Discover The Hidden History Of Dogs In The First World War

By Londonist Staff Last edited 108 months ago
Discover The Hidden History Of Dogs In The First World War

Terrier and Dachshund. Date unknown. (Libby Hall Collection, Bishopsgate Institute Archive)

Dogs were both workers and companions during the First World War. They kept up spirits and perpetuated ideals of loyalty and sacrifice. But of the Terrier and Dachshund pictured above, which pooch would you prefer to call your pet during a conflict with Germany?

A talk this week by Dr Philip Howell, an expert on Victorian and Edwardian Britain, explores the plight of domestic dogs on the British Home Front. Find out how man's best friend became vulnerable, and certain breeds became unpopular, during this turbulent time when bomb threats and food rationing made keeping a dog a potentially unpatriotic act.

Dogs and the Home Front in the First World War takes place at Bishopsgate Institute on Thursday 26 March, 7.30pm. Tickets are £9 for adults and £7 concessions. Don't forget to take in the free Dogs of the First World War exhibition in Bishopsgate Institute Library until 26 June.

Last Updated 22 March 2015