It's a doggy-dog world, and this easy-to-use guide will help you navigate it. These days, people's dogs have become bona fide members of the family. Moving from the kennel to the couch, they share our beds, family rooms, and holidays; and they are recipients of our kindest and utmost concern. A pet partnership is a lifetime commitment. Do it right, and your dog will become an important and valuable part of the family for many years. Do it wrong, and you've broken a sacred covenant between humankind and another living being. Dogs For Dummies, 2nd Edition, is for you if you are looking to adopt a dog, trying to improve the relationship with the one you have, or attempting to come up with fun things to do with your canine companion. This book is also for people who want to Choose the right veterinarian Explore the dog-breeding business Find breed-rescue groups Identify canine health problems Look for a purebred Improve your chances at pet success by knowing how to raise and live with your dog properly. Discover which breed best suits your lifestyle, and if a puppy or adult dog is best for you. Dogs For Dummies, 2nd Edition, also covers the following topics and more: Caring for an aging dog Choosing collars, harnesses, halters, and leashes Considering euthanasia Feeding Fido the right way House training puppies and adult dogs Keeping up appearances with good grooming Participating in canine competitions Preparing your dog for a disaster Traveling with your dog Award-winning author Gina Spadafori says the lack of accurate information -- not the lack of effort or concern -- is often the reason for doomed people-pet pairings. With her help, you can avoid the agony. Dogs For Dummies, 2nd Edition, is full of useful tips, how-to advice, illustrations, and photographs (both color and black-and-white). You deserve a healthy, happy, and well-mannered canine companion; and you'll be the owner every pet wants and deserves -- informed, responsible, and loving. P.S. If you think this book seems familiar, you're probably right. The Dummies team updated the cover and design to give the book a fresh feel, but the content is the same as the previous release of Dogs For Dummies (9780764552748). The book you see here shouldn't be considered a new or updated product. But if you're in the mood to learn something new, check out some of our other books. We're always writing about new topics!

The latest information and tips on making housetraining easier for your pet and yourself Did you know that what you feed your dog can effect help or hinder the housetraining process? That's just one of the valuable tips you'll find in Housetraining For Dummies 2nd Edition, the authoritative housetraining reference for new and veteran pet owners alike. This new edition features plenty of new and revised material on everything from the latest housetraining equipment to the latest information on diet and nutrition and the crucial role it plays in housetraining. You'll also find useful tips and techniques for creating environmentally safe cleaners from natural products found in the home and alternatives you can use if you have a sensitive pet. Features the latest findings on how pet nutrition can influence housetraining success Offers proven housetraining strategies Introduces new methods for housetraining multiple pets at once Reviews new housetraining equipment and products Shows you how to make environmentally safe stain and odor removers from products already in your home Susan McCullough is a columnist for Dog Fancy magazine and the author of several books including Beagles For Dummies;and the award-winning Senior Dogs For Dummies Housetraining can be a difficult and stressful process for both you and your puppy, adult, or senior dog. Housetraining For Dummies 2nd Edition is the resource you need to make it faster and easier for both of you. P.S. If you think this book seems familiar, you re probably right. The Dummies team updated the cover and design to give the book a fresh feel, but the content is the same as the previous release of Housetraining For Dummies (9780470476376). The book you see here shouldn t be considered a new or updated product. But if you re in the mood to learn something new, check out some of our other books. We re always writing about new topics!

Get the most out of this Golden breed Man's best friend doesn't get any better than the Golden Retriever. Originally bred as hunting companions who retrieved birds and hares and delivered them to hand, the breed today is much more than "just a hunting dog." Highly intelligent and eager-to-please, Golden Retrievers have a history as working dogs that makes them easy to train. Attired in a luxurious fur coat and blessed with a gentle and affectionate nature, they are the third most popular breed in the United States and a favorite for families with young children. Written in a friendly style by Retriever-owner Nona Kilgore Bauer, the 2nd edition of Golden Retrievers For Dummies puts everything you need to know about your furry friend right in your hand. You'll learn how to care for a Golden Retriever from puppyhood to its stately golden years and how to communicate with them better. You'll also learn about grooming and training, as well as how to deal with common ailments and behaviors. Select the best puppy for you Adopt an older dog Dog-proof your home Train your Golden Retriever right Whatever you're looking for from your Golden Retriever, this book will help you get there, making for happiness all around--and many golden years ahead!

