Becoming a dog owner books

[Chickpearocker]

Hello

I am thinking of getting a dog could you let me know if there are any good books etc I could read or things I could do before becoming a dog owner.

Pippa Mattisons Total Recall.

Culture Clash by Jean Donaldson and In Defense of Dogs by John Bradshaw

What stage of your research are you at? Eg deciding whether or not to get a dog, deciding on a breed, definitely going to get one but learning as much as you can first? Have you owned or cared for dogs in the past?

Regardless of the above, as soon as you get your dog I'd strongly recommend finding a local APDT accredited dog trainer and attending classes as you will learn a lot that way.

Well I definately want a dog and always have done. Growing up we had dogs but that seems a long time ago. I’m trying to learn as much as I can and not make any mistakes! I have two children aged four and one so I am mindful that I might have to wait a while although I would really love to get one right now! I want to do the best by the dog I get so I figured trying to educate myself might be a good idea x

Perfect puppy by Gwen Bailey is great if you’re considering buying a dog that needs further training (any age). It doesn’t go into much detail about how to correct ingrained bad behaviours or problems but it does discuss how to deal with common issues and breed related traits in young dogs. I also second the Defense of Dogs for general doggy info and just an interesting read.

Perfect puppy presumes your dog will do what you ask it to do without any problems, it's not one I would recommend.

Are you considering a rescue or certain breeds? Worth visiting Discover Dogs at Crufts. Read up on health issues in any breeds you consider. If you’re considering buying a dog then it’s a minefield. Do your research as it’s really difficult to avoid puppy farmers. And start with the breed club or society.

Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell, and Know g.co/kgs/r7toJv I'm not a dog person, and wouldn't have a dog if dh didn't insist, this book made it doable.

Thank you everyone. I’m
Not considering a rescue because I don’t think they allow it with young children. Also would be worried that the dog could be unpredictable. At the same time I won’t buy off gumtree or Facebook. I would like to see the dogs in a family home.

Some excellent recommendations here (I especially love In defence of Dogs and Inside of a Dog). If your looking for more of these kinds of books, that go into the science of canine behaviour it a pretty accessible way then:

• The genius of Dogs (Brian Hare and Vanessa Woods)
• Being a dog (Alexandra Horowitz)

... are also really good.

I also think The Happy Puppy Handbook by Pippa Mattinson is very good for people who want a lightweight overview of puppy raising, before they get one.

However, spending time really reading about the breeds you are interesting is very useful. All breeds have their "bad" traits and you need to be realistic about what they are and whether you can cope with them - preferably before the dog arrives!

@Chickpearocker
No judging. My girl is not a rescue.
Many rescue dogs don’t have issues and some rescues foster to families so you would know what you are taking on. They do get pups too.
I wanted a particular breed. I chose a pedigree.
You DON’T want to see pups in a “family” home was such. People who breed from their pet tend to know sod all about the health tests certain breeds should have before breeding. They also generally don’t know enough to choose the best sire. Worst case scenario? That nice family is a front for a puppy mill.
If you want a certain breed then go to the breed club or society. Get to shows and meet breeders. Find out all you can about the breed. Exercise needs? Grooming? Health issues?
And be prepared to wait.
Good luck.