by Tricia McKinney

Dog Art
Courtesy of Bonhams & Butterfields

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While real canines descended on New York City earlier this week for the Westminster Kennel Club show, some other puppies sat up and begged for our attention...on canvas.

Fine art auction house Bonhams held its 26th annual sale of dog-themed art this week. The timing of the sale on the same day as the most prestigious dog show in the country is no accident. After all, people who spend time and money to breed the perfect pooch are also likely to want some two dimensional tail-waggers adorning their walls.

We spoke to Charles O'Brien, director of 19th century paintings for Bonhams about what makes a successful work of dog art.