How we review this book: We present the core messages of the book and our perspective from an HonestDog point of view—based on publicly available content, expert reviews, and interviews with the author. This review is neither a traditional critique nor a replacement for the book itself; it's designed to help you decide whether reading it is right for you.
Not every dog comes to their new home as a puppy. "Die zweite Chance: Hunde mit Vergangenheit" by Katharina von der Leyen is the standard guide for anyone giving a rescue or shelter dog a second chance at life—and it's a book that's particularly close to our hearts.
What it's about
Von der Leyen, an experienced journalist and non-fiction author, teams up with experts to bundle the specialized knowledge that owners of dogs with a past really need: from settling in and building a bond to typical rescue dog behavior issues. Numerous practical examples show how to respond appropriately to insecurity, fear, or controlling tendencies.
Our perspective
The book takes reality seriously: a rescue dog often brings experiences that require patience and understanding—while also inspiring hope that these exact dogs can become wonderful companions. Von der Leyen doesn't romanticize or stoke fear; she empowers. This honest, supportive stance matches ours completely. Adoption isn't a "second choice," but the right one for many people.
Key takeaways for prospective adopters
- Give your dog time—the first few weeks are about arriving, not training.
- Behavioral issues are usually the result of their past, not their character.
- Get professional guidance early if fears or insecurities pop up.
Key takeaways for shelters and rescue organizations
- Honest, complete information about a dog's history makes adoptions much more successful long-term.
- Realistic expectations protect both people and dogs from returns.
What HonestDog does with it
We treat adoption as a fully valid path to dog ownership. With us, you can find animal shelters and discover dogs available for adoption. And if you're unsure which dog—whether from a breeder or a rescue—fits your lifestyle, our breed finder can help.
Book overview
- Title: Die zweite Chance – Hunde mit Vergangenheit
- Author: Katharina von der Leyen (with Inga Böhm-Reithmeier)
- Publisher: Kosmos, 2017
- ISBN: 978-3-440-15139-6
Transparency note: This review is based on publicly available information about the book, not on a complete cover-to-cover read by our team. We additionally base factual statements regarding breed health and breeding on FCI, AKC, and veterinary sources.