Bark!

I’ve been a human-pup since 2005. For most of that time, pups were very few and far between in the BDSM world – as were pup groups and resources. In just the last few years (since around 2011-2012) we’ve seen an explosion in the pup population: with new pup-and-Handler groups, more moshes, puppy title contests, pups turning up in every leather bar, and more pups showing up on social media than you can shake a stick at. Some great online resources (blogs and podcasts) have cropped-up in the last couple of years, but the only resource in print was Michael Darnels’ Woof!, an adequate, if rather outdated, book… until Bark!This book is extremely timely and written by the right author for the present moment. Sir Justin’s year as the International Puppy Trainer titleholder took him to a variety of groups and events in 30 states and two Canadian provinces, so he got the lay of the land. He’s a passionate educator, a great teacher (I attended one of his Pup 201 workshops and it was one of the best kink classes I’d been to in years), and writes in a casual, but very intelligent, style.He sufficiently covers the 101-level nuts-and-bolts of puppy play, but where his book really shines is when he muses on the emerging puppy community, it’s evolution, and how it fits into (or doesn’t fit into) the larger Leather community. His work is personal and opinionated but never authoritarian; he’s always quick to say, ‘These are my observations, others will disagree, and that’s fine.’Another real strength of his book is the chapters about puppy packs, Alpha/beta/omega roles, and pup-polyamory. I think he gives a very accurate assessment of how the pup community is organizing itself and the important ways that puppy packs are different from traditional Leather clubs or houses.It’s breezy, enjoyable, insightful, and a great book for both old dogs like me and new pups/Handlers – or anyone in the BDSM/Leather community with a curiosity about this whole, kooky puppy play trend.

This book works well when paired with the "Woof" by Michael Daniels as well as internet info and videos.This book covers an introduction to playing as a human puppy in the most basic way.One is introduced to the concept, basic gear, various concerns and issues of safety.It is primarily concerned with how puppy play fits into the kink or Leather/BDSM scene and how Puppy Play has evolved to get where it is today.I read "Woof" which got more into the nuts and bolts of being a puppy but had many questions about where I would fit in: Was I an Alpha, Beta, Omega? What is the difference between a Handler, Trainer and Owner? What is my place in the Leather Community?I set up an time to meet with an experienced handler/trainer after reading "Woof" but found "Bark!" answered many of those questions.Puppy Play as a scene outside the Leather/BDSM communiyty but the two seem highly integrated and exploring both aspects will allow one to more comfortably fit into the scene.The book is a quick read at 108 pages with a number of them blank or chapter headings.There was a 14 page block covering Pup or Pup and Handler competitions which seemed excessive for anyone just getting into Puppy Play.I understand why it was there - the author has really made this book more a treatise on where pups have been and how to keep the movement going but it seemed like a lot.

First, let me say that I appreciate the passion the author obviously has for the pup community. He is aware of the void of resource material on the subject, and this is an intelligent, plain-spoken, welcome guide.St. Clair could not seem to decide between the voice of an objective educator and the opportunity to air his opinions. At times, the book reads like an autobiography or a newspaper editorial. He openly admits at the beginning that the book is full of his own opinions and experiences, but then uses language like "this is neither good nor bad, just different," and "I am not here to judge..." Pages later, he puts his foot down and determines that certain behavior is "complete bulls***."Half of the book is dedicated to the social behaviors of pups, but there is almost no reference to their sexual behaviors. Like the leathermen that he often references, St Clair suggests that puppy play is social, psychological, and even political. But there can be no denying that there is a sexual aspect as well, especially when the author himself, in the opening paragraphs, uses graphic language about what makes his "dick hard." Upon reading those words on the first page, I assumed the book would plainly and unapologetically address the (possible) sexual desires of pups and scenarios of puppy play. But no.I do feel I learned a few things, including poly-pack hierarchies and proper mosh etiquette, but I do wish more had been written about the one-on-one relationships pups have with their Handlers.

I loved this book. Have a friend who is into puppy play and this book has helped me so much in understanding pup play better. I would recommend this book to everyone in the kink community, even those not interested in puppy is. It has great insights on the pup community and general good ideas on communication and how to avoid miscommunication.

Great book for anyone getting into the community, existing in the community, or just curious. Justin does a great job in the book of addressing old and new as well as where the two combine and clash. Great job.

Love this book i love reading and learning more about stuff im into, it shares some of the history of puppy play, super great read

Well written. It was a great look at the topic. I found the book to be easy to read and informative.

Very helpful with dynamic and intimate relationships in daily life. Reading this book has made my gay life a little more friendly and brighter.

I'm new to the pup community, as a handler, and handlers and pups alike recommended this book to me, after reading it I can see why and I can't recommend it enough myself. It's something I intend to have my pup read also when I see him in a week.

By a community member for community members, regardless of their level of experience.

Very well written. Great book for anyone interested to learn more about Pup Play.

A nice introduction to the puppy play world