Roger Cruwys (Montana, B. 1938) "Black Labrador Retrievers" Signed lower left. Original Oil painting on Masonite. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. Over the centuries, dogs have earned man's respect and affection as intelligent and loyal companions. And even though domesticated dogs are descendants of wild canines like wolves, foxes and jackals, they are known today as "man's best friend." Besides being enjoyed for the loving companionship they offer, dogs have been bred for various tasks, such as hunting, herding and guarding. At the same time, dogs continue to be similar in many ways to their wild canine ancestors, exhibiting such behavior as territoriality, burying food, barking or growling when a strange man or animal approaches, and yelping in fear or distress. In addition, canines naturally congregate in packs, foregoing a wild, independent existence for the comfort and safety of a human family and submitting to the pack leader, or human master. Over the years, man has developed many specialized dog breeds. Sporting breeds are primarily bird dogs or gun dogs such as setters, spaniels and pointers. Hound breeds comprise two main types, sight hounds like the Greyhound and Afghan, and scent hounds like the Basset, Beagle and Dachshund. Dogs that belong to the working breeds include those known for herding, guarding or pulling sleds, examples of which are the Collie, Doberman Pinscher and Siberian Husky. Other breeds include terriers like the Airedale and Schnauzer, as well as toy breeds like the Chihuahua, Toy Poodle and Pekingese. Known as non-sporting breeds, the Dalmatian, Lhasa Apso and Chow Chow are bred as companions and show dogs. Size: 14.5 x 12.5 in. Unframed. (B15433) See More