excellent concise guide to dog-child relationshipsJuly 22, 2001 2 out of 2 found this review helpful
This is a short guide, mainly aimed at people who have younger dogs, and want them to get used to children. Following the sensible advice in this guide could help many couples who get a dog first and then have a child. The advice is very general, though there is some mention of which breeds do and don't tolerate children well. There is a very useful chapter on 'Dogproofing your child', which many children I have met should read! Children can easily be bitten, and their skin is fragile, so this is a key safety area with dogs. The authors wisely recommend professional help for dog owners with serious worries. This should be compulsory reading for all new parents with dogs.
Brings much-needed common sense to kids & dogs subject.February 19, 1999 1 out of 2 found this review helpful
Kilcommons does new families a great favor with this book. "Child-proofing Your Dog" is a common sense approach to introducing your new child to your dog, preventing problems, and ensuring a long, close relationship. He dispels myths and gives new parents an idea of what to expect both from their dog and from themselves. He identifies often-missed (or exused) signs of dominance in dogs, explaining the natural progression from dominance to aggression if left unchecked. In cases where there is a specific problem involving advanced aggression toward a child he advises going to a professional, as would any responsible dog trainer in print. Kilcommons and Wilson have years of experience and wisdom in dog behavior and training; they've written a trustworthy, important 'preventative manual.'
Doesn't live up to it's titleJanuary 2, 1999 2 out of 3 found this review helpful
This book is very superficial and is fine unless you are actually having a problem with your dog. If you have a problem, the author just recommends getting professional help. If you are really interested in dealing with potential problems between your dog and children, I recommend "The Dog's Mind" by Bruce Fogle.