Search and Rescue Dogs: Training the K-9 Hero

In training any dog, the biggest challenge always is how to 'connect the dots' in the dogs mind for what you want to see repeated and ignore what you don't want repeated. You then move on to giving the dog space to make his own choices based on what you taught him. This book fits perfectly into the philosophy. I have owned two purebred dogs. Field Springers and Border Collies. Both breeds I had to trust to make their own decisions at one point as both had to ultimately operate off a lead. Establishing that connection is key with any dog to keep them safe, and to keep the enjoyment factor high. I give high marks to this book for making this point. I disagree with a previous reviewer that this is only about German Shepherds. Certainly the pictures are, but anyone who has ever trained a dog should know that personality, drive, and disposition are all factors in training and that trumps breed every time. If the dog is interested he/she is limited only by his ability to smell. The strongest part of this book is that it begins with simple puzzles for the dog, then offers more complex puzzles as they gain confidence. Like the writers, I agree that the dog has to want to do this. For my border collie it is now a passion. What I used to call 'hide and seek' with my dog has now jumped to a different level thanks to this book. I'm grateful to the reviewers of this book who gave this such high marks. It made all the difference in choosing the right one. AND, I chose the right one.

I was new to SAR when I picked up this book. It is very well written and easy for the beginner to read, and has wonderful ideas for the more advanced dogs too. It covers all, from tracking and cadaver to avalanche work! A must have for a new trainer!

This book is awesome! I have the first edition,and this one is even better. The chapter on Disaster Missions is both interesting and informative. The steps for training to meet the FEMA standards is something I've been looking for, as well as the training for cadaver work. I can't recommend this book highly enough, both for new and experienced handlers.

If you're looking for more serious information and training for SAR dogs these is a GREAT book. It's clear, well written with serious information on what a SAR dog AND handler must be like. It takes you from step 1 (choosing a puppy) to having a full operational SAR dog (radio communication, handler's, training step by step, etc).So, why 4 stars and not 5? This book isn't very open to different techniques, methods, dogs or info from around the world. For wood search it's very good. If you want info on avalanche or disaster search it's not very complete.

This book was very informative resource. It provide a starting point but should be used in conjunction with practical help from others already involved. The book is well written and easy to read. Worth money and time to read.