One of her tips which I recently found helpful for myself, involves using Pedialyte to help dogs during hot weather and when dehydrated.

Further, many of the health problems she discusses are also applicable to larger dogs, such as the anesthesia risks and geriatric problems. The knowledge and research Ms. Arden has applied to the writing of this book has immeasurable value to so many of us as dog lovers.

Darlene talks about small dogs, as I like to see a writer do, she is humorous, serious and at times full of the impish character which she so lovingly ascribes to these small dogs. This book is a joy to read....no matter what your breed!...


For ALL Dog People!   June 23, 2002
 7 out of 7 found this review helpful

Why would someone who raises Newfoundlands, a Giant Breed, read a book about Toy Breeds? When Darlene Arden spent a month on DogRead, I was impressed. This is someone who specializes in tiny dogs, but knows DOGS, period! I found the health, behavior, training, and most of the other information applicable for my dogs, who are bigger than many of the Toys by the time they're three weeks old. The author's writing style makes it an easy, fun read. Material is explained well enough for the novice owner, but is technical enough for the experienced dog fancier. The Irrepressible Toy Dog is an essential addition to the library of anyone who is even contemplating adding one of these breeds to his or her family, and is an excellent reference book for any dog lover. Darlene, how about writing a book about Giant Breeds, the other end of the spectrum?


The Irrepressible Toy Dog   November 27, 2001
 5 out of 6 found this review helpful

Wow this is the best book on toys that I ever read. I want a toy dog and boy was I clueless until I read this book, It gose over heath problems, how to chose a healthy puppy and a great breeder, and it has some great B/W pics. I would recomend this book for anyone who likes toys, even for people who have them.


not to be missed   June 27, 2001
 11 out of 11 found this review helpful

As a full time behaviourist I get to read lots of canine related publications and I put TITD right up there with the very best. Whilst being an absolute must for toy or potential toy owners, dont let the title put you off!! This book is for all dog owners everywhere, the information contained is clear consise and incredibly well researched with whole chapters on subjects such as housebreaking and preparing your dogs homecoming which could be made into books on there own. I am currently reading it for the second time and am not ashamed to say learning all the time and TITD will be recommended to all my clients as just about the best overall book for dog owners I have seen for a long time. Congratulations Darlene Arden more of the same to come I hope


An Invaluable Reference for the Toy Dog Owner/Fancier   September 9, 2000
 8 out of 8 found this review helpful

This book goes over breed by breed, giving an inclusive history of each, good points, and problems with every breed. It starts out with the neonate and goes into medical aspects, including vaccinations, socialization, housebreaking, bonding with the pup, and more. The book progresses into adulthood. Each aspect of dog ownership is thoroughly reviewed. There's a whole chapter just on housebreaking. Parts of it go into the physical (medical) aspect of it, and continue through the practical aspects, as well. Nutrition, medical problems, training, surgery and anesthesia, are all delved into, and more! There are great photos of Toy breeds, as well, most "au natural" and unposed. This book is the best book I have read in reference to Toy dogs. Ms. Arden writes plainly and expressively, so that it is easy to comprehend. I would recommend his book to anyone who is interested in Toy Dogs.