Make your puppy look as perfect as you know they are When Fido is getting a bit too fluffy and Milo is downright mangy, it might just be time for a trim to get your pup looking their best. But where do you even begin? Dog Grooming For Dummies walks you through exactly how to groom your dog so they come out looking like they could win an award at the American Kennel Club, every time! You'll learn about prepping your canine for the shears, bathing your dog, cutting and brushing fur, all without help from a professional dog groomer. From the most down-on-their-luck rescue dog to pampered designer doodles, you'll discover how to use the latest equipment and supplies to get people asking, "Did you get a new pup?" (Nope! They just look like one!) In the book, you'll get: A totally revamped section on the impact of canine nutrition on your pet's coat New information on how to go about hiring a professional dog groomer and what qualifications you should look for Practical and hands-on advice on becoming a mobile, professional dog groomer A fantastic and page-turning read full of step-by-step explanations, product suggestions, tips, and techniques, Dog Grooming For Dummies is the one-stop resource you need to stop chasing your tail and start washing, cutting, and styling your pooch into perfection.

Keep up to date with the latest info on raising, training, and living with your Chihuahua Chihuahuas For Dummies is your guide to discovering whether a Chihuahua is the right addition to your family and to caring for these little dogs once they're under your roof. This fun book answers your most pressing questions about the breed's needs and temperament, plus offers loads of friendly advice on everything a Chihuahua owner should know. You'll also find fun facts and trivia, amusing and informative anecdotes, and tips on how to have a great time with your Chihuahua. This down-to-earth For Dummies reference is the only book you'll need to help you have the best possible experience with these very affectionate and adorable doggos. Understand the Chihuahua's characteristics and body language Keep your dog healthy and happy with diet, exercise, and socialization Deal with bad behavior like biting, barking, and jumping Train your Chihuahua in the basics--sit, stay, heel, and come This is the book for anyone planning to adopt a Chihuahua and needing all the facts, plus current Chihuahua owners who need advice on training or are thinking of adding another member to their current fur family.

Currently ranked as the fifteenth most popular breed in the United States, the Pug is one of the most endearing and loyal toy breed dogs. Their roly-poly shape, big googly eyes, and wrinkles cause many people to fall in love with them at first sight. But just because they look all cute and cuddly isn't a good enough reason to run out and get one. Now, there's a book that will help you decide if owning a Pug is right for you.

"Pugs For Dummies" is for anyone who is seriously considering owning a Pug--or who already has one and wants to obtain another. This friendly guide tells you exactly what you need to know before choosing a Pug and what you need to do to take good care of him from the very first day he enters your life. You get expert guidance in all things Pug, including: Feeding Training Grooming Health care Exercise Breeding

This fun, informative resource provide s quick access to everything you need to know about the health and well-being of your Pug. You'll discover how to "Pug-proof" your home before his arrival, how to keep him happy and content, and how to maintain household harmony by raising a well-behaved Pug through housetraining, crate-training, and teaching basic commands. You'll also find: Ways to exercise and have fun with your Pug Reliable tips for handling behavior problems Advice on finding the right veterinarian Guidance in adopting or rescuing adult Pugs Information on showing your Pug The latest on keeping your Pug in tip-top shape for many years to come

Featuring clear explanations, detailed illustrations, and a list of resources for all that "extra stuff," "Pugs For Dummies" is the ideal guide to enjoying life with this fun-loving breed.

