Product Description

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.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #79249 in Books
• Published on: 2007-04-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Spiral-bound
• 208 pages

Features

• ISBN13: 9780764160004
• Condition: USED - GOOD
• Notes:
• Click here to view our Condition Guide and Shipping Prices

Review
“Lhasa apsos, terriers, and beagles, oh my! Entries are consistent in coverage and design, making it easy to compare breeds. This small, spiral-bound book is perfect for circulating or reference collections in school and public libraries.”


—Booklist, January 1 & 15, 2008

From the Inside Flap
(back cover:)
Every AKC-recognized breed described:

Customer Reviews

Very useful, concise, basic information
Sturdy, spiral bound features one breed per page and covers basic information on origin, temperament, upkeep and health. Each breed is rated from 1 to 5 on energy level, exercise requirements, playfulness, affection level, friendliness toward other pets, friendliness toward strangers, ease of training and grooming requirements. A color photo of the head and side view of each breed is included.

Poor quality
The one good point of this book is that it includes all the AKC breeds (as of the date of publication). However, that doesn't overcome its flaws. The biggest problem is the pictures - they are small, poor quality, taken at odd angles that cause distortion, and often don't look much like the supposed breed. I unfortunately have had 2 copies (1 arrived damanged and the seller replaced it rather than refunding, as I requested). The spiral binding on both was stiff and squeaky. The text is standard fare.

A better choice, sadly out of print but still available used, is The Dog Breed Handbook: The Complete Reference From Afgans to Zande Dogs. I also enjoy What Dog? A Guide to Help New Owners Select the Right Breed for Their Lifestyle (What Pet Books?) for its honest presentation of breed traits and multiple gorgeous photos.

Excellent book.
Really enjoyed this book. Used to take it to the dog park so I'd know about the dogs interacting with my dog. Loaned it to a friend and never got it back, so I guess she liked it too.