Paw-some Children’s Books About Dogs

Reading is a great way to spend time, especially for young children. Children reading as a hobby can practice their reading skills while recharging. Whether you’ve got furbabies or human children, these nine children’s books about dogs are sure to impress, entertain, and pull on your heartstrings. Let’s check them out!

Books about Dogs for Pre-K Aged Children

“Go, Dog. Go!” Written and Illustrated by P.D. Eastman

“Go, Dog. Go!” is a classic short story that families have cherished for over sixty years. This book describes a group of dogs all rushing to make it to their mystery event. Do they make it? You’ll have to read and find out. This book is filled with sight words, which makes it a great tool for learning to read and recognize important foundational words.

“Can I Be Your Dog?” Written and Illustrated by Troy Cummings

“Can I Be Your Dog?” follows “Arfy,” a lovable pooch looking for his forever home. He does this by writing to every house on his street, hoping they’ll welcome him with open arms. You’ll enjoy sweet illustrations and a kind adoption story with Troy Cummings’ masterpiece for young dog lovers.

“Stormy: A Story About Finding a Forever Home”  Illustrated by Guojing

This wordless picture book is perfect for children who haven’t quite picked up reading yet. Guojing illustrates a heartwarming story of finding companionship and a forever home out of complete strangers. This visual story will exceed your expectations and make your heart smile

Canine Related Stories for Elementary Aged Children

“Madeline Finn and the Library Dog” Written and Illustrated by Lisa Papp

This story follows the protagonist, Madeline, as she learns to read. When the young girl’s teacher offers gold stars to good readers, Madeline finds a furry tutor in the special library dog. Together, they form a bond that teaches Madeline about patience and true friendship. Will our protagonist earn that gold star? Find out in “Madeline Finn and the Library Dog.”

The “Dog Man” Series Written and Illustrated by Dave Pilkey

The “Dog Man” series follows a Dog-man hybrid who uses his canine and human skills to fight crime. These graphic novels are hilarious and rich in content. Dave Pilkey has written 13 “Dog Man” books and four spinoffs, so when your child finishes the first, they’ll have plenty more books waiting for them.

“The Incredible Journey” Written by Shelia Burnford

This classic book inspired the film Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey and follows three family pets, two dogs and a cat, as they try to make their way home. The trio must track through Canada’s lush terrain and encounter many dangerous problems on their journey. The unlikely friends become closer than ever and work together to survive.

Books for Middle School Aged Children and Their Furry Friends

“Because of Winn-Dixie” Written by Kate DiCamillo

“Because of Winn-Dixie” tells the story of a young girl who learns the true meaning of friendship after meeting Winn-Dixie. The companionship is her first good example, and that relationship inspires her to make more friends. We have to warn you that this book is a bit of a tear-jerker as it deals with themes of loss and grief.

“Ellie’s Story: A Puppy Tale” Written by W. Bruce Cameron

“Ellie’s Story: A Puppy Tale” is a spinoff of W. Bruce Cameron’s popular novel “A Dog’s Purpose.” Both follow stories of resilient pups and their undying companionship. In Ellie’s story, search and rescue dogs are highlighted, and Ellie takes on her most significant rescue yet: helping her handlers find their joy again. Your child will surely enjoy this sweet story by a talented author.

“When Friendship Followed Me Home” Written by Paul Griffin

This last book follows Ben, a lonely boy who meets a scruffy alley dog by chance and creates friendships like he’s never experienced before. Ben discovers the true meaning of togetherness and home in this sweet story of a four-legged friendship.

Regardless of why you may need a children’s book about dogs, any of these will provide a great read that will make your dog’s tail wag and your child smile!