Are bulldogs good with kids? Why do shar peis frown? Which dog was bred to be eaten? For dog-lovers of all ages, this fascinating and informative book provides you with all you need to know about the amazing world of pedigree dogs. Containing the most important characteristics, key facts and unusual features of over 100 breeds, The Dog Directory is an indispensable guide for any dog lover, whether you prefer an energetic Afghan or a pretty Papillon.

Dog breeds.

Lavishly illustrated, the 256 page directory of breeds is presented by group in the order: non-sporting, working, herding, gundogs, hounds, terriers and toy. The background to each breed is detailed - its origins, development, characteristics and, where applicable, mode of working. Breed standards are given as well as care boxes for at a glance tips for looking after each breed. Also featured are some 79 rare breeds, ranging from the ancient Hellenic Hound to the highly specialized Lundehund, or Norwegian Puffin Dog. An introductory sections covers the history of dogs, ranging back over the millennia to the wild dogs which first warmed themselves at the fires of early humans. There follow sections on the anatomy, physiology, and psychology of the dog, and specialist terminology is illustrated with examples taken from the breeds featured in the Encyclopedia. Photographs, maps, and drawings show how particular conformations and characteristics have evolved into groupings which are recognized today.

Noble and dignified, if somewhat tousled, the Otterhound is no longer called upon to hunt his namesake quarry, though he now makes a reliable companion dog for an active family who knows how to keep him busy. This giant hunting scenthound is blessed with a boisterous nature, a sonorous voice and an irrepressible love of mud, traits that may not be welcome in every household. No dog as big (and messy) as the Otterhound is for everyone, and the Otterhound—though personable, even-tempered and friendly—is no exception. Author Juliette Cunliffe, a recognized authority on hound breeds the world over, paints a pleasing but realistic portrait of this majestic hound among hounds, offering sensible information about the breed’s training, feeding, care and maintenance. Students of the Otterhound will welcome the author’s concise but complete history of the breed in England as well as American breeder Elizabeth Conway’s retelling of the breed’s history in the United States. Like all editions in Kennel Club Books’ Comprehensive Owner’s Guide series, Otterhound discusses the breed standard, breed characteristics, puppy selection, owner requirements, healthcare and much more. Surely all admirers of this noble breed will welcome this Special Rare-Breed Edition as a cherished addition to their canine libraries.

How do we define happiness in a world where people regularly feel rushed, stressed, and overwhelmed by the daily demands of life? Authors Garry McDaniel and Sharon Massen suggest that we look to our canine companions to learn what happiness is really about. Based on the authors’ research and insights as well as real-life stories about dogs and their people, this eye-opening guide helps us explore seven essential traits for happiness through the eyes of our trusted furry friends. Inside The Dog’s Guide to Happiness: •The value of loyalty in our personal and business relationships •Canine communication tactics—namely, vocalizations, body language, and eye contact—and a discussion on interpersonal communication •The lost art of play and why it is important for people—and dogs—of all ages •The unconditional love that dogs bestow on their humans and how it applies to our relationships with other people •How an unwillingness to forgive others holds us back, and why dogs are able to “forgive and forget” •How to nurture an optimistic outlook on life’s ups and downs •A dog’s approach to life balance and why a lack of balance is detrimental to emotional health •Exercises, charts, and worksheets to guide readers in self-exploration through applying the principles set forth in each chapter •Suggestions and activities to help readers attain the seven secrets of happiness

How would your life change if you could improve your dog's aggression? The Dog Aggression System Every Dog Owner Needs includes a science-based, research-driven treatment plan you can adapt to your own particular situation. The plan will get you working on improving your dog's aggression today, plus much, much more. In addition to behavior modification The Dog Aggression System Every Dog Owner Needs reveals other ways to improve aggression such as enriching your dog's environment; what you might change in your dog's diet; what kind of exercise that can help and developing more effective communication skills. Furthermore, there are also prevention strategies, tips, tools and resources to make things easier, along with scientific revelations that will give you a deeper appreciation of your dog. You will learn: What you can do now to prevent aggression short-term and how to improve your dog's aggressive behavior long-term without hurting, scaring or upsetting your dog. How stress and anxiety promotes aggression and what you can do to reduce it. How you can act on certain behaviours before the problems even start! What training can help your dog regulate their emotions better. What signs indicate your dog may need medication. And much, much more!

This is the essential dog compendium, a complete and comprehensive overview of everything dog.