What's the best book for a brand new dog owner?

[Patiod]

I've had dogs all my life, and I know what works and what doesn't. I've also seen my parents progress - learning new things, like crating and NO TABLE SCRAPS or treats from the table. After the latter rule went into effect with their new dachshund - miracle of miracles - no more whiny, yapping dachshund - just a nice, well-behaved dachshund who hasn't been inadvertently trained to beg at the table.

My friend will be getting her very first dog in 45 years next weekend, for her 6-year old son. She bought a book written by some monks about raising a puppy, and her son got a kid's book out of the library (without mom suggesting it!)

She asked me "what should I know?" I said "dogs need structure - regular 'out' times, crates are good when you're gone, no food except in his bowl (no treats from the table)."

Is there a "Best" guide? Any key words of wisdom to pass along?

[wildeyed]

1. Is she getting a puppy or an adult dog?

There are lots of good guides out there. Unless the dog has issues, then probably any general guide would be good. Also, a basic obedience class is great with a new dog or puppy, even if they don't misbehave. Helps set boundaries and improves bonding.

[AirmensMom]

2. The book, if it's the same one ...

"How to be your dog's best friend" by the monks of New Skete. VERY good book. We used it to train our Golden Retriever several years ago. I would call the the "Best" guide.

[IndyOp]

3. I think the monks have a great approach to the 'whole dog' -

training is part of a whole package of providing a predictable schedule, socialization, exercise, boundaries, affection, good food. If you are prepared to deal with all these issues the 'behavior problems' don't crop up nearly so often. Anxious, lonely, bored, pent up animals who don't receive attention or understand their role in the family are the ones who get in trouble. I would vote for the monks, for sure!

Also, IMHO pets are for adults. Children can take responsibility for occasional chores, but can't be expected to take most or full responsibility -- dogs, especially won't respond to most children as 'the boss'.

[Patiod]

5. Typical of my friend - she picked the "best", it sounds like

She has the New Skete book on raising a puppy.

She's also very disciplined, which will help, and they have lots of land with an electric fence, so the dog will have lots of room to roam.

My only concern is that the puppy idea IS being child-driven -- they live on a big spread, without any nearby neighbors for her son to play with, so one of the drivers of the purchase is providing a companion for her son.

I'll pass along the comment that she and/or her husband will have to be alpha dog.

Thanks for all the advice, guys! (In phillytalk, "guys" is gender-neutral)

[livetohike]

6. "How to be your Dog's Best Friend"

by the Monks of New Skete is the book I have used for the past 26 years. I gave their puppy book to my brother as a gift when he got his dog several years ago.

If your friends read and follow the monks' advice, I'm sure everything will work out well.

Note: I have been spoiling my current dogs :-)

[wildeyed]

7. My dogs are wonderful companions for my children,

but they are very definitely *my* dogs. As long as your friend recognizes that she is the one in charge of and responsible for the animal, things should go fine.

It is very important that she teach the six year old appropriate behavior around animals, if he doesn't know already. Some parents let their kids grab, pinch and pull on their dogs. Then they are surprised and horrified when the dog bites the child. A good rule of thumb, if the behavior is inappropriate directed toward a younger sibling, it is inappropriate toward the dog. Also, I have observed that my dogs all have different boundaries with the kidlets. I had a Border Collie who did not like physical contact, but enjoyed tag and fetch games with the kids. My current Cattle Dog mix is a sturdier soul and enjoys hugs and kisses. Just watch the dog carefully for signs of nervousness and fear. That can lead to a bite, never a happy thing :(

[China_cat]

4. Anything by the monks.

They also have videos.

[auburngrad82]

8. The Rosetta Bone by Cheryl Smith is a good one as well nt