30 Days To A Well-mannered Dog

July 7, 2011 5:13 pm | By Zootoo Editor Flinn D.

30 Days to a Well-Mannered Dog is a thought-provoking follow-up guide to author Tamar Geller’s popular book The Loved Dog. Emphasizing a dog-centric approach to training, Geller stresses the need for long-term relationship building and understanding the overall needs of dogs over getting canines just to respond to quick commands.

Geller’s thoughts about empathizing with a dog’s point of view will come instinctively to owners who already think of themselves as pet parents and their pets as part of the family – and the book underscores using the canine desire for companionship, security, and love as motivators for good behavior, instead of fear or aversion.

As the title implies, 30 Days to a Well-Mannered Dog is organized into chapters, one for each day, which owners can follow throughout the course of one month. But the book is a valuable resource even if you aren’t on a schedule. Geller covers all of the basic behavioral problem areas – socialization, housebreaking, and leash training – with step-by-step instructions that are easy to understand. And Geller’s canine-centered approach comes through clearly when the book addresses topics such as incorporating natural doggy instincts for chewing, nipping and playing into good behavior, instead of trying to banish them completely.

Geller also incorporates training tips and methods that may be new to some veteran dog owners, such as the “Las Vegas method” of using random treats to keep dogs engaged, or organizing training treats into gold, silver, and bronze-level status. One especially inspired section points out examples of non-command words and phrases that dogs can learn to be happier, calmer, and more in touch with their humans – such as “chillax,” “friend,” and “I love you.”

30 Days to a Well-Mannered Dog does include small sections on subjects that may seem off-topic for a training book, such as diet, microchipping, and general safety tips. But as with her behavioral advice, Geller provides such thoughtful, sound tips on these topics that many readers may not mind.

Bottom line: Whether you’re trying out training for the first time, or just want some new ideas, 30 Days to a Well-Mannered Dog’s canine-centered, compassionate approach is a great way to start.

Pros: Many pet parents will find the canine-centered approach instinctive; book provides new training tips.

Cons: Small sections of the book are off-topic for a training book.