Week 1
Lesson 1
Balto and Togo
Students will explore counterfactual dog history, imagining how different events might have unfolded with the influence of canine companions. They will also delve into the true stories of Balto and Togo, the heroic sled dogs who played crucial roles in the 1925 serum run to Nome, Alaska. These remarkable dogs' bravery and endurance highlight the significant impact dogs can have on human lives and historical events.
 Week 2
Lesson 2
Military Dogs
Students will explore the bravery and contributions of military dogs. They will learn about Nemo, a Vietnam War hero, Sgt. Stubby, a decorated WWII pitbull; Smoky, a tiny Yorkshire Terrier who completed critical WWII missions; and Sinbad, the chief dog of a Coast Guard ship during WWII. These stories will showcase the courage and loyalty of these remarkable war dogs.
 Week 3
Lesson 3
Mythological Dogs
Students will explore mythological and folklore dogs, including Black Shuck from English legend, Cerberus from Greek mythology, the American Axehandle Hound, and Cavall, King Arthur's loyal dog. These tales reveal the diverse roles and symbolic meanings dogs have held in various cultures and mythologies.
 Week 4
Lesson 4
Dogs in Folklore
Students will explore the eerie folklore of the "Black Dog," a spectral figure linked to ominous events, and the "Devil Dog" of the English Civil War, uncovering how these legends influenced historical perceptions and actions. These stories will provide insight into the cultural and historical impact of these mythical dogs.
 Week 5
Lesson 5
Historical Connection Between Owner and Dog
Students will explore the relationships between historical figures and their dogs. They'll learn about poet Alexander Pope and his beloved dog, Saint Roche and his faithful canine companion, and the tale of the Angry Prince and his Welsh dog. These stories highlight the deep connections and significant impacts dogs had on their owners' lives and history.
 Week 6
Lesson 6
Asian Dogs Throughout History
Students will explore the relationships between emperors and their dogs. They'll learn about the Prussian Emperor's dogs, the challenges faced by the Emperor and his Dogs of Misfortune, Emperor Ling Ti and his Lion Dogs, and the Shogun's unique bond with his dog. These stories reveal how these royal pets influenced the lives and legacies of their powerful owners.
 Week 7
Lesson 7
Literary and Performing Arts
Students will explore the literary and performing arts through the lens of canine companions. They will learn about the dogs of a famous Scottish writer, the unique roles of Opera House Dogs, and the captivating tale of The Talking Dog. These stories highlight the significant and often whimsical roles dogs have played in literature and the arts.
 Week 8
Lesson 8
Dog Mountain
Students will explore the role of dogs in therapy and advocacy. They'll learn about Freud's use of dogs in therapy, the founding of the RSPCA, and its impact on animal protection. The class will also discover Dog Mountain and artist Stephen Huneck's celebration of the human-dog bond and discuss how "conversations with dogs" reflect deep, meaningful relationships.
 Week 9
Lesson 9
Dogs in American History
Students will explore the roles of dogs in American history. They’ll learn about General Custer and his fighting dogs, George Washington's foxhounds, and the various dogs that have lived in the Oval Office, showcasing the companionship and influence these dogs had on their famous owners.
 Week 10
Lesson 10
Presentation and Learning Games
Students will have 3-5 minutes to present their research from the list given. After the presentations, the class will engage in a reflective discussion on common themes and insights, participate in a fun quiz or trivia game to reinforce their learning and share their overall thoughts on the course.