Appleby clearly cares deeply about dogs but he doesn't waste time trying to explain their behaviour as if they were just like us but a different shape. Despite what some owners may like to say, for example, dogs don't feel "guilt". Physical reactions which would seem to signal otherwise reflect rather their instinctive concern with submission and dominance, a heritage from their remote past when they lived in packs. To understand them "we must view our relationship with them from their perspective". So to have an obedient dog it is necessary for the animal to accept the dominant role of its owner. This needs to be regularly defined. Thus "make sure your dog gives way to you at doorways," and "don't step over or walk round your dog: make it move".

The book's most important point is that above all a dog likes attention and will continue behaviour which seems to attract it. Any reaction to what the dog does, positive or negative, will usually operate as a reinforcement, "and so the more you try to stop it barking, jumping up or whatever, the more attention the dog gets and the more it will carry on". The secret is to "ignore behaviour you don't want and to reward what you do". Appleby discusses a whole range of topics - from pulling on the lead through unwanted chewing to excessive territorial defensiveness - in these terms. There aren't instant solutions for doggy deviancy and corrective measures need time but a careful reading of this thoughtful book should enable any owner to have a Good Dog.

The book is obtainable from Broadcast Books, 84 Whiteladies Road, Clifton Bristol, BS8 2QP, UK or e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it . Price £12.95 plus postage and packing £3.00.

From Reporter 112 

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