I'm rather surprised that this article failed to mention Magnum photographer Elliott Erwitt and his massive oeuvre of canines:
https://pro.magnumphotos.com/Package/2K7O3RZ7T9S
11
My friends with dogs are so much fun. And their dogs are so smart. When I visit the humans sometimes have to spell words out, Ready to Go Out? or Time for dinner. The dogs know way more than what we think.
32
Blessed are the dogs. They make my life.
67
Our Daniel, a Bichon/Shihtzu mix dislikes his orange rubber boots. He hides them in many different places, under the throw on the bed or under a pillow. The other night, he picked up a dog coat and carried it over to place it on top of four boots on the floor. It hurts my heart to “find” the boots and put them on his feet, since he has gone to so much trouble. Plus, I think he’s brilliant.
Now, my husband and I make a big production - “Where are the BOOTS? Didn’t you just put them here?” “YES, the BOOTS were there and now they’re gone. Oh my goodness! The BOOTS just disappeared!” It gives Daniel a few moments to relish his deception. Then I put the boots on and out he goes; he really has to have them in the salt and slush.
I doubt we’d carry on like this for a human child!
94
Can’t resist a good dog picture epically if Bill Cunningham took it
36
very nice, thank you.
16
My dog motivates me to get up in the morning and interact with the world. I suffer from terrible depression , especially after recent personal losses, and my dog gives me purpose in life. It’s almost as if she knows this and cheers me on. Her zest for life and walking and living in the present gives me pleasure and hope.
134
It was 1966. I was a 14 year old boy living in Forest Hills with a love of dogs and always keen to earn money. Noting all the new towers going up on Queens Boulevard, I launched my own dog walking business. My charges were mostly poodles — Caviar, Sam, Carmel and Pierre. And then, there was Oliver. An Old English Sheepdog, my favorite breed who became my best friend. I walked him for hours each day until his owners banished him to the countryside. I still think of him often.
63
I love dogs. The painting in my dining room is entitled ALL DOGS GO TO HEAVEN. I firmly believe this and hope one day to be with all the dogs I have owned over my lifetime.
50
thanks
example why I subscribe
63
Shout out to the book "Something Light," by Margery Sharp. The heroine, Louisa Datchett, is a photographer of dogs. Set in England in some kind of vague modernish time, it's funny and charming and has dog photography in it. What more could you ask?
12
Had to share with my friends. If they aren’t as delighted as I am...hmmm...are they really my friends?
24
There is only one sad thing about dogs: Their lives rush ahead of ours...
The late, great novelist Jim Harrison said something along those lines upon a beloved dog’s death.
My rescue dog, a spaniel mix, is approaching 17. Big day for him. Two car rides (they never get old) and a therapy visit (unlike me, he still works) to an elderly woman. She heated him up her Meals on Wheels chicken for lunch (with a doggie bag for later). He is sound asleep in his bed, while I watch the hound group on parade at Madison Square Garden.
Another good day.
Knock on wood...
90
Look at that Cadillac in the photo of Jim Buck! It captures the spirit of the age.
13
They give me peace, my 3 dogs. Each has a different personality, just like people. When one crosses the rainbow bridge it hurts me deeply. I will always have a dog in mylife
38
How could you leave out a photograph of Albert Payson Terhune and his collies?
15
lovely
9
Recently one of those doggie daycare places - with the large-windowed dog room right by the sidewalk - opened across the steeet from an entrance to the 1 train at W 86th St.
It has transformed our morning and afternoon commute. As soon as my young sons round the corner, off they fly. They watch the boisterous pooches romp, sniff rear ends, jockey for position at the windowsill, or curl up and nap. Don’t get me started on puppy playgroup.
Tiny quibble that far too many owners or walkers leave messes on the sidewalks. Who hasn’t had a morning ruined by stepping in dog poop en route to work? But I don’t blame the dogs, I blame their humans!
40
Not so nostalgic for all the dog poop. The Times should have included a picture of a vintage "curb your dog" sign
7
Jim Buck with multiple dogs in tow??
More like multiple dogs with Jim Buck in tow ;<[)
Thanks for the trip down memory lane...
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I would like to note that the current occupant of the White House does not have a dog.
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It’s a blessing that no animal has been subjected to him/them.
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@Bill bartelt Unfortunately one can't go too far on that thought, remember Hitler had a dog.
13
Thanks for making my day a little better with this article.
