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Dog Smart: Life-Changing Lessons in Canine Intelligence
This cutting-edge science narrative, chock-full of heartwarming case studies, is one woman’s quest to learn the true meaning of dog intelligence.
This delightful narrative takes readers on a powerful search to unlock the secrets of dog cognition, based on evidence from trainers, owners, behaviorists, and the animals themselves. With in-depth reporting and more than a few personal adventures, bestselling author Jennifer S. Holland digs into what intelligence really means.
Readers will meet a pack of genius dogs, each of whom embodies a particular kind of smarts. Holland spends time with Cat Warren, who trains cadaver dogs, to learn about "nose intelligence.” To unpack emotional intelligence, she examines an unlikely dog friendship; to unpack task learning ability, she seeks out an agility trainer. She interviews police-dog trainers (volunteering to be attacked by one in the name of science), service-dog trainers, and trainers who rehabilitates "bad" dogs. And she gets to know breeds that are considered especially intelligent—border collies, cattle dogs, and German shepherds—to discover whether they are truly "smarter," or just more in tune with humans.
In between field experiences, Holland spends time with dogs in a variety of settings—a rescue center, a dog park, a boarding facility— while pondering the lessons they teach us about ourselves. And she’ll pose entrancing philosophical How do we define intelligence in another being? Where do "instinct" and "intelligence" meet and diverge?
Both surprising and heartwarming, this book is one woman’s quest to understand the world’s smartest dogs—and how they got that way.
This delightful narrative takes readers on a powerful search to unlock the secrets of dog cognition, based on evidence from trainers, owners, behaviorists, and the animals themselves. With in-depth reporting and more than a few personal adventures, bestselling author Jennifer S. Holland digs into what intelligence really means.
Readers will meet a pack of genius dogs, each of whom embodies a particular kind of smarts. Holland spends time with Cat Warren, who trains cadaver dogs, to learn about "nose intelligence.” To unpack emotional intelligence, she examines an unlikely dog friendship; to unpack task learning ability, she seeks out an agility trainer. She interviews police-dog trainers (volunteering to be attacked by one in the name of science), service-dog trainers, and trainers who rehabilitates "bad" dogs. And she gets to know breeds that are considered especially intelligent—border collies, cattle dogs, and German shepherds—to discover whether they are truly "smarter," or just more in tune with humans.
In between field experiences, Holland spends time with dogs in a variety of settings—a rescue center, a dog park, a boarding facility— while pondering the lessons they teach us about ourselves. And she’ll pose entrancing philosophical How do we define intelligence in another being? Where do "instinct" and "intelligence" meet and diverge?
Both surprising and heartwarming, this book is one woman’s quest to understand the world’s smartest dogs—and how they got that way.
304 pages, Hardcover
Published May 21, 2024
37 people are currently reading
8,017 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
March 26, 2024
I am a glutton for learning more about dogs, their intelligence and how they interact with humans. Dog Smart tackles multiple issues - what is meant by intelligence, how to test it. I liked that Holland pursues what she calls adaptive intelligence, not just measuring a dog against human norms. In other words, it’s not just about how many words a dog understands.
She starts with how dogs evolved and quickly debunks the idea of the “tamed wolf”.
I learned a lot from this book, like how few dogs are actually pets (as opposed to being free roaming). She walks the reader through the different types of intelligence dogs have and how that helps them handle different types of jobs. Think seeing eye dogs, tracking and sniffing dogs, emotional support dogs. Dogs are even now being trained to handle dementia patients. One of the more interesting stories were cadaver dogs finding remains from centuries earlier, including from the Iron Age.
This isn’t a training book. But she is a firm believer that it’s mostly dumb humans, not dogs, that lead to problems with training. And too often, I feel I fall firmly in the camp of dumb trainers. She is also a firm believer in giving dogs time to be dogs, whether that entails time off leash to romp or just time to sniff on a walk.
My thanks to Netgalley and National Geographic for an advance copy of this book.
She starts with how dogs evolved and quickly debunks the idea of the “tamed wolf”.
I learned a lot from this book, like how few dogs are actually pets (as opposed to being free roaming). She walks the reader through the different types of intelligence dogs have and how that helps them handle different types of jobs. Think seeing eye dogs, tracking and sniffing dogs, emotional support dogs. Dogs are even now being trained to handle dementia patients. One of the more interesting stories were cadaver dogs finding remains from centuries earlier, including from the Iron Age.
