Head of the Class: A Teen Dog Expert Teaches You to Raise and Train the Perfect Pal (Howell Dog Book of Distinction) [Paperback]

Kate Eldredge (Author), Debra M. Eldredge DVM (Contributor)

Book Description

Series: Howell Dog Book of Distinction | Publication Date: June 19, 2006

The only dog-training guide for kids written by a teen!



Author Kate Eldredge, age 15, knows what it takes for a kid to raise and train a dog--she's been parenting pooches since she was 7. It's a big responsibility, but it has awesome rewards (besides all those wet, slobbery kisses). When you're your dog's caregiver, provider, and trainer, your dog will be your loyal playmate, protector, and confidant for life!

In this book, Kate gives you the scoop on:
* Choosing the right dog for your family
* Getting the house ready and establishing a routine
* Teaching basic household manners
* Feeding and caring for your dog
* Dealing with health problems
* Showing your dog
* Activities like obedience trials, sports, and community service


Kate's mom, a veterinarian, provides valuable information. A "For Parents Only" section at the end of each chapter tells adults how they can help without taking over.

Editorial Reviews

From the Back Cover

The only dog-training guide for kids written by a teen!

Author Kate Eldredge, age 15, knows what it takes for a kid to raise and train a dog—she's been parenting pooches since she was 7. It's a big responsibility, but it has awesome rewards (besides all those wet, slobbery kisses). When you're your dog's caregiver, provider, and trainer, your dog will be your loyal playmate, protector, and confidant for life!

In this book, Kate gives you the scoop on:

• Choosing the right dog for your family
• Getting the house ready and establishing a routine
• Teaching basic household manners
• Feeding and caring for your dog
• Dealing with health problems
• Showing your dog
• Activities like obedience trials, sports, and community service

Kate's mom, a veterinarian, provides valuable information. A "For Parents Only" section at the end of each chapter tells adults how they can help without taking over.

About the Author

Kate Eldredge has won two Maxwell Awards from the Dog Writers Association of America and is a columnist for The Corgi Cryer, agilityaction.com, and Dogs in Review. Kate has successfully competed with her dogs in 4-H, junior showmanship, conformation, obedience, rally, agility, herding, tracking, backpacking, and freestyle.

Debra M. Eldredge, DVM, is also an award-winning writer. Her books include The Everything Dog Health Book, Cancer and Your Pet, and Pills for Pets. A graduate of Cornell Veterinary College, she has been in private small-animal practice since 1980.

Product Details

• Paperback: 240 pages
• Publisher: Howell Book House (June 19, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0471779628
• ISBN-13: 978-0471779629
• Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 6.3 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,621,292 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5 stars Best in Show for Head of the Class, November 13, 2007

By 

P. Lewis "Newfs and more" (Syracuse, NY) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Head of the Class: A Teen Dog Expert Teaches You to Raise and Train the Perfect Pal (Howell Dog Book of Distinction) (Paperback)

This is a marvelous book for youth and adults alike. It is full of information and fun things to do with your dog as well as good training ideas. I would highly recommend it for experienced dog people as well as the new dog owner. We have used many of the ideas with our 4-H dog club and they have enjoyed reading it too.

5.0 out of 5 stars Head of the Class is Top of the Class!, January 29, 2007

By 

Janet Wall "Author, How to Love Your Dog http... (San Diego, Ca USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Head of the Class: A Teen Dog Expert Teaches You to Raise and Train the Perfect Pal (Howell Dog Book of Distinction) (Paperback)

This is a wonderful new book! It's organized in a fun and clever way that make it easy to follow and relate to one's own experience. It's chapter divisions are based on a person's school career:

Parenthood, Preschool and Kindergarten, Elementary School, Avoiding Detention, Health Class, Vet School (Health Problems), PhD in Obedience, Finding Your Roots (Dog Instincts), Extracurricular Activities (Sports and Cultural Experiences), Civics Class (Community Service and Good Neighbors), Field Trips (Traveling), and Fine Arts, Home Economics, and Shop Class (Crafts, Recipes, and Fun)

The writing is for older children, and I would recommend it for 12 years and up, although a high level fourth and fifth grader would be able to handle it just fine. And of course, it's very enjoyable reading for adults, as well!

One of the great things about Head of the Class is that it isn't just about teaching dogs the commands. As noted above, it covers all areas of dog ownership so that teenagers and adults alike will get all they need to raise their new pup in a positive and humane way. Jan Wall, author How to Love Your Dog

4.0 out of 5 stars This book was a great help!, December 2, 2006

By 

Missy Lee (New York) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Head of the Class: A Teen Dog Expert Teaches You to Raise and Train the Perfect Pal (Howell Dog Book of Distinction) (Paperback)

I have three mature Boxers, and this book was a big help. It's well constructive and easy to follow. Clear instruction with pictures and stories. Great! Thanks