Discover how to raise, train, and enjoy your German Shepherd with this fantastic resource. Everybody thinks they know the German Shepherd. Many of us grew up with Rin Tin Tin, or we saw German Shepherds in nightly news reports breaking up riots, or we saw them in neighbors' backyards protecting children. But that only scratches the surface of one of the most fascinating and confusing breeds on earth. Whether it's selection, nutrition, routine health care, training, competition, or just having fun, there's more to it with a German Shepherd than with other breeds. And if you're thinking about adding one to your family, or you already have one, you need to know all you can about this breed. Which is where German Shepherds For Dummies comes in. Is this noble and intelligent breed the right dog for you and your family? German Shepherds For Dummies provides the answer to this and all your questions about getting, caring for, and living with this loveable breed. Lifelong German Shepherd owner and longtime German Shepherd breeder, trainer, and exhibitor, Carline Coile, PhD, gets you up and running with what you need to know to: * Find and communicate with reputable breeders * Choose the right German Shepherd for you * Housebreak and socialize your new puppy * Educate yourself and your dog * Handle behavioral problems * Participate in competitions Dr. Coile provides insights into the German Shepherd temperament and loads of sensible, easy-to-follow advice, along with fun facts and Shepherd trivia, amusing and informative anecdotes, and tips on how to have a great time with your dog. Discover how to: Understand how to communicate with your German Shepherd Train your German Shepherd Find a good trainer and attend classes Deal with hereditary health problems Feed and exercise your German Shepherd Recognize, prevent and treat common health problems Have loyal friend for life The indispensable guide for you and your German Shepherd, German Shepherds For Dummies is the only book you'll need to help you have the best possible experience with this handsome and sensitive breed of dog. P.S. If you think this book seems familiar, you're probably right. The Dummies team updated the cover and design to give the book a fresh feel, but the content is the same as the previous release of German Shepherds (9780764552809). The book you see here shouldn't be considered a new or updated product. But if you're in the mood to learn something new, check out some of our other books. We're always writing about new topics!

Give your underwater pets the best aquatic life ever! Aquarium fish are one of the most popular pets in America, with close to 150 million fish owned in nearly 13 million households. They seem like easy pets to care for, but there's more than meets the eye when it comes to keeping your freshwater friends healthy and happy! Inside, you'll find basic information to start your own freshwater aquarium, purchase and maintain healthy fish and plants, and find tips and tricks on how to introduce new fish and systems into your aquatic family. Understand the best aquarium set-up practices Build the luxury tanks of your dreams Maintain a thriving aquatic environment Discover many different ways to expand your hobby Perfect for beginner hobbyists and longtime aquarium enthusiasts alike, Freshwater Aquariums For Dummies makes it easier than ever to set up and take care of a freshwater aquarium--and the fish within it.

Everything you need to know about your playful new pet Thinking of getting a ferret? It's not unusual--millions of people worldwide keep ferrets as pets, and they've been domesticated for around 2,500 years! While they're quiet for a lot of the day (catching up on important beauty sleep), when they're awake, they're lively, affectionate, and curious--and require lots of quality interaction with their humans. And that's why a happy ferret is a well-trained one, whose owner knows everything there is to know about its needs! Ferrets For Dummies, 3rd Edition is here to make sure you become just that kind of owner, fully equipped to give your little friend the best possible home. It's packed with practical information on feeding, housing, health, medical care, and much more. You'll also find the latest on diet, dental hygiene, common ailments, and how to build an enjoyable and engaging environment for your smart, energetic new pet. There's even a section on how to get to know your ferret properly (spotting those little mood swings) and how to introduce it to play well with friends and family. Make sure a ferret's the pet for you Ferret-proof your home Keep a clean house Find the right vet Whether you have a jill (female), a hob (male), or a full "business" of ferrets (several), Ferrets For Dummies helps you ferret out whatever you need to know--and ensure that your fuzzy new pal is a healthy, happy member of the household.

Your fun guide to selecting, caring, and loving your turtle or tortoise! Coexisting with a turtle or tortoise may not be a warm and fuzzy experience, but it definitely has its rewards. And with more than 250 species to choose from, you're bound to find one that's right for you. Looks-wise, they can range from very plain and unadorned to a brightly colored and embellished with every manner of crest, crown, spike, and dewlap. As for personality, you'd be amazed at how very different they can be, ranging from shy and withdrawn, to outgoing and friendly, to outright aggressive. And when it comes to longevity, well, let's just say that when you commit to a turtle or tortoise, you're in it for the long haul. For example, the standard American box turtle can live more than 125 years, a leopard tortoise has a life span of up to 100 years, and an aldabran tortoise can live to be more than 200 years old! This fun guide will help you choose the perfect turtle or tortoise for your lifestyle and give it the care it needs to thrive. Turtle and tortoise expert Liz Palika provides cl ear, step-by-step instructions on how to: Select the appropriate turtle or tortoise Provide a suitable environment for your new pal Care for a variety of chelonian (turtle and tortoise) species Supply you pet with a satisfying and healthy diet Create an indoor or outdoor home Understand your turtle's or tortoise's special needs Generously illustrated with line drawings and high-quality photographs, Turtles & Tortoises For Dummies covers all the bases. Topics covered include: Deciding whether a turtle or tortoise is right for you Choosing between a turtle and tortoise Who's Who of turtles and tortoises--a complete guide to dozens of species, where they're from, what they're like, and how they are as pets Creating a safe and healthy environment for your pet Recognizing and treating common health problems and finding a good veterinarian to help you care for your chelonian Turtles & Tortoises For Dummies is your fun guide to selecting, caring for, and sharing your life with a chelonian. P.S. If you think this book seems familiar, you're probably right. The Dummies team updated the cover and design to give the book a fresh feel, but the content is the same as the previous release of Turtles and Tortoises For Dummies (9780764553134). The book you see here shouldn't be considered a new or updated product. But if you're in the mood to learn something new, check out some of our other books. We're always writing about new topics!

