Divine Canine    by The Monks of New Skete Order:  USA  Can Hyperion, 2007 (2007) Softcover Read an Excerpt      Reviewed by Kerrily Sapet 'Dear Brother Christopher and the Monks of New Skete, Our dog loves children, except she knocks them over with her exuberant kindness. Our dog loves visitors, except she jumps up on them in her excitement. Our dog loves walks, except none but the strongest in the house can withstand her pulling at the leash like an ox. She's even outsmarted the child safety locks we put on cabinets to keep her from raiding the trash. She's a sweetheart, but at times a bit unmanageable. It's difficult at times to tell just who is the boss - me or my dog. HELP! From, Desperate Dog Owner' Any number of dog owners might write a letter like this. For years frustrated owners have turned to an unlikely source - a rural monastery in New York, where a famed community of monastic dog trainers helps to straighten out misbehaving dogs. To such owners the monks' latest book, Divine Canine: The Monks' Way to a Happy, Obedient Dog, Everything You Need to Know, will be, no pun intended, nothing less than a godsend. The book is no dry instruction manual, but instead features nine dogs brought to the monks for a four-week intensive, but loving, doggie boot camp. Readers will meet Tessie, a dog who snaps and obeys only when she wants; Hugo, a dog who likes to tackle; and Stella, who is treated more like a princess than a dog. With each of the dogs Brother Christopher addresses their behaviors with his tried and true tactics. He shows how a gentle, but firm, approach is necessary. He also delves deeper into each dog's behavior, showing how a caring attitude and good communication can turn even the most unruly dog into a divine canine. The monks' latest training manual offers insights into their special methods. It provides tips on tackling common problems and what if guides for when things don't go quite as planned. The monks give step by step pictures and expert answers on puppy rearing, nutrition, exercise, and health care. Their specific case studies of the dogs in training show even the most frustrated dog owner that there is hope for the pet they love. For anyone with a dog, or anyone thinking of getting a dog, this book will serve as an invaluable tool. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more NonFiction books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews