Benjamin's humanistic approach to puppy-raising is a great antidote to the scourges of abusive training on one hand and mindless cookie bribing on the other. It is common sense, no-nonsense, and humane. Her writing style is animate, personal, and friendly, and puts the reader at ease -- you will feel like this is not rocket science, and you are fully competent to take on the task of raising a civilized puppy who will make a great companion. Even Benjamin's cartoon illustrations lend a great deal to the supportive tone of the text. A puppy is supposed to be *fun.*

I'd like to see a better treatment of some alternative tools and techniques in this book -- for example, the head halter, a great tool for use by people who aren't good at giving collar corrections. But Benjamin's philosophy and approach are dead-on, and can help the reader develop a great relationship with a pet dog.


One of the best dog training books for puppy owners.   September 26, 1999
 6 out of 6 found this review helpful

After losing my older dog and waiting for delivery of a new puppy I bought and read this book. As a dog owner for life I have learned more from this book than any other. It provides a serious yet lighthearted study of the joyful fun one can have with an animal. It is also a wonderful read.


Excellent basic introduction to obedience training   July 18, 1999
 14 out of 14 found this review helpful

MOTHER KNOWS BEST is justifiably a classic among dog owners and trainers. In clear, and often humorous prose, Carol Lea Benjamin explains the basic steps in teaching a dog to be a happy, well-socialized canine. Althought written long before the Canine Good Citizen program was developed by the AKC, it can be a guide to training a dog to earn the certification. I've been recommending this book for years to people who for one reason or another cannot afford the high local prices of formal obedience training classes.