The Giant Sized Library
Being a breeder and advocate for Great Danes means I am never done learning. Even with over twenty-five years of experience, I am always looking for more information to make my program better. I have a list of books I have been wanting to dive into that focus specifically on the things that matter most to our gentle giants.
Here are a few that are currently on my shelf or my “must-read” list:
• Medical, Genetic & Behavioral Risk Factors of Great Danes by Ross D. Clark: This is a deep dive into the specific health and genetic predispositions of the breed, which is so important for keeping our dogs healthy.
• Service Dog Project: The Creative Training of Great Danes by Janice Anne Wheeler: This one is amazing because it focuses specifically on the unique training needs and potential of Great Danes as service animals.
• Training Your Own Full Potential Psychiatric Service Dog by Lelah Sullivan: This provides a great curriculum for training tasks that help with PTSD and anxiety disorders.
• PTSD and Service Dogs: A Training Guide for Sufferers by Rick and Heather Dillender: A practical guide for how a service dog can act as a daily tool for managing chronic PTSD.
• The Complete Guide to the Great Dane by Malcolm Lee: A solid resource for everything from choosing a puppy to advanced training and senior care.
Understanding the science behind every coat color and the deep connection between a giant breed’s intuition and the specific needs of a mental health warrior is the heart of what I do. It is not just about reading for fun; it is about building the knowledge I need to run a non-profit that actually changes lives. When we know better, we do better for these dogs and the people who need them.
We take the blue away and put a special kind of blue. Healing Hearts one paw at a time.
Are there any specific books on Great Dane genetics, psychiatric service training, or supporting PTSD through animals that you think are a must-read? What is on your to-read list to help you better understand your dogs this year?