Mixed Breeds For Dummies
2. Edition November 2020
304 Pages, Softcover
Wiley & Sons Ltd
Own and care for a classy dog--no pedigree required!
All dogs are unique--but mixed breeds are even more so! The new edition of Mixed Breeds For Dummies helps you count the ways, walking you through the latest on choosing, training, and caring for a non-traditionally pedigreed pup. Whether you prefer mystery mixes or designer Labradoodles, winsome rescues or pampered pups from a breeder, you'll find everything you need to know and more about your new faithful friend--including the science on why they frequently enjoy better health than most pedigreed breeds and often make better domestic companions!
In her friendly, dog-whisperer style, professional animal trainer and prolific author, Miriam Fields-Babineau, begins with tips on choosing the mix that's right for you, setting up a puppy-friendly environment, and making sure your larder is stocked with healthy foods they'll love. Once you're confident your new pal is happily settled in, she clues you in on the best (and most enjoyable) ways to exercise together for maximum fitness, finding a vet you trust (and administering first aid yourself), as well as schooling you in the latest animal psychology-based training methods to ensure you both know where you stand (or sit). You'll also discover ways to get to know your friend even better--from exercises to test their temperament to delving into the secrets hidden in their DNA!
* Decide which mix is the one for you
* Keep your furry friend healthy, from puppy to senior
* Establish discipline and overcome common training challenges
* Socialize your dog at a mixed-breed club
From walks and games on the beach to cozy nights in your happy home, there's a lot of fun to look forward to with your not-quite-best-in-show but much-loved best friend. This book will ensure you and your mixed-breed pal will live happily and healthily ever after!
Part 1: Getting Started with Mixed Breeds 5
Chapter 1: Mixing It Up: Introducing the Mixed Breed 7
Chapter 2: Designer Dogs: Not Your Mother's Mutt 13
Chapter 3: A Little of This, a Little of That: Deciding Which Mixed Breed is Right for You 27
Chapter 4: Choosing Your New Best Friend 41
Part 2: Living with Your Mixed-Breed Dog 55
Chapter 5: Getting Ready for Your Dog's Arrival 57
Chapter 6: Bringing Home Your Mixed Breed 69
Chapter 7: Chasing the Chuckwagon: The Basics of Feeding 81
Chapter 8: Grooming Your Mixed Breed 95
Chapter 9: Exercising Your Dog 111
Part 3: Training Your Dog 123
Chapter 10: Housetraining 125
Chapter 11: Hup, Two, Three, Four: Good Manners and Basic Training 141
Chapter 12: Tackling Mixed-Breed Training Challenges 173
Part 4: Keeping Your Dog Healthy 201
Chapter 13: Finding and Working with a Vet 203
Chapter 14: First Aid: Dealing with Emergencies 215
Chapter 15: The Special Needs of Senior Dogs 227
Part 5: Having Fun with Your Dog 239
Chapter 16: Not Just for Purebreds: Showing Off with Your Mixed Breed 241
Chapter 17: Traveling with Charley 249
Part 6: The Part of Tens 259
Chapter 18: Ten Reasons to Spay or Neuter Your Dog 261
Chapter 19: Ten (or So) Fun Activities You and Your Mixed Breed Can Enjoy Together 267
Index 273