When I first got my dog, Baxter, I realised that he would be totally reliant on me. Little did I know that he would test my commitment to the extreme. He has been in intensive care three times. I once heard him squealing, from sheer terror, as I sat nervously in the waiting room.

He has also had a leg operation that required an eight-week recovery, and he is quite anxious. At puberty he became a nightmare. Barking, baring his teeth, headbutting people, losing control. Together we went to trainers galore until I found someone who made me stop and look at the world from a new perspective.

With almost seven years behind us as I read Dognitive Therapy, I found myself nodding in agreement. The keys are routine, kindness, trust and love, and setting your dog up for success rather than failure. And consistency. Always consistency. These are some of the most important things in your dog’s world.

Throughout this book, dog behaviourist Laura Vissaritis helps your dog by getting you to learn more about yourself. She shows you how your behaviour affects the behaviour of your dog, and how you can earn respect, show leadership and empathise with your canine companion.

The case studies and training techniques she provides are invaluable. It’s easy to focus on the negative things your dog does rather than concentrating on the overwhelming number of good things they do. This book will help you realise how fabulous your dog is and how rewarding and enriching dogs can be in your life, regardless of whether they conform to your idea of how they should behave or not.

Read this book if you want to learn more about you, your dog and the best way to connect and enjoy an unforgettable relationship.

Reviewed by Rowena Morcom