<P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal>Appealing to animal lovers, dog owners, and developing painters alike, artist Paul Apps’s collection of endearing dog and puppy portraits gives readers the lessons and confidence they need to paint realistic, affectionate canines. The five step-by-step projects include a hardworking German shorthair pointer, a yellow lab puppy basking in its owners’ affections, an adorable springer spaniel puppy, an adult springer spaniel mother, and perennial dog show favorite the West Highland white terrier, or Westie. Four bonus projects are included that allow artists to apply their newfound skills in more creative ways. To aid the artists’ eye, 200 vibrant color photographs accompany the projects, adding visual direction to the easy-to-follow written instructions. In addition, a buyer’s guide will help true novice painters select quality acrylic paints and brushes—not only for these fun projects, but also for those still to come.