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The Purest Bond: Understanding the Human–Canine Connection
Un libro per chi conosce bene la gioia di accogliere un cucciolo, per chi si è sempre chiesto se ne valga davvero la pena, ma anche per chi, semplicemente, non riesce a resitere alla felicità contagiosa di una coda che scodinzola.
Il cane è considerato da sempre il miglior amico dell'uomo, ma oggi più che mai il legame tra le due specie assume un'importanza cruciale. Di fronte ai mutamenti epocali che stanno cambiando il volto del mondo ha preso infatti forma qualcosa di tante persone hanno accolto per la prima volta un amico a quattro zampe nella loro vita, o hanno approfittato dell'occasione per consolidare il legame con i cani che già avevano. Ciò non sorprende, visto che molte ricerche hanno evidenziato come la presenza di questi magnifici compagni migliori la salute mentale, riducendo notevolmente la solitudine e giocando un ruolo cruciale nell'alleviare depressione, ansia e irritabilità. I cani sono animali di supporto emotivo per tutti noi. È stato dimostrato che chi ne ha uno è più felice di chi ha un gatto o non ha nessun animale. Affezionate "dog moms", con una passione pari alla loro competenza, le autrici ci spiegano la magia di questa relazione così unica e profonda. Attraverso storie toccanti di vita reale, testimonianze, aneddoti personali e studi scientifici, ci conducono a scoprire in modo istruttivo e divertente come i cani portino benefici dal punto di vista della socialità e della nostra salute emotiva, fisica e persino cognitiva ricordandoci tutto quello che c'è di giusto al mondo – amore, fiducia, affetto, gioco, aria fresca e sole – anche quando tante cose sembrano andare storte.
Il cane è considerato da sempre il miglior amico dell'uomo, ma oggi più che mai il legame tra le due specie assume un'importanza cruciale. Di fronte ai mutamenti epocali che stanno cambiando il volto del mondo ha preso infatti forma qualcosa di tante persone hanno accolto per la prima volta un amico a quattro zampe nella loro vita, o hanno approfittato dell'occasione per consolidare il legame con i cani che già avevano. Ciò non sorprende, visto che molte ricerche hanno evidenziato come la presenza di questi magnifici compagni migliori la salute mentale, riducendo notevolmente la solitudine e giocando un ruolo cruciale nell'alleviare depressione, ansia e irritabilità. I cani sono animali di supporto emotivo per tutti noi. È stato dimostrato che chi ne ha uno è più felice di chi ha un gatto o non ha nessun animale. Affezionate "dog moms", con una passione pari alla loro competenza, le autrici ci spiegano la magia di questa relazione così unica e profonda. Attraverso storie toccanti di vita reale, testimonianze, aneddoti personali e studi scientifici, ci conducono a scoprire in modo istruttivo e divertente come i cani portino benefici dal punto di vista della socialità e della nostra salute emotiva, fisica e persino cognitiva ricordandoci tutto quello che c'è di giusto al mondo – amore, fiducia, affetto, gioco, aria fresca e sole – anche quando tante cose sembrano andare storte.
256 pages, Paperback
Published October 1, 2024
181 people are currently reading
3035 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
May 19, 2023
This is a book that offers lighter moments while still exploring the relationship between dogs and the people who share their life with them, as the science behind understanding the Human-Canine Connection.
’The Purest Bond’ manages to intertwine the research with the stories of real dogs and their people, so that this is not strictly scientific, although there is plenty of the new information on not only the connection, the bond between people and their pets, but how dogs affect us physically, emotionally, and beyond that how dogs improve our lives.
’In order to really enjoy a dog, one doesn't merely try to train him to be semi-human. The point of it is to open oneself to the possibility of becoming partly a dog.’ - Edward Hoagland
I’ve had dogs most of the years of my life. At the moment, I have one on my left, one on my right, and another at my feet. Long before I could walk, I took my naps on the floor, cuddled up against our family’s Irish Setter, Wilco, who was still a puppy, and more or less my babysitter. I can still picture the look on my father’s face, when, years later, he came home from taking him to the Vet, and returning empty-handed. It was the only time I ever saw him cry.
This is a combination of the science and research of raising dogs, their physical and emotional health, as well as real life stories that share the impact that dogs have made on individuals as well as families, and those stories are profound, touching, amusing and lovely, and sometimes heartbreaking.
Pub Date: 14 Nov 2023
Many thanks for the ARC provided by Atria Books/Simon & Schuster
December 24, 2023
5⭐️!
