Elizabeth R. (esjro) -
Helpful Score: 9
I have never watched Cesar Millan's television show, but my petsitter talks about him a lot so I was curious about this book.
This book is a fun read for dog lovers, especially the early chapters in which the author describes his life and how he came to be the famed dog trainer that he is today. It is also fun to read about the celebrities he has worked with (Oprah, Jada Pinkett Smith) and how their dogs walk all over them.
However, do not choose this book if you are looking for detailed advice about dog training or correcting problem behavior. Although the title may imply otherwise, all the solutions here are very vague and generally fall into one of the following categories: you (the pack leader) need to work on "calm-assertive energy," you need to take your dog for a half hour walk, or you (still) need to work on "calm-assertive energy" so that your dog will have "calm-submissive energy." Unfortunately, Millan doesn't really tell the reader HOW to obtain that kind of energy, other than perhaps by emulating Oprah.
Although the stories of dogs rehabilitated by the author are heartwarming, ultimately the novelty wears thin because not much insight is given into how the dogs' behaviors are turned around (other than by the author's "calm-assertive energy.") This book would have been much more interesting had the author spoken more specifically about fewer cases, or made the book shorter.
This book is a fun read for dog lovers, especially the early chapters in which the author describes his life and how he came to be the famed dog trainer that he is today. It is also fun to read about the celebrities he has worked with (Oprah, Jada Pinkett Smith) and how their dogs walk all over them.
However, do not choose this book if you are looking for detailed advice about dog training or correcting problem behavior. Although the title may imply otherwise, all the solutions here are very vague and generally fall into one of the following categories: you (the pack leader) need to work on "calm-assertive energy," you need to take your dog for a half hour walk, or you (still) need to work on "calm-assertive energy" so that your dog will have "calm-submissive energy." Unfortunately, Millan doesn't really tell the reader HOW to obtain that kind of energy, other than perhaps by emulating Oprah.
Although the stories of dogs rehabilitated by the author are heartwarming, ultimately the novelty wears thin because not much insight is given into how the dogs' behaviors are turned around (other than by the author's "calm-assertive energy.") This book would have been much more interesting had the author spoken more specifically about fewer cases, or made the book shorter.
P. W. (Pdub) reviewed Cesar's Way: the Natural, Everyday Guide to Understanding and Correcting Common Dog Problems on + 34 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4
He has a gift and lots of good points. I do believe him when he says we make our pets neurotic by not recognizing their true nature. It's a definite must-read for any dog lovers/dog-owners. Aside from his advice, Millan has really made a life for himself - - a great story of what you can accomplish when you have goals and go for it.
Adam P. (ajpratt48) reviewed Cesar's Way: the Natural, Everyday Guide to Understanding and Correcting Common Dog Problems on + 37 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
This was a very insightful book, and it was interesting to read about Cesar's progression to hosting the National Geographic Channel's "Dog Whisperer". Cesar makes some very good suggestions on working with dogs, and he is very knowledgable about how dogs act in packs. It is a good read for someone who is looking to better understand their dog's behavior(s); however, it does not replace working with an experienced and qualified trainer and/or dog behavioralist.
Leslie C. reviewed Cesar's Way: the Natural, Everyday Guide to Understanding and Correcting Common Dog Problems on + 15 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
We got this book when we were first thinking of adding a dog to our family. I absolutely love this book! We learned how to relate and bond with our dog better than I ever did with our family dogs growing up. This is not a book on how to train your dog to sit, come, stay, etc. But it's a great tool to have a great relationship with your dog that he can understand.
Kirsten W. (wardbunch) reviewed Cesar's Way: the Natural, Everyday Guide to Understanding and Correcting Common Dog Problems on + 88 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
This book is just what my very troubled rescue Sharpei/German Shepard needed to get back to "mental health." It was GREAT!!
