The Golden Retriever: An Owner's Guide to a Happy Healthy Pet

by Julie Cairns

At last, a book about your pet that emphasizes total care, training and companionship! You'll not only learn about the species-specific traits of your special pet, you'll also learn what the world's like from your pet's perspective; how to feet, groom and keep your pet healthy; and how to enjoy your pet through training and activities you can do together.

The Basset Hound is written by a breed expert and includes a special chapter on training by Dr. Ian Dunbar, internationally renowned animal behaviorist, and chapters on getting active with your dog by long-time Dog Fancy magazine columnist Bardi McLennan.

Best of all, the book is filled with info-packed sidebars and fun facts to make caring for your pet easy and enjoyable.

Genres: Dogs

160 pages, Hardcover

First published September 19, 1995

Reviews

[Kenneth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Perhaps this book was written backwards.
The author starts with describing the origins of the breed with an emphasis on the pure "breed standard" and A.K.C judging and competition. She comes off a bit stuffy, and if you are not going to have your dog in shows, then you may be inclined to put the book down, don't.
After about chapter 5, you will pick up many valuable tips, or if you are already doing the right things, then this very knowledgeable writer will be enforcing your good habits.
Feeding, and health issues are two strong points in this book. The section on dog training is solid and true.

[Katherine Gee Perrone · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good historical overview of the breed followed by general information about dog health, training, and incorporating a dog into your family. It is not a comprehensive resource, but certainly a good starting book if you are first time dog owner. The training section was especially useful. While the book is about "The Golden Retriever", once you get past the history of the breed and breed prone illnesses, the advice and information is good for all dogs.

I learned the word "Goolies" from this book, which that alone gives it four stars.

[Erin · Rating 1 out of 5]

Very outdated....the book is 99% generic information true of any dog, but illustrated with photos of golden retrievers. Only the first chapter focuses much on goldens, and mostly by a long drawn-out description of the physical breed standard. Even common breed-specific problems, such as hip dysplasia in goldens, aren't mentioned. I have plenty of books on dogs, training, and puppies, I would have liked to see more of a focus on issues and features specific to goldens.

[Sharon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good book for anyone wanting to get a golden or who has just gotten one.