36
I went out for lunch on December 3, 2017 in Union Square and came home with a rescue from Alabama. She was perfect but her name was not.
We got into the cab as Destiny Rose and exited the cab as Maddie.
47
Wonderful story and photos. Thank you New York Times for this heartwarming read! Dogs are such special creatures and never fail to bring a smile to my face. I cannot imagine life without my perfect canine companion!
39
Yes! I think of the hundreds of times a day my dog makes me smile or laugh. How did I ever muddle through without her?
27
Really enjoyed this feature--loved all the dogs!
22
Except for Toto and my sister's pug Buddy, I prefer cats--no walking necessary (let alone possible).
6
It’s possible; I’ve done it.
6
once had a neighbor who would regularly walk his cat. i will never forget the sight of him patiently standing under a tree, leash aloft, waiting for his cat to get bored and climb down.
17
Wonderful piece, my pets are my heart. Now please do a longer Part II-- it sounds like you have the photos.
We need this kind of respite from the daily fusillade of news. Dogs cats & horses help everything.
52
What a great piece for Westminster Week. I liked how both discussed the responsibility of having to make the “hard decision” we as dog owners all owe our companions. The photos were all so well done. Thanks for this canine slice-of-life.
8
Dogs are certainly terrific and photogenic. It is worth noting that New York City leads the world in "Dog Perspective" and Dog World in general. New York is also home to a very famous Dog Cognition Laboratory and scientist and author, Alexandra Horowitz. She published two Dog bestsellers that every canine lover needs to read. It helps to know what makes the dog tick because the mutual relationship is powerful and enduring.
4
I had a wonderful terrier mix, Skip, when I was growing up in Greenwich Village. I would take him over to Washington Square Park for his daily walks and got to know the people who walked their dogs about the same time as I walked him.
There was a rather glamorous couple who had two gorgeous Afghan hounds, and we would chat as we threw balls for the dogs to chase. One cold December day I was taking Skip for a quick walk before racing off for a weekend in Connecticut. The Afghan hound couple was out as well, and invited Skip and me up to their apartment for a cup of hot cocoa. I excused myself due to time constraints, but had a pang of regret as they were such nice people.
Turned out they were serial murderers.
Those Afghan hounds were excellent camouflage. I always wondered what happened to them after the couple was arrested.
37
“If you don’t own a dog, at least one, there is not necessarily anything wrong with you, but there may be something wrong with your life.”
32
Love the finned Cadillacs in the background of the Jim Buck photo.
14
I don't use a photo of myself on my Facebook page. Who wants to see MY mug when they can see our beautiful Boston Terrier, Margo?
17
I first saw the breed I fell in love with walking as a matched pair up 5th Ave in the early 1980's. They were English Bull Terriers and since then I have adopted many from rescues where they end up due to novice owners. They are a breed that needs their human at home with them at all times! Fortunately I telecommute so my darlings are glued to me during negotiations and all client conversations. My dainty looking female - the alpha - is extremely vocal and often yips while dreaming, or yodels, hums, grumbles, or otherwise tries to distract me. If that fails, she will noisily lap water, then crawl up next to me and emit a most unlady-like burp. Fortunately 95% of my clients love dogs but they do wonder about the peculiar sounds. They are my best friends, bring joy into my life, and make me laugh.
19
You can't fool me... That's not Jim Buck restraining the greyhound and pack-mates... That's a young Tom Hanks!
And how about Jesse Jackson training his shepherd at Nova Kennels...
Though my favorite is the shepherd with it's head out the sunroof during the vintage 70's cop show car chase. I forget which show I saw that on...
5
Dogs are awesome.
Anyone who could be unkind to a dog is dangerous.
You can't "buy" your best friend. But you sure can adopt him or her from your local shelter!
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In one of the first scenes of the Powell / Pressburger film "A Matter of Life and Death", RAF pilot David Niven is shot down over water.
Waking up on a beach, he thinks he is in heaven, and when a blissful canine runs up to him, he says, "I knew there would be dogs."
This article reminded me of that.
40
I was very happy when nyc finally insisted that owners curb their dogs after stepping in poop many times on the way to work
4
It reminds me of growing up in NYC in the 60s & 70s. Central Park was so full of dog poop you couldn't help but step in it. I think it was finally in the 1980s they passed the pooper scooper law. People thought how disgusting it was to have to pick up after your dog. Now it's just another civilized habit-shift people partake in (for the most part) making NYC a cleaner place to live!
