The Dog Album: Studio Portraits of Dogs and Their People

In this era of specialization, it is most refreshing to be exposed to a book which stimulates interest in multiple, seemingly unrelated subjects. Such a book is The Dog Album, authored by Gary E. Eichhorn and Scott B. Jones. First of all, the book presents a brief but fascinating, especially for the novice, overview of the history of photography. It also provides some interesting background pertaining to the development of modern canine breeds. But most of all, it reflects a profound, sincere love of dogs, and a illuminating historical manifestation of the relationship of dogs and their owners. Certainly, these latter two qualities give The Dog Album its lasting value. I believe the astute and sensitive reader will be drawn to this book looking both forwards and backwards. Backwards, as one cannot help but relate to the mutual love and respect between owner and dog reflected in these wonderful photos. And forwards, as we are better able to understand our current relationship to a favorite dog in an historical context. In conclusion, The Dog Album is not a book one buys, reads a single time, and places on the shelf to gather dust. It is a book one will return to over and over again, to help remember past friends (i.e., dogs) and to more fully appreciate current friends (i.e., dogs).