Book Reviews
Below are a collection of books that I have read and enjoyed. If you would like to add your own reviews please email me. Please make sure you specify the title of the book, author and whether you are happy for me to publish your name as the author of the review.
Book of the month
A Dog Know's Best, The Owner's Guide to Healthy Feeding - Helen Withey
It was very refreshing to read a book on canine nutrition that was both interesting and informative. The author gives real life examples which make the book really engaging. It is not often that you find a factual book that you just can't put down. Even if you have no intention of feeding your dog a raw food diet this book really makes you think about what you are feeding your dog. It is thought provoking without preaching at you and gives you enough science to understand but not so much that you are left baffled. I would recommend this dog to anyone who owns a dog as a great read regardless of whether you want to feed a raw food diet or not. It is excellent for anyone who is looking to feed a raw diet, but really doesn't know where to start. There are examples of meal plans at the back of the book along with recipes for wonderful treats like liver cake. Tried and tested on 2 German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs I can honestly say I have never been so popular :) For details of where to purchase this book visit http://www.norfolkdogtraining.co.uk/CanineNutritionSeminars.html
by Patricia B. McConnell This book is very easy to read as it has a number of real life stories about the authors work with dogs as well as her own dogs. Patricia has a fabulous sense of humour and her writing style makes this book read more like a novel. What sets it apart is the amount of information that is included, giving you a real insight into how dogs think and what motivates them. Patricia also highlights where a lot of owners go wrong, but without being judgemental. Unlike a lot of books written by dog professionals Patricia doesn't set herself up on a pedalstall, but rather includes her mistakes and how she learnt from them as well as her accomplishments. If you have an open mind and want to know more about dogs then this book is definately worth reading. Patricia clearly identifies what she thinks and why, but also credits other peoples viewpoint leaving you with enough information to make up your own mind... or do further reading. I would recommend this book to people who work with dogs, own dogs or are thinking of buying a puppy/dog. Rating 9/10 |
Marley and Me - John Grogan
This book is a hilariously honest account of John's life with his family and their pet Labrador. John is an excellent writer and this book is perfect if you want a light hearted read. I read this book very quickly and laughed a lot, up until the end when I then cried a lot. John doesn't look at Marley through rose tinted glasses as we often do with our own dogs, but rather talks through the reality of owning a highly excitable, energetic dog. My favourite story involves Marley, a restaurant table and a posh female dog.... need I say more.
Cesar's Way - Cesar Millan
This is a great book to read if you think your dog is training you rather than you are training them. Cesar gives loads of information about how the dogs mind differs from the human mind. He uses case studies to get his point across and even if you don't agree with all his methods, it is hard to argue with common sense. I spent a lot of time nodding when I first read this as I realised that I had mis-interpreted my dogs actions on a number of occasions. Whether you have already got a dog, or are thinking of getting one, I would recommend reading this book cover to cover.
Its Me or the Dog - Victoria Stilwell
If you have seen the TV show and thought "surely it can't be that easy" then this book will put your mind at rest. No, it is not that easy to train a dog, and yes, you do need an abundance of patience. Victoria goes through basic training in this book, with details of possible problems you may be faced with and how to deal with them. This is also a good book to read if you are thinking of getting a dog as Victoria goes through all the things you need to consider. Then when you have decided you want a dog, how to go about choosing the right one for you.
The Dog's Mind - Bruce Fogle
This book is excellent for anyone looking to attain a greater understanding of dogs. There are a few comments within the book that aren't backed up with evidence, but for the most part this is a very thorough look at the dog's mind. The information in this book is a lot to take in, in one go, so be prepared to want to read it more than once. It is also a great book to refer back to if you have a dog and wonder why they are exhibiting certain behaviour. Ever wondered why your dog 'kisses' you?
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