Incredible! I learned a lot about dogs and my connection with Onyx. There’s a great section on when to let go and help with grief which was very time appropriate for me and I’m really glad I read this
Incredible! I learned a lot about dogs and my connection with Onyx. There’s a great section on when to let go and help with grief which was very time appropriate for me and I’m really glad I read this
August 14, 2023
i am a HUGE dog lover (so much so that i used to read the AKC books with all the dog breeds in them as a kid). i always enjoy learning more about dogs, mostly because i want to know what my dog is thinking. this was a great book about the unique bond between people and dogs. i highlighted a lot of interesting facts in this book that i hadn’t known before. i could relate to a lot of the quotes, especially about how dog owners treat their dog like a family member (dogs have always been in my family since i was a baby). i liked how this book was structured—how it had a mixture of journalistic studies and anecdotes to illustrate their points. it was very easy to understand. i would recommend this if you love dogs and want to learn more about what makes the connection between dogs and humans so unique!
thank you to Netgalley, the authors, and Atria books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
thank you to Netgalley, the authors, and Atria books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
November 19, 2023
While I enjoyed aspects of this read, I felt it got really COVID heavy which was just kind of meh for me. Yes COVID times did have a major impact on all of our lives, including our pets, but a lot of that has changed (for now) and any new pets brought into a home aren’t going to have the COVID things. I dunno. It was more of a compilation of stories than it was an insightful guide. But happy stars for dog lovers.
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted ARC
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted ARC
November 17, 2023
I genuinely love and appreciate this book! The chapters regarding end of life and grief after losing my dear London (a Golden-Lab mix) just two months ago felt like permission to accept all the emotions I’ve continued to feel as normal and reasonable instead of the invalidating thoughts I’d been speaking to myself. It was incredible to have science-backed evidence that so many of my instincts were correct about the mutual relationships I’ve had with my dogs over my lifetime. Overall, this book felt like the ideal balance between stories sharing the humanity of dog-companionship and informative explanations and summaries. Thanks so much, Jen and Stacey, for the love you poured into this book it’s so apparent!
January 16, 2025
Thank you Atria for the gifted copy of this book!!
Such an interesting read! It is full of so many interesting facts about dogs. Makes me want to give love to all the dogs!!
A great read to better understand your dog or if you are thinking about getting a dog. It is very helpful for dog owners. It’s a super quick read too and split up into 4 parts, so it’s easy to skip around if you want.
Such an interesting read! It is full of so many interesting facts about dogs. Makes me want to give love to all the dogs!!
A great read to better understand your dog or if you are thinking about getting a dog. It is very helpful for dog owners. It’s a super quick read too and split up into 4 parts, so it’s easy to skip around if you want.
October 7, 2023
Let me begin by saying I do not have a dog. I have 3 cats. I have not had a dog since being a teen. But I am a lover of internet dogs, especially The Golden Ratio dogs. I've been a follower since right around when Riley joined the squad, so the stories of the wonderful goldens really got me good.
This book is part how-to of raising a dog, part science lesson, part dog stories, and it does a great job with all three! The authors are very good at weaving personal stories about their dogs into the more scientific information of how dogs and humans coexist together.
I especially enjoyed the chapters about kids bonding with dogs. The ending chapters about grief were also excellent and heartbreaking. I feel that the advice about losing a dog can also be applied to cats, and helped me with some of my grief about our cat who passed a few years ago.
Overall, this book will be loved by dog lovers, dog owners, and dog wanters.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Atria Books for the ARC of this book! (I have the audiobook preordered so Jen can read it to me too!)
This book is part how-to of raising a dog, part science lesson, part dog stories, and it does a great job with all three! The authors are very good at weaving personal stories about their dogs into the more scientific information of how dogs and humans coexist together.
I especially enjoyed the chapters about kids bonding with dogs. The ending chapters about grief were also excellent and heartbreaking. I feel that the advice about losing a dog can also be applied to cats, and helped me with some of my grief about our cat who passed a few years ago.
Overall, this book will be loved by dog lovers, dog owners, and dog wanters.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Atria Books for the ARC of this book! (I have the audiobook preordered so Jen can read it to me too!)
June 28, 2024
We dog people are not at all surprised to learn there are studies that show folks who own dogs are happier than those who have cats, or no pets at all.
Golbeck lays out the research that demonstrates the myriad ways that dogs benefits our lives, providing scientific proof that “their joy for living renews our own.” These include providing emotional support and elevating mood, lowering blood pressure and reducing stress, and strengthening our relationships with other humans. She shows how dogs improve relationships within families and serve as social lubricants when meeting new people.
Some dogs can even be trained to sniff out diseases such as tumors or infections, or anticipate seizures, or alert their owners of hypoglycemia.
While much of this was fairly interesting I think most people are already aware of many of these findings, at least in general outlines.
