With detailed descriptions of more than 400 breeds and varieties of dog from around the world an entertaining look at canines throughout history and invaluable practical advice The Encyclopedia of the Dog is the most comprehensive exploration of the dog world ever published. Specially commissioned full-colour photographs bring to life the delightful variety of the canine community. In these pages you will find not only familiar breeds such as the Labrador Retriever and Yorkshire Terrier but also rarities such as the Corded Poodle and the Prazsky Krysavik (the world's smallest dog) as well as new breeds like the Labradoodle and the Cockerpoo. Each portrait is accompanied by an authoritative "biography" of the breed including its place of origin historical development main physical features and temperament. From how dogs evolved from wolves through the story of their domestication by early humans to their roles today as comforting friends workers and companions in sports Bruce Fogle illuminates why dogs have achieved their place of honour in the human community. He traces the special position of canines in human history as well as presenting essential practical information on selecting and caring for a dog. His thorough discussions of canine anatomy (enhanced with diagrams and photographs) behaviour and psychology offer insights into dog's learning patterns their "self-images" and their varied styles of communication.