With his signature hands-on style, Mike Loades experiences what it is like to handle various dogs engaged in their traditional tasks. These adventures take him to the Jordanian desert, where he shares the saddle of his camel with a Saluki and to the green hills of Wales, where he works cattle with a Corgi (yes that was their original job). He mushes Huskies in Alaska, drives carriages with Dalmatians, flies falcons with Spaniels, nets over Setters and herds sheep with a Border Collie. For the chapter on Companion Dogs, he returns to the start of it all, spending time with some high-content (98%) wolf-dogs.

Each encounter not only highlights the bond between humans and dogs, it also frames that connection in its historical context. Different types of dogs appear the way they do because, at some stage in their development, they were bred selectively for a specialist job. The author takes key types on a walk through history. Along the way he explores the methods and practices of their original occupations. He delves into when, where and why they were first bred as the types we recognize today.

The fascinating and engaging text is supported by over 250 stunning color photographs of dogs in action. It results in an illuminating journey through many cultures and time periods. This book is a personal and heartfelt tribute to the enduring partnership between humans and dogs.