The Irrepressible Toy Dog [Hardcover]

Darlene Arden (Author), Betty White (Foreword)

Book Description

Publication Date: December 19, 1997

Almost 38% of all dogs in the U.S. are small dogs. This book follows the Toy dog from neonate to old companion, looking at the importance of training and socialization, housebreaking problems, special nutrition needs and more. A very thorough chapter on health care examines problems unique to Toys, including unhealthy knees, bad teeth and special anesthesia risks. —Foreword by Betty White

Editorial Reviews

From the Back Cover

"Toy dogs come with all the behavior issues, health problems and joys that other dogs have, plus a whole set of unique problems and joys of their own. This is the first book that takes a look at all of the exclusively Toy joys and traumas—and that makes it a must-buy for everyone who has a Toy dog or is thinking about getting one." —Ross Becker, Publisher, Good Dog! Magazine

"The voice of experience speaks about the hidden (and not so hidden) life of Toy dogs. Darlene Arden's sensible and practical advice is a must for would-be Toy dog owners. —Dr. Nicholas H. Dodman, Tufts University, Author of The Dog Who Loved Too Much

"Arden is a very knowledgeable lover of Toy breeds of dog. The Irrepressible Toy Dog is a must read for anyone who has or is contemplating making a Toy breed part of their life." —Gus Thornton, DVM, President, MSPCA/American Humane Education Society

"I highly recommend The Irrepressible Toy Dog to anyone owning or considering the ownership of a Toy breed. With an entertaining but direct and succinct approach, Darlene Arden provides the necessary education to be responsible and sensitive owners of our small canine friends." —Paul C. Gambardella, VMD, Angell Memorial Animal Hospital.

"Written with the heart and experience only a true Toy breed devotee knows, Darlene Arden has compiled a book that provides practical guidance to all fanciers—both long-time and novice—about caring for and responsible ownership of these precious petite breeds." —Donna L. Marcel, Editor, Dog World

"If you've never considered yourself a 'small dog person,' this book could change your mind. If you've always loved Toys, you'll feel vindicated. And if you're considering a change of dog to a smaller breed this book will help you to avoid what could be fatal mistakes. The Irrepressible Toy Dog provides good advice for anyone with a dog, but for the Toy person it's a gift of understanding that will shatter the myth that all little dogs are or should be nasty, snappy brats. Brava!" —Karen L. Overall, MA, VMD, PhD University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine
A Howell Dog Book of Distinction

Product Details

• Hardcover: 160 pages
• Publisher: Howell Book House; 1 edition (December 19, 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0876056494
• ISBN-13: 978-0876056493
• Product Dimensions: 9.5 x 6.3 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.1 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (32 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,617,463 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

20 of 20 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Irrepressible Toy Dog, November 21, 1999

By 

N. Ross (Brooklyn, NY) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Irrepressible Toy Dog (Hardcover)

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.

15 of 15 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The ultimate book on toy dogs, June 16, 1999

By 

William A. Wynne (Mansfield , Ohio) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Irrepressible Toy Dog (Hardcover)

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

14 of 14 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars "The Irepressible Toy Dog" is a Win-Win read, August 15, 2004

By 

R. Russo, DVM (Kingston, MA.) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Irrepressible Toy Dog (Hardcover)

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