A Boy and His Dog: Pictures of a Friendship in the Summer of 1945

In the late summer of 1945, as the Second World War was finally coming to a close, LIFE magazine published a series of pictures by photographer Myron Davis—including the first one in this gallery, which has since become a classic—chronicling the fast friendship between a 12-year-old Iowan named Larry and his 18-month-old dog, Dunk.

Tired and thoroughly dirty from a hard day's play, Dunk pads along the roadbed while Larry practices the delicate art of walking on rails.

Pictures of a Friendship in the Summer of 1945

Off for home, Larry and Dunk trudge down the country road with a good-enough mess of fish.

Pictures of a Friendship in the Summer of 1945

They go to Oskaloosa to see the circus come in.

Pictures of a Friendship in the Summer of 1945

Dunk has learned how to open door with nose.

Pictures of a Friendship in the Summer of 1945

Dunk waits patiently while Larry feeds calves.

Pictures of a Friendship in the Summer of 1945

Mowing the lawn goes better with Dunk along.

Pictures of a Friendship in the Summer of 1945

Turtles are among many wonderful discoveries.

Pictures of a Friendship in the Summer of 1945

Holding on to Dunk, Larry waves at engineer.

Pictures of a Friendship in the Summer of 1945

All tired out, they rest against an oat shock.

Pictures of a Friendship in the Summer of 1945

Larry waits patiently while Dunk eats supper.