This is an updated version of a classic text. Cognition and genetics of behavior are new key areas of research that are one of many important topics in the science of domestic animal behavior. A new chapter on genetics of behavior is included in this edition. New developments in maternal behavior and stimulating maternal behavior are also included. Handedness or “laterality” (the preference by an individual of one side of the body over the other in terms of functionality and usefulness) is another relatively new area of interest that is discussed in this edition. This text covers many key areas of behavior, addressing both normal and abnormal aspects of behavior for most domestic species. Behaviors are addressed and compared for both confined and free ranging animals. This helps the reader distinguish behaviors that may be normal for that particular species in the context of free-range; even if these behaviors in confined animals are not quite so desirable (i.e. inappropriate elimination by domestic cats).
Domestic species discussed in this book include horses, dogs, cats, pigs, cattle, sheep, and goats. The text is arranged with chapters outlining specific behaviors such as communication, aggression and social structure, biological rhythms and sleep, sexual behavior, maternal behavior, development of behavior, learning, ingestive behavior, miscellaneous behavioral disorders, and behavioral genetics. Within each behavioral category, specific species are addressed with normal and abnormal behavioral patterns discussed. Chapters are studded with helpful diagrams, graphics, charts, photos and drawings.
This is not a training manual per se, but there are a few helpful training tidbits based on various learning behaviors. A brief explanation of the proper way to teach a horse to get onto a trailer properly, for example, is discussed in the chapter on Miscellaneous Behavioral Disorders, as reluctance to load can be a common negative behavior for horses. The text contains over 2,000 references to support the information provided and supply the reader with innumerable further reading sources.
As the title of the book implies, this is not a text for lay people, nor is it a step-by-step training manual. This book provides valuable insights into the learning methods, abilities and cognition of the domestic animals we share our lives with. Its value to veterinarians and veterinary support staff would be one to help aid understanding of patients as well as counseling clients on their animal’s behaviors.
Publisher: Wiley and Sons, 2010
392 pages; hardcover
ISBN: 978-0-8138-1676-0