Customer Reviews

The Irrepressible Toy Dog

5 star:		(27)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

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.

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

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

Darlene Arden's "The Irrepressible Toy Dog" is a "must read" book for every present or potential owner of a toy dog. It is written with knowledge, clarity, and a sense of humor that combine to make this a very readable book. The book covers the obligations of a responsible breeder in early socialization of the newborn puppy, and the transition of the ongoing training to the new owner. Ms. Arden explains the intricacies of housebreaking, early training, and continuing training throughout the dog's life. She has explained the possible medical complications which can interfere with the toy dog's health in a clear understandable manner which can aid the owner in communicating with the dog's veterinarian, and in coping with the situation when and if problems do arise. Also included is instruction on proper nutrition for the puppy, the adult, and the senior dog to assist the owner in keeping a healthy, energetic companion. The chapter on the traits of the various toy breeds can assist a potential buyer in selecting the most appropriate breed for the owner's lifestyle, thus enhancing both the human's and the dog's life together. If you have ever considered living with a toy dog, Darlene Arden's book is a valuable addition to your reference library.

Being a to-be-new toy dog owner I found this book very informative and helpful in knowing the things to look for in toy dogs everything to basic weather care to major health care. It takes you from bringing the pup home for the first time to sending it to its dog heaven in a very comfortable and knowledgeable format. Very highly reccomended if you are thinking about having a small or toy dog in your household.

This book goes over breed by breed, giving an inclusive history of each, good points, and problems with every breed. It starts out with the neonate and goes into medical aspects, including vaccinations, socialization, housebreaking, bonding with the pup, and more. The book progresses into adulthood. Each aspect of dog ownership is thoroughly reviewed. There's a whole chapter just on housebreaking. Parts of it go into the physical (medical) aspect of it, and continue through the practical aspects, as well. Nutrition, medical problems, training, surgery and anesthesia, are all delved into, and more! There are great photos of Toy breeds, as well, most "au natural" and unposed. This book is the best book I have read in reference to Toy dogs. Ms. Arden writes plainly and expressively, so that it is easy to comprehend. I would recommend his book to anyone who is interested in Toy Dogs.

As a person who is owned by six Yorkshire Terriers and as I have had yorkies for the past twenty years, I thought I knew just about all that I needed to know. Then I read "The Irrepressible Toy Dog" by Darlene Arden and I realized how very little I did know. This book is based entirely on the Authors search and research for the truth about these wonderful little dogs. This author reached her conclusions after thousands of hours of interviews with some of the best veterinarian experts in their respective fields. For anyone who owns a toy breed or for anyone who is considering adding a toy dog to their family this is a must have book. This book has become my yorkie bible. This author has even provided me with answers to questions that I never thought to ask. I have come to rely on this book for any and all problems that I have encountered with my six yorkies. The author has certainly done her homework and it shows in this user friendly book. She explains in plain english what every owner of a toy breed must know. Thank you Darlene Arden for this wonderful book and my six yorkies thank you because thanks to the information you provided they will have longer healthier and happier lives.

Of any book I've read about dogs -- and perhaps is out there to read -- Darlene Arden's "The Irrepressible Toy Dog" is the absolute best.

From the first sentence I felt as if she knew me! Knew my puppy. Knew my questions and fears and frustrations. But the best part is, she put me at ease.

Honestly? No book taught me more about the care of toy dogs and at the same time, made me feel so comfortable about my concerns. I guess when a writer loves her subject you can tell.

You just know that Darlene Arden knows and loves toy dogs top to bottom. I didn't think it was possible to love my own puppy more, but I do because I understood more about him after reading "The Irrepressible Toy Dog".

I guess I'm writing this because I want everyone who is thinking about owning a toy dog, or even already has one like I do, to get the same information I did. In the same way I did -- from someone who is so smart and didn't make me feel dumb.

Ronni Warren Ashcroft

Why would someone who raises Newfoundlands, a Giant Breed, read a book about Toy Breeds? When Darlene Arden spent a month on DogRead, I was impressed. This is someone who specializes in tiny dogs, but knows DOGS, period! I found the health, behavior, training, and most of the other information applicable for my dogs, who are bigger than many of the Toys by the time they're three weeks old. The author's writing style makes it an easy, fun read. Material is explained well enough for the novice owner, but is technical enough for the experienced dog fancier. The Irrepressible Toy Dog is an essential addition to the library of anyone who is even contemplating adding one of these breeds to his or her family, and is an excellent reference book for any dog lover. Darlene, how about writing a book about Giant Breeds, the other end of the spectrum?

As writer of Large and Giant Breed Articles, Pamphlets, Books and book reviews, I tend to concentrate on the health, training and feeding needs of BIG dogs. So, as a dog owner as well, I am always looking for more info to help round out my own knowledge. I found Darlenes "Irrepressible Toy Dog" to be chock full of tips and tricks that any dog owner can use, save and reference at any time.

One of her tips which I recently found helpful for myself, involves using Pedialyte to help dogs during hot weather and when dehydrated.

Further, many of the health problems she discusses are also applicable to larger dogs, such as the anesthesia risks and geriatric problems. The knowledge and research Ms. Arden has applied to the writing of this book has immeasurable value to so many of us as dog lovers.

Darlene talks about small dogs, as I like to see a writer do, she is humorous, serious and at times full of the impish character which she so lovingly ascribes to these small dogs. This book is a joy to read....no matter what your breed!...