The Original Dog Bible: The Definitive New Source To All Things Dog

This guide to all things canine includes profiles of more than 250 breeds, one hundred grooming tips, fifty careers with dogs, and one hundred health remedies for common canine ailments, as well as many other tips and factoids useful to dog owners, lovers, and breeders. Original.

This comprehensive book certainly lives up to its subtitle; editor Mehus-Roe, former managing editor of Popular Pets, has culled a wealth of information on over 250 breeds. The work opens with a history of dogs "in our world," which briefly covers dogs in religion, and then moves on to the more interesting chronology of dog rescue and welfare. Later, the author addresses the important issues of dogs and the law (e.g., noise ordinances, poop scoop laws, etc.). New and prospective dog owners will learn a lot from the chapters on choosing the right dog, finding a dog (whether through a breeder, shelter or other option), and bringing a new dog home. The best part of the book, however, covers "life with a dog," with sections on pet care partners like sitters and walkers, emergencies, lost dogs, biting, traveling with a dog, and a fantastic chapter on activities one can do with one's dog, ranging from playing Frisbee ("or canine disc") to sledding and herding. Of course, health and daily care are covered in depth, and a final section focuses on dogs who work (with police teams or therapists, for example). Color photos throughout.
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This is truly a world compendium of canines, representing every known--and many unfamiliar--dog breed from Africa to the U.S. Here, find the French Barbet, the Hungarian Mudi, the Japanese Tosa Ken, all documented with such details as alternative names, activity level, best owner, and special needs--in addition to good color photographs. What's even better? The wealth of information surrounding the more than 250 breed profiles: daily activities and ideas, like starting a dog park; historical data, including genetics, law, and religion; daily and long-term health care; training and behavior; and working dogs and related careers. While perusing, dog lovers will find lists of, for instance, first-aid kits, charts about toxic plants, and quotes and fast facts throughout. From the people who publish Dog World and Dog Fancy, it's a wonderful salute to an individual's best friend, even for those unfortunate enough not to enjoy a companion. Barbara Jacobs
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