This book is dedicated to humanity's oldest and most loyal friend, our companion since time immemorial - the DOG. Dogs have devotedly served poor shepherds and mighty kings, and even the gods. Their hidden talents and capabilities are spoken of in the secret language of symbols and allegories. Working dogs and companion dogs, the favourite pets of the House of Romanov, dogs in the religions of the world, in military history and in culture - all these topics are covered in a fascinating account. The book is illustrated with works of art of different eras and genres, selected mainly from the collections of the State Hermitage. It is aimed at everyone who has a soft spot for our four-legged friends and is inclined to think of the dog as much more than just a "domestic animal".