Bark!

Zazie Todd is the author of the critically acclaimed books Wag and Purr, and writes Companion Animal Psychology, an award-winning blog that shares the latest science about our animal companions and evidence-based ways to care for them. She has a PhD in Psychology and is an honors graduate of the Academy for Dog Trainers, affiliate member of the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior, and adjunct professor at Canisius College.

“[E]ncyclopaedic in scope and packed with references to new findings about animal behaviour.”—The Observer“[F]ull of good ideas.”—The Times“Todd’s step-by-step advice felt relatable and manageable. [...] This book is a must-read for anyone caring for a reactive or anxious dog.”—Pets Mag“This science-based, practical, hands-on but humane book shows exactly what to do if your pooch is anywhere on the scale between shy, anxious or terrified.”—Sunday Post"Zazie Todd explores how to help skittish canines cope with their anxieties in this solid manual.... Owners of anxious dogs will find this a salve."—Publishers Weekly"Few do a better job than Zazie of understanding what we really, truly know about dogs, and what science tells us what works to help them."—Dr. Patricia McConnell, applied animal behaviorist and author of The Other End of the Leash, For the Love of a Dog, and The Education of Will“This insightful book gave me—a lifelong dog guardian with a passion for all things dog—much to think about. I’ll be referring to it often!"—Teresa J. Rhyne, #1 NY Times bestselling author of The Dog Lived (and So Will I) and Poppy in the Wild“An invaluable guide to the science behind taking a rescue dog on a journey away from fear. For me, it reinforced the message given us by the behaviourist who helped us with #sophiefromromania - it’s all about moving at the dog’s own pace.”—Rory Cellan-Jones, author of Sophie From Romania“If dogs could choose one book they would like all dog lovers to read, it would be this one. Zazie Todd makes what can sometimes be a complex subject, accessible and understandable, by giving guardians practical, science-based advice and training solutions to help their dogs cope with life’s challenges.”—Victoria Stilwell, dog behavior expert and founder of Victoria Stilwell Academy and Positively.com“Bark! cuts through the confusion and myths to provide clear-cut, well-researched assistance to those with ‘difficult’ dogs.… Bark! should be required reading for every veterinarian and anyone who loves an anxious, fearful, or reactive dog.”—Karen Fine DVM, author of NYT-bestseller The Other Family Doctor“A fun, enjoyable, and eminently practical read.”—Dr. Marty Becker, America's Veterinarian and Founder of Fear Free“Whether you live or work with a fearful dog, or are interested in knowing more about dogs, this book has something for everyone. Dr Todd has done a fantastic job of condensing the science into understandable and accessible information which has resulted in a book packed full of practical and useful advice. I will be definitely recommending this book to my clients.”—Nick Honor CTC, Clinical Animal Behaviourist and Chair of The Canine Behaviour and Training Society"Break[s] down the science into easy-to-understand anecdotes. It's a must-read for anyone who wants a better understanding of dogs, reactive or not."—Alexis Devine, author of I Am Bunny“An extraordinarily informative read from cover-to-cover ... Bark! would be at home on the bookshelf of any professional trainer, experienced dog parent, or new adopter.”—Si Wooler, acclaimed dog trainer“Full of practical solutions and tips for even the most fearful of canines, all backed by extensive research, witty personal stories, and tales of Todd’s own beloved animals.”—Kelly S. Thompson, national bestselling author of Still, I Cannot Save YouPraise for WAG by Zazie Todd"A must-have guide to improving your dog's life."—Modern Dog Magazine“The author’s evidence-based analysis simplifies the science and reduces essential elements into practical, replicable activities geared toward enriching a dog’s life.”—Library Journal, STARRED Review“Dog owners and those considering becoming one should appreciate Todd’s substantial insight into how dogs and humans relate to one another.”—Publishers Weekly

• Part 1Chapter 1: Introduction to the Science of FearMyth-busting fearful dogsThe idea of hopeChapter 2: Fearful FidoA tucked tail and a tight jawThe stress systemBite inhibitionChapter 3: Making a DifferenceFeeling safeStaying safeTo be or not to be a safe personChapter 4: Why is my dog afraid?The multiple causes of fear and anxietyPandemic puppiesPotential medical issuesTips to prevent fearChapter 5: Training a fearful dogLearning to like somethingHow to do Counter conditioningDesensitizationLearning to do somethingRelaxationChapter 6: Keeping your fearful dog happy and exercisedMeeting your dog’s needsActivities and sportsFun and playThe risk of runningChapter 7: Understanding the role of medicationsWhen to see a vet or veterinary behavioristThe role of psychotropic medicationsNutritional and other complementary approachesPart 2Chapter 8: Wallflowers and other bashful beastiesWallflowers and shrinking violets with peopleBashful beasties with other dogsA common approachChapter 9: Thumps, bumps, and bangsFear of loud noisesTraining dogs to not fear noisesCoping in the short termChapter 10: Needles and ThermometersDon’t touch meChoosing a veterinarianTraining that helpsChapter 11: Don’t leave me!Boredom or…?Desensitization for separation anxietyIt takes a villageChapter 12: Grrr, keep away from my my stuff!Is that guarding?Loving that approachDrop, leave it, and emergenciesChapter 13: Turning, turningCompulsive behaviorsFetch, fetch, but don’t chase the lightWhat to do while you wait for helpPart 3Chapter 14: Getting helpCoping with a fearful dogSeeking help from professionalsRehoming and euthanasiaWorking with dogsChapter 15: Fearful Fido No MoreFear in dogs and in peopleNot on our ownA slow approachList of FiguresAcknowledgementsReferences