This isn’t a training book. But she is a firm believer that it’s mostly dumb humans, not dogs, that lead to problems with training. And too often, I feel I fall firmly in the camp of dumb trainers. She is also a firm believer in giving dogs time to be dogs, whether that entails time off leash to romp or just time to sniff on a walk.
My thanks to Netgalley and National Geographic for an advance copy of this book.
May 2, 2024
I don’t read a lot of non-fiction, but of the non-fiction I do read, quite a bit of it is dog/pet related. I love learning about dogs! I am of the belief that it doesn’t matter how long you’ve had dogs or how much you think you know; you do not know everything and there is still so much more you can learn, if you want to, of course.
This book is a scientific study of the numerous capabilities and sources of intelligence that dogs possess. Holland focuses on all the different ways that dogs are really so much smarter than we give them credit for. She illustrates the numerous ways that humans can become dog smart by employing lessons and tactics that utilize the many ways that dogs understand and the ways they learn. Much of the book centers around the training of working dogs. Whether they be seeing eye dogs, police dogs, military dogs, conservation dogs, or any other kind of working dog that you could possibly think of, there is a smart way to teach the dogs what they need to know.
This is the sort of book that anyone working with dogs would find a valuable resource. While I don’t train working dogs, I enjoyed this book because it gave me some insights on why some lessons work better on some dogs than others. I also learned some new techniques on being a smarter dog mama about what kind of messages I send my own pups. It took me a while to get through this book because I found myself rereading a lot of passages to hubby. Then there were the requisite discussions of what we do and don’t do and how we can be more “dog smart”.
There’s a saying among dog trainers as well as dog owners too, “there are no bad dogs, just bad owners”. I firmly believe that. If you have ever thought that there is something wrong with your dog because they are simply not learning something that you keep trying to teach them, chances are it’s not something wrong with your dog, but rather something wrong with whatever it is you are doing. Our dogs want to be the best they can be and, hopefully, we want that too. The day we adopted them, we made the commitment to take care of them. They deserve that we too be the best we can be.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved all the stories about the various working dogs that Holland researched, studied, and observed for this book. Great stories about truly amazing dogs. I also loved the personal stories of Holland’s own pups, Monk and Geddy. What a pair of rascals!!! She comments on how her research and studies helped her to become a more “dog smart” owner.
Once again, this is a book of studies and statistics of dog training that is going to appeal to a very specific type of reader. I’m not going to rate this book like I would a work fiction by rating characterization, pacing, storyline and writing style. I’m rating this book strictly on the info provided (excellent) and the manner in which it was provided (very good). I’m looking at an overall rating of 4.3 so I’m going to round down to a 4star rating. I want to thank NetGalley and National Geographic for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #NationalGeographic #DogSmart
This book is a scientific study of the numerous capabilities and sources of intelligence that dogs possess. Holland focuses on all the different ways that dogs are really so much smarter than we give them credit for. She illustrates the numerous ways that humans can become dog smart by employing lessons and tactics that utilize the many ways that dogs understand and the ways they learn. Much of the book centers around the training of working dogs. Whether they be seeing eye dogs, police dogs, military dogs, conservation dogs, or any other kind of working dog that you could possibly think of, there is a smart way to teach the dogs what they need to know.
This is the sort of book that anyone working with dogs would find a valuable resource. While I don’t train working dogs, I enjoyed this book because it gave me some insights on why some lessons work better on some dogs than others. I also learned some new techniques on being a smarter dog mama about what kind of messages I send my own pups. It took me a while to get through this book because I found myself rereading a lot of passages to hubby. Then there were the requisite discussions of what we do and don’t do and how we can be more “dog smart”.
There’s a saying among dog trainers as well as dog owners too, “there are no bad dogs, just bad owners”. I firmly believe that. If you have ever thought that there is something wrong with your dog because they are simply not learning something that you keep trying to teach them, chances are it’s not something wrong with your dog, but rather something wrong with whatever it is you are doing. Our dogs want to be the best they can be and, hopefully, we want that too. The day we adopted them, we made the commitment to take care of them. They deserve that we too be the best we can be.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved all the stories about the various working dogs that Holland researched, studied, and observed for this book. Great stories about truly amazing dogs. I also loved the personal stories of Holland’s own pups, Monk and Geddy. What a pair of rascals!!! She comments on how her research and studies helped her to become a more “dog smart” owner.
