This title offers everything you need to know about owning a dog, including buying and choosing a suitable animal, settling in a new puppy, and nutrition and diet. It explores a range of different types of dog - both pedigree and non-pedigree - their characteristics and the breed that will best suit your lifestyle and home environment. It includes a guide to the equipment you will need, such as beds and bedding, brushes, combs and chew toys. It explains how to train your dog, from socialization with other animals and people to walking on a lead and basic obedience training, such as understanding "sit" and "stay". It offers professional advice on health care and essential first aid. It includes over 300 step-by-step photographs to show all the practical skills and techniques in clear detail. The dog has been our best friend for thousands of years. No animal lover can fail to cherish this versatile and endearing animal, combining strength, personality, intelligence and a willing nature. This book is a complete guide to understanding and looking after your pet dog. It contains advice on buying a dog and information on all aspects of canine care, from choosing bedding and feeding bowls to health care and first aid. Sections on breeding and whelping are included, as well as instructions for training your dog from puppyhood to adulthood. The text is complemented with specially commissioned photographs to make this an esential volume for all dog owners.