How to Be Your Dog's Best Friend

The monks of New Skete took their years of experience training dogs at the monastery and turned it into one of the best "how-to" books for raising a canine friend. Using just the right mix of discipline and love, the monks offer some great advice to develop a good relationship with a well-trained and cared-for companion. Where the book itself can bog down in details, the audiobook is a godsend for any harried pet owner or busy person looking to improve his or her canine relationships. The reading is no-nonsense but friendly and makes training tips seem do-able and even fun. The best part about the book, however, is the examples of how poor discipline leads to unruly dogs. While the stories themselves are unbelievable--and unbelievably funny for anyone who has suffered at the hands of a well-meaning pup--the reader manages to sound serious while still enjoying the subject matter, no small feat considering the magnitude of the mishaps. H.L.S. (c) AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine

March 1, 2000
As well-known breeders of German shepherds, these monks (The Art of Raising a Puppy) have developed excellent insight into some of the best ways to train, manage, and enjoy life with your dog. The tapes begin by offering basic information on the dog as a pack animal and on how to select a puppy and find training help. They then progress through housebreaking, a variety of training procedures, and situational considerations. Social behaviors, problems such as chewing and digging, and suggested solutions are discussed. Not every technique is appropriate for every dog. The monks essentially acknowledge that there are definite breed differences in training herding dogs vs. terriers vs. toys, etc., but that disclaimer may be missed by some listeners. While "one size does not fit all" in terms of training or lifestyle, their advice is generally very sound. Their approach is firm but compassionate. Michael Wager sounds like a sage, older man who is very familiar with and confident in his advice. A very good value and highly recommended for public, school, and college libraries.--Carolyn Alexander, Brigadoon Lib., Salinas, CA

Copyright 2000 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.