Lonely Pup Portraits Explore Human Perceptions of Furry Companions

Famous pets, like Grumpy Cat and her seemingly sour disposition, have one ancient concept to thank for their stardom — anthropomorphism, or the personification of anything other than a human being

Helsinki-based photographer Maija Astikainen explores anthropomorphism through One-Dog Policy, an ongoing portrait series of seemingly lonely dogs in their owner's homes. More specifically, the series considers the human-like personality traits we project onto our pets

"Their gestures are easily misinterpreted," she tells Mashable. "They look guilty to us when they have done something wrong, and they seem to be laughing when something good is happening." Read more...