David Hockney's affection for his dachshunds, Stanley and Boodgie, is a continued theme throughout the length of his career. Their importance goes beyond simple subject matter - Hockney's bond with them was deeply emotional, especially following the loss of his close friends, including Henry Geldzahler, during the AIDS crisis. Painting them served as a way for him to process grief and create something loving and personal. The intimacy and tenderness of his portrayals of the dogs, often lounging or napping, reflect a vulnerable yet comforting space in his life.

In the late 1990s, Hockney's experimentation with printmaking techniques, like aquatint and etching, further captured his desire to create work that resonated with this emotional landscape. The distinct loose, fluid style of the prints, where he directly drew on plates with his friend Maurice Payne’s help, showcased his continued desire for immediacy and rawness in his art. The dog-centric prints from this period, often featuring Stanley and Boodgie resting on a cushion, evoke a feeling of calmness and simplicity, offering a reflection of the peaceful moments he cherished with his beloved pets.