Dog Sense: How the New Science of Dog Behavior Can Make You a Better Friend to Your Pet

Bradshaw, the Waltham director of the Anthrozoology Institute at the University of Bristol, offers an alternative to conventional, dominance-based approaches to understanding dogs (Cesar Milan%E2%80%99s methods, for example) in an informative if somewhat dry guide to how canine biology and psychology determine behavior. Dogs, he argues, are less similar to wolves than genetics suggest; we must "widen the search for the biological characteristics that make up the dog%E2%80%99s true nature." His analysis of dogs%E2%80%99 emotional landscape provides insight into typical misinterpretations%E2%80%94that dogs feel guilt, say, or that there is a "pack mentality." Save for one section%E2%80%94"Home Alone: Can Dogs be Trained to Cope?"%E2%80%94Bradshaw does not offer training advice. His bailiwick is psychology, in the vein of Alexandra Horowitz%E2%80%99s Inside of a Dog, so readers looking for practical training tips will find this lacking. Bradshaw%E2%80%99s book is useful to those looking to further their understanding of dog behavior and clarify common misconceptions, but those seeking strategies for training should look elsewhere. (June)