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Dogtology: Live. Bark. Believe.

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Dog· tol· o· gy
noun
1. The belief in Dog.
2. The system of rituals, practices, and behaviors engaged in by Dogtologists.

Chew on this. As humans, we have a deep need to believe . . . a need to relate to something greater and more ideal than ourselves. Perhaps that’s why so many millions believe in Dog. Man’s devotion to Dog has come to rival the great -isms and -ologies of the world. This has gone way beyond a hobby. We may not literally worship Dogs, but we come pawfully close. This rabid reverence for Rover has a name: It’s called Dogtology. Dogtology is for the dog lover who has bailed on a date because they didn’t want Twinkles to be left home alone, for the human whose dog owns a more festive holiday wardrobe than they do, those whose pups dine on free-range bison burgers while they live off ramen, or whose smartphones have more photos of their dog than of the humans in their family.

Live. Bark. Believe. Dogtology is a humorous exploration of man’s fanatical devotion to Dog. In this book, Lazarus makes the case that Dogtology has become a bone-a-fide belief system on par with the world’s great philosophies and religions.


One night while out to dinner, Jeff’s first-time date grabbed the third rail of dating and asked, “What’s your religion?” Without thinking, Jeff blurted out jokingly, “Dogtology.” As he later thought about his smart-ass response, he realized there was more truth to it than he’d intended—he didn’t just love dogs, he adored them. All his life, Jeff has been a dog advocate, dog rescuer, and dog whisperee. That’s right; dogs talk to him. (In fact, Dog told him to write this book.)

192 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 17, 2015

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About the author

Jeff Lazarus

7 books15 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
Profile Image for Icy-Cobwebs-Crossing-SpaceTime.
5,639 reviews329 followers
September 5, 2015
REVIEW: DOGTOLOGY: LIV E. BARK. BELIEVE. by J. Lazarus

Thank you, J. Lazarus, from the bottom of my heart, from me and on behalf of all the wonderful canines who have ever, do now, and will ever captivate and companion my soul! I want to give DOGTOLOGY 125 stars! Thank you for identifying and naming ny belief system, for making me laugh aloud while simultaneously my heart ignited and warmed. Not just a Best of 2015, DOGTOLOGY: LIVE. BARK. BELIEVE. is a BEST EVER.
Profile Image for Story.
899 reviews
November 14, 2017
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.

First, some definitions
DOGTOLOGIST: A practitioner of Dogtology

DOGTOLOGY: (1) The belief in Dog, (2) The system of rituals, practices, and behaviors engaged in by Dogtologists.


I may not qualify to be a 100% pureblooded dogtologist as I'm not currently sharing my home with a dog, but I enjoyed this cute, light-hearted look at humans' relationships with our canine best friends. The sections on how to understand the world from a dog's point of view were great and the photos were fun too. This would make a good stocking-stuffer for a dog-loving friend.
Profile Image for Laura.
165 reviews14 followers
August 20, 2022
What a fun book! This is a tongue-in-cheek examination of the high esteem so many of us hold dog in, an esteem bordering on worship or dogtology, as the author terms it, a belief system that the author asserts has its own dog-ma and its 7 DUDly sins. The DUDly sins are most often committed by DUDs (people who Don't Understand Dogtology), but may also be committed, on occasion, by a dogtologist who lapses into one. But, of course, dog is quick to forgive and continue in a relationship with his or her special person. Highly recommended for every dogtologist or for any DUD who has a desire to understand the dogtologists in their lives.
Profile Image for Sonia Crites.
168 reviews1 follower
March 27, 2017
If your obsessed with your dog and have a sense of humor this book is for you. It was quite the fun read. Now back to dotting on my pups.
Profile Image for Chanel.
326 reviews19 followers
January 21, 2018
I received this as an ARC on NetGalley.

