Scotland, The Brave Dogs

Scotland, The Brave Dogs

Richard Ansdell (English, 1815 -1885). Highland Tod, Fox Hunter, 1859. Oil on canvas. Collection of the American Kennel Club.
Edwin James Douglas, The Patient Companion, 1900. Oil on canvas. Museum purchase with funds from Gayle Bontecou and the Hon. David C. Merriam.

From the rolling Borderlands to the rugged Highlands, dogs have been an essential part of Scottish life for centuries. As tireless herders, skilled bird dogs, steadfast hunters, and cherished companions, they worked shoulder to shoulder with their people, embodying Scotland’s deep-rooted bond with man’s best friend.

Scotland is home to some of the world’s most beloved and instantly recognizable breeds. From the noble elegance of the Deerhound to the bold charm of the Scottish Terrier, these dogs have inspired artists across generations, becoming enduring symbols of strength, loyalty, and character.

Coinciding with New York’s Tartan Week, the AKC Museum of the Dog proudly presents Scotland, The Brave Dogs, an exhibition celebrating Scottish breeds through works by noted Scottish artists such as Edwin Douglas and Samuel Fulton, as well as renowned artists Sir Edwin Landseer, Richard Ansdell, John Sargent Noble, and George and Maud Earl.

The exhibition runs from March 26 through July 5, and will host numerous events to celebrate throughout, including on the eve of Manhattan’s Tartan Day Parade.

More than a celebration of iconic breeds, Scotland, The Brave Dogs offers a window into the nation’s rich history and cultural legacy. Through the stories of these dogs, their roles, their evolution, and their deep connection to the land, we honor Scotland itself: its working traditions, its artistic heritage, and the remarkable dogs that helped shape both.


This exhibition is brought to you with support from: