Dogs have been man’s closest companion for over 10,000 years, ever since they were first domesticated from the grey wolf. Since then, Canis lupus familiaris can be traced nearly all over the globe, in breeds from the burly Newfoundland to the diminutive Pekingese. Over the millennia, they have been keen hunters, trusted guardians or beloved pets; but some of the dogs featured in this book had more a unusual place in society, such as the multitude of performing dogs who delighted audiences on the stage and, later, on the screen. Wherever their owners went, dogs followed, and so we also find dogs in the middle of battlefields (occasionally getting lost!), in witchcraft trials, mascots for regiments and postal workers, and even flying over the North Pole…
Throughout history, the most praised quality of the dog – and that which set it apart from other animals – has been its loyalty and devotion to its master or mistress. Although this is an anthropomorphic interpretation of canine behaviour, it forms the basis of many of the tales found in this book, such as those animals pining on their master’s grave, or trying to save them from danger. Basic rituals of dog-ownership – such as keeping the animal fed, or adorning it with specialist accessories such as collars and leashes – are also in evidence across the ages, along with the related perils of overfeeding your pet or extravagantly spending a fortune on coats (or in the case of one Indian prince, an elaborate canine wedding complete with elephants in attendance!).
This book can only recount a fraction of famous accounts of historical dogs, but presents a selection of memorable movie-stars, pampered palace pets, performing poodles and dogs on the battlefield through various mediums including satirical poems and anxious newspaper notices for stolen animals. There are loyal dogs and spoiled pets, tales of exemplary behaviour and misbehaviour, and the beloved companions of famous figures including Prince Rupert of the Rhine, Lord Byron and President Roosevelt. In literature they have been alternately praised and satirised, due to the vast affection their owners have long lavished upon them. From Roman mosaics to the Bayeux Tapestry and depictions of the Last Supper, the iconography of dogs can also be found almost everywhere, and touching personal portraits of owners and their dogs reveal how a pet often became an essential and proud part of their identity. Keep an eye on history, and you will start seeing dogs everywhere!
Kathleen Walker-Meikle