Cute take on how obsessive many people are about their dogs (my self included). Dog owners/lovers will get a good chuckle at most of what is included. Plus it has some righteous dog pics sprinkled throughout.
Profile Image for Christine.
941 reviews38 followers
August 26, 2015
* I received this ebook at no charge via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review *

Thanks to Mr. Lazarus I can now proudly stand up
(Okay, sit down because I’m at the computer)

and proclaim loudly
(Okay, type in all caps)

I AM A DOGTOLOGIST
(Okay, non-practicing)

I must admit that I am also a little conflicted because my current living arrangements would more clearly indicate that I am a believer in “Catakism”. Despite the fact that this dual belief system was “once a boiling pot, it has now been turned down to a simmer … this newfound détente has been the ability of some humans to embrace both beliefs”. Catakism is nearly as widespread as Dogtology! At least I’m not a DUD (human who Doesn’t Understand Dogtology)

Important definitions:

DOGTOLOGIST: A practitioner of Dogtology

DOGTOLOGY: (1) The belief in Dog, (2) The system of rituals, practices, and behaviors engaged in by Dogtologists.

If none of what I have written so far has elicited a small smile or maybe even a snicker “Dogtology” may not be a book you want to sniff out. This is a tongue-in-cheek “bible” explaining the “dogma” of those people who love their furry canine friends. During the reading of this book I have come to understand why “Dog” is “God” spelled backwards, why men have nipples, why wolves howl, and the sole purpose of cell phone cameras.

The book begins with a conversation between God and Dog. God is explaining how he created Dog to be his “avatar” in the world. Later He came to the conclusion that Dog needed a companion and someone to scratch behind Dog’s ears, so he created man … bit of an afterthought? Obviously Dog and man were an important combination and the rest of the book goes on to describe how man has come to “worship” dog.

I found this book funny and charming and insightful, but some might take great offense to some of the references comparing dog ownership to a religious conviction. I am not that sensitive and like to think that I have a sense of humor. Come to think of it some dog owners might find it a little offensive too, only because it could hit too close to home. Every point Mr. Lazarus makes is spot on.

On the serious side, if there must be one, despite the humorous manner in which this book is written there were “aha” moments of understanding that this is also an excellent study of human beings as a whole; covering everything from favorite sports team support to religion. It also may have convinced me that, sometimes, dogs may be smarter than man.

“Dogtology” was a fun book to read, so thanks to Mr. Lazarus (and his dog), for getting this dogma down on paper for me to enjoy.
Profile Image for Aoife.
1,483 reviews652 followers
February 8, 2019
I received a free e-copy of this book from the publishers/author via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Dogtology is a humorous look into the curious lives of dog lovers, and how everything for them will always revolve around their dog and how interesting human behavior can change once someone admits they are a dogtologist.

I really liked this at the start, the first half was funny and kept my interest. I defintiely had some laugh out loud moments and as a very proud and open dogtologist, I did see myself reflected in some of the funny musings around dog owners/lovers/enthusiasts. After a while though I got a bit bored and weary of the book, as it did end up being a little bit repetitive. I do think this could have been about 50 pages shorter for what it is which is just a funny book about dog lovers. I do think some of the language and references used were very US-focused which didn't relate as well for dog lovers outside of the States.

This is a fun book to flick through and have on your shelf to pick up now and again but not one to be taken seriously.
Profile Image for Connie Anderson.
341 reviews28 followers
May 28, 2015
I found this book to be so much more than I expected, just another book about dogs. I couldn't even begin to believe how long it was, however. Mr. Lazarus is brilliant! First of all, his analogies will make you laugh until your cheeks and sides hurt from laughing so much. I don't know how he thinks these things up but they are amazing!

Second, he REALLY. knows dogs and their "pet parents". I was blown away from the wisdom that he possesses to be able to include ALL dog lovers, and not just certain breeds. My Mom is an absolutely bonfied Dogologist. She will buy enough dog "chicken jerky" treats for a whole month (those things are very expensive), BEFORE she pays her bills. If there is no money left for groceries, "Well that's just too bad now, isn't it". And, there are so many things listed that define her as a Dogologist. So, I know firsthand that what Mr. Lazarus writes about is dead on true. You can't tell I am a Catakist, can you? I hope not.

