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 colour 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. AUTHOR: Best known for his many television appearances as a Historical Weapons Expert/ Military Historian, Mike also works as a director and writer for historical documentaries. Other work includes acting as a historical consultant to the video games industry. He is the author of several previous books, including major works such as War Bows and the highly acclaimed Swords and Swordsmen. Mike is British, though for the past 12 years he lived in California, where he co-founded the California Centaurs horse-archery club. He and his wife now live in Portugal. As well as having an interest in swords, bows and horses, Mike has also had a lifelong enthusiasm for dogs. In this book he has been able to blend his love of dogs with his passion for history. Re-Release Sold out within weeks of its first release, Dogs: Working Origins and Traditional Tasks has garnered very favourable reader reviews. Now being re-released, this timeless book approaches the history of the relationship between man and dog in a groundbreaking way.
