This is an investigation into the emotional lives of the animals that live in closest harmony with humans - dogs. To discover more about the complex but transparent nature of canine emotional responses, Masson acquired three large dogs to form a community with his own family and set about a close scrutiny of their feelings.

With fascinating insight, impeccable research, and captivating writing, controversial psychoanalyst Jeffrey Masson, a new father himself, showcases the extraordinary behaviour of outstanding fathers in the animal kingdom. From the emperor penguin, who incubates the eggs of his young by carrying them around on his feet for two months, to the sea-horse, the only male animal that gives birth to its young. Mason also examines nature's worst fathers; lions, bears, and humans. A book that will forever change our perceptions of parenthood and love.