Third, he wrote some very profound things about traits dogs have that people lack. It almost made me ashamed to be of the human race. He really made his point loud and clear. Dogs don't scream and yell at people. People may even do that to dogs as well as other people. Dogs are forgiving, loving without expecting something in return, and are always by your side (even if you are sad). There is much more. And the way he tells it nearly made me cry.

There are so many different things, that if you are any part of a Dogologist, you will recognize and then laugh!!! I am in that category. I grew up with many neighbor's dogs, that I wish were mine. There are myriads of books about dogs out there. Why should you buy this one? It is very comprehensive as far as talking about dogs and their "pet parents" go. It will make you laugh, may make you cry, and you get something out of this book which will stick in your heart, always. And, if you know a true dog lover, like I do, this book would make the greatest gift you could ever buy them.

I was given an advance copy of this book to read and give my honest review. Thank you, NetGalley for allowing me this honor.
Profile Image for Jen.
3,609 reviews
March 14, 2015
Note: This ARC was provided by Greenleaf Book Group via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Anyone who knows me knows how much I love my dogs. Heck, I love dogs in general. There's just something about the species that has me sitting up and begging for more. When I saw Dogtology up for review on NetGalley, I simply had to request for it. The idea of a religion or philosophy inspired by and dedicated solely to a human's devotion to the dog is creative genius and if such a thing did, indeed, exist, I'd be proud to say that I'm a believer and follower. ^.^

This book contains quite a few interesting snippets--a number that may give you paws, erm, pause so you can reflect, some that will have you smiling or laughing, and others that will have you wondering if the writer's sarcasm is meant to mock dog lovers' obsession with their pooches. I have no problem admitting to people that I tend to love my dogs more than I do humans so I felt no mockery aimed my way. I found myself agreeing with several insights in the book.

The fact that the word "dog" is "God" spelled backwards is something that countless people have noticed before but it was such a creative springboard on which to launch dogtology. Author J. Lazarus has put together a dog-ma (pun very much intended) that those whose lives revolve around their furry four-legged friends (other furry four-legged creatures are not included) can easily relate to. There's a lot of humor in the book but at its very heart is our love for dogs.

All in all, Dogtology was a quick and entertaining read and I would recommend it to my fellow bookaholic dog lovers out there. After I read the book, I simply had to give my dog Oliver a snuggle, something which I do often anyway, but I felt as if a lot of the stuff written reiterated why I love dogs, so my baby boy deserved a hug. While some people may think dog lovers overdo certain things, I'll happily admit that I am a leash-carrying dogtologist. ^.^ Four stars! ♥

Release Date: 21 April 2015
Profile Image for Chris Torretta.
885 reviews40 followers
March 15, 2015
This book is adorable! Just like the pups it is talking about. Yes, I have to admit that I do most of the, what seems to be ridiculous, stuff in this book for my pups. But I do not think spoiling my pups is ridiculous at all!

"And so God said, "At last, I have created a being that reflects all that is good in me. Thus, I shall give it a name that is the mirror image of my own."

I think of my puppies as my little babies. Some, not so little. 80 pound pitt definitely is not little. Especially since he is a lap dog!

But seriously, no matter how big they get, or how much they smell like wet dog after they have baths, or even when they want to roll in some weird smelling animal stuff, I love them!

And that is what this book is all about. Why we love dogs so much today. Why we treat them the way we do. And what it all means.

"Dogs just want to know exactly what the hell humans want already. It's not about who is alpha; it's about What in the name of God are you asking me to doooo?"

As I went through God creating Dog I laughed. This makes so much sense. Such as the reason why dogs do not actually speak.

"it is Mans ability to talk that will get him into more trouble than any other capacity he possesses"

And how dogs will react to us, act with us, and change us.

It's all about our worshiping them. And if you think you do not worship Dog, look at the amount of pictures around your house and on your social media. How many are about you and how many are of your precious, cutesy pup?

This is a bit satirical but it is all fascinating and was so much fun to read!

