It is very useful to have a reliable book to refer to whether you need information about your dogs general care and feeding, about training or about potential symptoms of illness that may be worrying you. If you are new to pet ownership or are planning to breed from your pet a good book is even more essential.
The books and videos recommended below are available locally or can be ordered by any good bookshop. You can order any or these books directly from Amazon.
We have looked at a lot of books – many are high on gloss and short on content! All those recommended here contain good sound information and will serve well as a reference source throughout your pets life.
The Doglopaedia by J.M. Evans and Kay White
Published by Henston Ltd.
Very good on normal behavior and basic training as well as detailed coverage of all aspects of dog care. Excellent What if…? sections cover all aspects of illness and behavioural problems which may arise. Not terribly well illustrated but the most complete guide to health and behaviour available and very reasonably priced for the amount of information it contains. Our copies of this book are well thumbed and are a vital part of the training of our nurses.
The Catlopaediaby J.M. Evans and Kay White
Published by Henston Ltd.
Companion to the Doglopaedia and just as good a book.
The R.S.P.C.A. Complete Dog Care Manual and Cat Care Manual by Dr Bruce Fogle
Published by Dorling Kindersley
Beautifully and lavishly illustrated with photographs, this is a very useful How to… book which covers all aspects of dog care in an easy to read and understand style. An excellent book for older children who are interested in learning how to look after their dog properly. The one for Cats is just as good.
Sirius Puppy Training
An excellent video which shows how you can begin training your puppy, as young as 12 weeks old, to understand simple commands. It is aimed at showing you how to ensure that your dog is a well behaved, well adjusted, family pet who will be a pleasure to own. We accidentally stumbled across this video which is only available to rent from Kilkenny Video in Kieran St or Loughboy – if you ask nicely they will lend it for a couple of weeks at a time!
The Dogs Mind and The Cats Mindby Dr Bruce Fogle
Published by Dorling Kindersley
Great books which explain the behaviour – both normal and problem – of dogs and cats. They are written in an entertaining and intelligent style and will give you a great insight into how your pet thinks. You will also have fun reading them!
How to Look After Your Pet Puppyby Mark Evans
Published by Dorling Kindersley
An excellent book for younger children, though even adults will find the information useful. There are equally good companion books for Kittens, Birds, Fish, Guinea Pigs, Hamsters, Rabbits, and several other pets.
The Book of the Bitchby J.M. Evans and Kay White
Published by Henston
From the same authors as The Doglopaedia this book is a mine of information on everything you could possibly need to know about breeding dogs, rearing puppies etc. An absolute essential if you intend breeding from your bitch.
You and Your Dog by David Taylor
Published by Dorling Kindersley
Both a book and a video of the same name. The book is a good complete guide to dog care well illustrated with mostly line drawings. The video is entertaining and informative and certain areas, such as training and grooming, are easier to understand when seen on video. One point – the video is sponsored by Spillers which means that only foods made by that company are recommended. Both the book and video are widely available for sale.
Photo by Tucker Good on Unsplash.
