Cheryl Smith barks an honest appraisal of what dog parks are all about, the good, the bad, the clean and the messy. I especially appreciate the chapter "Canine Observation Skills" because she recognizes that what dogs are saying to one another is important--after all they are /dog /parks.

Steve Dale, syndicated columnist "My Pet World" and host "Pet Central" WGN radio Chicago

Cheryl Smith has hit a home run with this much-needed book. It equips the dog owner with everything he or she needs to know before visiting the dog park. Canine body language, appropriate play styles, and conflict resolution are covered in depth.

Sarah Kalnajs, author of Language of Dogs and Am I Safe? DVDs

DOG WORLD

As author Cheryl S. Smith states in her introduction, in a perfect world, dog parks wouldn't be necessary. But the world is far from perfect, and the dog park can be (or at least seems to be) a great option for providing dogs exercise and social opportunities In this easy-to-read manual, Smith provides everything you need to know to make going to the dog park fun and safe for you canine. She starts off with instructions on training your dog so you can help it succeed at the park... She also instructs you on appropriate human dog park behavior. The Canine Observation Skills chapter provides excellent scenarios in which the author describes many different interactions at the dog park and allows the reader to interpret them The book also provides helpful instructions on conflict resolution In one slender volume, Smith provides practical information on virtually every aspect of visiting the dog park. If visiting a dog park is in your future, read this book before you go. Janine Adams

ANIMALTALK.COM

Noted dog trainer, certified dog behavior consultant and award-winning author, Cheryl S. Smith, has written the ultimate book for anyone who takes their dog to a dog park or is thinking of doing so. Including everything from various canine personalities to how to train your dog and how to observe other dogs to better understand each individual situation, Smith leaves no stone (or dog biscuit) unturned! Dog park etiquette for people as well as their dogs, evaluating your dog to know if he's ready for a dog park experience and far more is packed into this excellent paperback. Rated 5 out of 5 paws Darlene Arden