In Beevor's Stalingrad book,he discusses the brutality of the Eastern Front and how it impacted German moral. German troops going home on leave were instructed not to appear negative about conditions in the USSR.
Probably in response by late 1941 some German soldiers created a sarcastic "Notes For Those Going on Leave". One piece of advice (p.46):
"Defense Against Animals: Dogs with mines attached to them are a special feature of the Soviet Union. German dogs in worst cases bite, but do not explode. Shooting every dog you see, although recommended in the Soviet Union, might create a bad impression".
|