Cesar's Way was written by Ceasar Millan and Melissa Jo Peltier. Melissa Jo Peltier co-writes many of his books. Cesar's Way is a book about dog psychology. It is a book that clearly identifies the difference between human psychology and dog psychology. Cesar guides the reader into the ways of a dog. He helps the reader deal with a dog from the dog's perspective.
Throughout the book, Cesar talks about the three part formula for a well-balanced dog outside as well as inside the home. Realizing that dogs who live in the wild, typically live in packs. The pack structure consists of an alpha dog who supplies the pack with rules, boundaries and limitations. The alpha is the definer as well as the enforcer. Since dogs have become domesticated, the alpha must be the human in the home. In fact, Cesar strongly encourages that ALL humans in the home (i.e. mom, dad, the children and even the baby) must be looked at by the dog or dogs as the alpha. Rules, boundaries and limitations need to be created and enforced by the alphas in the home. According to Cesar, to help a dog become balanced, the alpha must offer exercise, discipline (rules, boundaries and limitations), and affection.
Cesar dog owners to excercise their dogs with one to two healthy walks a day. The walks can range from 45-60 minutes in length and they need to be vigorous. A dog who has burned energy is more inclinded to receive discipline and follow the recommended rules. Lastly, a dog needs affection. Cesar Millan talks at great length about how here in America we, as dog owners, give our lovely pets too much affection. Rather than follow the three part formula for a balanced dog (e.g. exercise, discipline, affection), we tend to give our dogs affection, affection, affection. This causes an imbalance in our dogs and then "issues" arise. According to Mr. Millan, if you provide your dog with exercise, discipline (rules, boundaries and limitations), and affection (in that order) you WILL have a well-balanced and happy dog.
MY TWO CENTS WORTH:
No AR quiz. :(
If you own a dog or have frequent contact with dogs, this is an excellent book. It really makes sense to look at a dog as if it were a dog. It makes sense to understand a dog from the dog's perspective and deal with the dog with the mindset of a dog. Human psychology is great for humans but one should not use human psychology to work with or communicate with dogs. Cesar's insight and proven history working with dogs has inspired me to become the alpha within the relationship with our dog. I have to admit, our dog seems content and actually follows my commands. I look forward to reading his other books and applying them to my daily interactions with our new dog. I highly recommend this book to those of you who own a dog.
