German Shepherds for Dummies

by D. Caroline Coile

Everybody thinks they know the German Shepherd. Many of us grew up with Rin Tin Tin, or we saw German Shepherds in nightly news reports breaking up riots, or we saw them in neighbors’ backyards protecting children. But that only scratches the surface of one of the most fascinating and confusing breeds on earth. Whether it’s selection, nutrition, routine health care, training, competition, or just having fun, there’s more to it with a German Shepherd than with other breeds. And if you’re thinking about adding one to your family, or you already have one, you need to know all you can about this breed. Which is where German Shepherds For Dummies comes in. Is this noble and intelligent breed the right dog for you and your family? German Shepherds For Dummies provides the answer to this and all your questions about getting, caring for, and living with this loveable breed. Lifelong German Shepherd owner and longtime German Shepherd breeder, trainer, and exhibitor, Carline Coile, PhD ,gets you up and running with what you need to know to: Dr. Coile provides insights into the German Shepherd temperament and loads of sensible, easy-to-follow advice, along with fun facts and Shepherd trivia, amusing and informative anecdotes, and tips on how to have a great time with your dog. Discover how to: The indispensable guide for you and your German Shepherd, German Shepherds For Dummies is the only book you’ll need to help you have the best possible experience with this handsome and sensitive breed of dog.

Genres: Dogs, Nonfiction, Reference

288 pages, Paperback

First published September 15, 2000

About the author

D. Caroline Coile, Ph.D., is an award-winning writer who has been showing dogs for more than a quarter of a century.

Reviews

[B. · Rating 2 out of 5]

First time owning a german shepherd, so I purchased this book to see if there was anything I missed. Nope - everything in this book basically translates to "You have a dog. It will act like a dog. Deal with it. Everything you know about caring for other dogs? Yeah, apply that to this dog too." Had really hoped there would be some worthwhile information in the book, but alas, that was not the case.

[Megen LaVine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Still nursing this book - but it's fabulous, highly recommend it for anyone who has or has ever loved or raised a GSD or is interested in the breed. Written with humor and insight (or insight masked in humor!) the authors clearly know the dog. Not necessarily a training guide, but really covers everything you need to know as an owner. Hilarious! Very fun & helpful read.

[Angbolyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good read

This was a good book to introduce the required relationship you need with your dog, and there are good assets listed. However, I thought I would get more from it. I.E., how to....

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although our shepherd is a rescue who came to us at about 6 months and very traumatised, and we already had 5 other rescues of various breeds as well as having had dogs all my life, this still had some useful bits. Great if you are getting your shepherd as a puppy.

[Kasun Alwis · Rating 5 out of 5]

good book

[Jamie · Rating 5 out of 5]

every person who is thinking of getting a shepherd should read this book first!!!!!

[Centennial · Rating 3 out of 5]

hardly specific to GSD but still good info

[Solomon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book
The for dummies series hasn't let me down to date
This book is fine example of this standard

[Jeff · Rating 2 out of 5]

I still feel like a dummy.

[Mark Lyon · Rating 5 out of 5]

... for dummies

It covers the basics in a way anyone can understand. When put into practice it achieves results! I read this book before getting my gsd and it truly helped me prepare for the reality of gsd ownership, the pitfalls and the great rewards. It is also easy to consult on the fly. I recommend it to any other dummy out there.

[Linette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really loved this one: great points and tips, doesn't suggest breeding is for everyone, nice health section. I also liked how the early section has a cost table. People do need to consider the cost of an animal for its lifetime.
Read it!

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book that covers the basics of taking care of a GSD. This was a lifesaver when I got my puppy since I had only been raised with mellow Golden Retrievers. If you're getting a GSD this is definitely worth the $20!

[Mario Buelens · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've owned some dogs before, but I never had a GSD.
This is a very useful reference guide for new and experienced dog owners.
It is divided is easy to lookup chapters.
I have it as e-book on my iPhone, so I have 24-7 access.

[Dennis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Much as I hate to admit it, this book is a constant reference!!

[Sam · Rating 2 out of 5]

The title says it all, emphasis on the last word! (It's not worth the price AT ALL! So just borrow it, don't buy it.)

[Brenda Kahn · Rating 3 out of 5]

A present from a friend who owns two GS dogs. Something I will consult often since inheriting a GS pup I didn't necessarily desire but have grown to love.

[Dario Cabello · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book a lot and for a beginner in this theme I founded new useful tricks

[Fer Valle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very useful!

[Mark · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book to help figure out what you are thinking about getting into.