Hail Cesar

Cesar MillanI don’t watch much TV and I’d never seen Cesar Millan’s show “Dog Whisperer,” but Mutts4Rescue strongly suggested reading his book, “Cesar’s Way,” in preparation for adopting a dog.

Now, I’ve shared long stretches of my life with two other dogs, but I’d been “dogless” for several years and thought a refresher would be a good idea – especially since I’d be adopting a young pooch and had an opportunity to do everything right – right from the get-go.

Suffice it to say that Cesar knows his dogs.  He grew up with them, observing them in natural packs before beginning his career grooming and training them – and helping countless Americans with their “problem dogs.”  It’s no surprise that these problems generally lie with the dogs’ owners and not the dog, and Cesar’s advice is solid, sound, and simple.  Other than the very basics – food and shelter — what does your dog need most?  Exercise — at least two long walks each day, preferably with you, the pack leader.  Next, the dog needs discipline; he or she needs to know where and what the boundaries are, and it’s up to you to set and maintain them.  Finally, it needs affection, and you don’t likely need any coaching in this area.  But don’t take it from me – take it from the source.  There’s a lot of good information in “Cesar’s Way”, and considering what you’re likely to spend on a crate and toys and food, $13. a small and sensible investment.  Buy the book, and read it.