The Psychology of Dog Ownership

What are the benefits of owning a dog on health and well-being? Why does a problem dog behave as it does and how can owners deal with unwanted behaviour? How do dogs communicate with humans and each other? The Psychology of Dog Ownership explores the nature of our unique relationship with dogs and its effect on our mental and physical welfare. The book uses psychological learning theory to examine dog behaviour and highlights the importance of determining between typical dog behaviour and behaviour disorders that need treatment. Focusing on how dog owners can communicate effectively with their pets, and always with the dogsbest interests in mind, The Psychology of Dog Ownership enhances our understanding of the modern human-canine bond and shows how important and enjoyable this relationship can be.

Craig Roberts is a teacher trainer and author of psychology textbooks for A-Level and GCSE. He has been teaching for over 20 years and is an experienced examiner with a number of national and international examination boards.

Dr Theresa Barlow has conducted canine research at the University of Southampton and has personally dealt with hundreds of cases of problem pet behaviour having worked in Pet Behaviour for over 22 years. She has specialised in dog aggression and presented her research findings at veterinary and behavioural conferences nationally and internationally.