Two canine scientists, Julie Hecht and Mia Cobb, met briefly at a conference in Barcelona in late July, 2012. They share a passion for canine science, good communication, social media and fun. One works in the field of canine cognition and understanding why and how we humanise our canine companions. The other researches the welfare and performance science of working dogs. Different perspectives, but both are enthusiastic, entertaining and a little bit deaf. They decided to embark on an adventure as pen pals in the digital era, taking turns to blog on topics related to their own research, the work of their research groups and other random dog science themes.

Join them as they consider one of our greatest questions, “Do you believe in dog?” – From Do You Believe in Dog?

Do You Believe in Dog Twitter: https://twitter.com/DoUBelieveInDog
Do You Believe in Dog Blog: http://www.doyoubelieveindog.blogspot.com.au
Do You Believe in Dog Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/DoYouBelieveInDog

A Modern Dog’s Life by McGreevy (2009)

A fabulous book, written with humour and insight, that offers a modern take on what challenges and motivates our dogs and how we can best meet their needs.

Inside of a Dog by Horowitz (2009)

What’s it like to be a dog? This book covers the science of how dogs think and perceive the world and is accompanied by personal reflections on Horowitz’s own dog’s behaviour. Get to know the umwelt of the dog.

Dog Sense: How the New Science of Dog Behavior Can Make You a Better Friend to Your Pet by John Bradshaw
This recent publication answers the very important question: “What’s good for dogs?” Explore recent research into dog behaviour and cognition and take away ways to make your dog psychologically healthy.

Lindsay triptech (we just like being able to say triptech)(2000 / 2001 / 2005)
Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training, Vol. 1: Adaptation and Learning
Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training, Vol. 2: Etiology and Assessment of Behavior Problems
Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training, Vol. 3: Procedures and Protocols
Three enormous books containing so much canine science that even the heartiest of appetites will be satiated.

Miklósi (2009) Dog Behaviour, Evolution, and Cognition

One of the first books to collate and synthesise the growing primary research on dog evolution, behaviour and cognition. Often used in the classroom, it offers an in depth overview of canine science research methods as well as study findings. Keep a lookout for the second edition!

If Dogs Could Talk: Exploring the Canine Mind by Vilmos Csányi 

What does careful observation and documentation of dog behaviour tell us about the canine mind? And how did people and dogs come to share these strong emotional bonds? Readers join Csányi, and his dogs Flip and Jerry, in this scientific exploration of the high degree of mutual understanding between humans and their four-legged best friends.

Dogs: A New Understanding of Canine Origin, Behavior and Evolution by Raymond Coppinger & Lorna Coppinger

How did dogs come to be dogs, and where does their diversity come from? From village dogs to dogs in our beds, the Coppingers investigate how physical appearances and behaviours develop from both genes and the environment in which they are raised.

The Other End of the Leash: Why We Do What We Do Around Dogs by Patricia McConnell

Dogs and humans are two entirely different species with distinct evolutionary heritages, yet can walk down the street together, move in synch and seemingly share mutual understanding. But are we always on the same page? Learn how dogs might interpret our human behaviour, and learn how to interact with dogs in ways they best understand. A must-read for anyone interested in enhancing their relationship and communication with canine companions.

Jensen (2007) The Behavioural Biology of Dogs

With separate sections by various experts, this book offers a nice overview of canine behavioural biology. Sections focus on dog evolution and development, basic behaviour and assessment, prevention and treatment of common companion dog behaviour problems.

The Domestic Dog: Its Evolution, Behaviour and Interactions with People edited by Serpell

An early publication pulling together research into dog behaviour, cognition and evolution. The book dispells many myths and stereotypes about our canine friends and includes sections on dog origins, behaviour and behaviour problems as well as human-dog interactions. A comprehensive overview, rooted in scientific evidence. Keep a lookout for the second edition!

Bonus Classic:
Scott & Fuller (1965) Genetics and the Social Behavior of the Dog: The classic study

Often referenced, but probably not so often read, this classic study, spanning twenty years, covers research into the role of genetics and socialisation on dog behaviour.