The Dogs of War The Courage, Love, and Loyalty of Military Working Dogs

Military working dogs gained widespread attention after one participated in the SEAL Team Six mission that led to Osama bin Laden's death. Before that, few civilians realized we had dogs serving in combat, let alone that they could parachute from up to 30,000 feet. And as astounding as that is, it's only one of the many things our four-legged soldiers can do. In this book, Lisa Rogak shows the amazing range of jobs that military working dogs perform, such as explosives detection, patrol, and hunt for enemy combatants. Dogs have had a place in the military for decades, but their importance and our treatment of them has evolved over time. Rogak examines the training, equipment, and what it's like to serve with them on the front lines. The Dogs of Waralso tells heart-warming stories of the deep connections that grow between dogs and their handlers. And Rogak recounts adventures both heroic and tragic of the courage and devotion that both human and canine soldiers have shown together on the battlefield. An incredible story of a largely unseen but vital role that dogs play in our armed forces, The Dogs of Waris a must-read for animal-lovers everywhere.

is the author of the Edgar- and Anthony-nominated Haunted Heart: The Life and Times of Stephen King and editor of the New York Times bestselling Barack Obama in His Own Words. Her son serves in the United States Army, Delta Company of the 489th Civil Affairs Battalion.

“Lisa Rogak’s The Dogs of War sheds light on why the dog, more than any other animal, holds a special place in our history, and our hearts. The most comprehensive book I have ever read on the subject of military dogs, it exemplifies the indomitable spirit of the dog itself, ever selfless, loyal to a fault.”

--Steve Duno, author of Last Dog on the Hill

"A book that will fascinate dog lovers and lovers of the military. ... It's inspiring and beautifully written."

--The Examiner