12
I loved this article. My childhood memories of the Easter Parade on Fifth Avenue are highlighted by the dogs that were on display. There was one woman who had two Borzois that she dressed in purple hats, bows and tulle. She always wore the same color as her dogs. I can’t think of the Easter Parade of the 1950’s without remembering the dogs. I also appreciate that you included two photographs by Bill Cunningham. I was just thinking of how much I miss him and his On The Street.
18
My Instagram feed is almost all dogs. I can get lost for hours looking at them. For those asking about the photos, there are many publicly available through digital archives -- the NY Public Library and Library of Congress are two good ones. They are exquisite and free for the taking.
It's true that losing a dog is devastating, but getting another is also the best way to recover. They bring such joy. I can't imagine not having at least two.
13
I found a cast iron plaque in a dusty hardware store that said:
"Lord, Please Let Me be the Kind of Person My Dog Thinks I Am"
That's the dream!
30
read this article and saw the pictures in the print version of yesterday's Sunday times. cute but here's my complaint:
this article was in the sports section. the sports section was 9 pages. here's the breakdown:
2 full pages to dog article and pictures
almost 3 full pages to ice skating in Austria
almost 1 full page to a NY yankee's gym workout in Harlem homemade gym
2/3 page on Dutch soccer development program
1/3 page to women coaching in NBA
1/3 page to letters from readers
1/2 page to Andrew Luck's NFL comeback
1/3 page to scoreboard results.
1/3 page total for college basketball and pro tennis results and coverage and the tv sports calendar
1/2 page total to NBA, NHL and pro golf results and coverage.
I ask you, is that a sports section?
2
@bored critic
Who needs sports when you have dogs?
14
@bored critic
Yesserieee, Bob!
2
A "dumb" animal that managed to get humans to feed and shelter them. A dog will never lie to you, never back stab you. When treated with the respect they deserve they provide undying love. Humans have nothing over dogs.
I just lost my Golden, Neon Noodles to cancer due to the irresponsible inbreeding of Golden Retrievers.
As a multiple street dog adopter Neon was the only one found as a puppy, dying in the heat at a airport community being ignored by it's residents. I posted numerous posters of a found puppy, got no response.
Without a doubt, the most loyal and best friend I've ever had. My grief is not abating.
To anyone that thinks "he was just a dog" I say you are just a human, you are no better than any other creature.
64
Paulie, It took me the better part if a decade to be able to even talk about my dog after she passed away. I still miss her so much; it gets easier.
18
@Paulie
I am so sorry for your loss. One of my beloved English Bull Terriers has a slow growing malignant mass in her lung, and even though she has no symptoms, it is only a matter of time. Her mate will probably die of a broken heart. Losing your best friend is always painful but our solace lies in knowing we gave them the best possible life and they do not dread death the way we do. They dread the loss of their pack, so remember you were dearly loved by your sweet dog.
16
On a happier note I found a textbook example of a Yorkshire Terrier. While at the vet's getting him all his shots and a exam I mentioned I really didn't need another dog, I had six at the time.
They hooked me up with a older man that was heartbroken after the loss of his dog due to illness.
We met and they got along famously, the dog is with him constantly, he has a special seat in his truck so the dog is able to watch the world go by. I visited him several times during the next year and happy to say that I helped two creatures.
It is rare but happy endings do happen. I'll never forget the look on that man's face when that yorkie greeted him like a old friend. To see a seemingly crabby old man light up is something.
23
The photo of Jim Buck walking far too many pounds of dog flesh makes me wince. It’s irresponsible to take out so many animals on leads. There is no way to control the dogs if there’s a fight or an attack by another dog. Back in the 1990s I knew many urban dog walkers. I could tell you stories of shocking animal mishandling those folks got up to. Some of it I would consider abuse (smacking dogs, for instance), some of it just dishonest (charging clients for an hour walk when the dog was out for a few minutes). A couple times they lost dogs. I would never hire a group dog walker.
I love seeing these old photos, but it is not true that dogs haven’t changed over time. Many breeds have changed for the worse over the last five or six decades. Those Rhodesian Ridgebacks are a good example: they are now bred to a sleeker, showier shape. And don’t get me started on GSDs! Ruined.
My favorite photo is the Russian Wolfhounds. So charming!
