“It takes it takes a leap of the imagination to accept that our beloved pets are the descendants of that monster of myth, folklore, legend and fairytale, the man-eating grey wolf, Canis lupis,” writes Caroline Foley, in her introduction to The Dog Lover’s Treasury: Witty and Enjoyable Readings in Praise of Dogs. I happened to come across Foley’s lovely book while browsing at a small bookstore in a seaside village on the Northern California coast. Although there are many books with a similar focus, what drew me to this book was its beautiful design, typography, and stunning artwork — beautiful paintings of dogs — that featured writings of famous authors celebrating their beloved pets. One of the most memorable poems occurs in the section titled “In Memoriam.” The poem is aptly titled “The Power of the Dog” by British novelist, poet, and short-story writer Rudyard Kipling (1865 – 1936). Kipling is a significant figure in literature primarily for his compelling storytelling and vivid portrayal of British imperialism in India through works like “The Jungle Book.” His ability to blend adventure with moral lessons and his mastery of narrative structure have cemented his place in literary history. Kipling’s impact extends beyond his famous stories; he also wrote powerful poems such as “If—” that resonate deeply with themes of resilience and stoicism.
Through vivid imagery and simple language, “The Power of the Dog” conveys the idea that loyalty and devotion are powerful forces that transcend death. Kipling’s poem tells the story of a dog’s unwavering dedication to its master, even after the master’s passing. It emphasizes the deep bond between humans and animals, portraying the dog’s steadfast vigil over its master’s grave as a symbol of enduring love and loyalty. Kipling captures the essence of companionship and the profound impact that animals can have on our lives, resonating with themes of loyalty, fidelity, and the enduring nature of love beyond the grave.
The repeated notion of “giving your heart to a dog to tear” suggests that when owners open their heart to a dog, they are exposing themselves to the potential for deep emotional attachment. Dogs have the power to affect our hearts profoundly—they can bring immense joy, companionship, and love into our lives. On the other hand, they also have the ability to cause us pain, especially when they pass away or are no longer with us. The phrase “to tear” implies that this relationship with a dog can be intense and emotionally impactful — it acknowledges the vulnerability inherent in loving a dog deeply, knowing that their lifespan is typically shorter than ours and that we may experience grief when they are gone. In short, Kipling’s repeated phrase reflects on the bittersweet nature of the bond between humans and dogs — the joy and love they bring, along with the inevitability of heartache when we part ways. It captures the idea that despite the pain of losing a beloved pet, the love and companionship they offer throughout their lives are incredibly powerful and worth experiencing.
The Power of the Dog
By Rudyard Kipling
There is sorrow enough in the natural way
From men and women to fill our day;
And when we are certain of sorrow in store,
Why do we always arrange for more?
Brothers and Sisters, I bid you beware
Of giving your heart to a dog to tear.
Buy a pup and your money will buy
Love unflinching that cannot lie—
Perfect passion and worship fed
By a kick in the ribs or a pat on the head.
Nevertheless it is hardly fair
To risk your heart for a dog to tear.
When the fourteen years which Nature permits
Are closing in asthma, or tumour, or fits,
And the vet’s unspoken prescription runs
To lethal chambers or loaded guns,
Then you will find—it’s your own affair—
But… you’ve given your heart to a dog to tear.
When the body that lived at your single will,
With its whimper of welcome, is stilled (how still!).
When the spirit that answered your every mood
Is gone—wherever it goes—for good,
You will discover how much you care,
And will give your heart to a dog to tear.
We’ve sorrow enough in the natural way,
When it comes to burying Christian clay.
Our loves are not given, but only lent,
At compound interest of cent per cent.
Though it is not always the case, I believe,
That the longer we’ve kept ’em, the more do we grieve:
For, when debts are payable, right or wrong,
A short-time loan is as bad as a long—
So why in—Heaven (before we are there)
Should we give our hearts to a dog to tear?
Please share this post with fellow dog lovers, especially if they recently experienced a loss.
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