This vivid textbook on dogs explores the major branches of biology, psychology, and biomedical science in an interdisciplinary manner: canine evolution, ecology, genetics, physiology, behavior and welfare, with the underlying theme of how dogs are unique to each of those disciplines. The expert authors emphasize the interaction between wild animals and early humans, tracking that interaction through time as the domestication of dogs has progressed. Moreover, this book unravels physiological aspects of canine biology that are beneficial for humans.

Dogs are a fascinating study and model organism. From their very beginnings, their evolutionary history contains unpredicted effects across all levels of biological organization. From the social construct of being a wild animal (wolf), to becoming dependent on man (domestication), and colonizing our homes and our beds (interspecies bonding). The history of this single species provides a rich learning opportunity.

Thus, the present work is not only instructive for all learners in Canine Science classes but further exciting for any dog professional and enthusiast. To study our best friend, chapters are carefully enriched by didactic elements and colorful illustrations.

Dr. Ana Gabriela Jiménez is a comparative physiologist whose background includes a bachelor’s and Ph. D in  marine biology, and post-doctoral work in bird physiology. Since 2015 when arriving at Colgate University as an assistant professor, Dr. Jiménez has focused her lab’s research on canids, including domestic dogs, wild canids, and wolf-dog hybrids. The domestic dog is such an interesting physiological conundrum that Dr. Jiménez hopes to continue this work the rest of her scientific career.

Dr. Silvan R. Urfer is a veterinarian with a background in aging research and comparative medicine. He wrote his doctorate on the genetics of lifespan in a large dog population at the University of Bern, Switzerland, then did postdoctoral work in the Ostrander lab at NIH/NHGRI as well as at the University of Washington, where he was promoted to a faculty position in 2019. Dr. Urfer has been a member of the Dog Aging Project since 2016.