BOOK EXTRACT: A DOG'S LIFE

IN HER CHARMING NEW BOOK COUNTRY DOGS ON DOORSTEPS, PHOTOGRAPHER SUZANNE STEVENSON CAPTURES THE WELCOMING WARMTH OF FOUR-LEGGED FAMILY MEMBERS STRIKING A POSE AT THEIR IDYLLIC RURAL HOMES

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The countryside and canine companions go hand in paw, as anyone who’s ever lived on the land, or even skipped town for a farmhouse getaway, well knows. In her delightful book, Country Dogs on Doorsteps, Sydney photographer Suzanne Stevenson celebrates this perfect pairing in an evocative collection of portraits. From scruffy terriers to sleek-coated labs, there’s a pooch (and a blissful setting) to stir every soul and remind us of life’s simple joys. “For me, a country house is not complete without a dog,” writes garden designer Paul Bangay in the foreword. “The many trips I make to new projects in the country are always much more special when I am greeted by a dog.”

DASH

Dash is a gentle, glamorous and loyal farm dog who lives at Millpond Farm [above]. He loves being in charge and keeps an eye on the farm animals – if they’re mucking about, he’ll make sure the family knows.