Jellybean Versus Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by C. W. Meisterfeld

by C.W. Meisterfeld

Illustrates a psychological training system for dogs based on positive reinforcement and shows, through the story of Jellybean, how a good dog can become schizophrenic from the use of traditional training methods.

Hardcover

First published June 1, 1989

Reviews

[Alena · Rating 3 out of 5]

As an animal trainer, I have been on both sides of the training-philosophy fence -- I started as a compulsive trainer, and later transitioned first to R+, then to exclusively clicker training (which I have practiced professionally for close to a decade). I specialize in working with fearful and fear-aggressive dogs, so this book -- about the development and treatment of aggression -- is of particular interest to me.

While this book is not what I would consider on the scientific cutting edge of the animal behavior field, it is an interesting look at the practical fallout of coercion and compulsive training. For R+ trainers and clicker trainers, it also gives insight into the thought process behind "traditional" training, and how the various approaches differ from each other.

I would not recommend this book as a standalone, but in the company of other training and behavior texts by Karen Pryor, Jean Donaldson and others, it provides useful information.

[Judy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rather frightening to read how a loving family pet could turn into a monster -- good cautionary advice!