowledge, technique, proper body language, attitude, and have the right goal and expectations from your dog and from yourself.
   
   Unlike clicker training or PetSmart training where you give your dog treats just for being alive and call it training, I have been compared to Cesar a lot. This is because I always tell my clients you want to rely on your Love, Leadership, Praise and Technique and NOT Hotdogs, Ham, Sausage and Dried Liver. Kevin "The Dog Prodigy" Salem.



4. When explaining the difference between Cesar's first two books I frequently use the following analogy:
   * 'Cesar's Way' by Cesar Millan is like when one learns how to drive a car (dog/human interactions), to successfully apply useful solutions for problem dog behaviors.
   
   * 'Be the Pack Leader' explains how the car (dog/human relationship)works, is applied to the understanding of WHY being a Pack Leader works (and which can also be applied to the human/human relationship!
   
   Cesar's Way Journal brings these pieces into an integrated whole by first helping us examine OUR real interactions with our dogs in Section one: "Know yourself, Know your dog" Concrete exercises help us to see accurately how dogs are our true mirrors, teachers and healers.
   
   Section 2, helps to decide how best to put Cesar's formula into practice by examining our unique environments, lifestyle, choices and individual dog's needs. There is a through check list to help ensure we address all elements of the dog's needs. One o the most important elements of this section for me was the exercise that got me to take a HARD look at how I work with issues around power - those who have power over me and how I react, as well as those I have power over - and how I treat them...on good days and bad!
   
   Section 3 has a system that is so easy to work with to help me keep track of all the history, vet care, and resources I rely on all the time in hard copy form so I can lay my hands on it right away! There were some interesting recommendations of new reading material in the back I want to follow up on too.
   
   I have helped to rehab over 25 problem dogs who were going to be euthanized if someone didn't step forward to help. I'm no one special or especially skilled - just a dog owner who cares that these dogs don't die! Had to use Cesar's way because the way with dogs that I was raised with never seemed to work with problem dogs, only dogs that were already good!
   
   I stepped forward to help because there was no one else - "professional" or not. All but one, the first one, were brought to me by rescue non-profits who had run out o options to change the dog's behaviors into something that could be adopted out. Did it using the solutions I learned from watching the Dog Whisperer on National Geographic and then buying and studying the season 1 and 2 episode tapes:
   Dog Whisperer With Cesar Millan - The Complete First Season
   and
   Dog Whisperer With Cesar Millan: The Complete Second Season
   
   So for people like me - just people who want to help save dog's lives, one day at a time, this is yet another tool that is really helping me to up my game another level!

No comments about Bad Dogs Have More Fun: Selected Writings on Animals, Family and Life by John Grogan for The Philadelphia Inquirer.