Breeds Books

Fall in love with a Doodle Dog! This guide tells you everything you need to know about this popular cross-breed. With their cute names and curly coats, Doodles have become popular pets. And why not? They’re more than just cute—they’re generally affectionate, playful, and highly trainable dogs. They also don’t shed much, so they’ll ideal for people with pet allergies. In other words, a perfect family companion! If you don’t know exactly what a Doodle is, they’re a cross breed of a poodle with another kind of dog; think Labradoodles (Labrador and poodle), Aussiedoodles (Australian shepherd and poodle), Goldendoodles (Golden Retriever and poodle), or Sheepadoodles (English Sheepdog and poodle). You get the idea. The possibilities are endless and no matter the crossbreed, they all live in the cuteness zone. If you don’t want to resist—and who can?—Doodle Dogs For Dummies is the ultimate guide on all things Doodles. You’ll find helpful information within its pages whether you’re just considering a Doodle, or you’ve already brought one home. Learn how to identify breeds Find the Doodle that's best for your family Pick a breeder or go the animal shelter route Keep your Doodle looking their best with proper grooming Acclimate your Doodle to your home, including to other pets Get expert tips on training and healthy treats for your Doodle From long walks on sunny days to cuddling on the couch, you have a lot of quality time to look forward to with your furry best friend. And Doodle Dogs For Dummies will ensure that your Doodle is happy and healthy for their lifetime.

The good, the bad, and the snugly about your new best friend No breed of dog is the subject of more extreme feelings—both good and bad—than the Pit Bull. Man-eating monster or heroic nanny-dog: What's the real story? Are Pit Bulls the very best breed for kids? (Not always.) Is it all in how you raise them? (Not totally). Will they lick you to death? (Absolutely!) In the fully updated 2nd Edition of Pit Bulls For Dummies, Dr. Caroline Coile—Dog Writer's Association of America Hall of Famer and former Pit Bull owner—sniffs out the reality behind the myth, rips through the dogma that both vilifies and sanctifies this unique family of dogs, helps you find the best source for your new family member, and shows you the latest and greatest ways to raise, train, and live with your own partying Pit Bull and reap the rewards of happy canine companionship for years to come. Understand your Pit Bull’s origins and characteristics Decide if a Pit Bull is for you Evaluate Pit Bull sources, whether adopting, rescuing, or buying Care for all ages, from puppies to older dogs Deal with bad behavior Socialize your new dog Follow the advice in this book and help show the world that well-brought-up Pit Bulls are some of the most charming, companionable, and fun-to-be-around dogs out there—enjoy!

Discover how to raise, train, and enjoy your Siberian Husky with this fantastic resource The Second Edition of Siberian Huskies For Dummies offers the most up-to-date information about welcoming a Siberian Husky into your home and loving your new family member. Author and Husky owner Diane Morgan walks you through how to care for these beautiful, curious, and engaging dogs, as she: Suggests ideal methods for adopting and selecting a Husky right for you Examines ways to socialize your new Husky Shares details about Siberian Husky grooming and veterinary care Provides additional information about behavior correction and training Siberian Huskies For Dummies, 2nd Edition is packed full of practical tips about how to raise and have fun with your young or old Siberian Husky. The author shares her advice in plain English for people looking for accessible and approachable information. Perfect for new and experienced husky owners, this guide also belongs on the bookshelves of anyone who’s ever considered adopting one of these magnificent animals.

Own and care for a classy dog—no pedigree required! All dogs are unique—but mixed breeds are even more so! The new edition of Mixed Breeds For Dummies helps you count the ways, walking you through the latest on choosing, training, and caring for a non-traditionally pedigreed pup. Whether you prefer mystery mixes or designer Labradoodles, winsome rescues or pampered pups from a breeder, you'll find everything you need to know and more about your new faithful friend—including the science on why they frequently enjoy better health than most pedigreed breeds and often make better domestic companions! In her friendly, dog-whisperer style, professional animal trainer and prolific author, Miriam Fields-Babineau, begins with tips on choosing the mix that's right for you, setting up a puppy-friendly environment, and making sure your larder is stocked with healthy foods they'll love. Once you're confident your new pal is happily settled in, she clues you in on the best (and most enjoyable) ways to exercise together for maximum fitness, finding a vet you trust (and administering first aid yourself), as well as schooling you in the latest animal psychology-based training methods to ensure you both know where you stand (or sit). You'll also discover ways to get to know your friend even better—from exercises to test their temperament to delving into the secrets hidden in their DNA! Decide which mix is the one for you Keep your furry friend healthy, from puppy to senior Establish discipline and overcome common training challenges Socialize your dog at a mixed-breed club From walks and games on the beach to cozy nights in your happy home, there's a lot of fun to look forward to with your not-quite-best-in-show but much-loved best friend. This book will ensure you and your mixed-breed pal will live happily and healthily ever after!

