Dogs Are From Neptune

by Jean Donaldson

But people are on another planet! Dogdom’s most influential dog trainer and behaviorist, Jean Donaldson, is back with a newly revised and expanded edition of her popular Dogs are from Neptune. In 41 essays, Jean highlights the common and frequently wrong-headed notions people have about why dogs behave the way they do, and explains what really motivates your pooch and how to change behavior. Jean’s innovative ideas are delivered via quirky and witty—but always scientifically based—essays will help create “Aha!” moments for every dog lover on earth. If you loved Jean’s best selling The Culture Clash, you will enjoy learning more about the dogs who inhabit planet Neptune and the people who don’t!

Your dog is from Neptune—narrow the gap by learning more
The truth—and power—of consequences and how you can use them to train your dog.
The best ways to deal with common problem behaviors including guarding, separation anxiety and fear.
Why you should be skeptical of anyone whose training techniques and philosophies sound appealing but cannot be backed up with scientific evidence.
Dispel common myths associated with using food in training, dominance and whether playing tug with your dog really encourages aggression.
While we may be on different planets, learn how the fundamentals of behavior apply equally to dogs and people.
Why it seems that owners become more attentive trainers when they dress their dogs in costumes!

Genres: Dogs, Nonfiction, Animals

168 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 1, 1998

Reviews

[Yee-Ning · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish I knew about Jean Donaldson when I first got my dog. Instead I read a bunch of random pop dog training books, which could have gotten me into a lot of trouble if I hadn't lucked out on such a well-tempered dog. I ended up clicker training my dog and I was a proactive thinker which I think were also saving graces. I think about some of the reactivity issues with dogs I have fostered and can only imagine the damage I could have caused them if they came earlier. Luckily I had a positive approach obedience class, and the foster group was also all about positivity and recommended Donaldson's books for reading.

Definitely a must-read if you are considering getting a dog, or have a dog that has issues, or have a dog that doesn't have problems--it is a good brain cleanser for thinking about how to interface with our loyal companions.

[t-rex · Rating 4 out of 5]

Witty, informative. Straighforward and information is given in the form of question and essay answers. This author knows her subject matter.

[Janet Jay · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well-written & I enjoyed her "some trainers would say X, others Y" approach to some truisms. Unfortunately, not much of this applied to my pups' particular probs.

[Book Him Danno · Rating 4 out of 5]

dogs and people we are not the same and this is a good look at the differences and how we can live together in harmony

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very readable book on dog training. Not a how-to guide, but more general information and case studies. Great reinforcement for the lessons with our dog trainer. Humorous to boot.

[Richard Fitzgerald · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fascinating journey into the alien world of dogs. This book has lots of common sense and (not so common sense, but scientifically valid) advice on living with our weird, furry friends.