"Dog Is Fur Real"
64 reviews1 follower
March 12, 2015
I received an ARC from NetGalley in return for an honest and unbiased review. Unfortunately, whilst I loved the concept of this book, mainly because I have a dog I adore, it just left me underwhelmed. Lots of ideas that were repeated, yet in different ways. The idea of Dogtology as a religion appealed to me because I thought it would be amusing but the underlying message was that dogs are infinitely preferable to humans: cleverer, happier,smarter. Perhaps the author has something but I am afraid I simply got bored and stopped reading halfway through. I have kept my virtual bookmark and will go back to it one day and perhaps I will be in a different state of mind and enjoy it more. I am sorry I couldn't be terribly positive.
Profile Image for La La.
1,117 reviews156 followers
August 11, 2016
This was a DNF. Weird isn't always witty, artsy, hip and quirky; sometimes it is just weird. This book is wandering, scattered, and disconnected. Its weak attempt at humour was the only thing chuckle inducing about this book. During our showcases at the regional community theater, some performers will audition with these strange meaningless numbers featuring a clown licking a comb while someone dressed like a milkmaid stomps on bubble wrap. They think it is artsy and avant-garde just because it it weird. Not so. I call it theatrical masturbation because the only person being entertained is the performer his/herself. I was approved for this eARC through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Stacey.
256 reviews1 follower
May 2, 2015
Thanks to Goodreads First Reads and author J. Lazarus for the good fortune of winning this fabulous and adorable book. I totally loved this book, and plan to read it many more times! It is a tongue in cheek commentary on Man and his relationship with Dog. It is hysterically funny. But, the funniest thing is it is so TRUE. As I was reading and laughing......I saw myself and my three dogs, and all the other dogs I have had in my lifetime. I have always believed that dogs are better people than people. And, if dogs don't go to Heaven, I want to go where they go. I highly recommend this to all you dog lovers out there!
Profile Image for Brandi.
148 reviews8 followers
September 15, 2015
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.

I have a confession to make: I am a Dogtologist. Of course, anyone who knows more, knows this about me.

This book was a fun, light read that I thoroughly enjoyed, probably even more so because it gave justification to some of my life decisions.

Personal attachment aside, I thought this was a great change to all the negativity flowing through the cosmos. Definitely enjoyed, and would definitely recommend.
Profile Image for Anne.
23 reviews30 followers
December 30, 2014
I got an advance copy through Net Galley, and I'm happy I did!

This is a fun, tongue-in-cheek look at "Man's best friend," and in addition to being funny was also able to make me feel about our fine furry friends.

One note: it's definitely NOT for anyone who likes cats. Like at all. But if you love dogs (or are, as they say, a "Dogtologist") then this is a fun book for you!
Profile Image for Michael Wylde.
43 reviews
April 20, 2016
I must have read a different book called Dogtology...the one I read was sickeningly cutsie and pretty pointless. The term cornball comes to mind. Not at all my cup of tea. My dog even thought it was stupid silly.
Profile Image for Lori Bree.
908 reviews18 followers
September 26, 2015
Perfect book for dog lovers! Charming, funny, witty, and satirical, but spot on! Loved this book. If you're looking for a gift for a friend who loves dogs, this book is perfect!
Profile Image for Hobart.
2,732 reviews87 followers
February 3, 2022
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader as part of a quick-takes post to catch up on my "To Write About" stack—emphasizing pithiness, not thoroughness..
---
The central conceit here is that humans are so obsessed with their dogs, have devoted so much time, energy, and work that it's become a religion, with humans worshipping canines. This book is a look at that devotion and the rituals and beliefs that accompany it.

When this book sticks to poking fun at the obsessive nature of dog owners, and having fun with the nature of dogs, it's pretty amusing. But it treads a little too close to mocking actual religion for me to get excited about it.

