can anyone recommend a book (English NOT AMERICAN) thats quite a good basic book for a new novice owner. Not so much  speciialised obedience, but more a general book teling them of their overall responsibilities as a new dog owner....and some basics on feeding a proper diet and getting vaccinations etc. Friend of a friend getting 1st family pet, although hubby has had dogs before and is a right know it all plus living in the past era and still thinks its ok to allow it to roam unfenced areas and be fed on kitchen scraps!!! Also if it includes children and dogs and how they should behave around their new puppy then that would be a bonus!

If it's specifically to introduce a pup I would recommend The Perfect Puppy by Gwen Bailey.  I found it really informative and still refer back to it on occasion.

Also the Ringpress 'Pet Owner's Guide to the xxxxxx' are usually good basic books. What breed are they getting?

> and be fed on kitchen scraps

You might like to remind him of the Animal Welfare Bill passed on 6th April 2007 and let him know that pets have to be fed appropriately!  If he's such a nelly know all, just drop the £20,000 fine or imprisonment, into the conversation!  :-)  :-)  :-)

I would highly recommend 'the perfect puppy' by Gwen Bailey. As well as advice on what your puppy should and shouldnt being doing at particular ages, it has alot of information regarding health issues. It is quite a good reference tool to look back at for health issues if your abit of a panicker (like me!).

The Perfect Puppy by Gwen Bailey - I would have been lost without it, read it every single day for advice and help. Its is a great book and I've lent it to many friends with puppies too.

For real basics ans very good on minor ailments etc I have always like the Sherleys dog Book, always gave them to the new puppy owners as they cost me around £4 a go.  The perfect Puppy and the Book of the Bitch are ones I recommend to new owners.

Sam I can't remember if it is English or American but I use the dogladpedia (sp) as a good reference guide.  It is the sister book to the book of the bitch and there are cross references through it to the BOTB.

Hi Sam,

I don't know if there are any books around which cover quite so many facets of new dog ownership within one publication but IMO for invaluable training advice, especially with children in mind, I'd suggest having a look at John Rogerson's books.

regards, Teri

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Doglopaedia-Complete-Guide-Ringpress-Books/dp/1860540740/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1241182220&sr=8-1

There you go!

Another vote for The Perfect Puppy :)

The Perfect Puppy is the book I recommend as soon as families go on our waiting list.

Diane

> I use the dogladpedia

Its by the same Authors as 'Bog of the Bitch' J.M.Evans and Kay White.
I agree with Ali, *BUT* be aware its great for Health/first aid etc ect but it has a very dubious chapter on training with some very archaic advice eg: advising 'Dominance rolls' and pinning your dog down :( so maybe not great for a novice who may take this and run with it?

Another Vote for Gwen Bailey from me.

And regards your question about children and dogs Battersea dogs home- 'Dog safety' might be of interest, good because you can download it! (however it wouldnt download onto my Apple for some reason so you might want to proof read it, I've heard its good but cant have a  skwizz at it!)

Hope this helps :)

Bog of the Bitch???

LOL .Book of the Bitch! ;)

I was just going to ask if it was a typo or you were trying to tell us something :)

thanks....well I have my eye on the puppy book you all rave about, on ebay, so will try and get them a copy.

YOU and YOUR-DOG-DAVID-TAYLOR_
Not breed specific but quite good as a general guide, got some training, health, exercise, welfare etc. Think there is a new revised edition out now but bunch of copies on ebay at present.
Chris
ps just found this blurb about contents:-

You & Your Dog - David Taylor
This is a practical guide to dog care, containing detailed information on every aspect of keeping your dog fit, healthy and in good condition.  It gives practical, step-by-step instructions and advice on grooming, feeding and nutrition, housing and handling, and pregnancy and puppycare.  The book also includes veterinary diagnosis charts to show how to spot signs of illness and advise on veterinary treatment, first aid and home nursing