Get the most out of this Golden breed Man's best friend doesn’t get any better than the Golden Retriever. Originally bred as hunting companions who retrieved birds and hares and delivered them to hand, the breed today is much more than "just a hunting dog." Highly intelligent and eager-to-please, Golden Retrievers have a history as working dogs that makes them easy to train. Attired in a luxurious fur coat and blessed with a gentle and affectionate nature, they are the third most popular breed in the United States and a favorite for families with young children. Written in a friendly style by Retriever-owner Nona Kilgore Bauer, the 2nd edition of Golden Retrievers For Dummies puts everything you need to know about your furry friend right in your hand. You'll learn how to care for a Golden Retriever from puppyhood to its stately golden years and how to communicate with them better. You'll also learn about grooming and training, as well as how to deal with common ailments and behaviors. Select the best puppy for you Adopt an older dog Dog-proof your home Train your Golden Retriever right Whatever you're looking for from your Golden Retriever, this book will help you get there, making for happiness all around—and many golden years ahead!

Your guide to a happy life with your Jack Russel Terrier!With their spunky personalities, endless energy, and remarkable intelligence, it’s no wonder Jack Russell Terriers have become a favorite for television ads and Hollywood films. Performing comes naturally to Jack Russell Terriers (JRTs for short). They love to show off their strange and quirky personalities, and they have more than their share of fun while entertaining you and themselves. Despite their winsome ways, Jack Russell Terriers aren’t for everyone. It takes time, patience, and an unmistakable sense of humor to tolerate their endless antics and tireless energy. For thousands of dog owners across the country, however, no other breed is worth considering. Jack Russell Terriers For Dummies is the guide for you if You're thinking of owning a Jack Russell Terrier You just brought a new puppy home You are curious about this popular breed You already own a JRT and want to know more about its temperament Jack Russell Terriers For Dummies shows you how to cope with the breed's high energy levels and odd but common behaviors. You'll become acquainted with the breed standard and look at common faults. This book also covers the following topics and more: Distinguishing between a pet dog and a show dog Deciding if a puppy or an adult dog is best for you Puppy-proofing your house Understanding guidelines for obedience training and agility training, Dealing with behavioral problems such as separation anxiety, aggression, and barking Finding a great veterinarian Knowing how to care for your pet: Health, grooming, exercise Dealing with health concerns specific to JRTs Jack Russell Terriers are cute, charming, and very smart. They're a big dog in a little dog’s body and are fun, fearless, and funny to be around. Remember, however, that they also are pushy, extremely active, and have a voracious appetite for attention. Jack Russell Terriers For Dummies will help you make sure you’re making a well-educated, conscious choice to purchase one of these little white tornadoes and to give you the knowledge to keep your sanity after the decision has been made. P.S. If you think this book seems familiar, you’re probably right. The Dummies team updated the cover and design to give the book a fresh feel, but the content is the same as the previous release of Jack Russell Terriers For Dummies (9780764552687). The book you see here shouldn’t be considered a new or updated product. But if you’re in the mood to learn something new, check out some of our other books. We’re always writing about new topics!