I'm not sure I laughed at all, but it's frequently funny.
Profile Image for Joan.
1,767 reviews20 followers
November 10, 2017
This is the kind of book dog people will get and relate to. While reading all the fun little facts and things that all dog owners do (or should be doing) you will find yourself smiling, laughing out loud and thinking yup that is me.
Cute pictures, lots of so true facts and easy to read chapters.
Have fun reading and enjoying this book.
Profile Image for Kim.
66 reviews1 follower
October 28, 2016
What a fun book

I am a dogtologist through and through, I am always thrilled when I can read a book and connect with it in the way I did with this book. Lots of good chuckles as well...when you are a dogtologist you have to be able to laugh. This book also has some great dogisms!
Profile Image for Alicia.
822 reviews16 followers
June 5, 2015
*** "Dogtology" by Jeff Lazarus

"Dogtology" is an interesting novel. According to the author, Man has a need to believe in something greater than himself. And while he has many beliefs, the author surmises that these often can be swayed by outside influences which often lead to changing or wavering points of view. But Dog is always present, always there for Man providing unconditional love and fulfillment. As Dog is ever-present, Man's faith and commitment and belief in Dog never wavers. In fact, because Dog is always present, Man looks to Dog as a more supreme being. Man's faith in Dog is so strong that Dog often holds a higher place in Man's belief system than many others. In fact, Dog is revered so highly that he competes with or even out does other "ologies" and "isms."

The author explains this belief system from the very beginning, utilizing the creation of Dog and Man via God's creationism as well as the held belief of evolution.

He takes an interesting tack in explaining how both Dog and Man have evolved to the point where now Dog is often revered as a true belief system, one which is unwavering and often holds one of, if not the highest places in Man's belief system.

I found the manner in which the author wrote this book rather interesting. It definitely was engaging. The premise is one which I did find interesting as a long time dog owner. The author does back up his thesis with good examples that were clearly outlined and thought out.

While I understand the authors premise of Dogtology and did find the novel entertaining, I also thought that he was often repetitive in his thoughts and ideas and even at times extreme. Again, this coming from a very long time dog owner and trainer as well as a long time reader and reviewer.

I liked the premise of the book and many of the thoughts behind this belief system. Yet, I felt that the book could have been condensed to a great degree and the author and book would have been more effective.

I also felt that many times the author took the explanation and examples of the belief system to an extreme, particularly when he describes the actions of Man, and particularly dogtologists.

"Dogtology" was an interesting read with an interesting premise. While some dog lovers would definitely enjoy this book, others may have a similar reaction as I did -- too long and repetitive and just a bit extreme ideology wise; although I do believe he has a very valid argument.


As an aside, NetGalley asks if I would buy this book for others. I put yes. I will qualify that answer as it should be potentially. My decision would depend upon the individual and the reason for giving the book. It is fun and interesting and has a solid premise. But it is definitely a book that is written for a very specific audience. As a dog lover I found the book entertaining and interesting. As a reader it was repetitive and slightly extreme in its argument and writing.
Profile Image for Lee-ann Dunton.
129 reviews8 followers
October 5, 2015
I’ve *FINALLY* found a religion that I agree with & believe in… DOGTOLOGY! I’ve been searching for this my whole life! ;)

On a more-serious note though, this book is incredible. Although the topic was initially what intrigued me, I figured it would be one of those nonfiction books that I pick up every now and again, reading a piece here and a piece there. (I’m a fiction lover at heart.) That definitely wasn’t the case with ‘Dogtology’ though, as I read the entire thing in two sittings… I just couldn’t put it down. It’s really well-written, and the sections of the book flow together well. The only complaint I have in that department is that by reading this through the Kindle app I feel that I may have missed out on some of the more-apparent sectioning that you visibly see when you’re holding a book in your hand. There were a few points that I had to go back & reread in order for things to make sense, but this in no way took away from my enjoyment of the book.

Honestly, this book should *definitely* be on your holiday pick list for all of the dog-lovers in your life. While I can see people not enjoying the book as much if they’re not die-hard fans of dogs, those who are will truly appreciate the humour and enjoyment that comes from reading ‘Dogtology’. If they’re anything like me, they’ll feel that the author has been spying on me for the past 10 years & decided to write a book about the relationship I have with my dogs, family, and coworkers!

