The Reading List: Dogs

Welfare

'In Defence of Dogs' by John Bradshaw, Allen Lane £20

One of the world's leading dog experts, Bradshaw argues that, in our domestication of dogs, we have failed to understand their needs. Until a century ago, most dogs worked, and the various breeds had become well-suited to their lifestyles. Bradshaw offers an insight into what we can do to improve the modern dog's quality of life. A must-read for dog lovers everywhere.

Classic

'The Call of the Wild' by Jack London, Puffin Classics £5.99

Jack London's 1903 classic is a moving tale of a canine hero. Buck is born into a luxurious lifestyle, but finds his animal instincts returning when he is sold as a sledge dog in the Klondike Gold Rush.

Children

'The Hundred and One Dalmatians' by Dodie Smith, Egmont Books £5.99

Made even more famous by Disney, Smith's book is beloved by children and adults alike. When Missis and Pongo discover that their puppies are missing, they suspect the flamboyantly attired, fur-loving Cruella de Vil is responsible. The dogs' "pets" (their human owners), Mr and Mrs Dearly, can't understand them, so Pongo and Missis set off to save their puppies.

Psychology

'The Intelligence of Dogs' by Stanley Coren, Pocket Books £8.99

A front-runner in the field of dog psychology, Coren is one of the discipline's most prolific writers. Packed with research, interviews and the author's own observations, this best-seller reveals some startling insights into the minds of dogs. There are also practical tips for owners .

Fiction

'The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time' by Mark Haddon, Vintage £7.99

Haddon's heart-warming novel revolves around Christopher, a 15-year-old with Asperger's syndrome living with his widower father, who discovers the dead body of the neighbour's dog, Wellington. Wellington has been stabbed with a garden fork and his owner quickly calls the police. When they arrive, Christopher comes under suspicion and is arrested. On his release, he decides to investigate the death himself, so beginning a string of new adventures and life-changing encounters. Throughout, Christopher records his experiences in a "murder-mystery novel".