Wonderdog The science of dogs and their unique friendship with humans

Zoologist Howard (Death on Earth) enlists the help of veterinary professionals, psychologists, ethologists, neurologists, historians, and others in this eclectic history of dogs. They were the first animals to be domesticated some 30,000 years ago, Howard notes, and their population is on the rise (up 20% since 2000 in the U.S. alone). In tracking "how we came to know the mind of dogs," Howard explains that many scientific advancements came at the creatures' detriment; Howard describes how Pavlov's early research on dog digestion used brutal surgical methods that were standard at the time, and how vivisections performed without anesthesia were common procedures in the 19th century (as well, Howard outlines the activists who worked to stop the practice). He traces modern studies, too, such as the 1994 launch of the "The Family Dog Project" in Hungary, which made dogs a "big deal in the cognitive research community." Researchers have since learned that canines can communicate through gestures with humans and can learn from play. Howard peppers in charming stories of his own childhood dog, Biff, giving the survey equal parts heft and heart: "We had all the hallmarks of love for one another, Biff and I." This is just the thing for dog lovers. Agent: Olivia Davies, United Agents. (Nov.)

British zoologist, author of children's and adult titles about the natural world, and TV host Howard thoroughly explores the science of dogs in this title. Howard explains how much dogs truly understand of the world, how they feel their emotions, and, most importantly, what their relationships to humans mean for them and for us. The author dates his research back to Darwin and moves through time to discover where these questions began and how they have evolved over the years. The research is separated into three sections: the medical use of dogs, the sociology behind dogs, and the emotional connection. Howard has very clearly done his research on the subject, which is supplemented throughout the book with numerous footnotes, which sometimes border on being overwhelming. What he does well, however, is incorporating his own stories throughout the research to make it more informal while still being informative. VERDICT This is a solid study on man's best friend that can be enjoyed by the casual reader or the historian alike, with an exceptional balance of entertainment and educational value.--Sarah Filiberto