As a massive dog-lover, I frequently found myself laughing out loud while reading this book & constantly saying to my boyfriend, “hahaha listen to THIS…” (while reading him a section aloud). I could absolutely relate to pretty much everything the author says about Dogtologists. I’m proud to associate myself with the best of the best!

Something that really intrigued me was the author’s insertion of stories relating to Christianity, or the Christian idea of there being a “God” (and a single God). While I’m not religious at all, I still feel that this added to the book. It definitely helped the author explain dog’s place in the world while not ostracizing folks that aren’t religious. I feel that this can definitely be a fine line, and I’ve found myself shying away from books that talk about religion for this very reason. This book is perfect for someone that isn’t religious as much as it is for those that are.

Overall, I give this book 5/5 stars for originality, enjoyability & the love of dogs!

Disclosure: ARC received from the publisher (Greenleaf Book Group Press) via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Claire Reviews.
1,009 reviews40 followers
November 6, 2015
Review: Dogtology by J. Lazarus Published by: Greenleaf Book Group (19th March 2015)
 
ISBN: 9781626341388
 
Source: NetGalley
 
Rating: 5*
 
Synopsis:
Dog· tol· o· gynoun1. The belief in Dog.2. The system of rituals, practices, and behaviors engaged in by Dogtologists.
Chew on this. As humans, we have a deep need to believe . . . a need to relate to something greater and more ideal than ourselves. Perhaps that’s why so many millions believe in Dog. Man’s devotion to Dog has come to rival the great -isms and -ologies of the world. This has gone way beyond a hobby. We may not literally worship Dogs, but we come pawfully close. This rabid reverence for Rover has a name: It’s called Dogtology. Dogtology is for the dog lover who has bailed on a date because they didn’t want Twinkles to be left home alone, for the human whose dog owns a more festive holiday wardrobe than they do, those whose pups dine on free-range bison burgers while they live off ramen, or whose smartphones have more photos of their dog than of the humans in their family.
Live. Bark. Believe. Dogtology is a humorous exploration of man’s fanatical devotion to Dog. In this book, Lazarus makes the case that Dogtology has become a bone-a-fide belief system on par with the world’s great philosophies and religions.
 
Review:
Everything about this book appeals to me. I'm a long time dog owner who dotes on the two rather large canines that share our home. Dogtology was written by an obviously kindred spirit who posesses a terrific sense of humour about all things Dog.
 
This book made me laugh out loud, it's just fantastic! My fellow dog lovers will completely get it and recommend it to ask their friends, as will I. It cleverly sums up our relationships with our canines in a brilliant way and I'm so glad I got the opportunity to Read it.
 
Up until this point, I have always selected the 'none' option when questioned about my religion. Now, I will proudly declare that I am a dogtologist. It's true - our dogs are our children, our fur-babies and they rule our lives. And we wouldn't have it any other way.
 
Thanks to the publisher for supplying a review copy via NetGalley, in return for my honest review.
 
 
 
Profile Image for Bruce Gargoyle.
874 reviews140 followers
March 8, 2015
I received a digital copy of this title from the publisher via Netgalley.

Ten Second Synopsis:
An in depth discussion as to how humans adoration of dog-kind has attained religious status.

Humanity’s love of canines is both universal and ancient. In recent decades, at least in more affluent nations, the exaltation of our doggy friends seems to have reached a fever pitch. Attentive owners purchase all manner of accoutrements for their pampered pooches, behaving in many cases as if their dogs were more important than their human relations. Lazarus uses this tome to define and explain Dogtology: a religious belief system that retains at its core an unwavering belief in the goodness, connection and solace provided by Dog. After all, there could be good reason why dog spelled backwards is “god”.

