There are some brief, but very accurate descriptions of some of the top breeds (don't look for a comprehensive listing). This will help those unfamiliar with breed profiles to narrow down their preferences in short order.

Many helpful hints abound in this book, too. Did you know that if you knick Fido's quick while clipping his nails, common cornstarch will make an effective clotting agent? Do you know ten great questions to ask a breeder? Web sites devoted to dog health issues? DeVito even includes a section of grieving the loss of a companion dog, something often neglected in such books.

Another strong point for this book is the presentation style. There are really nice line drawings and half-tone images, along with very interesting side-bars (one is on famous quotes about dogs) scattered throughout the pages. The writing style is breezy but to the point. This is a great book for those who want to get right to the useful information without a lot of digressions. This kind of writing will appeal to young adults as well as adults.

Overall, this book covers all the information you will initially need in your quest to obtain and care for a dog. The information is accurate, up to date, and clearly presented. DeVito advocates crate training (and tells why it is NOT a "cruel" technique), stresses the ways in which you incorporate a dog into your ongoing lifestyle, and laces this work with frequent humor. I highly recommend this book to get started, and then checking out "The Art of Raising a Puppy" by the Monks of New Skete.


Great book for a new dog owner   November 19, 1999
 1 out of 2 found this review helpful

I found this book great, for reviewing the different breeds