Famous Artists’ Dogs And The Artworks They Inspired

We’re big believers in the power of pets to improve the quality of a workplace. In addition to keeping us fit by asking for lunchtime walks, our office dog Frankie helps us get through the day in all sorts of ways.

An article last year by Inc. summed up the benefits of pets at work:

Allowing pets in the workplace has long been seen as key employee benefit, as well as an amusement (depending on whether you’re an animal lover). But for some employers, an open door policy toward pets–particularly, man’s best friend–has a raft of other business-enhancing benefits, which includes improved morale, reduced employee absenteeism and stress-related ailments like heart disease and diabetes.

In a 2012 study, employees who were around dogs in the workplace reported feeling less stressed than employees who have dogs but left them at home, according to researchers from Virginia Commonwealth University. The study also found that pets triggered workplace interactions that would not normally take place.

Artists have always been ahead of the times, so it’s no surprise they’ve had dogs hanging around their studios for centuries. The presence of these art dogs keeps sensitive artists happy and healthy and often inspires great works. Below are some of the most famous artists from history sitting with their beloved pooches and the resulting artworks.