Synopsis
Essential references for dog owners-now in paperback. A complete illustrated guide to the history, temperament, and physical characteristics of each breed, this handy paperback series includes full profiles on cocker spaniels, dachshunds, German shepherds, golden retrievers, Labrador retrievers, and poodles. Each volume also has expert advice on every aspect of dog care, including day-to-day well-being, behavior issues, training, grooming, health, and exercise. Bruce Fogle, DVM, is an internationally recognized veterinarian, writer, and expert on animal behavior. He lectures throughout the world and has appeared on television and radio. Dr. Fogle is the author of many widely acclaimed DK titles including Know Your Cat, The Encyclopedia of the Cat, Know Your Dog, and The Encyclopedia of the Dog.
VOYA
These two books, part of DK's Dog Breed Handbook series, are exactly what introductory breed books should be. In each book, Fogle, who has a veterinary practice in London as well as numerous articles and books to his credit, first gives the reader a thumbnail sketch of the history of the relationship between dogs and man, then gets right into the meat of the book. Should you own this breed? While it is obvious that Fogle respects these breeds, he is not blind to the many challenges they present to owners. For instance, along with discussing the merry disposition of Cockers, he also cautions, "Choose a Cocker Spaniel only if you are prepared for occasional accidental mayhem at home." In the book on Goldens he states, "Consider a Golden only if you are prepared to be extra tidy, or if you are amenable to having shoes, socks, and even undergarments presented to both family members and visiting friends." Fogle discusses the differences between English and American Cockers, some of them subtle, however definite. In both books he discusses behavior profiles as compared to other breeds, and in the book on Cockers he shares some of the research showing that in Cocker Spaniels there is a definite correlation between temperament and coat color. Fogle tells us where to find a puppy-beware of pet store and puppy mills-and discusses show versus working lines. Be sure to ask a Cocker breeder about PRA and other genetic eye diseases in her line; ask a Golden breeder to see documentation regarding hip abnormalities and eye diseases in the line. Also included is the breed standard approved by the AKC. First night at home, learning good manners, housebreaking, puppy kindergarten training, health issues, specialized training, and showing are all discussed for the specific breed. Training an English Cocker can be very different from training a Golden Retriever. They each have their own style of learning. Dogs are not generic. Each breed was created for a purpose and those instincts-which were bred into the dogs-determine the behavior of our pets today. When we understand these instincts and can work with them, we have a better chance of raising a wonderful dog. While Fogle's excellent books have the DK look-superb photography, narrative written in sound-bites, two-page spread for each topic-the information presented is exactly what a new puppy owner needs to know. With these two titles, Fogle sets the standard for dog breed books. All others need not apply. Index, Illustrations, and Photos included. VOYA Codes: 5Q 4P M J S (Hard to imagine it being any better written, Broad general YA appeal, Middle School-defined as grades 6 to 8, Junior High-defined as grades 7 to 9 and Senior High-defined as grades 10 to 12).