Updated with the latest information on canine breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club, this lavishly illustrated volume is a treasure house of information for dog lovers, owners, breeders, and prospective buyers. It begins with a detailed discussion of breed evolution, focusing on the physical and behavioral traits that distinguish one canine breed from another. The book’s main section profiles more than 150 breeds, arranged in the general categories specified by the AKC—Sporting Group, Hound Group, Working Group, Terrier Group, Toy Group, Non-Sporting Group, and Herding Group. Each profile tells how and why the breed was developed, and how selection to perpetuate specific traits affects a dog’s suitability as a pet. Advice for prospective dog owners will help them be sure they are choosing a breed that is compatible with their own situation and needs. They will also find information on each breed’s vulnerability to specific health problems, longevity, exercise needs, compatibility with children, and much more. Profuse illustrations include color photos of all listed breeds....

Although its ancestors were hunting dogs, the playful, child-tolerant Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has easily adapted to household living and makes a wonderful pet. This new title in Barron’s Complete Pet Owner’s Manuals series advises and instructs current and soon-to-be pet owners on all aspects of the animal’s care. Filled with color photos and useful line art, all books in this series present information on housing, feeding, health care, the title animal’s traits—and where applicable, on grooming, training, and breeding. Many of the nearly 200 titles in Barron’s Complete Pet Owner’s Manuals series focus on dogs and cats of many different breeds. Other titles are written for owners of birds and mammals that are suitable as pets. Aquarium and terrarium hobbyists will also find titles that advise on care of different fish, reptile, and amphibian species. Each book in the series is written by an expert trainer, breeder, veterinarian, or other animal specialist....

Originally held as a sacred animal in China, this small, friendly dog has a highly distinctive personality and makes a fine family companion. Prospective owners should be aware, however, that its long coat requires frequent grooming. Books in the comprehensive and popular Barron’s Complete Pet Owner’s Manuals series advise on feeding, health care, housing, and all other important aspects of responsible pet ownership. Each title is individually written from first page to last by a pet trainer, veterinarian, or other pet-care specialist. All Complete Pet Owner’s Manuals are filled with high-quality photos and instructive line art....

Perhaps the most popular variety of spaniel among pet owners, the Cocker is adaptable to most human lifestyles and, when carefully acclimated, makes a wonderful companion for children. This new addition to Barron’s Pet Handbooks is typical of the series, filled with detailed advice on feeding, grooming, health care, and training, as well as extensive information on traits of the breed. It’s filled with color photos and line art....

The French Bulldog enjoys a brief romp outdoors, but its minimal exercise needs also makes it a good companion for older pet owners and apartment dwellers. Heavily illustrated with vivid color photos and instructive line art, Barron’s Complete Pet Owner’s Manuals show and inform pet owners regarding proper care of dogs, cats, birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians, small caged animals—virtually every creature that is kept as a pet. The books give advice on purchasing and otherwise acquiring a pet, feeding it nutritiously, keeping it in good health, and where applicable, grooming and training it. Each book in this large series is individually written by a specialist, and though the information is authoritative, the text is clear and straightforward, easy for every pet owner to understand....

Titles in Barron’s popular series of Pet Handbooks are filled with reliable information and helpful advice on animal care. Written by breeders, veterinarians, and other pet experts, these photo-illustrated books instruct on housing, feeding, healthcare, and where applicable, grooming. Titles devoted to dog breeds also discuss exercise needs and training methods. Barron’s Pet Handbooks resemble Barron’s alternate series, the Pet Owners’ Manuals, but each of the Handbooks has a larger page count and includes more detailed advice and instruction....

This heavily illustrated directory describes every canine breed recognized by the AKC. It includes recently recognized breeds, such as the Norwegian Buhund, the Pyrenean Shepherd, and the Swedish Vallhund. A succinct description of each dog cites its origins, its physical and temperamental traits, its average life span, all major health concerns, and its special needs, such as training, grooming, exercise, and adaptability to specific environments. A color photo shows an example of each breed in its show pose and an adjoining photo provides a detailed head shot. Written by an expert on dog breeds, this spiral-bound book packs a wealth of information in a manageable size. It will serve as a handy guide for prospective dog purchasers, as well as trainers and breeders. Attractive and easy-to-use charts summarize the ease of care for each breed....

These tiny dogs make great companions for apartment dwellers. Yorkies are invariably affectionate with their masters, but unless properly socialized they are often inclined to bark at strangers. The titles in BarronÂ’s Dog Bibles series provide detailed information on specific breeds--their traits, history, behavior characteristics, and recommended training methods. Prospective buyers are instructed on what to look for when choosing a puppy, how breed-specific traits influence the relationship between dog and owner, and potential health problems to look out for in specific breeds. Each book also includes detailed information and advice on:

Everyday canine care, grooming, and exercise

Nutrition and health maintenance

Training and play activities

Sidebars appear throughout the pages of each book with breed facts, helpful hints, and quick tips on training. A hidden spiral binding ensures that the book will stay open and flat at any desired page. The DVD enclosed with each book presents an informal dog training course for new owners. It describes house training methods, walking dogs on a leash, and teaching obedience to hand signals and vocal commands. More than 150 color photos....