Overview
A fascinating look at the work that dogs do, from herding sheep to rescuing lost and injured people.
One day last year Gus caught a burglar.
Bruno saved a man from drowning.
Abby cheered up sick children at a hospital.
Max starred in a movie.
Hard-working people? No. Hard-working dogs!
Every dog is born with the ability to do a particular job. Centuries ago, people recognized these natural talents and began using dogs to help them with a variety of chores. Whether hunting and pulling sleds or performing before royalty, these beloved animals have been important workers as well as faithful friends.
Best-selling author Marilyn Singer gives young readers an exciting introduction to the many kinds of work that dogs do. This is the ultimate dog book — a thrilling combination of natural history and the true tales of canine heroes who were just doing their jobs.
Describes how dogs use their physical abilities, intelligence, and training by humans to perform a variety of jobs, including working in the movies, catching burglars, delivering messages, and cheering up children in hospitals.
Synopsis
A fascinating look at the work that dogs do, from herding sheep to rescuing lost and injured people.
One day last year Gus caught a burglar.
Bruno saved a man from drowning.
Abby cheered up sick children at a hospital.
Max starred in a movie.
Hard-working people? No. Hard-working dogs!
Every dog is born with the ability to do a particular job. Centuries ago, people recognized these natural talents and began using dogs to help them with a variety of chores. Whether hunting and pulling sleds or performing before royalty, these beloved animals have been important workers as well as faithful friends.
Best-selling author Marilyn Singer gives young readers an exciting introduction to the many kinds of work that dogs do. This is the ultimate dog book — a thrilling combination of natural history and the true tales of canine heroes who were just doing their jobs.
Children's Literature
Have you ever heard someone complain that he or she "worked like a dog?" Historically, dogs had to work hard for their daily biscuit. It's only in recent times that dogs have been kept as pets alone. But there are many interesting and important jobs still being done by dogs today. This well-researched paperback first gives an overview of how humans have bred and trained dogs to help us hunt, farm and herd. The text then explains how certain breeds use their unique physiques and native intelligence to perform a variety of jobs in modern society. For example, did you know that beagles are trained to sniff out illegal foods and plants at international airports? Bloodhounds help police officers follow the trails of criminals or lost children. All kinds of dogs were 'drafted' in World War II, to serve in the battlefield as scouts, messengers and patrol personnel. These are just a few of the fascinating facts waiting for middle grade readers in this entertaining chapter book. 2000, Henry Holt and Company, $16.00. Ages 8 to 11. Reviewer: Dianne Ochiltree