CNN - Review: 'Dog Owner's Question and Answer Book'

(CNN) -- At first reading I thought this book was composed just to make money, an impression created by the very basic questions posed and answered. Having been involved with dogs and other animals for many years, I felt this book to be too basic to be of interest for me.

But then I went out and started asking ordinary people some of those same questions. Most I asked could not give an adequate response, and the purpose of the 'Dog Owner's Question and Answer Book' was revealed to me: This book is designed to simplify life for the family or individual acquiring a puppy in urban circumstances, with no real training in how animals and people live together.

If anything, the book oversimplifies the questions and answers, but many people must start with the basics. I wish more people would at least get this book before just leaping into dog ownership. Perhaps then the shelters would not be so full of animals primarily given up for behavior problems. (This book covers the rudimentary reasons and solutions to correct behavior.)

Actually, all categories of basic questions are quite complete, covering initial choice, general care, diet, training, exercise, grooming, health and disease (especially the dreaded flea), breeding, behavior, and the sport of showing (very basic). But this version of the book is the first edition in the United States and Canada, and many aspects presented bear subtle references to being first published in Britain. The definitions of purebred, outcross and mixed breed (mutt or generic dog) vary widely with the American concept. The erroneous concept that all mixed breed dogs have a "genetic vigor" lacking in purebreds is stated strongly.

Just past the contents list are five "solution finder" flow charts, each with it's own category of questions. The general need is stated, then the reader is directed on the "yes or no" answer path resulting in a list of the possible solutions to the general conditions chosen. These charts are not the easiest read, but the process of then turning to the appropriate question page is enhanced by the built in place-saver flaps on the cover. You can then refer back to the list on the chart to go on to the next possible question/answer.

This is an attractive coffee-table sized, soft-bound book. It is only 156 pages long, plus a two-page index. The addition of the index is a puzzle, because the contents offer all 300 questions, grouped by subject.

Is this a good and useful book? Yes, for every urban person wishing to keep a dog but lacking experience in animals. This is a very good book to place you on the right track in choosing a first dog and keeping it and yourself happy and healthy.

Is it the only book you need to be able to keep a dog? No, there are many more focused and in-depth volumes that deal with certain areas of pet keeping. If you are acquiring a purebred animal, there are books on each specific breed that may be more helpful, as each breed has it own characteristics that go far beyond looks and size. The well-equipped dog owner should be conversant with both this overall phase, as well as the specific.

John Bowen has been involved in the world of purebred dogs for 35 years. He is a trainer, handler and breeder of dogs. He founded Bahia Sur Kennel Club of Chula Vista, California, has been involved in several specialty breed and all-breed clubs, and is the Secretary of the California Federation of Dog Clubs, which promotes responsible pet ownership through education and example.

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