Small Dogs, Big Hearts: A Guide to Caring for Your Little Dog

by Darlene Arden

Book Overview

Small dogs can bring big rewards!

Small dogs are charming, intelligent, and loving, but they can also be overly energetic, manipulative, and stubborn. How do you ensure that your little dog becomes a fun, feisty best friend rather than a tiny terror?

Small Dogs, Big Hearts is an updated and expanded edition of the classic The Irrepressible Toy Dog. It features the very latest, safest, and fastest training methods for little dogs. There's no need...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0471779636
• ISBN13: 9780471779636
• Release Date: June 2006
• Publisher: Howell Books
• Length: 256 Pages
• Weight: 1.12 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 8.0" x 8.0"

Customer Reviews

Small Dogs, Great Book

Small Dogs, Big Hearts: A Guide to Caring for Your Little Dog, by Darlene Arden, is simply a wonderful book. It takes the reader on a journey from puppyhood to adulthood and old age, in sickness and in health. Arden carefully points out the many ways in which the Toy breeds have unique needs that larger dogs do not have, at the same time emphasizing that they are indeed dogs and so benefit from training in exactly the same ways as larger dogs. One of the most interesting points pertinent to this is the discussion of dog training in Britain, where dogs are ubiquitous but also welcome everywhere, because dog owners in the United Kingdom take for granted that all dogs should be well socialized and trained regardless of their size. This is particularly important in the case of Toy breeds, because they can turn into obnoxious little monsters if they are untrained and spoiled. We've all run into these Lap Sharks; they aren't that way because they're small, but because they haven't been trained. The book contains a wonderful section on nutrition, noting that the energy needs, pound for pound, of a tiny dog are much higher than those of a large dog because of their higher metabolism rate. Furthermore, the author explains the special needs of Toy dogs when they are faced with medical problems, surgery and anesthesia. For example, during surgery, fluid levels and internal temperature control are critical in these dogs. Little dogs, when they fast for surgery, may experience precipitate decreases in blood sugar. There is a fascinating section, with photos, on the various breeds of Toy dogs, their characteristics, personalities and any genetic problems. Also, in mid-book, there is an unbeatable group of color photos, page after page, absolutely delightful. The author concludes with an appendix that includes traveling with small dogs; clothing (little dogs get cold!); supplies, toys and training aids; treats; and stuff for you, the owner. I can't say enough good thinngs about this fine book. You'll like it even if you don't have a Little dog; you'll like it even if you don't have a dog at all. Diane M. Smith, CVT (certified veterinary technician)

"The Irepressible Toy Dog" is a Win-Win read

As a practicing Vet,I found this book to be a veritable joy-it is replete with helpful hints that should make dog ownership pleasurable and productive; and to truly help enjoy the relationship. It is written with sensitivity and elan, and reflects her love for her beloved "little breeds". She knows her subject well, and is written from the heart. It is a masterful advisory, and admirably fills a void on this subject. This landmark book merits unreserved recommendation, and should enjoy an enthusiastic reception from our dog-loving public. Dr. Ray Russo Kingston, MA 02364

Irrepressible Toy Dog

I loved this book. I exhibit and breed Pekingese dogs. Most books geared to dogs in general and toys have their own special needs. This book not only covers toy dogs in general, but the contents on specific breeds are right on the mark. Pekes have very unique problems and this covers all of them. I have shared information on this book with friends and with my vet. Just love it.

The ultimate book on toy dogs

The Irrepressible Toy Dog by Darlene Arden is the ultimate reference book for anyone who is considering getting a toy dog. It is also indispensible for those who already have a toy.. Considerable research and experience of at least 37 top authorities on all aspects of the subject of toy care is compiled here and will help anyone to maintain a healthy toy. I like this book because it is so compact, well indexed for quick reference and hits hard on important issues. This is what makes author Darlene Arden's work so outstanding. For example, .basing her personal experience with the Yorkshire Terrier, a breed that has risen from last place in popularity to ranking 9th in all breeds and tops in toys within the last 50 years, Arden is well aware of the disadvantages that go with such popularity. All breeds have the inclination toward inherited deseases With this knowledge she has given each of the 20 breeds covered, the specifics of those various illnesses to which each breed may be prone. a major point of knowledge in particluar, thus encouraging the novice to do more investigation before making that important step in acquiring a toy dog. Arden's stress is on buying from a reputabl;e breeder a most imporant bit of advice to help avoid the inherited problems. The information on housing, care, housebreaking training, and other particular incidentals which are so important because these are small yet real dogs with some special needs, is all here in well headed concise chapters. The book is beautifully printed with fine art drawiungs and photographs showing all ages of the toy dogs Darlene Arden is to be commended for a facinating well written book that will have a long life because it is so needed. With good health and happiness on the part of the pet the reader who makes this book the precise guide certainly will have a great opportunity for gaining --- an Irrepressible Toy Dog

A "MUST READ"

Darlene Arden's "The Irrepressible Toy Dog" is a "must read" book for every present or potential owner of a toy dog. It is written with knowledge, clarity, and a sense of humor that combine to make this a very readable book. The book covers the obligations of a responsible breeder in early socialization of the newborn puppy, and the transition of the ongoing training to the new owner. Ms. Arden explains the intricacies of housebreaking, early training, and continuing training throughout the dog's life. She has explained the possible medical complications which can interfere with the toy dog's health in a clear understandable manner which can aid the owner in communicating with the dog's veterinarian, and in coping with the situation when and if problems do arise. Also included is instruction on proper nutrition for the puppy, the adult, and the senior dog to assist the owner in keeping a healthy, energetic companion. The chapter on the traits of the various toy breeds can assist a potential buyer in selecting the most appropriate breed for the owner's lifestyle, thus enhancing both the human's and the dog's life together. If you have ever considered living with a toy dog, Darlene Arden's book is a valuable addition to your reference library.