Book Reviews and Readers’
Comments
Here is what readers are saying
about All About Aussies:
Don't get an Aussie without
first purchasing this book!!,
October 24, 2000 - By John Everett:
The information in this book is
vital to enjoying life with your Aussie. This book has helped our family
through the purchasing, raising and breeding of our Aussies. Whenever our
dogs have been sick, hurt, trained or bred... this book was open. All of the
experiences we have had were discussed in detail throughout this book. When
we have questions the first thing asked is, "What does "The Book" say?".
We recently had an emergency of
our favorite Aussie going through extremely hard labor which was complicated
by a very large, breech stillborn. We had this book open the entire time.
There were pictures and descriptions of exactly what we were going through!
My wife was able to deliver every puppy in the backseat of our car while we
rushed to the emergency vet hospital. The first was stillborn, the rest
survived. She had to resuscitate each one and was able to save the rest of
the litter thanks to the guidance and information in this book!
If not for this book we may
have lost the entire litter as well as their mother. This book is priceless.
There aren’t enough stars to give this book or its author!
This is the Bible of the breed,
May 28, 2001 - May 28,
2001 - By Kristin T. McNamara “maculated” (San Luis Obispo, CA United States):
If you are going to buy one
book on this breed, this is the one. Covers everything you've ever wanted to
know. Genetics, training, working, in-depth standard analysis, breeding, has
photos of past and current greats. A masterpiece.
The breed's 'Bible' - don't be
put off by the price! 9
Oct 2001 - Vicky Leighton-Evans (Herefordshire, UK):
One of the truly great breed
books. A fascinating and in-depth insight into all aspects of the Australian
Shepherd. If you buy only one book on the Aussie then this is the 'must
have'. The Author knows her subject inside out and gives an unbiased
portrayal of the inherent character and versatility of the breed through a
lifetime of breeding, working and showing. This superb book covers in depth,
breed history, comparisons of breed standards, structure, gait, breeding,
rearing, health, first aid, obedience, stock trials, showing & genetics -
nothing has been omitted. Beautifully compiled, illustrated and printed.
Jeanne Joy Hartnagle-Taylor is a master of her craft.
THE book on Australian
Shepherds, July 3, 1998
- By a Customer:
If you want to know anything
about Aussies, this is it. There are numerous books out there, but Mrs.
Hartnagle-Taylor's is the book to have. While it is a little pricey, it
contains everything you'll need. Grooming tips, first-aid, training,
genetics, disease information, Aussie specifics, chapters on aging,
children, if you want to know it, AAA can tell you. ok is priceless. There
aren't enough stars to give this book or its author!
Nothing beats it,
September 16, 2002 - By a Customer:
Truly out of all the Aussie
books I have gotten my hands on...this truly is one of the best out there.
Jeanne Joy Hartnagle-Taylor truly understands and loves this breed. You not
only learn what Aussies are all about but how to show, herd, and care for
them as well. A definite must for anyone who has or wants an Aussie.
Everyone even thinking of
breeding Aussies should own it!
July 20, 1999 - By a Customer:
This book is very informative
and has many educational sections as well as great pictures. The chapter on
Genetics is a must read for any breeder!
The best aussie book written!
January 22, 2004 - By a
Customer:
The Hartnagles have been
breeding Aussies for a very long time so I'm very glad that a family member
took the time to write this book. This book is a necessity for anyone that
is thinking about getting an Aussie. It is a must have for all of my puppy
buyers. It makes everyone happy- those that just specialize in one
discipline or those with versatile Aussies. Great resource!!!
The Aussie Bible,
July 15, 2005 - By Truth Be Told:
Unbiased author. Google the
whole family and you'll learn that they are the widely acknowledged Aussie
experts!
Best complete Australian
Shepherd book ever written.
July 15, 2005 - By Aussie
enthusiast:
I've read a number of books
regarding the Australian Shepherd, but this is the one and only book the
covers the Aussie from A to Z. Their newest addition even includes a section
on the smaller Aussie that many people have been breeding for over 50 years.
Thank you, for not ignoring these wonderful dogs of all sizes. It's about
time.
All the basics of the breed, and
the show business for Aussies, are thoroughly explained in this 'bible' of
detail, January 6, 2007
- By Midwest Book Review (Oregon, WI - USA):
This is no light coverage from
an outsider, but an in-depth survey of the Australian Shepherd breed by a
third generation breeder who has been involved in their training and upkeep
since childhood. And if ALL ABOUT AUSSIES: THE AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERD A TO Z
sounds familiar, that's because it appears here in a brand new 3rd updated
edition which offers not just new photos, but a new chapter devoted to
Miniature Aussies. All the basics of the breed, and the show business for
Aussies, are thoroughly explained in this 'bible' of detail, highly
recommended.
Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch
All Inclusive,
July 18, 2005 – Laurian L. Jaramillo (Placitas, NM):
What a wonderfully informative
book. This book is a must for anyone that wants to really know about
Aussies. I hope that people considering purchasing this book won't take the
negative reviews that I've seen seriously. They are politically motivated
and have nothing to do with the quality and wonderful information in this
book.
Big book, but easy reading,
November 4, 2006 - By BookThoughts (Fremont, CA United States):
I bought this book as we were
researching the Australian Shepherd breed. I found it very helpful and
complete. It was also easy reading. I seemed to finish the book in no time
at all.
A must read primer of Aussies,
June 30, 2006 – By Gary D. Logan:
All About Aussies provides a
detailed, basic review which any Aussies owner or prospective Aussie owner
will find helpful. While covering everything from breeding to showing, the
discussion of the breed standard helped me, a non breeder, understand how
the standard fits the function of the Aussie, whether a working dog or
family pet. It is an easy read.
A MUST HAVE,
October 29, 2006 - By J. Fanning:
This was a wonderful read! It
is better than all of the other Aussie books I have put together. Very
complete. Good job.
Sticks to breed specifics; want
more color photos,
September 28, 2007 - By D. Lindgren “academic librarian” (Ashville, NC):
This book was recommended
highly, and I was not disappointed! The information coverage is all that I
expected and more. So many dog books digress into information that applies
to all dogs, but this one sticks to breed specifics.
There is only one thing I would
improve in future editions: more photos in color. However, knowing that many
of the historical photos were originally in black & white, I would not edit
them out... the idea is merely to add more full-color recent photos,
especially showing the full range of Aussie activities, trials, games, etc.
One can never see too many beautiful Aussies!
The essential Aussie book,
March 23, 2007 - By B. Bathke (CO):
Loved all the info and the
detailed account of where these amazing dogs come from. As I anticipate the
arrival of my first Aussie puppy I have read and reread the puppy portions.
I love that they included a chapter on the Mini-Aussie which is what I am
getting. They are not some freakish version, only developed by breeding some
of the finest smaller Aussies. I will keep this book as a reference forever.
A fabulous gift for the Aussie owner.
All About Aussies,
November 9, 2006 - By Carol E. Chapman “Aussie admirer” (Knoxville, TN USA):
This book is an excellent
resource for the pet owner, breeder and judge. I would highly recommend this
book as it is very thorough.
Best Aussie Book I've Read,
November 27, 2009 - By Charaine “Evey” (Texas):
This is the most complete book
on Australian Shepherds I have ever read. Anyone thinking about getting an
Aussie needs to read this book and keep it for reference before purchasing
the animal. Anyone already owning an Aussie should read it to learn more
about the breed and how to care for their dog. I bought two other Aussie
books in the same order. Big mistake. This one was all I needed.
All About Aussies,
August 19, 2009 – By Beth A. Rutter “pony girl” (Portage, Ohio United States):
I am a dog lover and a major
Aussie (Australian Shepherd) fan. I am also a major fan of this book All
About Aussies. I've purchased copies in the past, have since given them
away. This was priced right and delivered very promptly by Amazon. Thanks
for the good service. I'll be back.
Required Reading for Aussie
Owners, March 3, 2009 -
By W. Dietrich “WD” (Las Vegas):
All About Aussies is a very
comprehensive book. My breeder insisted that I purchase the book before I
brought my Mini Aussie home. At first it was very overwhelming, what did I
need to know about genetic mutations, and I knew that I would never breed my
puppy. However there were some great tips on raising my Aussie and the time
line to introduce certain things to the puppy was invaluable. Now that I
have had my Aussie for a couple of years, I find that I still refer to the
book. It is really packed with useful knowledge and it takes your dog’s
lifetime to learn everything you will need to know to raise a happy dog.
If you are looking to get an
Aussie or already have an Aussie this is a must read!
All About Aussies The Australian
Shepherd From A to Z,
November 17, 2008 - By H. Steinhagen “H Steinhagen” (south FL):
The Aussie Bible.....a great
book with the answers and not a thing left out. I purchased this book on the
recommendation of our breeder....and by far its the best....if your thinking
of getting one the standard or the smaller toy....this book is a must have.
Another Winner!,
June 21, 2008 - By PBH, Maui
Hawaii:
This is the second book I've
ordered for my father based on the reviews, and I have another winner! My
Dad is tough to by for and I was again thrilled that he was so pleased. He
has an Aussie and is delighted with the A-Z content on the breed. Thank you,
reviewers, for all your honest impute. It's invaluable.
