Now thoroughly revised and updated with 104 new pages, this fully illustrated reference written by veterinarian and pet expert Dr. Bruce Fogle covers more than 420 dog breeds and varieties, describes their histories and shows dog owners how to take the best care of their pet. Unique and in-depth this new edition is a thoroughly up-to-date and complete exploration of the canine world: - each breed fully photographed and annotated - Key Facts box for each breed - rare breeds, such as the Kyi Leo, and experimental crossbreeds, like the Labradoodle - evolution of dogs from wolves to loyal companion - dogs in art, history, literature, film, folklore and religion - dogs in sports, in service and as companions - how to choose and care for a dog - complete sections on anatomy, health, safety, grooming, training - insights into canine behavior and psychology - glossary - useful addresses.
I have posted a review earlier, when I had not bought this book, but just looked at it, and, after having bought it and looked through it, it is far better than I expected.With over 420 breeds and over 600 photographs, this book could make any dog-lover go mad! Excellent quality photos provide the reader with a very good idea of the size, weight and looks of each breed. Little, easy-to-read icons below the Facts provide the reader with information about the grooming, exercise and climatic needs of the dog, along with the temperament.Short, but comprehensive, text provides the reader with an overview of the breed and the hunting and companion abilities.Apart from all the various breeds, the whole structure and various characteristics of behaviour of dogs have also been explained. Dog food and dog products have also been printed and these would be of great help to new owners.Buying a puppy is a big decision and, so, it has to be done carefully and this book is just right for it.All in all, it's pretty amazing and I highly recommend it.
great for breed variety but text less informative
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 23 years ago
This is overall an excellent book which includes about 500 different breeds, far more than other similar books I have seen. However, the texts are brief and not very informative. The symbols (which indicate a breed's temperament, grooming needs) are ambiguous at best. e.g. When there is no symbol indicating whether a dog needs room to run, does it mean the dog has no such need? Basically, one can get an idea of the size, look, origin, and original purpose of a breed from this book. For any information beyond a one-sentence summary, one must find another source.
Excellent Book!
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 25 years ago
This book is excellent. You will not regret your purchase. I read this book everynight. If your interested in buying a dog and want to choose a breed, this book is perfect. Each dog has its own description and history by the author. There are also icons which represent aspects of each dog: A pitbull might have a child icon crossed out, meaning: "not suitable for children". Therefore, a husky might have a snowflake, building crossed out and a brush icon meaning: "good in the snow, not suitable for urban environment and requires much grooming". This book is exremely helpful, educational and entertaining. The pictures are amazingly vivid. The book layout, order and organization is excellent. Again, if you are interested in purchasing a dog, this book is PERFECT!! If you are interested in dog breeds, this book is PERFECT!! If you love good photography and tons of reading time, this book is PERFECT!! You wont regret buying this book..
Wonderful breed reference
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 25 years ago
This is by far one of the most colorful and informative dog encyclopedias I have seen. Many rare breeds are covered that most books do not cover as they are not AKC. I own Shiloh Shepherds and a King Shepherd and this is the only book that has either one in it. DK books always have beautiful photography as well.
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