In her latest book, The Year of the Puppy: How Dogs Become Themselves, dog cognition expert Alexandra Horowitz delves into the early development of her pandemic puppy, Quiddity. Released in the fall of 2022, this work blends memoir and scientific insights to explore how puppies grow and adapt.
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Horowitz, a renowned figure in canine science, is known for her research at the Horowitz Dog Cognition Lab, where dogs are observed in a more natural setting rather than being confined. Her previous publications include the New York Times bestsellers Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell, and Know and Being a Dog: Following the Dog into a World of Smell.
The Year of the Puppy shares her experience with Quid from her birth through her first year. Horowitz describes the challenges of socializing a puppy during the pandemic, emphasizing the importance of early interactions with other dogs and people to prevent fear or anxiety.
When discussing her motivation for writing this book, Horowitz notes that while she has long studied dog cognition, she had never witnessed a dog’s development from its earliest days. This curiosity drove her decision to adopt a puppy and observe her growth while weaving in scientific findings on dog development.
Horowitz hopes readers come away with an understanding of the different stages of puppyhood and the evolution of canine behavior. She emphasizes the need for patience as dogs learn to fit into human households, highlighting that while dogs are attentive and adaptable, mastering their environment takes time.
Understanding canine needs is essential, Horowitz states, as dogs are integral to our lives and deserve respect and care.