The book “Potential Within: Your Dog’s Health — A Natural Guide to Health, Happiness and Harmony for Your Canine Companion” offers one of the most approachable introductions to canine health for new and experienced dog owners. Written specifically for a general audience, it avoids technical jargon and focuses on practical actions that support everyday wellbeing.
The opening chapter provides foundational information for selecting, understanding, and caring for a pet dog. This includes guidance on recognizing canine behavior and body language, ensuring sufficient space and time for the animal, and choosing an appropriate veterinarian and insurance plan. The content is concise yet accurate, giving first-time owners a clear starting point.
Nutrition receives extensive attention across two chapters. The book reviews feeding schedules, commercial diet types, and their respective advantages and drawbacks. It then expands into biologic and supplemental nutrition, discussing vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and antioxidants that may support canine health. While accessible, the material reflects current knowledge on how targeted nutrients may influence wellness.
Exercise and fitness are addressed with practical advice for dogs of different ages and activity levels, from athletic adults to geriatric companions. Rather than prescribing rigid training programs, the book emphasizes adaptable strategies that promote safe and appropriate physical activity.
The final chapters explore natural approaches to preventing and managing health problems. This includes diet-based modifications, supplement use, and explanations of physiological processes such as oxidation and free radical formation. Although the author advocates raw feeding as a “gold standard,” the text also provides guidance for owners who choose canned or dry food combined with supplementation.
Overall, the review concludes that the book serves as a valuable resource for dog owners interested in holistic, nutrition-informed care. Its accessible explanations, emphasis on wellbeing, and detailed guidance on diet and fitness make it particularly suitable for those seeking natural strategies to support their dog’s long-term health.
Source: Wickstrom, A. M. (2010). Potential Within: Your Dog’s Health — A Natural Guide to Health, Happiness and Harmony for Your Canine Companion. Published December 1, 2010.
