Dog Sense

March 28, 2011
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 Milanâs 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 dogâs true nature." His analysis of dogsâ emotional landscape provides insight into typical misinterpretationsâthat dogs feel guilt, say, or that there is a "pack mentality." Save for one sectionâ"Home Alone: Can Dogs be Trained to Cope?"âBradshaw does not offer training advice. His bailiwick is psychology, in the vein of Alexandra Horowitzâs Inside of a Dog, so readers looking for practical training tips will find this lacking. Bradshawâs 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.