We read several puppy books, got advice from the vets and researched puppy training courses to be fully prepared for the arrival of our puppy...however, we were overwhelmed by conflicting advice and just a little put off by some methods used with regard to training, diet etc. Then we discovered this book. Thank god for Patsy Parry. If you're getting a puppy get this book. It's down to earth, easy to follow and covers all the basics. Finally someone who can offer invaluable advice without being condescending. Brilliant.

This book was written specifically for the american market, but I still found it useful and I was impressed with the content, coverage and readability. It was a little more generic than I expected, but seeings as I am a prospective first-time poodle and dog owner, I found this OK. The first couple of chapters ('so you want a poodle' and 'welcome home!'), plus the 'basic training for poodles' chapter, were specifically useful. Now I have read the book, I feel more prepared and confident in my decision to get and look after a pet poodle. This is a very good book to cover the basics and it provides a good basis from which you can buy/read further.