Using humour and a light touch Lazarus spells out the ways in which human behaviour towards dogs has, over hundreds of years, developed to mirror the ritualistic practices associated with other world religions. In clearly delineated chapters, the over-the-top actions of enamoured dog owners is flipped on its head and closely compared to other spiritual belief systems in an attempt to show how humanity has elevated humanity’s humble, shoe-chewing, face-slobbering, bum-sniffing companion to the status of a deity. Non-believers be warned – the time of the Dogtologist is already upon us.

I will admit to being quite underwhelmed with the execution of this idea. I found it to be overly long and quite repetitive and it just didn't have enough really funny moments to make me want to race back to it when I put it down. I think those that would count themselves as die-hard dogtologists will adore this book, but for me it wasn't funny enough to appreciate it as a general humour book, and it wasn't a deep enough concept for me to consider it philosophically. The references to historical and cultural instances of dog worship were interesting, as were the bits about how the relationship between human and dog has developed over time.

Overall, recommended for dog worshippers, but too long, with the rather simple point driven home too laboriously for my tastes.
Profile Image for Mel (Reviews In A Pinch).
233 reviews35 followers
June 11, 2015
Full Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.

My Thoughts: The title caught my attention. I love dogs, I’ll admit that. I don’t think I’m obsessed or anything close to that, but I love my dog and can’t really remember life without him. So it seemed like Dogtology might be right up my alley.

Dogtology ended up being a little bit on the snarky side, which I really liked. I actually looked it up on Goodreads after I started reading it because I wanted to know if the humor and snark were intentional; they were. I also loved the puns (they were punny). But I’m a huge fan of puns, so that got me right away. I also liked the cartoons. They were an interesting and unexpected addition to Dogtology and I actually got excited when one would pop up.

The idea behind Dogtology was an interesting one. It did a great job making fun of how obsessed people can get when it comes to their pets, but it always had a ring of truth to it. I couldn’t relate to all of the points for being a Dogtologist, but I did go through a phase of taking tons of pictures of my dog and posting them on Instagram. I can see now how that might’ve seemed a bit sad and/or weird to non-dogtologists (I don’t regret it though).

I ended up enjoying Dogtology. It was definitely a unique read and not something I normally pick up, but I’m glad I branched out. I would recommend Dogtology to the dog lovers out there that really can’t get enough when it comes to dogs in general. If you’re more of a cat person, I don’t think Dogtology is for you (maybe they’ll write Cat-kism one day).

For more reviews, check out Reviews In A Pinch today!
1,383 reviews22 followers
December 8, 2017
This is the book dog lovers everywhere will love to read. In it, J. Lazarus explains in a profound but humorous way why we all love our dogs so much and what dogs mean and can do for and with us. Unlike so many others, his book covers dogs in general, not really focusing on one particular breed or dog. As I read this book, I began to realize more fully why I love my dog Snowflake more and more every day. If you ever wondered about your relationship with you dog, after reading this book, you will more fully understand how and why things happen with and to you dog. I have often wondered whether I go too far with my dog, but, after reading the book, have realized I probably don’t even begin going far enough. In everything they do, regardless how seemingly insignificant, dogs show us just how loyal, loving and intelligent they are. In fact, in many ways, they are much better than humans.

I think the author has hit on something in this book. I can hardly wait for a book on other pets to come out to see what is said about them. I think every dog lover or dog lover wanna-be will find this book a fantastic read and will want to keep it to re-read time and time again. I know I will. I highly recommend it to anyone who has a dog, has had a dog and misses that dog terribly (but cannot get another because of circumstances), to anyone who knows a real dog lover, or to anyone who is not quite sure whether to get a dog or not or is about to get one. This book will help you understand why getting or having that do is so important to you. If I could give it more than five stars, I would. I received this from NetGalley to read and review.




Profile Image for Megan.
89 reviews1 follower
September 14, 2015
A book about the ins and outs of practicing dogtologists over the world – and the not so convinced DUDs. Lazarus explores all of the different means of dog worship and devotion within the human life. Covering the seven ‘books’ of Dogtology – make this the Dogtology ‘bible’ if you will.

The Book of Bones
The Book of Leashes
The Book of Collars
The Book of Barks
The Book of Hydrants
The Book of License
The Book of Realiszations
What did I think?

