It’s Me or the Dog: How to have the Perfect Pet

I bought this book many years ago (about 13), when I had my first dog. I found it very helpful then, all the things that I remembered about dog owning when I was a teenager and the whole family were involved suddenly became different when I was an adult on my own trying to train a very naughty Labrador puppy (he got better over time). I admit that I didn't follow all the instructions all the time, but some did work.My parents recently became puppy owners again, and I sent them a copy of this book to help them out (whilst laughing at all the complaints, revenge is sweet!). My mum didn't let my dad have a look in as she sat in bed reading it.I am also re-reading it, having a rescue puppy. The book has lots of lovely full colour photos, and is broken down into different sections. The print tends to be quite large and easy to read. Pages are well set out so that you don't feel overwhelmed with information or daunted by the task ahead.As well as just training, reasons are given for behaviour, which is really helpful in understanding why your dog is doing what he/she is. Suddenly, some behaviours make sense!I recommend this book to anyone wanting to train their dog, or who is having some problems, but doesn't want to be 'told off' or made to feel like an idiot!

I have another book by this trainer but this is much easier to just sit and read right through which is unusual.She writes well and it is interesting enough to just read rather than use it as a reference book when you have a particular problem.

Was recommended this book as a must read before getting a puppy. I was pretty sceptical at first but I can honestly say this book provided me some really useful information that has actually helped me and my girlfriend train our puppy (French bull dog). You learn about the dog in much more depth than the shows on Tv and you realise how important certain things are in teaching the dog. Highly recommended to anyone who is either scared of dogs or wanting to learn physiological behaviour/training tips and techniques. Ps this book was quite large and not the easiest to carry on holiday, be warned!

I bought it because I liked what I had seen of her training methods from the series. Unfortunately it might be a long while before I can get a dog but this book will be ENORMOUSLY helpful when I do - its perfect for people getting a puppy, or those adopting an adult dog, or looking into training techniques for a dog they already own who they are having issues with.It even has a section on playtime and tricks to teach your dog once you have the basics down, and another that I'm sure would be invaluable for some: a section on how to prepare your dog for the arrival of a baby.Its also very well written - I happily read it cover-to-cover in a few days.A must buy for prospective dog owners!

Having watched Victoria Stilwell's TV series and trying some of her techniques I was eager to learn more. The book doesnt let you down, it is full of interesting information, hints, tips and helps you to understand your four legged doggy friends. Victoria details her own experience of looking after dogs from her early days when she was not allowed a dog to the many dogs she has trained and owners she has helped.Its as though Victoria is in your own home and as she says, practice makes perfect so your time is essential for success, but the end results are exgremely rewarding for both you and your pal.