Your hands-on guide to modern chicken-raising methods Thinking about raising chickens? You've come to the right place! This new edition of Raising Chickens For Dummies provides the most up-to-date, thorough information on the many aspects of keeping chickens in your backyard. Inside, you'll find hands-on, easy-to-follow instructions on choosing and purchasing chickens, constructing housing for your birds, feeding your chickens for optimal health, combating laying issues, controlling pests and predators, optimizing egg production, and much more. Raising chickens on a small scale is a popular--and growing--pastime. If you're interested in keeping chickens as pets or as a source for eggs, Raising Chickens For Dummies gives you plain-English explanations of everything you need to know to about caring for chickens. Inside, you'll learn about basic chicken biology, breeds, and behavior, which chicken breed is best for you, how many you need, ways to spot healthy chickens, how to build a chicken coop, best practices for mating your chickens, how to incubate eggs, how to hatch and nurture chicks, manage laying hens, collect and store eggs, and butcher meat birds. Offers practical advice on choosing and purchasing chickens Helps you construct the right housing for your chickens Provides tips on feeding and caring for your chickens Includes top tips for raising healthy chickens Whether you're a first-time poulterer or you've been raising chickens for years, this comprehensive guide provides practical how-to advice for keeping chickens in virtually any backyard. Raising Chickens For Dummies (9781119675921) was previously published as Raising Chickens For Dummies (9781118982785). While this version features a new Dummies cover and design, the content is the same as the prior release and should not be considered a new or updated product.

Discover how to raise, train, and enjoy your Siberian Husky with this fantastic resource The Second Edition of Siberian Huskies For Dummies offers the most up-to-date information about welcoming a Siberian Husky into your home and loving your new family member. Author and Husky owner Diane Morgan walks you through how to care for these beautiful, curious, and engaging dogs, as she: Suggests ideal methods for adopting and selecting a Husky right for you Examines ways to socialize your new Husky Shares details about Siberian Husky grooming and veterinary care Provides additional information about behavior correction and training Siberian Huskies For Dummies is packed full of practical tips about how to raise and have fun with your young or old Siberian Husky. The author shares her advice in plain English for people looking for accessible and approachable information. Perfect for new and experienced husky owners, Siberian Huskies For Dummies also belongs on the bookshelves of anyone who's ever considered adopting one of these magnificent animals.

An authoritative guide on the special needs of these retirees.

Is there life after retirement? Absolutely, for these lucky dogs. More than 18,000 Greyhounds are adopted every year. This handy reference puts you on the fast track to finding an adoption group, selecting the right dog, and more.

• Offers tips on how to train Greyhounds in household manners
• Informs about common illnesses and chronic health problems found in the breed
• Covers Greyhound history

The Poodle is known for her keen intelligence, excellent trainability, and, most notably, those signature curly locks. But there's more to the Poodle than meets the eye (like, say, those expensive grooming bills). So, to Poodle or not to Poodle? That is the question.

With an overview of the breed's history, an exploration of all three varieties (Standard, Miniature, and Toy), and 8 pages of full-color photos detailing the colors available and tips and techniques for grooming, "Poodles for Dummies" is filled with all the meaty information and enlightening morsels you need to decide if this refined beauty is a good match for you. You'll get answers to your most important questions, including: Which size Poodle is best for me? Which color?How do I know if a Poodle breeder is reputable?What are the pros and cons of shelters and rescue groups?What do I look for in choosing a healthy Poodle?How can I Poodle-proof my home and yard?What's the best way to introduce my Poodle to kids and other pets?How often does my Poodle need grooming?

