In the past, dogs’ functions were mostly rural and it was accepted that they were messy and needed to be man- aged on their terms. Most pet dogs now live in an urban environment where we simultaneously expect them to behave better than a human child and be as self reliant as an adult. Our dogs still have the traits of their origi- nal function and it is unrealistic to expect them to be cast aside as if they never existed. Accelerating changes in human society coupled with our increased expectations of the canine ability to evolve in order to fulfill their changing role is leading to a crisis for dogs. We humans need to recognize and respond appropriately to the needs of the “modern” dog. The way we control dogs’ reproduction represents a major threat to their well- being. In the past dogs were bred to suit the role we assigned them and functionality was more important then type or appearance. In the late nineteenth century dogs were divided into self contained breeds reproductively isolating them from one another by assigning a single ideal appearance or “breed standard” and for many dogs this has worked against their need to adapt to their new primary role as companions. While striving to breed the perfect dog breeders may not always be breeding the perfect pet. Show winning dogs can make a hugely disproportionate genetic contribution to the next generation leading to a potential deterioration in health.


In the 1950s most breeds still had a healthy range of genetic variation however by the start of the 21st century inbreeding had led to many genetically based deformities and diseases compromising the welfare of a high pro- portion of pure bred dogs. These issues were highlighted in a T.V program aired in 2008 that lead to the BBC and some humane societies withdrawing from Crufts. The resulting bad publicity has had a detrimental im- pact in the world of pedigree dogs and pedigree dog breeding. The Kennel Club has responded to criticism by making some changes however many would say it is too little too late and many breeder and breeds clubs have been accused of dragging their feet over this issue. The recent growth in demand for “designer dogs” is indica- tive of the changing attitudes of many new pet owners. These cross breeds are derided by pure breeders how- ever we need to open our eyes to what is happening in the puppy market. These “designer dogs” may be better suited to the dog’s changing role to function mainly as a family pet.


So far, the world of pedigree dogs has not been seriously challenged by the wealth of “new” science that is emerging about dogs. Much of the debate recently has been about the merits of outbreeding versus inbreeding and the “fit for function” campaign has done little to change the world of pedigree dogs. IN DEFENCE OF DOGS distils recent scientific research into the origins of the dog using genetic archaeology and the results create a paradigm shift in our knowledge of where dogs come from. The chapters on how puppies become pets and the science of dog training are fascinating and informative. In the concluding chapter the author points out to us that we humans are the senior partner in our relationship with the second most successful mammal on earth and that we should not take dogs for granted. We have the responsibility to ensure this relationship continues effectively into the future. If this is to work we and our canine partners will need the help of canine science along the way.


Ultimately, people will have to change their attitude if the lot of the dog is to improve, therefore we can no longer ignore the new canine science. I wholeheartedly recommend this book as it tells us what we NEED to know NOT what we want to hear. The subtitle of the book raises a big question in my mind: “Why do dogs need our understanding?”


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