Buy “The Dog Whisperer” from Amazon.com
Buy “The Dog Whisperer” from DogWise
Before Cesar Milan became a TV star as “The Dog Whisperer,” Paul Owens was using real “dog whispering” techniques - positive reinforcement training - to help dogs and their owners. “The Dog Whisperer: A Compassionate, Nonviolent Approach to Dog Training” by Paul Owens should be on every dog owner’s bookshelf - or better yet, in their hands, open and being read.
In The Other End of the Leash, Patricia McConnell explores the similarities and differences between humans and dogs, how we appear to one another, and the problems that can ensue when we miscommunicate. She explains why hugging a dog may result in a bite; the best ways to use your voice to communicate with a dog; why physical dominance is not the way to establish your social status; how to teach your dog to be patient and polite; and much more.
As with her newer book, For the Love of a Dog, Patricia shares personal stories of dogs and situations she’s known to illustrate her points, and she does so brilliantly.
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In For the Love of a Dog Patricia McConnell explores emotions in dogs and people. Our mammalian biology and neurology are remarkably similar, and I believe that we share similar emotions. This book delves into the science of emotions and supports that belief. But it does so with prose that draws out emotion in the reader as effectively as it educates. Just flipping through the book as I compose this review, I find myself drawn into various passages, especially the accounts of Patricia’s own experiences and cases she’s known that illustrate the personal side of these scientific concepts so well. It’s hard to put the book down, but I must, if only to pick up my handkerchief!
Buy For the Love of a Dog from Amazon.com
This book contains a wealth of information on dog behavior and training. There’s information on canine senses, emotions, instincts, and breed-specific behavior; canine conversation (body language and vocalizations); explanations of some dog habits that may seem puzzling (e.g. rolling in dead things, barking when you’re on the telephone); and of course training and behavior modification solutions to common problems. There’s also a section on dealing with life changes, including canine dementia, moving, divorce (who gets the dog?), and final good-byes. With its small size (300+ pages packed into a book measuring 4.5″ x 6.5″) and question and answer format, The Dog Behavior Answer Book makes perfect reading in the bathroom. You may even catch other family members sneaking a peek now and then.
Buy The Dog Behavior Answer Book from Amazon.com
The Culture Clash by Jean Donaldson explores the gulf between what many people think dogs are like (the “Walt Disney” version of dogs, where dogs have a moral compass and are capable of the full range of motivations that humans experience, including guilt and revenge) and what dogs are really like (lovable but innocently selfish “What’s in it for me?” creatures with their own social culture). (more…)
Dogs Make Great Pets is a must-have book for first-time dog owners. Using worksheets and checklists and an informal, easy-to-read writing style, Margaret H. Bonham takes you through everything you should consider before you bring your new dog home. Topics include making sure you’re ready for a dog, finding a good breeder or vet, choosing the right dog for your particular situation, and getting off on the right foot by teaching your new dog good manners.
“Bones Would Rain from the Sky” is a must-read for anyone wanting a deeper understanding of dogs and our relationships with them. (more…)
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