Review by Barry Rodgers, owner of Poochdogs.com

Secrets to Dog Training Review: First Some History.

Dan Stevens  dog training program, 'Secrets to Dog Training' was previously known as 'Sit, Stay, Fetch,'. This guide had been available for some 4 years and had become one of the best selling dog training products in the world. It had a complete revamp and was re-launched in its present form in early 2009.

Over 200,000 dog owners have bought this product. So, does it live up to the hype? Does it deserve to be the top selling dog training product? 

What do you get for your money? 

Author of Secrets to Dog Training, Daniel Stevens, is a highly respected, professional dog trainer and has written this course to be a complete and comprehensive program covering all aspects of dog ownership. It is designed to  be the only book or course you would ever need to have on the bookshelf or on the PC.

Here's what is actually 'in the box':

• A comprehensive book that teaches you how to solve over 25 dog behavior problems, with numerous photos and step by step instructions (at over 260 pages, this is your essential reference).
• A 30-minute video program that puts you right in the picture with real-life examples of how YOU can become the top dog and stay the top dog! Plus... sure-fire house training methods and how to stop your dog pulling on the leash.
• Unlimited dog behavior consultations with the Secrets to Dog Training team in the Members' Area Forum
• MP3 audio version of 'Secrets of Dog Training'

The manual is, indeed, impressively detailed and beautifully put together. We have here more than just a dog training book. It is a complete guide covering a wealth of information including how to choose the best puppy or dog for you, where to find your puppy, breed information, diet and nutrition, puppy-proofing your house, house training your puppy, vaccinations and health, grooming and choosing your vet.....amongst many other topics too numerous to mention here.

It would be easy to think that you get an 'information overload' with so much content all at once. Not so. The essential information is covered in a very simple and logical step-by-step way. Other topics which perhaps do not apply to some people are there as an invaluable reference guide, easily consulted when needed.

There are many 'methods' in which to go about dog training. Some will fit in with certain dog breeds better than others. Some will suit the dog owner better than others. This course provides a workable overview of each major training methods and techniques beyond the basics which are shown. These include clicker training, crate training, head collar training and dog whispering to name just a few.

It then has a comprehensive, more advanced section on common dog behavioral problems  - such as biting, aggression, excessive barking, chewing and digging -  and how to go about solving them permanently. 

There is also a section devoted to understanding your dog.  This chapter covers dog body language, facial expressions and vocals. It also teaches the dog owner to become the “alpha dog" in the relationship. The sections on obedience training are very clearly explained with many photographs,  demonstrating the various commands and positions in great detail.

The great thing about this whole course is that you are not alone. On purchase you get exclusive access to the private, members-only support forum for life. Here you can ask your questions to Dan Stevens and his highly trained staff and get help, support, tips and answers whenever you need them. 

How much is it?