When a child starts begging for a pet dog, it often turns into an endless argument. When the child begins requesting a specific type of dog, the pleading gets serious. Jeff Crosby and Shelley Ann Jackson provide a wealth of information about the origins of dogs as (hu)man’s best friend. Divided into four sections, the book focuses on the primary purposes dogs have served throughout time: the hunting, herding, working, and companion breeds. A brief historical context is provided for each breed, describing how it came into existence and what roles it served. For example, in the hunting section, where an athletic and golden-haired Visla is pictured with its master in a two-page spread, the text reads: “The Visla (pronounced VEESH-la) developed from hunting dogs brought to Hungary from Central Asia by the Magyar tribes during the Middle Ages….Vislas became such prized hunters that they were favorites of wealthy barons and powerful warlords. They were always treated as part of the family so they are extremely affectionate pets.” Small inset maps and fact sidebars grace many of the spreads. Realistic paintings add energy and excitement, although the depictions of the dogs are more visually appealing than the people. With the increased popularity of designer dogs such as labradoodles, pomapoos, and puggles, this rich volume illuminates the original breeds and their place in human history. (Ages 8–12)