Have you ever wondered why dogs are considered, 'man's best friend?' In this book, Psychologist Dr Christopher Blazina explains the importance of the unique bond between men and dogs. There are widely-held beliefs that males naturally transition into a state of self-imposed seclusion and emotional detachment in adulthood. Even relying on another person violates the rules of being a man. When Man Meets Dog explores how the bond with animal companions bypasses many of these barriers, helping males develop into happier, healthier men. What a difference a dog can make! It's also important to discuss the other side of attachment: loss. Again, the mixed messages men receive lead to difficulties with managing grief. When Man Meets Dog is the first book to discuss men's 'continuing bonds' with a lost animal companion. A continuing bond is a new way of reconnecting and preserving the memory of this unique connection. When Man Meets Dog is a memoir with a purpose. Chris shares his very personal story of how two shelter dogs not only changed the direction of his life, but also how he defines what it means to be a man.

A must-read for every dog lover—a short, tender, and uplifting tale of a cancer survivor and the life lessons shared with him by his beloved family dog. Our dogs come into our lives as “just the family pet,” but before we know it they become drinking buddies and fuzzy shrinks, playmates and Cheerios-munching vacuum cleaners, alarm clocks and sleeping partners. And, in their mys­terious and muttish ways, our dogs become our teachers. When Dana Jennings and his son were both seriously ill—Dana with prostate cancer and his son with liver failure—their twelve-year-old miniature poodle Bijou became even more than a pet and teacher. She became a healing presence in their lives. After all, when you’re recovering from radical surgery and your life is uncertain, there’s no better medicine than a twenty-three-pound pooch who lives by the motto that it’s always best to play, even when you’re old and creaky, even when you’re sick and frightened. In telling Bijou’s tale in all of its funny, touching, and neurotic glory, Jennings is telling the story of every dog that has ever blessed our lives. The perfect gift for animal lovers, What a Difference a Dog Makes is a narrative ode to our canine guardian angels.

When Man Meets Dog is the first book to explore the meaning of the human-animal bond from the male experience. For men, the connection with dogs bypasses familiar male barriers that keep so many others at a distance. Come to understand the challenges men face in making bonds, and why ties with canine companions offset many of these difficulties.

An enlightening and entertaining account of the unique relationship between humans and their pets. It offers a delightful insight into animal and human thinking and feeling. An essential companion for all dog lovers!

Dogs have been mankind's faithful companions for tens of thousands of years, yet today they are regularly treated as either pack-following wolves or furry humans. The truth is, dogs are neither -- and our misunderstanding has put them in serious crisis. What dogs really need is a spokesperson, someone who will assert their specific needs. Renowned anthrozoologist Dr. John Bradshaw has made a career of studying human-animal interactions, and in Dog Sense he uses the latest scientific research to show how humans can live in harmony with -- not just dominion over -- their four-legged friends. From explaining why positive reinforcement is a more effective (and less damaging) way to control dogs' behavior than punishment to demonstrating the importance of weighing a dog's unique personality against stereotypes about its breed, Bradshaw offers extraordinary insight into the question of how we really ought to treat our dogs.

A pioneering canine behaviorist draws on cutting-edge research to show that a single, simple trait--the capacity to love--is what makes dogs such perfect companions for humans, and to explain how we can better reciprocate their affection.

The perfect holiday gift for dog owners: [a] must-have guide to improving your dog's life (Modern Dog Magazine). As seen in The New York Times, People, SLATE, Psychology Today "[A] must-have guide to improving your dog's life." -Modern Dog Magazine Whether you are training a new puppy, considering adopting a dog, researching dog breeds, or simply curious about your own dog's happiness and behavior, Wag has all the answers-and then some. Respected dog trainer and social psychologist, Zazie Todd, demystifies the inner life of canines and shares recommendations from leading veterinarians, researchers, and trainers to help you cultivate a rewarding and respectful relationship with your dog-which offers many benefits for you, your family, and your four-legged friend. "Inside this engaging, practical book, readers will find: -A Check List for a Happy Dog -Enrichment exercises - How to socialize and train a new puppy -How to reduce fear and anxiety in dogs -Tips for visiting the vet -Information on aging dogs -Expert interviews with vets and psychologists -And so much more! "Dog owners and those considering becoming one should appreciate Todd's substantial insight into how dogs and humans relate to one another"-Publishers Weekly