Be the Pack Leader

October 1, 2007
Millan, television's "Dog Whisperer," says that "Even the most unobservant person can see an owner's own issues totally mirrored in his or her dogs' problems," and in this follow-up to last year's bestselling Cesar's Way, he makes that connection more explicit and exploitable. Every dog wants a "clearly defined social framework, with a fair, consistent pack leader"; chances are good, then, that behind every unruly dog is an inconsistent human. To become the master your dog needs, one must cultivate "calm-assertive energy," a mind-set that puts both dogs and people at ease; besides thorough explanation, Millan offers a number of suggestions for developing this powerful form of non-verbal communication, including visualization techniques and inner dialogue ("focus your mind, and then tell yourself, 'This is my sofa.' "). Answering readers' requests for more straightforward advice, the book also offers a rundown of training tools-collars, leashes, etc.-and step-by-step instructions for properly handling common occurrences such as meeting a new dog, walking, feeding and visiting the vet. In numerous case studies, Millan's love for his work is obvious and infectious; whether you need a book for your dog or yourself, Millan's simple techniques, compassionate tone and intimate knowledge of dog psychology (and the human effect on it) makes this a worthy read.

October 1, 2007
Readers expecting a typical dog training how-to or dog psychology book are going to be surprised and challenged by this new book by the host of National Geographic's "Dog Whisperer". It is a compelling but sometimes confusing blend of training method, psychology, and case studies covering both canine and human partners in Millan's "pack leader" concept. The text is divided into two parts"Balancing Your Dog" and "Balancing Ourselves"with the most important discussions centering on discipline, reward and punishment, and the proper use of training tools and techniques. The chapters that focus on human balance and energy are going to be harder for the average person to understand or accept, although to his credit, Millan has provided several references and notes for those chapters. The appendix serves as a quick reference guide to managing common situations such as meeting a dog for the first time, dealing with obsessive and fixated behaviors, and going to the dog park. Whether you agree with his approach to training or his assessment of canine psychology, Millan's new book is worth reading. It will likely hit the best-sellers lists just as his first title, "Cesar's Way", did. Highly recommended for all public libraries.Edell M. Schaefer, Brookfield P.L., WI

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