Top 16 Children's Books About Dogs Updated 04 /2024

Children and pets form lasting friendships. It doesn't matter how many years have passed since we had a beloved childhood dog. It's no surprise that books with dogs as the main characters are popular among children and, to an extent, adults who love dogs.

Children's books about dogs can teach empathy, compassion, generosity, and acceptance, regardless of whether they are classics or new favorites. These books for kids of all ages, including board books for toddlers, novels for preschool and elementary-aged children, and books for young adult readers, all feature dogs as the main characters.

"Big Dog ... Little Dog" by P. D. Eastman

Board books are a great way for young children to hold a copy of this renowned children's story by P. D. Eastman, a close friend of Dr. Seuss author Theodor Geisel. "Big Dog... Little Dog" is a tale of two dogs, Ted and Fred, who despite their vastly differing personalities, are inseparable companions. Toddlers and preschoolers will enjoy the short story and rhyming text.

"The Poky Little Puppy" by Janette Sebring Lowrey

"The Poky Little Puppy," one of the original 12 Little Golden Books, tells the story of five puppies that defy the laws in order to explore the world. It's a simple story, but it has a wonderful message: the pups learn to respect their mother and never dig holes beneath the fence because of their curiosity.

Those between the ages of 2 and 3 are ideal.

"Stay: A Girl, a Dog, a Bucket List" by Kate Klise

Astrid and her dog, Eli, have been inseparable since Astrid was born, and this narrative honors their unique relationship. At the age of 6, Astrid recognizes that Eli is getting older and decides to draw a list of things he should do before he dies on the popcorn bucket. As drawn by the author's sister, M. Sarah Klise, this story, which is both heartbreaking and inspiring, teaches us to make the most of every moment with those we love.

"Hello Goodbye Dog" by Maria Gianferrari

While on their way to see Abuela Rosa, Carmelita, her mother, and Manny, their dog, take a stroll in their neighborhood. They meet people from all over the world and exchange greetings. To everyone, Manny and Carmelita greet hello in numerous languages, including Spanish, English, Arabic, French Italian, Swahili and Hebrew. With its bright illustrations and straightforward text, this book serves as a lovely introduction to a variety of languages.

"City Dog, Country Frog" by Mo Willems

The story of a dog from the city and a frog from the country who meet one spring is sure to enchant you. The dog and frog become fast friends despite their differences. During the summer and fall, they share their favorite games with one another, but when winter arrives, things take a turn for the worse. Jon J. Muth's watercolor drawings enhance this story about the changing seasons of life.

3 to 5 years old is the ideal age range.

"Mr. Scruff" by Simon James

Mr. Scruff, a lone dog in a shelter, is the focus of this book, which introduces a variety of canines and their owners (Polly and Molly, Eric and Derek, Minnie and Vinnie). In spite of the fact that they don't look alike and their names don't rhyme, Jim and Mr. Scruff quickly win over their parents when they meet. With its enchanting drawings, this book is sure to bring a smile to your face.

"Go, Dog. Go!" by P.D. Eastman

More than half a century after its publication, the classic children's book "Go, Dog! Go!" continues to entertain and enthrall young readers. The comical drawings and rhythmic repetition of single-syllable syllables will delight children.

Recommendation: Ages 3 to 7

"Dog Man" by Dav Pilkey

"Dog Man," a graphic novel about the adventures of a hero with the head of a dog and the body of a human, is written and illustrated by the famed "Captain Underpants" author. The book is a fantastic introduction to graphic novels for younger readers, thanks to its easy-to-understand language and sense of humor. Those who like the adventures of Dog Man in his battle against crime will be pleased to learn that this is just the beginning of a long and fruitful series.

Ages 7 and older are suggested use of this product.

"Harry the Dirty Dog" by Gene Zion

"Harry the Dirty Dog," first published in 1956, is still a hoot today. Harry, a dog who hates showers so much that he takes the scrubbing brush and buries it in the yard before embarking on an adventure, is a character that many children can identify with. Harry's family doesn't recognize him when he goes home because he is so filthy. This adorable narrative and Margaret Bloy Graham's stunning pictures are sure to please both children and adults alike.

3 to 5 years old is the ideal age range.

"A Dog Wearing Shoes" by Sangmi Ko

This is the day when Mini's life is forever changed when an adorable shoe-clad puppy dashes in front of her mother's car as they drive home from Grandma and Grandpa's “Will you let us keep her?” she cries. Despite Mini's mother's insistence that they track for the dog's owners, she has fallen in love with him and wants him to stay with them. Compassion, empathy, and the powerful relationships that build between dogs and people are poignantly explored in "A Dog Wearing Shoes," a black-and-white illustration save for the dog's tiny yellow shoes and red collar and leash.

4 to 8 years old is the ideal age range.

"Hello Goodbye Dog" by Maria Gianferrari

For Moose, being with Zara is the only thing that matters in the world. When Zara says her goodbyes in the morning, Moose runs away to look for her at school. Zara, on the other hand, has an idea: If Moose becomes a therapy dog, he can come to school and read to the class. The author's note explains the difference between assistance dogs and therapy dogs, which parents can use to teach their children.

4 to 8 years old is the ideal age range.

"Gaston" by Kelly DiPucchio

Although Gaston the bulldog looks nothing like his sisters, he puts in the most effort to become a well-behaved poodle. This is the outcome of a family outing when Gaston and the poodles run into an entire family of bulldogs and one of their own. The parents realize a mix-up and encourage a swap, but everyone learns that being part of a family isn't only about appearances. This book deftly explores a tough subject that may resonate with adoptive youngsters as well as those who don't quite feel like they fit in, with charming pictures by Christian Robinson.

4 to 8 years old is the ideal age range.

"Dex: The Heart of a Hero" by Caralyn Buehner

It's all about the little dachshunds. Dex's legs, body, and tail are all small. Dex still has his sights set on becoming a superhero, though. He becomes obsessed with superheroes, spending time reading and watching comic books and movies, working out to improve his speed and strength, and even purchasing a superhero suit. Dex is determined to rescue a bullied cat who has become stranded in a tree. It's a cute book with wonderful comic-book style pictures by the author's husband Mark Buehner, and the story offers an encouraging message about the benefits of hard work and helping others.

4 to 8 years old is the ideal age range.

---