Once again, this is a book of studies and statistics of dog training that is going to appeal to a very specific type of reader. I’m not going to rate this book like I would a work fiction by rating characterization, pacing, storyline and writing style. I’m rating this book strictly on the info provided (excellent) and the manner in which it was provided (very good). I’m looking at an overall rating of 4.3 so I’m going to round down to a 4star rating. I want to thank NetGalley and National Geographic for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #NationalGeographic #DogSmart
November 9, 2023
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
This book is full of amazing information about the intelligence of dogs. They are smarter than you think and more capable than you can imagine. The different approaches to training , how different breeds learn best, and what certain breeds are better at/more capable of is fascinating!
I am not a huge reader of nonfiction and I honestly only wanted to read this because I had just rescued a new puppy when I saw it on Netgalley and I thought it might help with training him. I was drawn in immediately and could not help devouring this book. Highly recommend this informative book on canis familiaris!
This book is full of amazing information about the intelligence of dogs. They are smarter than you think and more capable than you can imagine. The different approaches to training , how different breeds learn best, and what certain breeds are better at/more capable of is fascinating!
I am not a huge reader of nonfiction and I honestly only wanted to read this because I had just rescued a new puppy when I saw it on Netgalley and I thought it might help with training him. I was drawn in immediately and could not help devouring this book. Highly recommend this informative book on canis familiaris!
April 21, 2024
This book offers a glimpse into the lives of dogs, those selected who are in training for specific needs, from the ability to respond to medical conditions to those who are for search and rescue, and much more. Sharing the research that goes into what goes into choosing a dog as the right fit, for both the dog and the human, how they interact, the connection, as well as the bond they form.
This shares the stories of some of these dogs and how they make a difference in this world, but especially to their person that depends upon them. In some ways, it goes both ways. For the dogs, this is a job but it is also a labor of love, and they show that in many ways, their reward is knowing that they’ve made a difference in their person’s life, and have received genuine love and respect in return.
There are many individual stories which reveal some touching episode, many of which share how important these dogs become to the person they are protecting. Beyond that, this gives the reader a glimpse into their world, and how their lives differ from ours, and how much more ‘tuned in’ to the world around them than we are, in many ways.
A fascinating glimpse into the lives of dogs.
Pub Date: 21 May 2024
Many thanks for the ARC provided by National Geographic
December 26, 2023
A very fascinating and clever account about where dogs came from, what makes them who they are and how smart and great they are.
I really enjoyed reading this and would definitely recommend it to anyone who is a dog lover.
Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for gifting me this arc in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
I really enjoyed reading this and would definitely recommend it to anyone who is a dog lover.
Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for gifting me this arc in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
Want to read
March 20, 2024Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this eARC.
In her delightful and enlightening book, Dog Smart: Life-Changing Lessons in Canine Intelligence, Jennifer S. Holland takes readers on a captivating journey into the minds of our beloved four-legged companions. With a blend of scientific research, heartwarming anecdotes, and practical insights, Holland explores the fascinating world of dog cognition and the remarkable ways in which dogs perceive and interact with the world.
Holland delves into the incredible olfactory abilities of dogs. From search-and-rescue dogs to those trained to detect medical conditions, we learn how their noses are finely tuned instruments that unlock hidden secrets.
Through heartwarming stories, Holland reveals the emotional depth of dogs. Their loyalty, empathy, and unwavering love for humans remind us of the profound connections we share with them.
Holland introduces us to agility trainers, police-dog handlers, and service-dog trainers. We witness the impressive task-learning abilities of these intelligent animals and the impact they have on our lives.
Are border collies truly smarter than other breeds? Holland explores the concept of breed-specific intelligence and whether it's a matter of innate smarts or simply a strong bond with humans.
Why You Should Read It
Holland seamlessly weaves scientific discoveries with heartwarming narratives, making this book both informative and emotionally resonant.
Whether you're a seasoned dog owner or considering bringing a furry friend into your life, you'll find practical advice on understanding and enhancing your dog's intelligence.
Holland raises thought-provoking questions about what it means to be intelligent, both for dogs and for us.
Dog Smart is a celebration of the extraordinary intelligence that exists within our canine companions. As we learn from them, we become better humans—more attuned, more compassionate, and more grateful for the joy they bring to our lives.
