Well-Adjusted Dog（ISBN=9780547237749）

Dogs, like humans, need a well-rounded life for happiness and health, says author and animal behaviorist Dodman (The Dog Who Loved Too Much, Dogs Behaving Badly) in his latest. Many of his seven steps-enough exercise, the right diet, proper corrective measures-will be familiar, but Dodman's clear delivery and insight make this a worthwhile cover-to-cover read. A strong advocate for positive reinforcement (nixing measures like choke chains and shock collars), Dodman's techniques may strike some as coddling, but his supporting arguments and anecdotes are strong and sensible. The latter half covers topics like conflict resolution and unwanted behaviors (anxiety around strangers, compulsive tail chasing), giving dog lovers multiple suggestions for each problem point-with the notable exception of storm phobia, a multifaceted fear-generating experience that's almost impossible to defuse (though the new static electricity-blocking Storm Defender cape offers promise). Dodson refrains from sweeping pronouncements, frequently pausing to explain that different breeds have different needs, enabling readers to fine-tune their regimens. While this handbook isn't the be-all end-all (and of course doesn't replace regular trips to the vet), it's thorough and informative enough to benefit any dog owner.
  (Publishers Weekly )

One of the greatest myths in dog ownership is that once a puppy is housetrained and has graduated from a puppy training class, an owner's work is done. In fact, that work is just beginning.Drawing on some twenty-five years of clinical experience, Dr.Dodman offers what he calls "continuing education" for dogs and their owners. You will discover

- how much exercise your dog really needs (and why)- how diet can affect behavior- how to communicate clearly with your dog and understand dog body language- how to lead your dog, not dominate him- how to optimize your dog's environment- how to address medical problems that might underlie unwanted behavior

Dr.Dodman's comprehensive, seven-step approach takes on the whole dog--his health, behavior, and environment--and lays the groundwork for the proper care and training of your best friend, for life.

NICHOLAS H. DODMAN is a world-renowned animal behaviorist. He is the author of The Dog Who Loved Too Much, The Cat Who Cried for Help, and Dogs Behaving Badly, and the editor of Puppys First Steps. Currently Dr. Dodman serves as director of the Animal Behavior Clinic at Tuftss Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine. He lives in Westboro, Massachusetts. 

A Note to the Reader
Introduction 
Part 1 : Basic Needs
1. A Tired Dog Is a Good Dog 
2. Food for Thought 
3. Dog Speak 
4. Command and Control 
5. Leadership Program 
6. The Fearful Dog 
7. Environmental Enrichment 
Part 2: Maladjustment and Medical Matters 
8. A Rock and a Hard Place 
9. Physical Health Concerns 
10. Healing Potions
Part 3: A Second Chance
11. Adopting a Dog
Epilogue 
Acknowledgments
Index