This has to be the perfect stocking-filler for dog lovers this Christmas.

Breeds: A Canine Compendium                                                                                              by Fenella Smith & The Brothers McLeod                                                                                                                                                                                                                             Imprint: Square Peg - $26.99

Breeds is charmingly illustrated, delightfully humorous guide to over 100 different breeds (A-Z) of dog (and one cat “I hate this book”.). From aloof Afghan's to tearaway terriers, Breeds will strike a chord with dog lovers everywhere.                                                                                             

Each breed includes a most delightful illustration and very funny extended caption. Without giving too much a way, here’s a taster for your delectation:

Corgi: spirited yet loyal dogs. Unusually large ears, all the better for hearing with. The Queen's favourite and they know it.
Dachshund: a long, loving and inquisitive dog. Slightly neurotic - will spend large parts of the day worrying. Make excellent draft excluders.
Scottie: elegant and compact. Trot along like a dressage horse. Deeply suspicious of other dogs, all of whom are considered lesser beings.          Bull Terrier: White with the occasional patch, Bull Terriers may look like the pirates of the dog world, but they are in fact fun-loving aqnd good natured. They don’t like to be left alone, but, then, who does?

And The Bookman’s personal favourite because we have two in the family:

Labradoodle: Possibly springier than a Springer Spaniel. So affectionate it may have two hearts (one Poodle, one Labrador). When sleeping on the sofa, may be mistaken for a fluffy pillow.