In her delightful and enlightening book, Dog Smart: Life-Changing Lessons in Canine Intelligence, Jennifer S. Holland takes readers on a captivating journey into the minds of our beloved four-legged companions. With a blend of scientific research, heartwarming anecdotes, and practical insights, Holland explores the fascinating world of dog cognition and the remarkable ways in which dogs perceive and interact with the world.
Holland delves into the incredible olfactory abilities of dogs. From search-and-rescue dogs to those trained to detect medical conditions, we learn how their noses are finely tuned instruments that unlock hidden secrets.
Through heartwarming stories, Holland reveals the emotional depth of dogs. Their loyalty, empathy, and unwavering love for humans remind us of the profound connections we share with them.
Holland introduces us to agility trainers, police-dog handlers, and service-dog trainers. We witness the impressive task-learning abilities of these intelligent animals and the impact they have on our lives.
Are border collies truly smarter than other breeds? Holland explores the concept of breed-specific intelligence and whether it's a matter of innate smarts or simply a strong bond with humans.
Why You Should Read It
Holland seamlessly weaves scientific discoveries with heartwarming narratives, making this book both informative and emotionally resonant.
Whether you're a seasoned dog owner or considering bringing a furry friend into your life, you'll find practical advice on understanding and enhancing your dog's intelligence.
Holland raises thought-provoking questions about what it means to be intelligent, both for dogs and for us.
Dog Smart is a celebration of the extraordinary intelligence that exists within our canine companions. As we learn from them, we become better humans—more attuned, more compassionate, and more grateful for the joy they bring to our lives.
October 18, 2023
As part of a dog training business, I was very interested in this book. Some are too simple, and I was afraid this would be more of the same. The author drew me in immediately with anecdotes, but with much information. This book is top notch. If you are looking for a book on dogs that covers the bases, and (like Goldilocks) is "just right" this is the one.
Thank you to NetGalley and National Geographic for an electronic ARC of this title in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and National Geographic for an electronic ARC of this title in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
February 13, 2024
I really interesting book on dogs I learnt a lot, and enjoyed the writing style with research to back up the points. I liked that as the reader we're encouraged to look at dog intelligence against dogs not against a human perspective and helps to frame the dogs world better.
August 3, 2024
Ahhhhh, a well-written book about working dogs and dog intelligence in general, with tons of anecdotes, just the right amount of science, and a great narrator if you go the Audible route? What's not to love?
October 23, 2024
Jennifer S. Holland writes about canine intelligence in Dog Smart. I was aware of some of these qualities, but most are new.
The first thing to note about dogs is that they aren’t humans. They may have a bond with humans, but they can’t do mathematics or write essays. What they do have is their olfactory ability. They can sniff out plenty of different things.
I might edit this review later, since I am on my phone now.
I enjoyed the book. Thanks for reading my review, and see you next time.
The first thing to note about dogs is that they aren’t humans. They may have a bond with humans, but they can’t do mathematics or write essays. What they do have is their olfactory ability. They can sniff out plenty of different things.
I might edit this review later, since I am on my phone now.
I enjoyed the book. Thanks for reading my review, and see you next time.
July 28, 2024
This book had some interesting information about what makes dogs smart. Some parts were more interesting than others. Overall a very informative book!
July 12, 2024
Picked up this ARC at a library conference when I'd told myself I wasn't going to get any books, but then how could I not read this?!? It's a relatively quick read, I learned some cool stuff about dogs and read about some really awesome dogs. So... pretty great. I had also already read some of the books she mentions in this book and would recommend those for an even more science-y take, but this was really good even if you're not a big science/biology person. There is also some interesting stuff on dog evolutionary theories I hadn't read about yet. And if you've seen the videos of those button-pushing talking dogs, that is also in here if you want to read more about that (I did)!
In summary, be good to your dogs, folks.
In summary, be good to your dogs, folks.
February 22, 2024
Dog Smart is a very in depth look on how intelligent dogs are. It is apparent that Jennifer Holland took years of research to provide this much information. She explores multiple working dogs, Intelligent disobedience, abilities beyond humans such as olfactory, hearing, etc. I loved how detailed and personal each case was portrayed.
This is perfect for anyone who love dogs and appreciates statistics and detailed scientific background on the how and why.
Thank you National Geographic and Jennifer Holland for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley.
This is perfect for anyone who love dogs and appreciates statistics and detailed scientific background on the how and why.
Thank you National Geographic and Jennifer Holland for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley.
February 11, 2024
Excellent read!