What bumps this book from 2 stars (ok) to 3 (good) is the final section, dealing with end-of-life issues for our dogs. It was at times crushing to read, but very informative and helpful. Golbeck’s advice about how to decide when to let your dog go is worth the price of the book. She still lives with the guilt of trying to hold onto her favorite dog for too long—he endured two days of needless misery that she still regrets. She now says it is much better to say goodbye to your canine companion two weeks too early rather than two days too late.
Her discussion about the grief we feel over our lost pets is fascinating. This recent Atlantic article also discusses how it can bizarrely feel worse than losing a human loved one. While our feelings toward our lost dogs are nearly unequivocally positive, our feelings toward humans, while perhaps stronger in intensity, are also more complex. And the loss of pets may also provoke feelings of guilt (about delayed diagnosis, foregoing treatment, deciding the proper time to let them go, etc). An additional aspect I hadn’t considered is that people grieving over their pets often do not feel adequately supported by their friends and family, since it’s “just a dog.” Thus they stifle their expressions and feelings of sadness, which can make the grieving process even more difficult and prolonged.
So it turns out that the worst part of this book is also the best part of this book.
[I see that the link to the Atlantic article now throws up a paywall. Sorry about that. You can probably Google the title and find a way to dodge the paywall. Or maybe not]
Golbeck lays out the research that demonstrates the myriad ways that dogs benefits our lives, providing scientific proof that “their joy for living renews our own.” These include providing emotional support and elevating mood, lowering blood pressure and reducing stress, and strengthening our relationships with other humans. She shows how dogs improve relationships within families and serve as social lubricants when meeting new people.
Some dogs can even be trained to sniff out diseases such as tumors or infections, or anticipate seizures, or alert their owners of hypoglycemia.
While much of this was fairly interesting I think most people are already aware of many of these findings, at least in general outlines.
What bumps this book from 2 stars (ok) to 3 (good) is the final section, dealing with end-of-life issues for our dogs. It was at times crushing to read, but very informative and helpful. Golbeck’s advice about how to decide when to let your dog go is worth the price of the book. She still lives with the guilt of trying to hold onto her favorite dog for too long—he endured two days of needless misery that she still regrets. She now says it is much better to say goodbye to your canine companion two weeks too early rather than two days too late.
Her discussion about the grief we feel over our lost pets is fascinating. This recent Atlantic article also discusses how it can bizarrely feel worse than losing a human loved one. While our feelings toward our lost dogs are nearly unequivocally positive, our feelings toward humans, while perhaps stronger in intensity, are also more complex. And the loss of pets may also provoke feelings of guilt (about delayed diagnosis, foregoing treatment, deciding the proper time to let them go, etc). An additional aspect I hadn’t considered is that people grieving over their pets often do not feel adequately supported by their friends and family, since it’s “just a dog.” Thus they stifle their expressions and feelings of sadness, which can make the grieving process even more difficult and prolonged.
So it turns out that the worst part of this book is also the best part of this book.
[I see that the link to the Atlantic article now throws up a paywall. Sorry about that. You can probably Google the title and find a way to dodge the paywall. Or maybe not]
October 12, 2024
This is essentially an entertaining lit review on all the studies that prove the various ways that dogs make our lives better. There are A LOT of them out there. This was a nice enough read though not earth-shattering, because I already know how dogs make our lives better and don't think it's necessary to see proof, but proof is there if you need it. The person who should read this book is the one who's lobbying someone unwilling to get a dog; you'll get all the support you'll ever need! Now if only they had a book like this proving the value of MULTIPLE dogs, so I could use it on Will!
March 13, 2024
Dogs >>>> cats
They are superior, #sorrynotsorry to all of the cat people.
Reading this made me appreciate my dog even more than I thought possible. What dogs teach us is far more important than what we could ever hope to teach them and this book delves into the many different ways they influence our lives for the better.
Great read for all the dog lovers 🫶🏻
They are superior, #sorrynotsorry to all of the cat people.
Reading this made me appreciate my dog even more than I thought possible. What dogs teach us is far more important than what we could ever hope to teach them and this book delves into the many different ways they influence our lives for the better.
Great read for all the dog lovers 🫶🏻
May 19, 2024
long time GR fan reads Jen’s book
I cried at the last chapter when Jen talked about losing Riley. I remeber that day like it was yesterday bc it was the only member of the squad whose death made me cry
I cried at the last chapter when Jen talked about losing Riley. I remeber that day like it was yesterday bc it was the only member of the squad whose death made me cry
November 18, 2023
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I highly recommend The Purest Bond by Golbeck & Colino. We know a strong therapy alliance is a critical factor in good therapy. Oh, the lessons we can learn from our furry friends. The book is filled with intimate stories and approachable scientific examples of how canine/human connections build systemic resilience in individuals, families, and communities. 15/10 stars for this very readable and informative book!
