Our September issue, reflecting that special “back-to-school” time of year, focuses on dog studies. We survey the schools that are putting canine subjects into their syllabi, so students have a chance to really learn about dogs in a variety of new courses. Then, to one of the dog-world’s most debated and least understood subjects: dominance. Karen London thinks that a discussion of this issue can only benefit and expand our understanding of canines. Camille Ward gives us 12 ways to boost your dog IQ. Julie Hecht explains why appearances really do matter—for example, the mixed signals inadvertently sent by dogs with cropped ears and docked tails. We also talk with an author of a new book who explores both the underbelly and the shining lights of today’s humane movement. And we also talk with First Lady Michelle Obama about her very special “son-dog,” Bo, and find out just how much he means to her family. Read about recent research that points to just how much dogs can improve the health of children. We take a look at “breed selector” quizzes, John Woestendiek has taken most of them, and shares his opinion with us. We try out a new GPS device that measures up in keeping track of your dog, especially handy for backcountry exploring. For good eating ideas, we have a raw food primer; tips for mixing-and-matching ingredients for home cooking, plus a great recipe for kale frittata, healthy and delicious for you and your dog. Then another installment of the Chloe Chronicles, fall viewing trips, lots of poems, fab art and oh so much more—hope you enjoy.

DOG STUDIES
Gone To The Dogs: Canine Studies In Colleges. By Pamela S. Hogle
Keep It Real: Managing Behavior Expectations Makes For A Better Relationship. By Camille Ward, PhD
Skin Deep: Looks Do Play A Role In Intraspecies Communication. By Julie Hecht, Msc
Dominance: Much Talk About It, But Do We Really Understand It? By Karen B. London, PhD

FEATURES
First Lady Michelle Obama: More On Her  “Son” Bo.

Eyes In The Sky: GPS Does The Tracking And Relieves The Worry. By Rebecca Wallick
Digital Dogs: Do Online Quizzes Help Find True Love?  By John Woestendiek
Call To Action: Q&A With Kim Kavin, Author Of Little Boy Blue, With An Excerpt From 
Her Book.
Southern Pup Finds A New Home And Author Finds Her Cause. By Claudia Kawczynska

Essays
That’s Amore! Swept Away By An Italian Charmer. By Mary McCarthy

Chloe Chronicles VII: Rejection Blues Trying For Second Dog, But Found “Wanting.” By Lee Harrington

Howl: Someone’s Been To The Vet By Jeff Steinbrink

Endpiece: Carriage Trade By Todd Stansfield