The points of issue
Issued in Black Sparrow's standard multiple states: trade wrappers, trade cloth, and a signed numbered limited hardcover (plus lettered copies). First printing stated on the copyright page; limited states identified by the colophon.
Is this the true first?
Black Sparrow US (1977) is the true first. State hierarchy: lettered > numbered signed limited > cloth > wraps. Verify the colophon for limited/signed states.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Not a book club. Distinguish the states via the colophon; the trade printing differs from the signed limited in binding and paper.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Love Is a Dog from Hell a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Issued in Black Sparrow's standard multiple states: trade wrappers, trade cloth, and a signed numbered limited hardcover (plus lettered copies). First printing stated on the copyright page; limited states identified by the colophon.
How do I tell the first printing from a later one?
Check the copyright page for the publisher's first-printing convention and confirm the points above. Black Sparrow US (1977) is the true first. State hierarchy: lettered > numbered signed limited > cloth > wraps. Verify the colophon for limited/signed states.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Not a book club. Distinguish the states via the colophon; the trade printing differs from the signed limited in binding and paper.
I have a first edition of Love Is a Dog from Hell — what should I do?
If you're clearing books, New Mexico Literacy Project offers free pickup in Albuquerque, any condition, and makes sure collectible copies aren't lost. To sell, see the author's collecting guide. Either way, nothing valuable ends up in a landfill.