November 25, 2023
I’ve followed the Golden Ratio since 2016 and was really excited for this book! Even preordered it! Jen and Stacey did a really nice job tying in scientific research with stories to help support what research has shown. It never felt too “sciencey”
February 8, 2024
We don't deserve dogs❤️❤️
May 7, 2025
About 1/3 of this book is a guide to introducing a new dog into your home and then saying goodbye when the time comes, and the rest is an overview of research into the benefits that dogs bring to the lives of humans. The tone is positive and upbeat, and although the references section indicates that a lot of research went into writing the book the studies and results are described in a way that is easy to understand. There are personal anecdotes of the authors' own dogs sprinkled throughout. Those looking for a thorough guide to integrating a new dog into the family or how to deal with behavior issues should look elsewhere, as the focus is primarily on the relationship between dogs and humans. I was familiar with many of the researchers and experiments described here, but in fairness that is probably because I read just about any book I can find about dogs.
April 23, 2024
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. Listened to this entire thing today in a few hours (audio is only 7 hours and with my usual 3x speed it was over just in my commute to work and back, lol). It’s basically just a non fic about the relationship between people and their dogs, and the chapter on aging pets made me legitimately bawl my eyes out for a solid 20 minutes. If you have a dog you love, I highly recommend this one but come armed with tissues for the end!!
June 23, 2024
My brain did not mesh with how this book was organized as a nonfiction: it felt way too repetitive and while I appreciated the organization of the chapters on the audiobook, the sections felt too short and rushed. I couldn't decide if this was a book for someone who was thinking about getting a dog or for established dog lovers, but it didn't feel successful towards either potential reader. I didn't come out with a lot of new knowledge.
December 20, 2023
I’ve been a fan of the Golden Ratio squad for a long time. Jen’s profession as a scientist takes her passion and love a step further, providing scientific insight on why the bond we form with our dogs is truly a positive and genuinely loving experience. It’s a science! She and her writing partner Stacey really delivered on this fantastic book.
November 16, 2023
vindicated me calling my pup my best friend and explained how this relationship can save my life so ha
July 11, 2024
The purest book.
October 23, 2024
I enjoyed this very golden retriever-centric tour of the remarkable gifts dogs bring into our lives. There is a lot of interesting science as well as some very nice anecdotes along the way.
December 2, 2023
Started reading this on a plane and had tears in my eyes at least 5 times.
An absolutely heartwarming and heartbreaking look at the way humans and dogs interact and how much better life can be thanks to dogs.
It put into words many feelings I have had, having dealt with grief from losing dogs in the past and opening my heart again.
It was also a wonderful reminder to cherish every moment shared with these wonderful animals.
I came away from this book wanting even more, I hope GRMom (Jen Golbeck) continues to write more books!
An absolutely heartwarming and heartbreaking look at the way humans and dogs interact and how much better life can be thanks to dogs.
It put into words many feelings I have had, having dealt with grief from losing dogs in the past and opening my heart again.
It was also a wonderful reminder to cherish every moment shared with these wonderful animals.
I came away from this book wanting even more, I hope GRMom (Jen Golbeck) continues to write more books!
June 5, 2024
An interesting look at why we are so close to our dogs. What do they offer us emotionally, physically, and socially. Anecdotes are helpful, well-positioned and meaningful -- not condescending or fake. Upbeat, uplifting, thorough and helpful, this book is a must-read for anyone who loves dogs. She also talks about the imporance of reader dogs for struggling readers.
March 8, 2024
i put off finishing this book for weeks because i didn’t want to finish it… i waited so long for it to come out and then receive it that i hated the thought of it ending. although, it was the ending i needed to read the most.
the book is overall such a good read. whether you just love dogs, are planning to get one, have one, or have lost one. although i have lost my dog, reading the end of the book about grieving was very special for me. regardless, i loved everything about the book. i enjoyed the personal anecdotes (from the authors and various contributors) as well as scientific studies.
i recommend this book to anyone for all reasons presented above. it’s a great read!
the book is overall such a good read. whether you just love dogs, are planning to get one, have one, or have lost one. although i have lost my dog, reading the end of the book about grieving was very special for me. regardless, i loved everything about the book. i enjoyed the personal anecdotes (from the authors and various contributors) as well as scientific studies.
i recommend this book to anyone for all reasons presented above. it’s a great read!
November 19, 2023
There's a new dog book in town, and it's written by two women who really know their dogs. In their nonfiction love story to dogs everywhere, THE PUREST BOND, the authors share all the reasons to bring a dog (or two or more) into your family.