Australian Shepherd Book of
Choice, June 5, 2008 -
By T. Gust:
This is the second book I have
had. The first one was completely wore out. I am a breeder of Australian
Shepherds and there is lots of information about the breed along with
activities, health, and breeding. I highly recommend this book to anyone
that wants to expand your knowledge on Australian Shepherds. I recommend
this book to many customers that want to learn more about the breed. I tell
them that if you want to buy one book then this is the book to get.
All About Aussie; The Australian
Shepherd from A to Z,
May 2, 2008 - By Dora Fickinger:
I am very pleased with the
book. The Hartnagles have been active in the Australian Shepherd industry
for generations. This book covers it all, from breeding to when to begin
training.
It deserves more than 5 stars!
Just one great book.,
February 19, 1999 - By a Customer:
I have 2 Aussies and this book
helped me a lot to bring them up. I think this is a wonderful book and truly
an Aussie from A to Z.
I love it!,
December 9, 2007 - By K. Bustillos “Bright Eyes” (Alaska USA):
This book really doesn't leave
anything out! Very good information. From obedience to advance herding and
any type of medical (emergency or day to day) information you might ever
need. Just doesn't have the current information on organizations. I would
suggest getting "Australian Shepherds" along with the All About Aussies. It
is a magazine from the popular dogs series. It has all the current
information on organizations and trends.
The Perfect Dog
- Australian Shepherds, October 11, 2005 - By Laneda Wall (Austin, Texas):
There is a lot of information
in the book. More than I will ever need. I was very disappointed with the
lack of color pictures. There were a few but not nearly enough. Still I am
glad I bought the book. I can learn a lot from it. The author is as
enthusiastic about the Australian Shepherd dog breed as I am.
All About Aussies: The Complete
Handbook on Australian Shepherd Dogs,
September 06, 2006 - By Edward Waller:
No one has more experience with
Aussies than Jean Hartnagle, and her book is still unsurpassed as the
authoritative work on the breed. You would have to buy 3 other books to get
all the info in this one.
The best Aussie book written!
Jan 23 2004 - By a
Customer:
The Hartnagles have been
breeding Aussies for a very long time so I'm very glad that a family member
took the time to write this book. This book is a necessity for anyone that
is thinking about getting an Aussie. It is a must have for all of my puppy
buyers. It makes everyone happy- those that just specialize in one
discipline or those with versatile Aussies. Great resource!!!
If you are serious about owning
an Aussie, get this book!
Jun 24 2003 - By Sharon W. Rankles
(North Bonneville, WA USA):
This book is a 'must have' for
anyone who is serious about doing anything with Aussies. I have purchased
several books over the years which looked interesting, but really gave very
little practical information. This book gives detailed information about
history; genetics, training, health, and nutrition which are breed specific
and which you would have to acquire many books to find. It is truly worth
the purchase price!
Nothing beats it,
Sep 16 2002 - By a Customer:
Truly out of all the Aussie
books I have gotten my hands on...this truly is one of the best out there.
Jeanne Joy Hartnagle-Taylor truly understands and loves this breed. You not
only learn what Aussies are all about but how to show, herd, and care for
them as well. A definite must for anyone who has or wants an Aussie.
All About Aussies,
April 28, 2010 - Susan Gephardt "Abbimd" (Bel Air, MD.):
All About Aussies is a great
book for beginners & anyone else. It has everything you need to know!
All About Aussies: The
Australian Shepherd from A to Z,
November 30, 2000 - by A Customer / Barnes and Noble:
Breeding is easier and safer
with this book! This book has helped and provided me a 15 year old girl
trying to understand the Aussies and plans to raise in 2 years; it really
has guided us and helped out when we had stuper questions about anything,
the book is loaded I don’t know what we would do without it.
Hartnagles' are well-respected
authority on Aussies,
December 4, 2000 - by A Customer / Barnes and Noble:
If you want an
honest-to-goodness how-to book about Aussies, then buy this book. It's a
must-have for anyone considering an Aussie or for current Aussie owners. The
Hartnagles have been breeding, showing and working their dogs for
generations. They have the credentials to back up their information. Check
the bibliography. They don't pretend to know, and therefore, write about
several other dog breeds. Why? Because they love Aussies, they specialize in
them, and that's what they know best.
Jeni Gallichan – Mikatura
Aussies (Alberta Canada)
There are many excellent books
written on Aussies. The "bible" is All About Aussies by Jeanne
Joy Hartnagle-Taylor and is one that I personally recommend to any Aussie
owner. Jeanne's book has more information about Aussies than any other book
I've seen and is packed with wonderful photos. All About Aussies
retails for around $45.00 and is worth its weight in gold and I believe is a
"must have" for any Aussie owner. The Hartnagle family have been raising
Aussies, most bearing their Las Rocosa kennel name, for over 40 years and
Jeanne is a breeder judge with a wealth of knowledge to share. -
The Western Horseman,
December 1985:
Judging by the number of
Australian Shepherds seen at any kind of horse event, this breed has to be
the most popular with horsemen. And this book will prove to be equally
popular.
