THE BING BLOGS is the memoir and guide to working with a dog who suffered from Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). This is a HUGE issue that the author, Ali Brown, sees with many dogs in her work. People who recognize that they may have anxious dogs will benefit from this book.

The book illustrates the progression and management of GAD over the life of a dog and his owner/trainer. In addition to seeing the successes and failures experienced, the reader will discover so much expertise on what to do and what not to do with their anxious dog, including how to distinguish anxiety from reactivity and aggression.

One of the benefits of positive motivational dog trainers having dogs with problems is that they can come up with ways to correct them without making the problems worse. Reading THE BING BLOGS will help you first recognize your dog’s particular problems, and then solve them one by one using positive reinforcement methods. The time and effort may result in the best dog you’ve ever known.

With all his issues, Bing was able to perform well in Agility, Rally, Obedience and Scent Work. He won many dozens of titles in spite of the difficulties of working in these event environments. Bing loved to perform for me. I don't look back at his life and say, "Boy what a waste of time, I'm glad that's over." I say, "What a wonderful dog and great friend he was."

Reading this book will help you to achieve that relationship with your difficult dog.

 

From the back cover —

Bing's problems weren't obvious from the beginning but expressed themselves in unexpected ways over time. Treating him with medications and a specific diet helped, but didn't come close to making him a reliable and sociable house pet. More was accomplished by keeping him engaged, using his innate skills as a herding dog, and training advanced skills. Most of all he learned that being with me was his greatest reward – that I was his point of safety and comfort. The things we accomplished and the fun we had more than made up for the difficulties, heartbreaking frustration and time consuming attention that made him a dog that one might consider giving up on. The Bing Blogs chronicle the adventures and successes that made having a relationship with him the best anyone could ever want.

 

Review from Leslie McDevitt

"Few books about dog behavior are as deeply personal as The Bing Blogs. You will feel as though you are right at Ali's side, reliving her adventures with Bing—at times hilarious and heartwarming, at times tumultuous and terrifying. Ali will educate and entertain you with brutal honesty, sharp wit and her many years of experience. Whether you are a professional trainer, a dog sports hobbyist, a person living with a very challenging dog looking for help, or simply a person who enjoys good storytelling, you will find something here for you. Take advantage of Ali's generosity and wisdom,buckle up, and get ready for a wild ride that will leave you inspired, and, make sure there are tissues nearby."

 

Leslie McDevitt MLA CPDT CDBC

About the book —

 

The Bing Blogs -- Book