Blogs

Canine Corner

The human-animal bond
by Stanley Coren, Ph.D.
Stanley Coren, Ph.D. is a professor of psychology at the University of British Columbia. See full bio
November 22, 2009

Do Dogs Laugh?

Dogs make laughing sounds when they are playing. These same sounds, whether recorded or imitated by a human being can be used to calm a dog or invite it to play. Read More

October 21, 2009

“A Man’s Best Friend is his Dog”: The Senator, the Dog, and the Trial

When a dog named "Old Drum" is shot, it results in a high profile trial, with a dream team of lawyers on both sides that ultimately produces one of the most spiritually moving pieces of prose about the bond between people and dogs. Read More

October 5, 2009

The Former French President’s Depressed Dog: Jacques Chirac and Sumo

Former French president Jacques Chirac believes that hismove from the Elysee Palace to a Paris apartment has caused his little Maltese dog to be depressed and has triggered several aggressive biting incidents. Read More

September 21, 2009

Canine Friends to the End

Evidence of the emotional support that dogs provide comes from the fact that some people, facing what they know to be their immanent death, choose to spend their last moments of life with their dogs. Read More

August 17, 2009

Could dogs be the fastest land animals in the world?

To determine the fastest animal in the world one has to consider the nature of the race that you are going to ask them run. In middle distance and long distance races dogs may well be the fastest animal on the planet. Read More

July 29, 2009

Why do dogs roll in garbage, manure, or other smelly stuff?

Theories of why dogs roll in garbage make reference to many things including parasites, communication and camouflage. Read More

July 15, 2009

Canine Intelligence—Breed Does Matter

There are three types of canine intelligence and each can be measured separately. When we do such measurements we find that how smart a dog is depends, at least in part, upon its breed. Read More

June 29, 2009

Why are puppies born with their eyes and ears closed?

The idea that puppies are born functionally blind and deaf seems to make no evolutionary sense. However this condition is the result of a deliberate "choice" to improve the ability for wild canines to survive. Read More

June 7, 2009

The Health and Psychological Benefits of Bonding with a Pet Dog

Our understanding of the benefits of canine companions has changed. We now understand that a pet dog can reduce stress, improved physical health status and improve social relationships. Read More

May 18, 2009

In Tough Economic Times People Will Make Sacrifices For Their Dog’s Happiness

Even given the current downturn in the economy, a survey shows that people are willing to give up a surprising amount of their own comfort to save money to insure the happiness of their pet dog. Read More

Subscribe to Canine Corner

Books by Stanley Coren, Ph.D.

Image of Why Do Dogs Have Wet Noses?
Why Do Dogs Have Wet Noses?
Image of The Pawprints of History: Dogs and the Course of Human Events
The Pawprints of History: Dogs and the Course of Human Events
Image of How Dogs Think: What the World Looks Like to Them and Why They Act the Way They Do
How Dogs Think: What the World Looks Like to Them and Why They Act the Way They Do
Image of The Intelligence of Dogs: A Guide to the Thoughts, Emotions, and Inner Lives of Our Canine Companions
The Intelligence of Dogs: A Guide to the Thoughts, Emotions, and Inner Lives of Our Canine Companions
Image of The Modern Dog: A Joyful Exploration of How We Live with Dogs Today
The Modern Dog: A Joyful Exploration of How We Live with Dogs Today
Image of How To Speak Dog: Mastering the Art of Dog-Human Communication
How To Speak Dog: Mastering the Art of Dog-Human Communication
Image of Why Does My Dog Act That Way?: A Complete Guide to Your Dog's Personality
Why Does My Dog Act That Way?: A Complete Guide to Your Dog's Personality
Image of Why We Love the Dogs We Do: How to Find the Dog That Matches Your Personality
Why We Love the Dogs We Do: How to Find the Dog That Matches Your Personality
Image of What Do Dogs Know?
What Do Dogs Know?
Image of Understanding Your Dog For Dummies (For Dummies (Pets))
Understanding Your Dog For Dummies (For Dummies (Pets))

Animal Behavior Basics

Animal Behavior

Pets are among life's greatest joys; they can also be our greatest teachers.  The study of animal behavior is a cornerstone of experimental psychology, shedding light on complex human emotions.  And pets have a unique therapaeutic hold over humans, especially people who are socially isolated or who are coping with a diagnosis on the autism spectrum.

Go to the Animal Behavior Basics page for more on Animal Behavior including:
  • Bonding With Animals
  • Animal Emotion
  • Training Your Pet
Go to Animal Behavior Basics

Find a Therapist

Search our customized Directory for a licensed professional near you.
 See new therapists

Current Issue

Everyday Creativity

How to start living creatively and reap the benefits.