Dogs In Translation: A Unique Journey Of Observation and Interpretation

There have been a number of fine books that have attempted to penetrate and unravel the complex manner in which dogs communicate with dogs, humans and other species. But Dogs In Translation, the work of two of Europe’s leading behaviourists, Gabi Maue and Katja Krauss, takes this journey of exploration to a new level.

The authors have taken every opportunity to witness situations and interactions to build their knowledge, and spent over a decade collating a library of photographs which demonstrate the myriad ways in which dogs indicate their mood and intentions. The result is this extraordinary pictorial journey through the emotional world of the dog, with more than 1300 photographs, all expertly analysed.

Making use of split-second photography, we can see the most subtle of signs that tells us what a dog is experiencing, moment by moment, and how he is processing that experience. Not only does this provide a fascinating study of canine behaviour, it also gives us the tools to predict outcomes. Armed with this knowledge, we can step in, where necessary, and prevent our dogs suffering discomfort, stress or trauma.

Part One focuses on the head, and the parts of the body, showing how dogs use their physicality to expresses their emotions, and as a means of communicating with other dogs and with their guardians and caregivers. Communication signals come under the microscope in Part Two, detailing the repertoire of behaviours that are used in daily interactions, and how these are perceived by other dogs. The final part of the book looks at each of the emotions – fear, sadness, annoyance, anger rage, revulsion/disgust and joy – and provides evidence of how dogs experience these feelings.

Dogs In Translation is a landmark publication that fully acknowledges dogs as sentient beings. The remarkable range of photographs, coupled with sensitive and perceptive commentary, gives us the means to understand, and help, our dogs as never before.