Jen Golbeck rescues golden retrievers with special needs, including hospice care. She started what is an extremely popular Instagram page, The Golden Ratio. Stacey Colino is a science writer who has three rescue dogs. In this comprehensive and meticulously researched book, they explain the whys and hows of bringing a dog into your family. And while much of the material they share is not going to be novel information for those who are involved in rescue or the dog world, reading it reminded me of some things I knew but had put on a back burner.
There are four parts to the book, each of which is comprehensive and includes scientific studies, as well as anecdotal stories to make points about how wonderful dogs are and how much they can improve our lives. The first part, “Creating Connection,” is about the bonds we form with dogs and how just having a dog can help us make human connections as well. Part Two is about how dogs enhance our health, which multiple studies have shown is true. Dogs not only encourage us to walk and move more, they actually can detect disease and assist us as service dogs. They also help with depression and anxiety, and there is much to be said for how a dog can lower blood pressure and make us feel safe.
Part Three was of special interest to me as it's about how dogs support us emotionally. Golbeck and Colino discuss the benefits of having dogs in schools and interacting with children. I know this is true because I brought a dog to school with me daily for almost a decade. Peanut, a facility dog, worked with me and helped my students feel comfortable and loved. She sat in difficult interviews with child protective services and helped the children being questioned feel secure. She also assisted the teachers, and whenever anyone at school saw her, even from a distance, they smiled. Before Peanut, two other dogs attended school with me: Bentley, a rescued herding dog, and Sadie, a Great Pyrenees whom I fostered when she was found at eight years old in Chicago. Both were certified therapy dogs who brought immeasurable joy to the students around them.
Part Four is the most difficult section to read, especially for those of us who have lost dogs. And those of us who are dog lovers, and dog rescuers, lose too many friends. The book really shares the dilemma that we face when wondering if the time is right to end the physical suffering of our beloved companions. I've lost three of my four dogs over the past four years, and there was definitely a lump in my throat as I read these pages.
I truly believe the study that shows that while breeds are great indicators of physical traits, breed alone does not reliably indicate personality. Those wanting a dog should research physical needs, like energy levels and grooming requirements, but then judge each dog individually. The only dog who ever bit me was, ironically, a golden retriever, yet my children grew up with extremely gentle Doberman pinschers. On the other hand, I fostered an amazing 10-year-old golden who was adopted into a wonderful home and lived five years there, getting all the attention and love he had missed the first part of his life. My mother had to put her Doberman, who was raised from a puppy, to sleep after she tried to kill my infant daughter (who luckily was fine). So I'm thrilled that Golbeck and Colino advise looking into rescue dogs and strongly caution against buying a dog from a puppy mill.
Working with reputable rescues where dogs are in foster homes can be a great experience, and the foster families really know their foster dogs and can help with a perfect fit. Also, the authors make it clear that you can't adopt a dog and expect instant perfection. Housebroken dogs will have accidents while they adjust to a new environment and schedule. It takes time and patience for them to learn new rules and make connections with their new family. Two to three months will pass and then, finally, they will know that they are home, hopefully forever.
I appreciate the comprehensive section of Notes at the end in which Golbeck and Colino share the sources for all their studies and information. There is also an index, so if you want to look up something specific, you easily can do that. Finding what you need when you need it is made fairly simple.
THE PUREST BOND is the kind of book that would make a great gift for someone who is thinking about getting their first dog, or even someone who has a dog but may not have read too much about them. There is a lot of important information in these pages, but the bottom line is what many of us already know: Dogs are the best! They enrich our lives and provide us with unconditional love. And if you've forgotten those facts, this book certainly will remind you of that inarguable reality.
Reviewed by Pamela Kramer
Jen Golbeck rescues golden retrievers with special needs, including hospice care. She started what is an extremely popular Instagram page, The Golden Ratio. Stacey Colino is a science writer who has three rescue dogs. In this comprehensive and meticulously researched book, they explain the whys and hows of bringing a dog into your family. And while much of the material they share is not going to be novel information for those who are involved in rescue or the dog world, reading it reminded me of some things I knew but had put on a back burner.
There are four parts to the book, each of which is comprehensive and includes scientific studies, as well as anecdotal stories to make points about how wonderful dogs are and how much they can improve our lives. The first part, “Creating Connection,” is about the bonds we form with dogs and how just having a dog can help us make human connections as well. Part Two is about how dogs enhance our health, which multiple studies have shown is true. Dogs not only encourage us to walk and move more, they actually can detect disease and assist us as service dogs. They also help with depression and anxiety, and there is much to be said for how a dog can lower blood pressure and make us feel safe.
