Dogs: The Ultimate Dictionary of over 1,000 Breeds - Hardcover

Morris, Desmond

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 1570762198 ISBN 13: 9781570762192

Publisher: Trafalgar Square Pub, 2002

Synopsis

This is a reprint of a 2001 edition reference that aims for comprehensive coverage of the origins and characteristics of every identifiable dog breed in the world. Over 1,000 entries are organized by type of breed (e.g. scenthounds, livestock guards, sled dogs, etc.) and then grouped according to country. Coverage extends to wolf/dog hybrids, feral dogs, wild dogs, and obscure breeds about which little is known. Animal behaviorist Morris is past Curator of Mammals at the London Zoo. Over 500 of Philip Hood's drawings of various breeds of dogs illustrate the volume. Annotation (c) Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

About this title

From the Publisher

Desmond Morris—renowned animal behaviorist and author of the best–selling Catwatching, Dogwatching, Horsewatching, and The Naked Ape—now presents the ultimate reference work on dog breeds. This comprehensive survey encompasses breeds from around the world. From household pets to wild dogs, hunting hounds to sheep–, cattle–, even fish–herders, Morris provides the history, qualities, and characteristics of each one. In addition, he offers a fascinating look at conflicting theories of canine behavior. Expert, meticulously researched information combined with superb illustrations make this a must–have for all dog lovers.

From Booklist

Animal lovers have long been captivated by Morris' fascinating work in the field of animal behavior. This addition to his oeuvre will not disappoint. Morris says this is the reference book he always wanted. It didn't exist so he wrote it! While most standard guides focus on a breed's physical standards for the show ring, this guide downplays that aspect and instead gives a historical perspective.

More than 1,000 dog breeds are covered. Breeds that are officially recognized and registered by major kennel clubs are included, but this dictionary also encompasses unrecognized breeds that have played a part in the history of domestic dogs. New breeds such as the Schnoodle, service dogs for the disabled, and even dogs once bred for human consumption are discussed, as are wild dogs, wolf-dog hybrids, and obscure and extinct breeds.

Presentation and organization of breed information is unique. Dogs are arranged first according to their original function--"Sporting Dogs," "Livestock Dogs," and "Service Dogs." Within these broad categories the animals are separated by functional specialty, such as "Sighthounds," "Sheep-herders," and "Rescue Dogs." For each group, a short overview essay is followed by entries for specific breeds, arranged by country of origin. The physical appearance and disposition of the dog are described, along with the breed's history and development over time, as well as the background of the breed name. (There was at one time a breed called a Turnspit whose name precisely described its function--running in a wheel that turned meat being roasted before a fire.) Information about relationships among breeds and controversies among canine experts adds an interesting dimension. Some breeds are represented in small black-and-white drawings. In addition to an extensive annotated bibliography, a list of references appears after many entries. There is an alphabetical index of 3,000 breed names, with those appearing in the dictionary in capital letters.

Although not replacing official kennel club guides, this title will be a valuable supplementary source of information for dog lovers. It offers hours of delightful browsing through the history of man's best friend. RBB
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

Edition details

• Publisher: Trafalgar Square Pub
• Publication date: 2002
• ISBN 10: 1570762198
• ISBN 13: 9781570762192
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 752