In Los Angeles, illustrator Lili Chin began studying dog behavior in 2008 after her Boston terrier bit their landlord, prompting a warning to seek professional training. The incident prompted Chin to study canine communication by consulting animal behaviorists. Over time, Chin transformed her fascination into educational illustrations and published books. Her works, including Doggie Language (2020) and Kitty Language (2023), use expressive and accessible drawings to interpret animals’ emotions through their body language. These publications, praised by pet trainers and experts, aim to dispel misinformation and provide a better understanding of signs like tail movement, ear position, and posture. Her latest release, Dogs of the World, presents over 600 breeds, showcasing both popular and lesser-known dogs, such as the Rajapalayam from India and the Thai Ridgeback.

The book also highlights dogs living in communal environments without direct owners. Among the examples are street dogs that travel by train in Moscow, “rez dogs” found on tribal lands in the U.S., and the remaining dogs in Chernobyl. Chin worked with behavior consultant Emily Strong to ensure scientific accuracy and simplicity. Strong commended Chin’s illustrations as both informative and aesthetically compelling. Chin’s work with experts, including the late Dr. Sophia Yin, helped shape her preference for positive reinforcement over punishment-based training methods. Chin’s efforts contribute to a broader public awareness by merging scientific content with whimsical visual storytelling, making her work both enlightening and engaging for animal lovers and educators alike. Her dedication has elevated her role from illustrator to a respected communicator of complex animal behavior.