For kinder, gentler dogs

Forging a friendship with Fido may be easy, but what about problem dogs?

Conventional wisdom holds that reprimanding dogs into submission is the proper course for bringing wayward dogs into line.

C.W. Meisterfield is one canine expert who is promoting an alternative method.

In his new book, "Dog Whisper: Intuitive Communication," Mr. Meisterfield argues that violent training leads to violent dogs. "[Dog problems] can be solved without drugs, without pain, and without intimidation," he says.

Meisterfield says dogs are happiest when working for their owner, but that people need to understand how to communicate with dogs better.

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