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Books like Think Dog: An owner's guide to canine psychology

Think Dog: An owner's guide to canine psychology

1990, John Fisher

4.2/5

There's lot to like about this book. The writing style, the glimpses into the author's sardonic sense of humour (the Yoko thing alone is worth the price of admission) and some of the training tips, especially for setting boundaries.However, there is an awful lot that is just not right. For example, looking for "dog pulling" in the A-Z section brings up a condemnation of choke collars (great if a no-brainer), right next to a plug for another accessory to stop the pulling, developed by the author. Really? I am sure there were ways to stop dogs pulling before this wonderful accessory was invented, and I would much prefer some general tips to an advert.The thing that really made me want to fling this book at the wall is the discussion of homeopathy as a valid treatment for various issues. The chapter is a fascinating read: in one case it's not sure whether the homeopathic treatment had any effect; in the other, the owner reported "a 60% improvement" (make of that what you will) but in the end alternative measures were needed anyway.So why waste the pages, ink and my money on homeopathy? That, I will never know. It cheapens the book, and devalues the image of the professional association of dog trainers that the book associates with homeopathy. We use dog trainers regularly and I will struggle from now to hire one from said association.Not a bad read overall, but try Victoria Stillwell if you want training advice in plain-speak, or Patricia McConnell if you like your dog training with a side of marvellous writing.
Picture of a book: Think Dog: An owner's guide to canine psychology

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