by The Monks Of New Skete

Review by Edell Schaefer

Well known for their German Shepherds, the Monks developed training methods that advocate communication and compassion. They recognize the need for owners to understand their dogs, and to take full responsibility for their lifetime care and training. The Monks dislike irresponsible ownership, and lack of knowledge and commitment. Their approach seeks to minimize misunderstanding, neglect and abuse by getting the trainer to plan a safe and sane training program suited to the individual dog. A wealth of thought-provoking information is presented in a logical and readable format. Over forty chapters are provided that cover important terms, environmental effects, sensitivity exercises such as "round robin" recalls, children and training, starting puppies, standard obedience exercises, and problem solving. Very well illustrated with photographs and thoroughly indexed. In 1991 the Monks published another exceptionally good training book entitled THE ART OF RAISING A PUPPY. In the 1980s Job Michael Evans (a former New Skete Monk, and co-author of HOW TO BE YOUR DOG'S BEST FRIEND) left the monastery and started training dogs professionally. He is the author of several books which offer other original training methods based on the approach first developed at New Skete. THE EVANS GUIDE FOR CIVILIZED CITY CANINES (1988); PEOPLE, POOCHES AND PROBLEMS (1991); and THE EVANS GUIDE FOR HOUSETRAINING YOUR DOG (1987). All titles mentioned above are written for the general dog owning public.