No matter which size, color, or gender you own, Poodles are not a "wash 'n' wear" breed. But if you have the time, passion, and dedication to give her the training, exercise, and upkeep she needs, you and your curly companion will have a happy and rewarding life together.

Want to know the best ways to care for your horse? "Horse Health and Nutrition For Dummies" gives you up-to-the-minute guidance on keeping horses healthy at all stages of life. It provides the latest information on equine nutrition and healthcare, explaining how your horse's body functions and how to keep it in good working order.

Packed with practical advice on equine first aid and alternative therapies, this completely practical, plain-English guide explains exactly what to feed your four-legged "hayburner" and how much. You'll find out what kind of preventive care is vital to keeping your horse in good physical shape and how to recognize signs of illness when things go wrong. You'll get the low-down on the diseases and conditions most likely to plague the domestic horse and find help in deciding whether to treat problems yourself or call the vet. Discover how to: Manage your horse's dietHouse your horse safely and comfortablyTend to the daily details of horse careExamine coat, eyes, hooves and manureIdentify, control, and prevent equine diseasesUnderstand links between horse behavior and healthPractice good horse nutritionGrow your own horse foodCover horse-health-care costsBreed your horseCare for pregnant mares and newborns

A healthy horse is a happy horse. Keep your horse fit with a little help from "Horse Health and Nutrition For Dummies, " and you'll be happy too

Fall in love with a Doodle Dog! This guide tells you everything you need to know about this popular cross-breed. With their cute names and curly coats, Doodles have become popular pets. And why not? They're more than just cute--they're generally affectionate, playful, and highly trainable dogs. They also don't shed much, so they'll ideal for people with pet allergies. In other words, a perfect family companion! If you don't know exactly what a Doodle is, they're a cross breed of a poodle with another kind of dog; think Labradoodles (Labrador and poodle), Aussiedoodles (Australian shepherd and poodle), Goldendoodles (Golden Retriever and poodle), or Sheepadoodles (English Sheepdog and poodle). You get the idea. The possibilities are endless and no matter the crossbreed, they all live in the cuteness zone. If you don't want to resist--and who can?--Doodle Dogs For Dummies is the ultimate guide on all things Doodles. You'll find helpful information within its pages whether you're just considering a Doodle, or you've already brought one home. Learn how to identify breeds Find the Doodle that's best for your family Pick a breeder or go the animal shelter route Keep your Doodle looking their best with proper grooming Acclimate your Doodle to your home, including to other pets Get expert tips on training and healthy treats for your Doodle From long walks on sunny days to cuddling on the couch, you have a lot of quality time to look forward to with your furry best friend. And Doodle Dogs For Dummies will ensure that your Doodle is happy and healthy for their lifetime.

Find out how to select, train, and care for your Bulldog
Though originally bred for bull baiting, today's Bulldogs are calm, dignified, and courageous - and make great pets. Whether you're already a Bulldog owner or you're thinking about becoming one, this friendly guide will answer your questions and help you and your Bully live happily ever after. From choosing your dog to training, diet, and health, it's just what you need for Bulldog success!
Discover how to
* Understand the breed and its history
* Buy or adopt a healthy Bulldog
* Housetrain your Bulldog and teach basic commands
* Keep your Bulldog well-groomed and active
* Watch for breed-specific health problems

Has a Boston Terrier stolen your heart? Whether you're thinking about adding one of these "American Gentlemen" to your home or you already have one, this fun, friendly guide is the key to becoming a responsible and happy puppy parent! Boston Terriers For Dummies gives you all the basics on raising and living with this intelligent, affectionate breed. You'll learn where and how this dog originated, what it needs, and how to determine if a Boston Terrier is the right dog for you and your family. From feeding and grooming to basic training, you get all the tips any Boston owner needs to make their dog feel welcome, loved, and well-cared for. You'll discover how to:* Understand the breed's origin and history* Choose the right Boston Terrier for you* Puppy-proof your home and yard* Teach your Boston basic commands* Housetrain and socialize your puppy* Correct Boston behavior gone bad* Handle breed-specific health concerns* Enhance your dog's quality of life* Travel with your Boston-or find a reputable sitter* Care for the senior dog Complete with sections on nutrition, first aid, and exercise and play, Boston Terriers For Dummies is the only guide you need to raise a happy, healthy dog!