This book gives the reader lots of information on the intelligence of dogs. From nose intelligence to service dogs, this book is packed full of stories about dogs and what makes them tick. I will interact with my dog differently after having read this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book.
This book gives the reader lots of information on the intelligence of dogs. From nose intelligence to service dogs, this book is packed full of stories about dogs and what makes them tick. I will interact with my dog differently after having read this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book.
October 27, 2023
Jennifer S. Holland's foray into canine cognition is nothing short of mesmerizing. This is not just a book; it's an enthralling journey that traces the multifaceted intelligence of man's best friend. Holland's blend of meticulous research, personal anecdotes, and engaging narrative style ensures that readers, whether dog enthusiasts or not, are hooked from page one.
One of the book's many strengths is its diverse range of perspectives. From trainers to behaviorists, from rescue centers to dog parks, Holland paints a comprehensive picture of dog intelligence. Her exploration of "nose intelligence" with Cat Warren and her adventure in understanding emotional intelligence through observing dog friendships showcase a deep, empathetic approach towards the subject.
Her bravery—evident when she volunteers to be attacked by a police dog—underscores her commitment to her craft and adds an unexpected thrill to the narrative. Additionally, the exploration of different breeds, particularly the border collies, cattle dogs, and German shepherds, delves into the age-old debate of nature vs. nurture in a fresh and insightful manner.
What sets this book apart, however, is Holland's ability to turn the lens back on humanity. As she interacts with dogs, she simultaneously challenges readers to introspect, raising profound philosophical questions on the nature of intelligence and instinct.
In the end, the book is not just a testament to the intelligence of dogs, but also a tribute to their ability to make us reflect on our own nature. Holland's book is enlightening, heartwarming, and a must-read for anyone keen to better understand our four-legged friends and, in turn, ourselves.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Highly recommended!
One of the book's many strengths is its diverse range of perspectives. From trainers to behaviorists, from rescue centers to dog parks, Holland paints a comprehensive picture of dog intelligence. Her exploration of "nose intelligence" with Cat Warren and her adventure in understanding emotional intelligence through observing dog friendships showcase a deep, empathetic approach towards the subject.
Her bravery—evident when she volunteers to be attacked by a police dog—underscores her commitment to her craft and adds an unexpected thrill to the narrative. Additionally, the exploration of different breeds, particularly the border collies, cattle dogs, and German shepherds, delves into the age-old debate of nature vs. nurture in a fresh and insightful manner.
What sets this book apart, however, is Holland's ability to turn the lens back on humanity. As she interacts with dogs, she simultaneously challenges readers to introspect, raising profound philosophical questions on the nature of intelligence and instinct.
In the end, the book is not just a testament to the intelligence of dogs, but also a tribute to their ability to make us reflect on our own nature. Holland's book is enlightening, heartwarming, and a must-read for anyone keen to better understand our four-legged friends and, in turn, ourselves.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Highly recommended!
February 9, 2024
Thank you for the advanced copy of this, this is a just of for any dog owner or dog lover.
Well written and well put together. I will be purchasing a physical copy of this.
Well written and well put together. I will be purchasing a physical copy of this.
Want to read
February 6, 2024I loved this book about dogs. I learned so much these amazing furry beings. I highly recommend this one.
November 4, 2023
The premise of this book is not to under estimate how smart dogs are, and this intelligence is being used. I have an Akita/Shepherd mix which is a working dog, so I am always trying to find ways to challenge him. Most people think of basic obedience training, but dogs can be trained to do scent work completing in AKC competitions, search and rescue operations or as medical alert dogs. I had a co-worker with diabetes that had several Springer Spaniels that were trained to alert him when his blood sugar was too high. Dogs can also used to detect explosives, drugs and other contraband. But did you know they can be used in agriculture to detect pests or plant diseases? Dogs have continued to out perform robotics, drones and technology in these areas because of their intelligence and superior sense of smell.
November 15, 2023
In Dog Smart, Holland takes great care in showing how our furry companions are "cognitively and emotionally complex." Whether they are smelling diseases of the present, or uncovering the past through artifacts, dogs are a lot smarter than many humans give them credit for. This intelligence also spreads to their emotional presence with us and their ability to attune to our emotions, even when many of us are lost as to what our canines are feeling. Through scientific findings and personal anecdotes, Holland does a great job to give back to a species that has given humans so much through companionship and advancements in scientific study. Dogs have a lot to teach us, if we just care to pay attention.
