Whole Dog Parenting: Everything You Need to Raise and Train an Urban Pup

Wheeler and Stoica, spouses who run a dog walking and training business in New York City, debut with a practical guide to helping canines thrive in big cities. Acclimating dogs to the hustle and bustle of urban life is best achieved through walks that expose them to the city’s many sights, smells, and sounds, the authors contend. To overcome particular sources of anxiety, Wheeler and Stoica recommend playing near the fear-inducing stimulus, moving closer each day until the dog no longer feels anxious. They emphasize how undesirable behaviors often result from unmet needs, explaining that dogs will chew shoes and tear up furniture if they don’t get enough exercise. Advice on training includes helpful tips for raising country and city dogs alike. For instance, the authors note that because dogs understand tone and posture more than words, it’s important to be expressive when scolding or offering praise. Elsewhere, the authors outline “dog park etiquette” and suggest that “if you bring a toy, it’s communal property.” Wheeler and Stoica share keen insight into how dogs see the world, and city dwellers will appreciate the useful recommendations for raising their pets. This is well worth a look. (Self-published)