The Dog Rules: 14 Secrets to Developing the Dog You Want


Posted on May 3, 2009
By Tanya Turgeon

by Kyra Sundance

REVIEW by Tanya Turgeon

Fireside, 2009

239 Pages

$24.99

 

So you could use some guidance in the dog training department.  A book sounds like a good place to start, but with so many out there, where do you begin?

Well, if you're a leader type looking for a natural approach, refer to the dog whisperer, Cesar Millan.  If you're of a more scientific mind seeking a clinical method, check out Dr. Dodman.  If you learn best by example, then John Grogan's memoir of his beloved Marley will show you what not to do.  But if you're the average dog-lover looking for a bit of everything so you can "Do more with your dog!", then you're in the right place.  Especially since that last quote is the motto of Kyra Sundance and her newest book The Dog Rugs: 14 Secrets to Developing the Dog You Want.

Unlike most trainers and their books, Sundance let's us off the hook early.  "The Dog Rules isn't going to define ideal behavior.  It's not going to tell you that your dog shouldn't sleep on your bed (that's a relief) or shouldn't jump on you when you come home, or shouldn't pull on his leash.  How you want your dog molded is up to you - The Dog Rules will show you how to it."  With the stress of how your dog is supposed to behave alleviated, it's a lot easier to commit to a training process and actually enjoy it.

Some of the 14 secrets seem obvious - consistency, communication, creating trust and using dog treats.  The emphasis on timing and precision certainly hits home, as does how easy it is to accidentally reward your dog for an incorrect behavior.  Sundance made sure to include some fancy terminology like extinction, differential reinforcement of incompatible behaviors (DRI), and Jacobson's organ (found in the roof of your dog's mouth, not in a cathedral) so you'll easily keep up with those who read Dodman.  The real hidden treasures appear in the shaded boxes called "Teach a Trick!".  Here the true magic is exposed.  For instance, using a piece of tape on your dog's nose can help teach covering her eyes with her paw.  Or putting treats in your purse is the gateway to getting your dog to carry it.

Millan has a family history with dogs; Dodman is a veterinarian; and, well, Grogan had Marley.  Sundance's experience hales from performing with her weimaraner Chalcy as a stunt dog team.  She and Chalcy have performed in circuses, theme parks, advertisements and commercials.  You may not be looking to create the next performance dog and Sundance acknowledges that.  Her comprehensive list of sports you can do with your dog (everything from hiking to herding, dock diving to dogrobatics) and her encouragement to get involved is a final reinforcement of what it's really about - "Doing more with your dog!".

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