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Born To Bark

My Adventures with an Irrepressible and Unforgettable Dog
by Stanley Coren
Born To Bark: My Adventures with an Irrepressible and Unforgettable Dog. Free Pr: S. & S. Nov. 2010. c.320p. photogs. ISBN 9781439189207. $24. PETS
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Readers of Coren's entertaining dog intelligence books, such as How Dogs Think, The Intelligence of Dogs, and Why Does My Dog Act That Way?, can satisfy their curiosity about his own dogs and their training and his path to becoming a dog-human interaction expert. He tells enchanting stories of childhood canine companions and his first library visit for training books, but he also includes weightier tales on transitioning to his academic career in psychology and family issues. A self-described "dog watcher," his insights into Flint, his cairn terrier, and other dogs' behaviors are more compelling than his commentary on the people in his life. Descriptions and illustrations of Flint counting, dancing, watching TV, and swimming are high points.
VERDICT Obedience competitors and terrier owners will smile at these tales of Flint's enthusiasm and mischief. The tone and depth of Coren's reminiscences about dogs' roles in his complex life may resonate more with academics than those seeking funny pet anecdotes.
Reviewed by Kristine Alpi, North Carolina State Univ. Libs., Raleigh , Oct 15, 2010
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