6
I have found that those who do not like dogs or are adamant against owning pets are a strong indicator of a negative personality. If only I had figured this out years ago, I wouldn't have wasted time on several not-so-nice persons.
By the way, the guy in the White House hates dogs.
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@lechrist My theory on dogs and Trump is that dogs tend to be very good judges of character and may refuse to associate with those they consider inferior.
48
Not a dog owner, but this was WAY better than reading about President Trump....
78
I wonder how dogs know that other dogs are dogs, given the variety in size, shape, color... How does a dog know that deer aren't dogs, especially from a distance? For myself, and my Rhodesian, I wish they wouldn't...
1
@wally dunn
I'm no biologist, but I'm guessing that scent, posture, patterns of movement and behavior are immediate clues of a shared species.
5
@wally dunn, scent counts for a lot, in dogs recognizing other canines. Especially if a dog is intact. However, I have witnessed hunting behavior in dogs — a larger dog preying impulsively on a much smaller one — that was too close to the way a dog pursues a rabbit (or similar, small prey) to believe that the predator dog recognized its prey as another dog. That’s one reason to be extra careful when you own a tiny, toy-breed dog. If your little guy is running around much larger dogs, it could trigger a hunting response. Dogs can respond instinctively (thoughtlessly) to quick movement. The worst example of this that I witnessed was a hefty bully breed (pittie/staffie mix) nearly decaipate a mini terrier running by, in one bite to the neck. It was 100 percent a hunting response, not dog-on-dog aggression.
3
sense of smell!
1
Bless them all. I hope they all came to loving peaceful ends. They deserve it.
13
For me no painting emanates any thing near the degree of Benjaminesque ‘aura’ as does Henry Ossaw Tanner’s “The Thankful Poor!” This because as a child, in a like dimly lit backwoods shack, I sat many days thanking our Lord and Savior for the meager manna that passed for our Daily Bread!
Still, despite our plight, we shared! Out of necessity half of our table scraps went into the hogs’ slop bucket! Out of who-knows-what the other half went on a tin plate to be sat on the back porch for our, otherwise useless, mutt!
4
Nine years ago today, my husband and I said good bye to our perfect dog, Aberdeen, aka, Abby. I was going to go through the many photo albums we have of her when I got home from work today. Funny, but after reading this article, the many delightful comments and seeing the fantastic photos, my sadness began to evaporate to the point where I think I will be able to view her photos and do more smiling and laughing than crying. Well, at least a little less crying that I anticipated.
Thanks for this article because it truly did warm my heart and soul, especially today of all days.
52
When I first subscribed to the NYT years ago, I believed it was because I wanted to keep up on current events. That was back in what I now think of as the Age of Civility. Now, I subscribe because I want to find diversions from current events...such as your marvelous photo essay on dogs, your coverage of art and literature, the late Bill Cunningham's work, Maira Kalman, and all the other creative souls found in your pages who refill, refresh, and nourish my notion that mankind is still basically good at heart. My thanks.
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@Alice BarrettSo happy to see Bill Cunningham's photos.
2
Are copies of any of these available for purchase?! They're fantastic!
7
I love the thought that, while the world and the people around them change, these dogs remain the same.
New York City dogs have such swag. They are unconcerned about sights, smells and sounds that cow their less urban cousins, and they have adapted to finding joy, surprise and fun in tiny spaces, indoors and out.
Their bond with their owners is the constant. Regardless of size, shape, age, gender or circumstance, they focus intently on their owners, respond physically and emotionally to the slightest hint and lavish love without question.
With Bill Cunningham sadly gone, perhaps the Times could have an ongoing feature on the Pets of New York. This is a wonderful essay, but far too short!
32
YES!
Hire The Dogist.
He gets great photos.
Run a few every
week in the spirit of
Bill Cunningham,
“On the Street”...but
just the dogs with human
legs in the background.
9
Love the throwback pictures of these wonderful dogs. Thank you for this story. Dogs bring so much joy to our lives, they deserve the attention this article gives.
36
Thank you for this. Each morning my dog Happy and I get up, hop outside for the quick "necessary", then back into bed with a cuppa of coffee to read the New York Times together. Pure love.
Kate
33
Thank you for this. It made my day.
12
Something wonderful is felt when humans and dogs connect. This artiicle is a hidden gem.
23
Delightful pictures and stories. There is no better friend than a dog.
30
I am just sad about the fact that all of the dogs showed in the article are dead. I love them all.
