Amazing Dog Facts and Trivia, by Ryan O'Meara

 Publication Jan. 10, 2023

This book makes a big promise in the blurb. It says you'll be "able to find out everything you have ever wanted to know about out legendary best friends, as well as lots you never thought to ask." Toss in anecdotes, heartwarming stories, training and care tips, trivia, and some wonderful photos and artwork and, well, it may come close to living up to its promise. 

I don't tend to rely on blurbs to share what it inside but don't think I can top this one from the publisher:

"The dog has earned the title of man’s best friend through centuries of devotion, companionship, dedication, courage, and willingness to be whatever we want or need. In Amazing Dog Facts and Trivia, you’ll learn everything you ever wanted to know about our legendary best friends. Explore their origins and development and the various dog breeds from Poodles to Labradors to terriers to wiener dogs. You’ll find details about the physical traits of dogs: their barks, their hearing, and astounding sense of smell.

This book contains helpful tips and advice, including how to: evaluate different breeds, puppy-proof your home, care, feed, and play with your do, and so much more!"

Back to me. I've got to admit upfront that I didn't sit down and read this straight through as I would a regular book. Heck, my first go-through quickly turned into a "look at the amazing pictures" browse. Next look, checking out the index and chapter content, which is impressively lengthy and easy to use. I then spent some time checking into topics that grabbed my attention, stopping to smile or even chuckle at some of the anecdotes shared, while equally focused on the stories of various pets and owners. 

In other words, this is a book that wherever you turn, you're likely to find something of interest. This one should definitely be on any dog lover's bookshelves, both for quick reference and simply the fun of finding out more about our canine friends or just enjoying the pictures. Thanks #NetGalley and #QuartoPublishingGroup - #ChartwellBooks for introducing me to this lovely, soon-to-be addition to my own shelves.