The Gaines Guide to America’s Dogs

A chart of consummate canines (according to a dog food company).

This large chart shows colored illustrations of over 100 different breeds of dogs; organized by American Kennel Club groups like hounds, terriers, and toys. Below each animal is an interesting historical snippet and physical description of an ideal specimen.

For example, “Great Dane – originated in Germany around 400 years ago as a board hunter, known as the Apollo of dogdom. Av. wt. 130 lbs., ht. 32″. Coat smooth. Color: Brindle, fawn, blue, black, harlequin.”

The artwork for the chart was drawn by E.M. Stevenson and it was published in 1981 in White Plains, New York by Gaines Professional Services. This was a promotional/research wing of a dog food company that published numerous diagrams and pamphlets about family pet care.