Part Three was of special interest to me as it's about how dogs support us emotionally. Golbeck and Colino discuss the benefits of having dogs in schools and interacting with children. I know this is true because I brought a dog to school with me daily for almost a decade. Peanut, a facility dog, worked with me and helped my students feel comfortable and loved. She sat in difficult interviews with child protective services and helped the children being questioned feel secure. She also assisted the teachers, and whenever anyone at school saw her, even from a distance, they smiled. Before Peanut, two other dogs attended school with me: Bentley, a rescued herding dog, and Sadie, a Great Pyrenees whom I fostered when she was found at eight years old in Chicago. Both were certified therapy dogs who brought immeasurable joy to the students around them.
Part Four is the most difficult section to read, especially for those of us who have lost dogs. And those of us who are dog lovers, and dog rescuers, lose too many friends. The book really shares the dilemma that we face when wondering if the time is right to end the physical suffering of our beloved companions. I've lost three of my four dogs over the past four years, and there was definitely a lump in my throat as I read these pages.
I truly believe the study that shows that while breeds are great indicators of physical traits, breed alone does not reliably indicate personality. Those wanting a dog should research physical needs, like energy levels and grooming requirements, but then judge each dog individually. The only dog who ever bit me was, ironically, a golden retriever, yet my children grew up with extremely gentle Doberman pinschers. On the other hand, I fostered an amazing 10-year-old golden who was adopted into a wonderful home and lived five years there, getting all the attention and love he had missed the first part of his life. My mother had to put her Doberman, who was raised from a puppy, to sleep after she tried to kill my infant daughter (who luckily was fine). So I'm thrilled that Golbeck and Colino advise looking into rescue dogs and strongly caution against buying a dog from a puppy mill.
Working with reputable rescues where dogs are in foster homes can be a great experience, and the foster families really know their foster dogs and can help with a perfect fit. Also, the authors make it clear that you can't adopt a dog and expect instant perfection. Housebroken dogs will have accidents while they adjust to a new environment and schedule. It takes time and patience for them to learn new rules and make connections with their new family. Two to three months will pass and then, finally, they will know that they are home, hopefully forever.
I appreciate the comprehensive section of Notes at the end in which Golbeck and Colino share the sources for all their studies and information. There is also an index, so if you want to look up something specific, you easily can do that. Finding what you need when you need it is made fairly simple.
THE PUREST BOND is the kind of book that would make a great gift for someone who is thinking about getting their first dog, or even someone who has a dog but may not have read too much about them. There is a lot of important information in these pages, but the bottom line is what many of us already know: Dogs are the best! They enrich our lives and provide us with unconditional love. And if you've forgotten those facts, this book certainly will remind you of that inarguable reality.
Reviewed by Pamela Kramer
November 27, 2023
As I reviewed my library’s list of upcoming releases, I was drawn to the face of a sweet golden retriever on one of the covers. I immediately set up a notification of the release of Jen Golbeck and Stacey Colino’s “The Purest Bond.”
I was thrilled to be the first person to borrow my library’s digital audiobook copy—never before had I ever read a book as soon as it came out. My excitement grew as I realized Golbeck authored and narrated the book; I have followed her “Golden Ratio” Snapchat account about a squad of golden retrievers for over 5 years.
“The Purest Bond” is an excellent read that I’d recommend to anyone. The book centers on the gratifying and fulfilling bond between humans and dogs. Golbeck and Colino accessibly summarize hundreds of interesting research studies to demonstrate how dogs help us feel safe; build social connections with others; encourage us to get out of bed, go outside, and move; improve our health; and serve as role models.
I recently lost someone very close to me, so I especially appreciated the chapters on aging dogs, supporting pooches in their final days, and grieving canine companions.
Further highlights:
- “With age comes lots of loss, but there is also a lot of fulfillment looking back on a life—human or canine—that was well lived. The joy you share with your pet should never get old.”
- The concept of anticipatory loss
- “The paradox the grieving: understanding that when you love a dog, this means you’ll eventually suffer grief when they die, but avoiding the grief would require avoiding the love, which would rob you the joy of the life you shared together.”
- “I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to you, but the truth is, I never would be. I really wanted you to be part of my life forever. It’s unrealistic, I know, but it’s how I felt without realizing it until you were gone.”
- “Continuing bonds: the notion that even though death has physically separated you, the emotional connection can be sustained in your heart, mind, and soul based on 4 specific expressions: having fond memories, sharing those memories, creating a legacy of the deceased, and using photographs of the departed loved one.”
I was thrilled to be the first person to borrow my library’s digital audiobook copy—never before had I ever read a book as soon as it came out. My excitement grew as I realized Golbeck authored and narrated the book; I have followed her “Golden Ratio” Snapchat account about a squad of golden retrievers for over 5 years.
