Penguin Random House Online ✔ The Other End of the Leash: Why We Do What We Do Around Dogs

Take a walk on the flipside with The Other End of the Leash: Why We Do What We Do Around Dogs. A revolutionary, new perspective on relationships with dogs, this book focuses on the human behavior in this dynamic pairing—instead of the other way around. An applied animal behaviorist and experienced dog trainer, Dr. Patricia McConnell looks at humans as just another interesting species, and muses about why we behave the way we do around dogs, how they might interpret that behavior, and how to interact with dogs in a way that brings out their very best.

Because ultimately, humans and dogs are still two entirely different species, each shaped by individual evolutionary heritage—quite simply, humans are primates and dogs are candids (like wolves and foxes). Since both speak in a different native tongue, much gets lost in translation. Once you start to think about your own behavior from the viewpoint of your dog, you’ll understand much of what appears to be disobedience is simply miscommunication. This book teaches how to use your voice; why “getting dominance” over your dog is a bad idea; why “rough and tumble” play can lead to trouble and how to play; and how dogs and humans share personality types. Striving to help you make the most of your life with your dog, the author combines wonderful true stories with scientific perspective in her own insightful, compelling style.

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About the Author

Patricia McConnell, Ph.D., CAAB is an ethologist and certified applied animal behaviorist who has consulted with cat and dog lovers for more twenty-two years. She combines a thorough understanding of the science of behavior with years of practical, applied experience. Her nationally syndicated radio show, Calling All Pets, played in more than 110 cities for fourteen years and her television show Petline played on Animal Planet for two and a half years. She was the behavior columnist for The Bark magazine (The New Yorker of dog magazines Time) and is adjunct professor in Zoology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, teaching The Biology and Philosophy of Human/Animal Relationships. Dr. McConnell is a much sought-after speaker and seminar presenter, speaking to training organizations, veterinary conferences, academic meetings, and animal shelters around the world about dog and cat behavior, and on science-based and humane solutions to serious behavioral problems. She is the author of thirteen books on training and behavioral problems, as well as the critically acclaimed books The Other End of the Leash (translated into fourteen languages), For the Love of a Dog, and Tales of Two Species. She lives with her Border Collies, Willie and Maggie, her rescue Cavalier Spaniel, Tootsie, and a very spoiled flock of sheep, and suffers from separation anxiety when she leaves them.