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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
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

May 4, 2009

Can Dogs Sense When Someone Is About to Die?

There is a persistent belief held by many people that dogs have some sort of "sixth sense" that allows them to sense when somebody is about to die. This is usually supported by anecdotal evidence that can be interesting and thought provoking. Read More

April 14, 2009

Vladimir Putin and his Political Dog

Vladimir Putin's Labrador Retriever Koni is not only his close and intimate companion, but has also been used poltically in negotiating situations. Read More

March 27, 2009

Pets as a Risk Factor for Fall Related Injuries

According to a Center for Disease Control study, annually about 87,000 falls that cause people to seek emergency treatment are pet related. Read More

March 16, 2009

Psychological Characteristics Owners of High Risk for Aggression Dog Breeds

Owners of high risk for aggression dogs admit to more criminal activity and are more likely to engage in sensation seeking and high risk behaviors. Read More

February 28, 2009

Song for a Therapy Dog

The dog forced him to get up and heal himself and now he is thanking him with a musical tribute. Read More

February 13, 2009

People with Pet Allergies Refuse to Give Up Their Pets

 When doctors recommend that people with pet allergies get rid of their dog or cat only 1 in 5 patients comply. Furthermore, should their pet die, 2 out of 3 patients will ignore their doctor's instructions and despite their allergies they get a replacement pet. Read More

February 2, 2009

Are Breeders Creating Less Intelligent Dogs? Science, Truth and Journalism

 There have been many press reports about research suggesting that breeding dogs for the show ring results in dogs with lower intelligence. The actual scientific data suggests that this is not true. The researcher speculates  that the reports may be due to over-enthusiastic journalists looking for an eye-catching headline that supports a particular social agenda. Read More

January 16, 2009

Dogs as Therapists: The Case of Actor Mickey Rourke

 Mickey Rourke, winner of the 2009 Golden Globe award for best actor for his role in "The Wrestler", was saved from  suicidal depression by his dog Beau Jack. Read More

January 2, 2009

George Washington: President, General and Dog Breeder

 George Washington's love of dogs may have helped him become the first President of the United States. Read More

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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

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