Discover how to raise, train, and enjoy your German Shepherd with this fantastic resource.Everybody thinks they know the German Shepherd. Many of us grew up with Rin Tin Tin, or we saw German Shepherds in nightly news reports breaking up riots, or we saw them in neighbors' backyards protecting children. But that only scratches the surface of one of the most fascinating and confusing breeds on earth. Whether it's selection, nutrition, routine health care, training, competition, or just having fun, there's more to it with a German Shepherd than with other breeds. And if you're thinking about adding one to your family, or you already have one, you need to know all you can about this breed. Which is where German Shepherds For Dummies comes in. Is this noble and intelligent breed the right dog for you and your family? German Shepherds For Dummies provides the answer to this and all your questions about getting, caring for, and living with this loveable breed. Lifelong German Shepherd owner and longtime German Shepherd breeder, trainer, and exhibitor, Carline Coile, PhD ,gets you up and running with what you need to know to: * Find and communicate with reputable breeders * Choose the right German Shepherd for you * Housebreak and socialize your new puppy * Educate yourself and your dog * Handle behavioral problems * Participate in competitions Dr. Coile provides insights into the German Shepherd temperament and loads of sensible, easy-to-follow advice, along with fun facts and Shepherd trivia, amusing and informative anecdotes, and tips on how to have a great time with your dog. Discover how to: Understand how to communicate with your German Shepherd Train your German Shepherd Find a good trainer and attend classes Deal with hereditary health problems Feed and exercise your German Shepherd Recognize, prevent and treat common health problems Have loyal friend for life The indispensable guide for you and your German Shepherd, German Shepherds For Dummies is the only book you'll need to help you have the best possible experience with this handsome and sensitive breed of dog. P.S. If you think this book seems familiar, you’re probably right. The Dummies team updated the cover and design to give the book a fresh feel, but the content is the same as the previous release of German Shepherds (9780764552809). The book you see here shouldn’t be considered a new or updated product. But if you’re in the mood to learn something new, check out some of our other books. We’re always writing about new topics!

Keep up to date with the latest info on raising, training, and living with your Chihuahua Chihuahuas For Dummies is your guide to discovering whether a Chihuahua is the right addition to your family and to caring for these little dogs once they’re under your roof. This fun book answers your most pressing questions about the breed’s needs and temperament, plus offers loads of friendly advice on everything a Chihuahua owner should know. You’ll also find fun facts and trivia, amusing and informative anecdotes, and tips on how to have a great time with your Chihuahua. This down-to-earth For Dummies reference is the only book you'll need to help you have the best possible experience with these very affectionate and adorable doggos. Understand the Chihuahua’s characteristics and body language Keep your dog healthy and happy with diet, exercise, and socialization Deal with bad behavior like biting, barking, and jumping Train your Chihuahua in the basics—sit, stay, heel, and come This is the book for anyone planning to adopt a Chihuahua and needing all the facts, plus current Chihuahua owners who need advice on training or are thinking of adding another member to their current fur family.

Pomeranians are among the fluffiest—and most loyal—of the tiny dog breeds, but is a Pom the perfect pooch for you? Distinguished by its vivacity, intelligence, extroversion, and fierce loyalty to its family, the tiny Pomeranian can make an excellent companion—for the right person. As with any breed, and dogs in general, it's important for you to know what to expect when you bring a Pom into your life. Whether you're a new or an aspiring Pom owner, Pomeranians For Dummies teaches you everything you need to know to find, choose, raise, care for, and have a ball with a member of that outstanding breed of dog. How do Poms stack up to other toy dogs? How do you properly socialize a Pom with people and other dogs, so she's well-adjusted? How is caring for tiny dogs—especially when they're puppies—different from caring for larger breeds? You'll find the answers to these questions and so much more. From finding your canine soul mate to breeding Pomeranians for show or companionship, this fun and practical guide is written in plain English and covers all the bases, including how to: Decide whether the Pom is right for you Find a good Pom breeder Select the perfect Pom for you Make sense of your Pom's behavior Train your Pom Keep your Pom happy, healthy, and well-groomed Know what common health problems to look for Take your Pom on the road Additionally, you'll learn ten fun facts about Poms, fun activities to do with your Pom, a cleaning schedule, which household items are dangerous for your pet, and online resources. Get your own copy of Pomeranians For Dummies and start a long, happy, and healthy life with your little buddy.

The Poodle is known for her keen intelligence, excellent trainability, and, most notably, those signature curly locks. But there’s more to the Poodle than meets the eye (like, say, those expensive grooming bills). So, to Poodle or not to Poodle? That is the question. With an overview of the breed’s history, an exploration of all three varieties (Standard, Miniature, and Toy), and 8 pages of full-color photos detailing the colors available and tips and techniques for grooming, Poodles for Dummies is filled with all the meaty information and enlightening morsels you need to decide if this refined beauty is a good match for you. You’ll get answers to your most important questions, including: Which size Poodle is best for me? Which color? How do I know if a Poodle breeder is reputable? What are the pros and cons of shelters and rescue groups? What do I look for in choosing a healthy Poodle? How can I Poodle-proof my home and yard? What’s the best way to introduce my Poodle to kids and other pets? How often does my Poodle need grooming? No matter which size, color, or gender you own, Poodles are not a “wash ‘n’ wear” breed. But if you have the time, passion, and dedication to give her the training, exercise, and upkeep she needs, you and your curly companion will have a happy and rewarding life together.