“The Purest Bond” is an excellent read that I’d recommend to anyone. The book centers on the gratifying and fulfilling bond between humans and dogs. Golbeck and Colino accessibly summarize hundreds of interesting research studies to demonstrate how dogs help us feel safe; build social connections with others; encourage us to get out of bed, go outside, and move; improve our health; and serve as role models.
I recently lost someone very close to me, so I especially appreciated the chapters on aging dogs, supporting pooches in their final days, and grieving canine companions.
Further highlights:
- “With age comes lots of loss, but there is also a lot of fulfillment looking back on a life—human or canine—that was well lived. The joy you share with your pet should never get old.”
- The concept of anticipatory loss
- “The paradox the grieving: understanding that when you love a dog, this means you’ll eventually suffer grief when they die, but avoiding the grief would require avoiding the love, which would rob you the joy of the life you shared together.”
- “I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to you, but the truth is, I never would be. I really wanted you to be part of my life forever. It’s unrealistic, I know, but it’s how I felt without realizing it until you were gone.”
- “Continuing bonds: the notion that even though death has physically separated you, the emotional connection can be sustained in your heart, mind, and soul based on 4 specific expressions: having fond memories, sharing those memories, creating a legacy of the deceased, and using photographs of the departed loved one.”
February 6, 2024
My heart!
The Purest Bond is every reason to get a dog, not that I needed convincing. This book brought tears as I miss my past companions who went over the rainbow bridge, but am also so thankful for dogs.
A dog will make you feel like you have value. Dogs have a gift for making you feel appreciated and loved for who you are. They don't care what you wear or how you look. They are a kind of medicine as well as a treasured companion. They have a remarkable sense of empathy and a sixth sense for when we need them to comfort us and bring us calm. They're always there when we need them and ready to welcome us with pure joy with wags and wiggles.
When you have a dog, your well-being is in safe paws. When it's the end, the best gift you can give your dog is to make sure they have a good goodbye. Making that choice can be incredibly difficult, but when there are signs that your dog's quality of life is over, ending their life is the last act of kindness and grace we can offer as thanks for all they have given us.
The book explores the many benefits of having a dog and the fears of anticipatory loss. The sadness over their loss doesn't ever go away, but it fades somewhat with time as you remember all the sweet, goofy, affectionate, frustrating, and mystifying moments you had together. These feelings are a powerful reminder of how much your dog meant to you and how deeply they affected your life. If you look at it this way, would you really want to get rid of those bittersweet feelings?
It was a delightful read and had profound insights into the incredible bond that exists between humans and dogs. Our dogs enrich our lives in more ways than we can count.
The Purest Bond is every reason to get a dog, not that I needed convincing. This book brought tears as I miss my past companions who went over the rainbow bridge, but am also so thankful for dogs.
Research has found that acquiring a dog improves mental well-being, dramatically relieving loneliness and playing a significant role in the reduction of depression, anxiety, and irritability. Basically, dogs are comfort animals for all of us. In fact, research shows that people who have dogs are happier than people who have cats or no pets.
A dog will make you feel like you have value. Dogs have a gift for making you feel appreciated and loved for who you are. They don't care what you wear or how you look. They are a kind of medicine as well as a treasured companion. They have a remarkable sense of empathy and a sixth sense for when we need them to comfort us and bring us calm. They're always there when we need them and ready to welcome us with pure joy with wags and wiggles.
When you have a dog, your well-being is in safe paws. When it's the end, the best gift you can give your dog is to make sure they have a good goodbye. Making that choice can be incredibly difficult, but when there are signs that your dog's quality of life is over, ending their life is the last act of kindness and grace we can offer as thanks for all they have given us.
The book explores the many benefits of having a dog and the fears of anticipatory loss. The sadness over their loss doesn't ever go away, but it fades somewhat with time as you remember all the sweet, goofy, affectionate, frustrating, and mystifying moments you had together. These feelings are a powerful reminder of how much your dog meant to you and how deeply they affected your life. If you look at it this way, would you really want to get rid of those bittersweet feelings?
It was a delightful read and had profound insights into the incredible bond that exists between humans and dogs. Our dogs enrich our lives in more ways than we can count.
December 1, 2023
“Dogs bring a purity to all they encounter. We don’t deserve dogs, and yet they continue to bring their magic to our lives and make us better versions of ourselves.”
Indeed. And what could be better than reading this heartwarming book about dogs - except perhaps, dogs themselves, in all their glorious dogginess.
Coupled with appendices featuring meticulously footnoted research (and a recipe for pupcakes), the authors lead us on on a fascinating journey across a slobbery slice of health, psychology and sociology, as we learn the myriad of ways humans and dogs deliver joy, stability, safety, nurturance and emotional solace, reciprocally and intrinsically, as we interact with each other. Which corresponds directly to a whole host of hugely positive health outcomes, documented here, with an impressive collection of both research studies, and charming anecdotal pet stories.
