Todd Fenstermacher, author of this short (160 pages) but comprehensive work, has been involved with dogs most of his life. After military service in the US Army he begins his serious research into dogs, especially bull and terrier breeds. He has written many articles in popular magazines and newspapers and he regularly judges at conformation shows. He owns a small coffee shop that he named after one of his dogs and this gives him ample opportunity to discuss the breed daily.

This ubiquitous work (you can find it in any better bookshop in Melbourne) presents a balanced and well researched view of the breed. This short work goes into great detail to explain nature of the breed, methods of proper housing, breed standard, activities one an take part in with their dog, proofing the house (when getting a puppy), proper care, feeding etc. This book is a complete owners manual and if well understood can form groundwork for further reading of more advanced texts on the breed. This book is designed to be first reading on the breed. Of course, people with years of knowledge will benefit as well.

This book, like many books we know and love (books by Richard F. Stratton and Diane Jessup come to mind), is published by TFH and written by a knowledgeable author who knows APBTs and owns one.

Before I go into more detail, I should mention that this is the book on the breed you will find in almost any Angus & Robertson bookshop (and almost any other good bookshop for that matter) and is a good ambassador for our breed. This small delightful piece of work presents our breed in the most favourable light _ a stark opposite of what is read in the media.

Every photo in this book is professionally done and presents our breed in a positive light. Special emphasis on importance of socialization is placed very early in the book. Pointers are also provided on training and selection of your dog.

This book opens with section on history of the breed with short section on bull_baiting and dog fighting. This section aptly closes with an observation that APBT is a stable, trusted dog owned by people of cultural or historical significance like Hellen Keller and Theodore Roosevelt. According to Fenstermacher, majority of problems associated with media attention stem from poor breeding practices by those who are in it for quick dollar and understand our breed the least.

The next chapter on character of the breed states rightly that APBT is a perfect choice for anyone who is prepared to fully understand unique characteristics of this breed. The breed is submissive, intelligent, willing to please which makes it easy to train.

Another point is that these dogs need to be exercised. There is no need to apply physical corrections as this breed is submissive by nature. APBTs are quiet, affectionate and are eager to please.

People willing to own an APBT need to educate themselves. They are people who are willing to listen to the advice from the breeder or other owners. A good owner returns loyalty his dog gives him by promoting a positive image of the breed.

Chapter on conformation explains the ADBA standard with some notes from the author. Those who are willing to understand a bit more on the standard are encouraged to read this section.

The next chapter, chapter on selection of the dog will be invaluable to the new owner as will be section on caring for the APBT. Water needs to be available to the dog at all times (puppies should get water only at feeding time according to this book). Some points on choosing the right puppy food are given. Advice on grooming your dog is given.

Those wanting to train thir dog will need chapter on training. This chapter points out one more time that these are intelligent dogs that are very easy to train. Pointers on housebreaking, general training (sit, stay etc), weight pull are given. There is also a section on shows and obedience. This chapter is very comprehensive.

Chapter on health care is provided in format seen in other pet owner manuals. Dental care, unlike in other books was given its own chapter. Overview of common toys for puppies is given. Puppies love to chew on anything and it is important to provide variety of toys that are suitable for puppies.

Chapter in identification of the lost dog explains that microchipping of the dog is the most effective way of identifying it if the dog is lost. Chapter on travelling with your dog is written to educate the reader on importance of socialization. The earlier this socialization starts in life, the better. Tips on getting your dog ready for air transport and choosing the right boarding kennel are also provided.

The last chapter on behaviour and canine communication talks about benefits of dog ownership for people of different lifestyles. Senior citizens will particularly benefit from dog ownership as it forces them to go outdoors and stay active whilst providing companionship. Another group of people who would surely benefit from dog ownership are people who live alone, for similar reasons. Every child should have an opportunity to have a family dog. The rest of the chapter talks about socialization, training and dealing with problems.

Overall, this is a delightful piece of work that focuses on presenting our breed in the most positive light. This work is recommended to anyone interested in our breed. It is a great introduction to the world of APBT.