I am a huge dog lover and can completely get on board with being a ‘Dogtologist’ but unfortunately this book didn’t quite do it for me. It’s fun and lighthearted which is refreshing, but I think that a lot of it is stuff ‘dog-lovers’ already know. I’m not sure if my disappointment with this is because the book is very American so sections such as the ‘license’ and the ‘fire hydrants’; whilst are common knowledge are not necessarily relatable – to me at least.

Parts of this book did make me giggle and I can definitely see my dog in some sections i.e. Dog just wants some piece and quiet from Man’s constant talking – my dog takes himself off to the bedroom on a nightly basis to have some ‘alone’ time. From the seven deadly sins (of dog world) and the ten commandments of Dogtology – it leads to fun reading (at parts).

I’m not saying don’t read this book, it is fun and quite a quick read…but at the same time, I wouldn’t rush out and buy it or put it to the top of your reading pile if you already have it.

Read my full review here: http://publishedmoments.co.uk/2015/09...
Profile Image for PC.
56 reviews
June 7, 2015
Who are you, Mr. Jeff Lazarus? ...That you could author such a delightful book as this! Obviously you were created by the very same Deity that you ascribe to the Divine Dog. I twisted with laughter and was at many points so touched I cried, always ending up with my heavenly Dogs trampling both book and me in an effort to cuddle and console. I loved every line and read them over and over again to allow my brain cells more fondling time with each concept and comparison you so expertly and insightfully made concerning this species and their earthly (human) counterpart.
Let me assure you that I am not prejudice in any way *cough*..*cough* - being an Animal Rescuer as well as having had my own life saved at one time by the selfless act of this devoted animal called Dog - when I say that I would highly recommend this extraordinary book to anyone and everyone even if they harbor just a bit of ambivalence toward the subject matter.
Thank you, Goodreads for this opportunity to enjoy and review this work.. and I 'bark' your praises, Mr. Lazarus, and pray you pen many more of this kind and quality!
Profile Image for Shelby.
83 reviews
September 23, 2015
I received an e-ARC copy of Dogtology: Live. Bark. Believe by J. Lazarus from NetGalley in return for my honest opinion.

After reading this book, it is confirmed that I am a Dogtologist!

What is Dogtology you ask? 1.) The belief in Dog. 2.) The system of rituals, practices, and behaviors engaged in by Dogtologists.

This book is the bible for dog enthusiasts everywhere! It starts by describing how God created Dog as his "avatar" in the world and then created man because someone had to be Dog's companion. Years later and man is still worshiping to the great Dog.

When I first started reading the book, I thought the beginning was a little boring, and then BAM! with the humor. It's funny, delightful, heartwarming, and insightful. Not only that, it has given me a greater appreciation for my favorite four-legged, furry friend. I've grown up around dogs my entire life; they keep life interesting. I honestly could not imagine my life without my dogs, and Lazarus just helps me confirm that with this book!

Thank you Greenleaf Book Group for giving me this opportunity and to my readers, check it out! Happy reading lovelies!
Profile Image for Walt Boyes.
32 reviews2 followers
September 18, 2015
I am a Dogtologist. There, I admit it. Jeff Lazarus's great book, Dogtology has MY number-- and probably yours too, if you aren't a complete DUD ("Doesn't Understand Dog). My dogs eat better than I do, have better health care than I do, and really don't have to do anything except wait for the next cat or squirrel to attempt to cross the back yard. There just is nothing better than to have a 100 pound furry four-legged son throw himself into my arms after I've come home from a week on the road. My wife is a Dogtologist, too. One Valentine's Day, she gave me a tee shirt that said "Corgeek" on it, with a picture of a corgi in horn rims. And I took it for the love gift it was.

Dogtology is fluorishing and growing faster than any other world religion. Even in places where dogs were traditionally on the menu, Dog is now being treated as the semi-divine creatures they are.

Thank you, Jeff Lazarus, for revealing it all.

Thank Dog!
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