Thanks to NetGalley and National Geographic for this ARC!
Thanks to NetGalley and National Geographic for this ARC!
January 24, 2024
If you want to learn about how dogs think, this is an excellent book.
Did you know that lung cancer patients diagnosed early have a 20-year survival rate of 80% vs. 18% of all lung who make it past 5 years?
Some dogs can diagnosis health problems better than anyone else.
It's one of the many things you'll learn in "Dog Smart."
Did you know that lung cancer patients diagnosed early have a 20-year survival rate of 80% vs. 18% of all lung who make it past 5 years?
Some dogs can diagnosis health problems better than anyone else.
It's one of the many things you'll learn in "Dog Smart."
August 14, 2024
How smart are dogs? This wonderful book will help you understand and appreciate dogs and how they adapt to our lives and also live in their own world of smell and sound that is so different from ours. You do not want to miss this book. This will change the way you think about the dogs in your life.
We are just beginning to understand the dog and how smart they really are. We have always judged the intelligence of the dog by our standards and how well they can and do fit into our lives. But dogs also live in a world that is centered around their ability to smell and hear at a level that we do not even begin to understand. The more we adapt and learn to live in their world, the more we can understand and use their gifts to help humans.
Jennifer Holland spent time with working dogs and their handlers to start to understand the world of dogs and all that they can contribute to the world. Dogs are really amazing! Seeing eye dogs are a great example. These dogs guide their humans and give them back their freedom by being their eyes. You do not want to miss how Jennifer feels as she is being guided by one of these gifted dogs down a busy street.
We are just beginning to understand the dog and how smart they really are. We have always judged the intelligence of the dog by our standards and how well they can and do fit into our lives. But dogs also live in a world that is centered around their ability to smell and hear at a level that we do not even begin to understand. The more we adapt and learn to live in their world, the more we can understand and use their gifts to help humans.
Jennifer Holland spent time with working dogs and their handlers to start to understand the world of dogs and all that they can contribute to the world. Dogs are really amazing! Seeing eye dogs are a great example. These dogs guide their humans and give them back their freedom by being their eyes. You do not want to miss how Jennifer feels as she is being guided by one of these gifted dogs down a busy street.
May 9, 2024
This book jumped out at me as I am a doggy mum to a 14 year old dog and I feel that we have a deep bond — and she is extremely intelligent — she has an amazing nose , she is good at communicating her needs to me with her specific needs— and I wanted to learn more about dog behaviour and the meanings behind them. I found this book was able to teach me a lot more about the dogs olfactory centre and I really liked the chapters on facial expressions, vocalisations and tail wagging and the different meanings — those sections of the book — I would like to study more thoroughly to better communicate with my dog! — My dog is my emotional support dog and helps me through rough times— so it is wonderful to have a book that shows how amazing so many breeds of dogs are— and I would like to own a hard copy of this book to go through sections of the book again . The author has given many pages of other resources to go to if you want more information on a specific topic mentioned in her novel.
Thanks to Netgalley and National Geographic for this ARC. This is my honest review.
October 4, 2024
This is an excellent compilation on dogs: their history, social lives with each other and with humans, the many ways they function in our service by providing our species with emotional, medical, and protective assistance. Author, Jennifer Holland, concisely explains recent research by dog cognition and training experts. We have learned much about these amazing creatures who evolved with us over millennia and are so much a part of our lives in many ways today.
I have read many books on dogs over the years, some that dig deeply into each of the aspects summarized in this excellent book. I found nothing contradictory; Holland's explanations are clear and fundamentally correct. If a potential or current dog owner is interested in learning more about these complex, fascinating animals, this book would be a very good place to begin. I personally learned a few important new things and was reminded of so many other ways to enrich my relationship with our dogs. Highly recommended! Jennifer Holland "gets" dogs...
I have read many books on dogs over the years, some that dig deeply into each of the aspects summarized in this excellent book. I found nothing contradictory; Holland's explanations are clear and fundamentally correct. If a potential or current dog owner is interested in learning more about these complex, fascinating animals, this book would be a very good place to begin. I personally learned a few important new things and was reminded of so many other ways to enrich my relationship with our dogs. Highly recommended! Jennifer Holland "gets" dogs...
April 2, 2024
Wow, this book is full of so much information. I felt like it should be required reading for anyone purchasing a dog or thinking of getting a dog or have a dog. In fact, this will be my must give gift if someone is getting a dog.