21
@Nubia
Though these delightful dogs may be gone, their stellar and stoic spirit lives on as witnessed and documented in these fantastic pictures. There's something about b/w photos that brings out the authentic, true and honest color of the subject and their aura. Dogs don't have a good side or bad side because every side is perfect!
22
Thank you, what fun.
11
This is just what the doctor ordered. More of this NYT. At least monthly, please. PS - Dogs are the best.
42
Our first apartment in NYC was at 86th & First Ave. The neighbor across the hall had a Bernese. I always wondered why they would pick such a large dog as an apt. dog in NY. Nevertheless, he was a big, happy guy and I always had fun petting him and scratching his ribs. He licked my face and I called him Bernie. I live & work in Terminus now and my wife will be dropping of Beabots, a female rescue who is part Corgi and part Australian Shepherd. She may be the world's best dog and I'm very happy she picked us to be her humans.
27
I love cats, but I love my dog so much more. She is my everything and my passion. Who's a good girl???
20
You left out the best picture that was included in yesterday's print edition. It showed kids sponsored by the Children's Aid Society gathered at a dog show where they were invited to bring their pets from home. Every kid except one brought a dog. One kid brought his none-too-happy cat. Priceless!
16
This story, full of beautiful photos of pups, is the best I've read today. I'm at work, missing my perfect rescue Sophie--this made my day.
45
Best article of the day. The article about the butterflies and the border wall was also pretty good but this one was better.
Two things I learned:
One - The whole thing about carrying around your little doggie in a shoulder bag like container started in December 1985. Bill Cunningham surely would have documented it earlier if it previously existed.
Two - There needs to be more Old English sheepdogs sitting in the stands-not just at dog shows, but all sporting events, political rallies, protests, etc.
Have a great day ya'll.
99
@RSM
I wholeheartedly agree about more Old English sheepdogs sitting in the stands. This beauty did not look displeased nor upset that he lost. Just one big happy, smiling face. How can a person NOT love a dog?
42
I really loved photography before Instagram. Especially of dogs.
28
Wonderful story. This is why I remain a subscriber. Great journalism. Dogs are so loyal, unlike humans, and they love unconditionally. I live with 3 dogs who are owned by my landlord. It's great. I hold no responsibility for them whatsoever, but they greet me every time I come home as though I just saved their lives. I'm like a grandfather to them; I buy them dog bones all the time and make them popcorn, which they love. Don't tell the owner though, I only give them food when she's not around. Is that wrong?
76
Thank you for Dogs Before Instagram. The only thing which could improve the article would be to make it longer and with more pictures. What a joy.
145
@Ann Goodman
Ditto on the request for more pictures!!!
12
Thank you for this, made my day. Especially in these times, I treasure my dogs more than ever. They are both rescues and not a day goes by that they don't make me smile or laugh.
79
It's a joy to see every one of these dogs. But I couldn't help noticing the owners' faces as well. In nearly every photo, the humans seem just as happy as the dogs.
89
Dogs Before Instagram article was such a delight for me..The New York city life of a dog is quite unique.. Less space means owners must be more creative, and dogs more adaptive. .
Right now my six Labradors are waiting indoors till it gets warmer, then out into their runs or they will play on the lawn in the yard. . Later we may go for a run in the neighborhood... -they run along side while I ride... in the golf cart.. pictured . My neighbor's Labrador out for a run in the desert . Note the radio tracking device . DOC
15
"Why do you think we like looking at pictures of dogs?"
Because the face of a dog captures their refreshing and unpretentious honesty. They make me smile, feel good, and laugh out loud.
I never tire of looking at photos of dogs. Those in this article are exceptional, especially the one of the German Shepard laughing alongside the man outside the Nova Kennels and Training Academy.
59
This was a wonderful story.
My cat and dog are my friends and confidantes.
They remind to stay in the moment and breathe.
I came here after reading the politics section, it was a much-needed lift!
Thank you so much,
Elizabeth
129
@Elizabeth
Your great comment puts everything into the correct and proper perspective . . . at least in my world and that of my many four-legged youngsters.
10
Ditto, Elizabeth! Great photography, beautiful dogs, fun to read.
Wonderful to read something that does not suck the joy out of the day.
24
@Cristina
I LOVE your closing line.
It summed up my feelings about this article and its many photos nicely and distinctly.
Thank you so kindly.
12