However, history conveys the strength of dogs is in their ability to act and be of service to man whether it is pulling a cart or dogsled, aiding in disaster rescue, or sniffing out disease. In today's culture it seems that there is movement to coddle dogs and elevate them to lives of leisure. The book points out the use of dogs as service dogs, even pulling carts, throughout history. This book is especially appealing because of the wonderful illustrations that capture the art through the centuries and how dogs were often featured characters in art indicative of their place in history. But there are so many sizes, shapes, and types of dogs today does perceived history really tell the story?ĭog Days of History is a much more extensive presentation of the canine history that I thought it would be and I found it fascinating to read through some of the stories about specific dogs, dogs in civilization, and how dogs have been used to serve man and become a 'best friend' to him. All opinions are my own.Usually thoughts of the history of dogs entails how they were bred from wild animals such as wolves. *Note: I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. No wonder we love them so much! And when a dog looks at you with all that doggy-love shining in their eyes, it is enough to melt anyone’s heart. As Albee states in her note about research, “…dogs have done some extraordinary things” (pg. There are showbiz dogs, advertising dogs, rescue dogs, mascots, dogs who have traveled in space, dogs who work in law enforcement and dogs who have gone to war. The role of dogs in human lives has certainly expanded. Some have been trained as hunters and warriors and some were kept simply as pampered pets (historically, those were the few lucky ones). From Grecian urns to Ming vases, statues and portraits, the evidence proves that dogs have long been an integral part of man’s life. She tells how dogs changed as they became domesticated and how their lives and ours became intertwined. Modern dogs share 99 percent of their DNA with wolves. Dog-lovers will not be disappointed.Īlbee starts by introducing readers to the dog family tree.

While reading the book (and sharing read-aloud tidbits with others), I can tell you that the response was overwhelmingly positive. Everyone, it seems, is interested in dogs, their past and how it meshes with human history.

This book had been sitting on my desk waiting for me to finish reading and writing my review – and it was already getting a lot of attention. Dog Days of History: The Incredible Story of OUR BEST FRIENDS

Dog Days of History by Sarah Albee