I have had dogs my whole life and thought I knew a lot about dogs. I learned so much from this book. I knew that dogs where being trained for seeing eye dogs, cadaver dogs, and others but I didn't know that dogs can be trained for detecting cancer or help people who have seizures know when they are coming. Plus so much more amazing things. Dogs can be empathetic and how that can be used to help people who suffer from PTSD. Dogs can also be trained to help Alzheimer's patients. Plus this book explains how dogs hear and smell so differently from us humans.
I can't thank Netgalley, Jennifer S. Holland, and National Geographic for the ARC.
I have had dogs my whole life and thought I knew a lot about dogs. I learned so much from this book. I knew that dogs where being trained for seeing eye dogs, cadaver dogs, and others but I didn't know that dogs can be trained for detecting cancer or help people who have seizures know when they are coming. Plus so much more amazing things. Dogs can be empathetic and how that can be used to help people who suffer from PTSD. Dogs can also be trained to help Alzheimer's patients. Plus this book explains how dogs hear and smell so differently from us humans.
I can't thank Netgalley, Jennifer S. Holland, and National Geographic for the ARC.
May 20, 2024
Holland gives a broad overview of so many things. Bomb sniffing dogs, dogs trained to find whale poop at sea, medical sniffing dogs, how a dog’s nose works, canine body language, designing tests that highlight dog intelligence rather than human intelligence, dogs using button boards
She never dives too deep that the flow stops. It’s accessible and never feels like you’re drowning in information or academic language. I loved that any dog lover could read and readily make sense of this. Holland cites her sources so you can dig deeper.
Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to fully finish it. I had to DNF around 70%. Between a hyperactive 4 YO, baby sleep regression, and my own chronic pain and sleep problems, I did not have the spare brain power to finish it before it comes out tomorrow. That shouldn’t stop you from checking it out. I very much enjoyed this and would recommend it. 4/5
She never dives too deep that the flow stops. It’s accessible and never feels like you’re drowning in information or academic language. I loved that any dog lover could read and readily make sense of this. Holland cites her sources so you can dig deeper.
Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to fully finish it. I had to DNF around 70%. Between a hyperactive 4 YO, baby sleep regression, and my own chronic pain and sleep problems, I did not have the spare brain power to finish it before it comes out tomorrow. That shouldn’t stop you from checking it out. I very much enjoyed this and would recommend it. 4/5
June 10, 2024
A fun look at dog intelligence as the author meets and observes working dogs and their trainers, looks into the latest research, and relates her own interactions with dogs, both her own and others. I found the book well researched and full of interesting facts and examples as well as some memorable dog stories that were informative, funny, and heartwarming made me really enjoy this book. The authors excitement over the topic of dog smarts and how well they interact with humans and other species as well as her feelings on how we interact with them came through in the writing and made this a highly readable and very enjoyable book for me as a dog lover. The I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
July 12, 2024
***These are my random thoughts after finishing the book. Some of the thoughts are an overall review of the book, or any questions/feelings that nagged at me throughout. There will almost definitely be spoilers. Read at your own risk.*** ‐----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4 stars
Loved all the different ways of looking at canine intelligence and how wonderful our doggie friends are
Cute anecdotes
Made me want to hug a dog
4 stars
Loved all the different ways of looking at canine intelligence and how wonderful our doggie friends are
Cute anecdotes
Made me want to hug a dog
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 27, 2024
Good book if you want to understand dogs better. Seemed to me like half the book was packed with info and interesting, and the other half was kind of a drag. Could be because it repeats information from other dog books. Which could be kind of unfair mark against it. On the plus side, it was a great refresher to remember that dogs do things for a reason. It's worthwhile to try to understand them even when they can be annoying.
May 27, 2024
The author clearly did her research when writing this informational book about dogs and the difference they can make in our lives. They truly are extraordinary creatures and the stories shared only reinforce that to the reader. I found this book to be an enjoyable read and heartwarming!
Thank you to Netgalley for an advanced copy of this book!
Thank you to Netgalley for an advanced copy of this book!
July 6, 2024
A book about dogs and their different types of intelligence. Cadaver dogs with super smell, police dogs who have to go against their nature and attack humans, even a dog that hang glides. Really interesting book. I enjoyed this and wish I had enough patience and attention span to properly train my dog to unleash her brain power even better. 4 stars.
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