Highly recommend this.....

**borzoimom** · 02-05-2007, 07:19 PM

People make a big mistake of "WELL I AM ALPHA" and the dogs are whatever- .. dogs like to know where they go in the pack.. It prevents chaos and worries and behavior problems as well..

**K9soul** · 02-05-2007, 10:40 PM

I've read the book by Jan Fennell and really enjoyed it. She really lays out in easy-to-understand terms the way to be a leader without being "aggressive", but by consistent behaviors that dogs understand. I enjoyed her stories, although oddly I don't remember the one about two JRTs wanting to kill each other. It has been awhile since I read the book but I don't recall that one. The only thing I remember disagreeing with is that she seemed to imply that every single behavioral problem a dog may have has to do with either the dog trying to be alpha or the dog believing it has the responsibility of being alpha, or feeling insecure and uncertain of the pack order. While I do believe a good many behavioral problems stem from this, I don't think ALL of them do in EVERY case. Sometimes she seems to oversimplify it some, but I would definitely recommend the book to others, especially new dog owners or people not very familiar with dog behavior and a dog's way of "thinking." She really explains and illustrates her points well. I think most dog behavioral issues could be helped by following her advice on how to take the leadership role in the relationship.

**mike001** · 02-06-2007, 09:29 PM

I've read Jan Fennell's book and just loved it. I do disagree on the pack thing though. I too have made the mistake of trying to feed by taking turns, but have come to realize that their order should remain what it is. I feed by order now also. All in all I thoroughly enjoyed her book. I've also read "Beyond Obedience" by April Frost, didn't find it as interesting as Jan Fennell.

**whalelover** · 02-06-2007, 11:44 PM

If you're interested in this method, I would highly reccoment reading more on/watching Cesar Millan, (Dog whisperer), who has a show on National Geographic Channel. Ever since I've heard about him I can't stop watching his show, and his methods are unsurpassed (in my opinion). He also has a book out, Cesar's Way.