It’s easily one of the best
books we have ever seen. It is incredibly complete, with information ranging
from the history of the breed to working and training the stock dog. Also
included are chapters on basic training, competing in conformation show and
working trials, and genetics, breeding concepts, and reproduction. The book
is also liberally illustrated with great photos.
Author Jeanne Joy Hartnagle
grew up working Aussies on a Colorado ranch, and she has been a breeder and
trainer of these dogs most of her life. She is also an Australian Shepherd
Club of America conformation judge. This book, All About Aussies would
make a terrific Christmas present to someone who has Aussies.
Bloodlines Magazine,
September/October 1985:
Reviewing this book, All
About Aussies by Jeanne Joy Hartnagle is a real pleasure. The author
has frequently written for BLOODLINES about the Australian Shepherd.
The author came by this breed
naturally since her family used Aussies on their ranch in Colorado. Her
father, Ernest, is a highly respected stock dog Judge for the breed.
In 1979, United Kennel Club
officially recognized the “Aussie.” Since then the Aussies have
distinguished themselves at U.K.C. Licensed Obedience Trials.
The main reason United Kennel
Club recognized the “Aussie” is because it is a “total dog.” That is, same
dog that wins in Conformation Shows and Obedience Trials is also used as a
stock dog. This book covers all of these areas and more.
The chapters cover the
Conformation of the dog and showing in the ring. It has a chapter on
obedience training and the training of a stock dog. “Genetics” of the breed
are discussed by Lucia Kline DVM. Everything from bringing the new pup home,
general care, grooming, infectious disease and first aid are discussed in
separate chapters.
If you own or are considering
purchasing an Australian Shepherd, you will want a copy of this book. It is
well written by a knowledgeable author and certainly worth the price. -
Vicky Rand
Dogs in Canada,
1985:
Even if you have absolutely no
interest whatsoever in the Australian Shepherd, you might will find
All About Aussies by Jeanne Joy Hartnagle to be a most valuable book
for the wealth of information between its covers. Other breed books should
be this thorough! The chapter on gait is the best I have ever read in any
breed book. The chapter on training the dog to work stock has worthwhile
information that any herding breed owner might appreciate. And the chapters
on stock dog trials, obedience trials and conformation shows contain real
gems - a set of guidelines for putting on each of these events with lists of
needed personnel and equipment, something many clubs might find helpful. And
the section on genetics is outstanding. What the heck, let’s just say this
is a very complete, terrific book, well-illustrated with a lot of positively
delightful photographs! In addition to the chapters mentioned, the author
covers the history of the breed, the standard, Frisbee training, breeding,
reproduction, raising pups, general care, grooming, nutrition, first aid,
diseases and the aging Aussie. All are packed with good, solid information.
- AJB
National Stock Dog Magazine,
Fall 1985:
"All About Aussies"
- It really is!
We’ve just received a book
that’s sure to be on the Christmas list of everyone who loves Australian
Shepherds. It’s All About Aussies, and it’s magnificent!
It was written by Jeanne Joy
Hartnagle, who is certainly no stranger to NSD readers. You’ve enjoyed her
articles in NSD…just imagine curling up to the fire on a cold winter night
with your Aussie by your feet with All About Aussies!
The book covers everything from
whelping to caring for the arthritic aging Aussie. This is a book no stock
dog handler should be without. We highly recommend it. - J. R. Russell
Dog
World, July 1986:
When I read a breed book, I
want it to be a well-written, in-depth look at the breed I am interested in.
A breed book should be well-researched, thoughtful exploration of the unique
qualities of a specific type of dog.
Luckily, the following
selection of 1985 breed books provides just that. Jeanne Joy Hartnagle's
All About Aussies follows a format similar to Sheltie Talk
(which seems to be standard for Alpine books lately): no junk filler, just
concrete information on the breed. Australian Shepherds are not an
AKC-registered breed, but their popularity is growing rapidly and people
have nothing but good things to say about them. This extraordinarily
talented breed is perfect for the energetic owner who likes action. The book
has a great chapter on Frisbee® competitions, as well as historical
chapters, comments on nutrition, obedience, stockdog trials and more. The
book is nicely written; I highly recommend it.
I sincerely hope this crop of
breed books isn't just a handful of exceptions, but an indication of a trend
toward excellence. That's a trend every dog lover would benefit from. - Job
Michael Evans