The World According to Dogs

An Owner’s Manual

Adrian Raeside, Harbour Publishing (MAR 22) Softcover $12.95 (128pp), 978-1-55017-969-9 Amusing and informative, The World According to Dogs is a graphic how-to guide to keeping dogs happy and healthy.

The book is written from a dog’s perspective, a conceit that provides many opportunities for humor, as with a dog versus cat comparison in which dogs are the clear winner, and an analysis of the right and wrong ways to take a dog for a walk. In a lighthearted tone, via full-color cartoons and accompanying text, it’s revealed why dogs like to sniff crotches and roll in disgusting substances; shared how to interpret dog facial expressions and body language; and revealed how best to accommodate a loyal, aging canine companion. Most pages could stand as independent comic strips, but together they serve a larger purpose: grouped by subject, they piece together a complete understanding of man’s best friend.

There’s plenty of bathroom humor, but the book is anchored by a central theme: the unconditional love that dogs provide. The artwork is often hilarious, as with an illustration of a dog “bum scooting” on a Persian rug. The book contains interesting facts and essential information for dog owners, too, like how to choose the right kind of dog for your lifestyle; there’s an illustrated list of dangerous foods as well. But whether the topic is an important health matter or an inconsequential observation, the book is always entertaining.

The World According to Dogs is a fun graphic guide to the canine mind.