The Tao of Dogs - Ravinn O. West

The Tao of Dogs is a thoughtful blend of fact and philosophy that will assist you in relating positively to another species, your dog. Dogs are wolves in breed clothing; knowing something of the lives and instincts of wolves is prerequisite to really understanding your dog. The dog-wolf connection is explored in detail.

Taoism is an eastern philosophy that can lead you into a healthy mindset in which training will be more effective. Taoism requires calmness and quiet while you work; you show your respect for the dog by coming to understand what motivates the dog and how he thinks. One of the most powerful images of Taoism is that of a waterfall; the water flows down without trying to avoid the rocks or alter its path. This acceptance of reality is key to your training mindset. Training must never be confrontational or rough; the goal of the training is to allow two species to co-operate to achieve the goal. The goal is to have a dog who is a full participant in your life because he has been taught how to be that.

“Obedience is a relationship” is the key to this book. Teaching techniques are presented with all the “whys” included which makes the approach mindful, easy to understand and apply to your relationship with your dog. The content is thorough, philosophical, and backed up by years of working with many breeds of dogs.

If you would like to know more about the canine species and how best to relate to and train your dog, The Tao of Dogs is a unique, thoughtful and beautiful roadmap to success.

Master K9 trainer Ravinn O. West has trained and shown dogs since 1980. In 1990 she showed her Silky Terrier bitch, Amron’s Adora Bear to a Best in Show at Edmonton, Alberta under Breeder-judge, John Lusk. She has finished 30+ dogs to their Canadian Championships and is a life member of the Canadian Kennel Club and the Silky Terrier Club of America.

She was also Kennelmaster at Ravendale Boarding Kennel and Training Centre at Cochrane Alberta from 1983-2016.