Somehow the authors: Jen, PHD, a Professor, scientist, and popular social media star at #thegoldenratio4, whose work in the rescue of hurting Golden Retrievers will warm you to your core; and Stacey, MS, a science writer and dog enthusiast; manage to deliver both a compelling scientifically-dense analysis, and a deeply emotionally satisfying one.
For this reader, an unapologetic celebrant of dogs (mine, yours, and all others), couldn’t help but be profoundly touched and exhilarated by the stories and data in this lovely book.
Bring on the dogs!
A great big thank you to #Netgalley, the publisher #simonschusterCA, and the authors for an ARC of this book.
All thoughts provided are my own.
December 1, 2023
Five stars for the narration. (I listened on audiobook at 1x speed.)
Five stars for the content.
Six stars for the cameo audio appearance of the Golden Ratio Squad.
A bazillion stars for the beautiful photo of Venk on the front cover.
I know a thing or two about dogs. I've had several, and currently have 170 pounds worth divided among two dogs. Some of our past canine residents have been therapy dogs. Another was trained as a PTSD service dog for a US Navy veteran. Another intentionally flunked out of service dog training so we would adopt him.
I wasn't sure what or how much I would learn in this book, but am pleased to report that there's plenty here for even an experienced dog owner/lover. The primary author has several dog lifetimes of experience with her own personal connections to the many dogs in her life. She's been there and done that with puppies, geriatric dogs, and dogs with major physical and mental health problems. She brings a deep personal firsthand understanding of the human/canine bond--a reality that isn't always full of sunshine and roses. (But at least in her case, it's always filled with golden retrievers, so it's worth it.)
Being a scientist, the author also cares about data. I think the book could be equally well described as anecdotes about the human/canine bond backed up by data, or data about the human/canine bond made relatable with anecdotes.
Five stars for the content.
Six stars for the cameo audio appearance of the Golden Ratio Squad.
A bazillion stars for the beautiful photo of Venk on the front cover.
I know a thing or two about dogs. I've had several, and currently have 170 pounds worth divided among two dogs. Some of our past canine residents have been therapy dogs. Another was trained as a PTSD service dog for a US Navy veteran. Another intentionally flunked out of service dog training so we would adopt him.
I wasn't sure what or how much I would learn in this book, but am pleased to report that there's plenty here for even an experienced dog owner/lover. The primary author has several dog lifetimes of experience with her own personal connections to the many dogs in her life. She's been there and done that with puppies, geriatric dogs, and dogs with major physical and mental health problems. She brings a deep personal firsthand understanding of the human/canine bond--a reality that isn't always full of sunshine and roses. (But at least in her case, it's always filled with golden retrievers, so it's worth it.)
Being a scientist, the author also cares about data. I think the book could be equally well described as anecdotes about the human/canine bond backed up by data, or data about the human/canine bond made relatable with anecdotes.
May 9, 2024
This is a book I saw thanks to a bookstagram influencer. I own a foster-fail rescue dog myself and knew I needed to read it. While not previously familiar with Jen Golbeck’s social media influence, I appreciated her background in dog rescue, fostering, and hospice care. I can tell that she loves helping the dogs that come through her home. The book itself is a mix of personal anecdotes from Jen, stories from third-party contributors, and scientific research. While I think this was the correct way to write the book, I listened to the audiobook version and found my attention drifting in and out. Jen was the narrator, and, while her voice wasn’t displeasing, I think this book lends itself to having many voices. Even if the subjects of the third-party stories didn’t want to speak, having a male and second female voice for those quotes would’ve helped keep the audio a tad more interesting.
The information in the book is interesting, though I’d argue mostly common knowledge for any long-time dog owner. This is another book that may be useful to keep as a reference since each section corresponds to each stage in a dog’s life with a human. We tend to forget the phases of life for dogs with each new one, so a refresher between dogs and during phase transitions could be helpful for dog owners. As a bit of warning for other listeners, Part 4 deals explicitly with dog death. It wasn’t labeled in my audio version and thus had me crying uncontrollably on a Monday morning. Thank goodness I was working from home.
The information in the book is interesting, though I’d argue mostly common knowledge for any long-time dog owner. This is another book that may be useful to keep as a reference since each section corresponds to each stage in a dog’s life with a human. We tend to forget the phases of life for dogs with each new one, so a refresher between dogs and during phase transitions could be helpful for dog owners. As a bit of warning for other listeners, Part 4 deals explicitly with dog death. It wasn’t labeled in my audio version and thus had me crying uncontrollably on a Monday morning. Thank goodness I was working from home.
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