I love reading stories about dogs, always have. I also enjoyed Goodavage's previous book, "Top Dog: The Story of Marine Hero Lucca" so reading this was a no-brainer.

I was curious, and excited, to learn more about the dogs who protect the president and the president's family. I did learn about that but it was disjointed and disorganized, There was no organization; she jumped around and meandered. The book lacked focus; the broad subject of the Secret Service canine unit was the overall focus but she had trouble narrowing it down and examining the topic. It got confusing at times. I also missed pictures. I understand that there were security reasons for the lack but they were missed nonetheless.

On the plus side, we meet many dogs and handlers, current (at the time of writing) and former. The dogs are varied and full of personality and the insights from agents and handlers, both on the dogs and their work, was fascinating. Goodavage was granted access to people and materials and fills the book with details. But there was also a frustrating lack of details on certain aspects of the work. Again, understandable for security reasons but the lack was strong. On the flip side, towards the end of the book, Goodavage goes overboard with heartrending details concerning the illnesses and deaths of some Service dogs.

"Secret Service Dogs" needed better organization and less pulling of the heart strings, but it was an interesting, sometimes informative, look at the Secret Service, what it is and isn't, and the many ways they make use of dogs. I have new respect for the dogs and the people who work with them.

A very enjoyable read about the dogs of the Secret Service and how they serve to protect the President. A remarkable look inside the training and responsibilities of the handlers and their dogs. A must read for every dog lover.

The author does a nice job of introducing the history of this very secretive program, without revealing too much. The narrative is not as smooth as I would like, but the anecdotes are enjoyable. The author has great respect for the men, women, and dogs who work to protect the POTUS and other leaders. This is a good read for anyone interested in dogs and law enforcement. It is ideal for a public library.