Dogs by Design: How to Find the Right Mixed Breed for You (Paperback)

by Ilene Hochberg (Author)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

Specially mixed breeds are all the rage. That’s right: according to such media outlets as The Today Show, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, and The New York Times, such “designer dogs” as the puggle, labradoodle, schnoodle, and bagel hound are today’s pick of the litter. Filled with more than 150 color photos of adorable man-made mutts and their purebred parents, Dogs by Design explores both sides of this hot new trend. Written by bestselling author Ilene Hochberg, it examines how the mixed-breed craze began, what its future might be, and the unexpected controversy surrounding these canine creations—and also helps would-be owners determine if a hybrid is right for them. Included are the characteristics of each dog, input from owners and breeders, and a comprehensive list of breeders with their contact information.

Product Details

• Paperback: 160 pages
• Publisher: Sterling; 1 edition (November 1, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1402743548
• ISBN-13: 978-1402743542
• Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 6 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #889,477 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Clear, Informative, to the Point, January 10, 2009

By	R. Kirkham "jrkirkham" (Rushville, Illinois USA) - See all my reviews (TOP 1000 REVIEWER)    (REAL NAME)

This is a helpful little guide for those interested in designer dogs. Hockberg, who has the most experience with purebred Scottish Terriers, does a good job highlighting the pros and cons of the current designer dog craze without weighing in on either side. Readers are encouraged to make their own decisions. When the propaganda from one side or the other needs challenged it is challenged. For instance Hockberg questions whether designer dogs are healthier, a claim that is often made by breeders of designer dogs. Hochberg also challenges whether the modern influx of designer dogs creates more unwanted dogs, a claim made by the other side. She challenges both claims with research. If you want to argue with her, don't argue with her views, disprove the research that is presented. The book offers brief descriptions of the most popular dogs used to breed popular designer dogs and also offers possible positive and negative outcomes of popular pairings. The book also offers brief inventories to help readers decide which type of pet (rescue, designer, purebred) is best for them. The book is easy to read and could save readers from making big mistakes when purchasing pets. Finally, I need to add that this is more of a guidebook, than a book to sit down and read. If can be read in one sitting, but readers will want to keep it handy when making their decisions.