"How to have an Obedient Dog" is an excellent ‘first-source’ training book for the beginner. Each sections is dilligently broken-up into easy-to-read and understand segments concerning the major parts of canine care, behaviour and training. Apparently the book details that Jackie basis her writings on questions asked at her training club, so understandably, this book contains everyday information on every day problems for everyday dogs and their owners.

Jackie’s topics range from issues concerning Why Train Dogs to Car Travel, House-training and dogs-with-children as well as detailing different obedience commands and how to implement them. It even has a copy of the Dangerous Dogs Act of 1991 in the back, which I believe should be read by anyone who ever has/does own a dog - regardless of breed/age/sex.

The book is broken up into distinct sections with bold sub-headings as well as an easy-to-use Index and Contents page. There are a number of drawings throughout illustrating obedience commands and hand signals as well as a diagram regarding the right and wrong way to use a choke-chain.

However, the Obedience Section, entitled "Formal Training" is perhaps based on that of competition-standard/type training, where dogs walk to heel on the left hand side of the body, For many people, for whatever reason, particular methods may simply not work for them and their dog(s).

I would definitely recommend this book to any first-time dog owner but would also recommend that they read around individual subjects to find methods of training that work for themselves. There are also a number of common behavioural issues missing from the book such as submissive urination in puppies and most importantly, information on how to choose a training club that is right for you and what to avoid.

"How to have an Obedient Dog" is published by Right Way Books, who select books on the basis that they are "practical, easy to understand, concise, informative and delightful to read". Marriott definitely fits these criteria.

ENJOYABILITY 9

PRICE 8

LAYOUT 10

INFORMATIVE 8

RECOMMENDED YES

June 01