Man's best friend receives top-billing in Realistic Dogs by renowned dog artist and carver Jack Kochan. Written for intermediate to advanced carvers using power carving tools, Realistic Dogs will show readers how to capture the unique personality found in a variety of dog breeds. Readers will find detailed carving guidance for long-haired dogs, short-haired dogs and puppies, including step-by-step instructions for a few dogs.

By providing thorough tips and techniques illustrated with clear, full-color photography this book gives power carvers a valuable tool to follow for carving these breeds. Plus, author Jack Kochan provides a thorough sampling of expertly illustrated patterns for some of the country's top breeds, including:

• Pointer
• Greyhound
• Boxer
• Dalmatian
• Great Dane
• Golden Retriever
• And more

Whether a family pet or hunting companion, dogs hold a special place in our hearts, and have been a favorite subject of carvers everywhere. Readers will benefit from the author's years of power carving experience with detailed instruction on all aspects of dog carving including anatomy, fur, tools, materials and finishing and will give the reader all the skills they need to become accomplished dog carvers.

A self-taught artist and avid woodcarver, Jack Kochan has been carving nearly twenty years. Though primarily a wildfowl carver, he is adept at many styles of carving from relief, to caricature, to realistic and covers a broad range of subject matter. Born and raised in the rolling hills of Berks County, Pennsylvania, he grew up with a deep appreciation of wildlife and nature. Much of his work reflects the adversity, tranquillity, and sometimes the comedy of nature itself. A thorough understanding of anatomical structure helps create his many lifelike pieces. He also illustrates for Woodcarving Illustrated Magazine and has been a contributor to several articles. Jack resides in Leesport, Pennsylvania with his wife, June.