30 Best Dog Books for Kids: Picture, Chapter, and More!
Explore the best children's books about dogs, from classic picture books to captivating chapter stories for kids and toddlers.
Today we will share with you the 30 best children's books about dogs in 2024.
Dogs are loyal and good friends of human beings. How could the editor miss such a good opportunity and not push a wave of famous books about dogs to the children?
Dogs have been with humans for thousands of years, and they deserve the title of "man's best friend".
I believe many children like small animals, but for various reasons, Not everyone can have a cute puppy, But what does that matter, Let the various cute dogs be in children's books about dogs.
Cute puppies are kids' favorites, and humorous picture books about dogs are naturally also what children like.
Let's start your reading journey. 30 of our favorite kids' books about dogs teach empathy, kindness, and perseverance.
We have these 30 dog books for kids, which we categorized below 5 sections.
- (a) Popular Children's Books About Dogs for Toddlers and Babies
- (b) Children's Picture Books About Dogs
- (c) Children's Chapter Books About Dogs
- (d) Children's Non-Fiction Books About Dogs
- (e) Favorite Children’s Books About Dog
Discover timeless children's books featuring dogs as main characters. Explore vintage and modern kid's books about dogs with heartwarming tales.
(a) Popular Children's Books About Dogs for Toddlers and Babies
When selecting books about dogs for toddlers, look for a mix of colorful books with adorable cartoon characters and real picture books.
Younger children may prefer board books, as the pages are easier to manipulate.
1. Touch and Feel Puppy
Touch and Feel: Puppy by DK
With a sparkling new look, these bestselling DK classics are sure to become classics for a whole new generation of young readers.
Babies and toddlers will be drawn to the captivating, tactile pages, and will want to touch, feel, and explore every one.
Promising review: Although I am a fan of DK Publishing books, this one was not a hit with myself or my toddler. She loves dogs so I thought this book would be right up her alley. The book is small, to begin with, but the actual touch and feel sections are TINY.
One page is just a dog's black nose and my toddler can't even see the fabric part to feel it because it's so small. If this book came in a larger size we would like it much more. As it is, I wouldn't recommend it.---Alejandra Diaz
2. This Pup Steps Up
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This Pup Steps Up!: A Dog Book for Kids by Anna E. Jordan
Pups are perfect friends, it’s true! See what else a dog can do in this early-learning book for ages 0 to 3.
This Pup Steps Up! is a fun rhyming romp through the world of dogs, full of cute and colorful photos to help your little one learn more about their four-legged friends.
Your toddler or pre-K child will love discovering all the different things dogs can do―from working as service animals, herding sheep, and leading sleds to just being the perfect cuddle buddies.
Of all the dog books for kids, this one is a paws-itively delightful introduction to one of their favorite animals!
This fun and engaging dog book for kids includes:
- Photos of various dog breeds and different life stages
- A narrative designed to engage toddlers and pre-K kids
- Basic fun facts about dogs
When it comes to dog books for kids, this one will get their tails wagging!
3. Snuggle Puppy
Snuggle Puppy! by Sandra Boynton
Snuggle Puppy is a year-round Valentine from parent to child. It is bright, chunky, a pleasure to hold, and has a die-cut cover that reveals a glimpse of the joy inside before it's even opened.
Best of all, it's packed, of course, with pure Boynton: her inimitable language, her inimitable illustrations, her inimitable sense of fun.
OOO, Snuggle Puppy of mine! Everything about you is especially fine. I love what you are. I love what you do.
Fuzzy little Snuggle Puppy, I love you. Featuring a sweet and cuddly doggie cast and rhyming verse, Snuggle Puppy is the perfect bedtime book to read last, because of an ending that kids will want again and again: I started with OOO. . . . Now we'll end like this: [BIG SMOOCH!]
(We recommend checking out all of Sandra Boynton’s children’s books too! She’s one of our favorite authors!)
4. Where’s Spot?
Where's Spot? by Eric Hill
Today I read bedtime stories about recognizing numbers 1-10, shapes, and orientation. This Where's Spot is about orientation. It's so cute. There is an animal hidden under each little page that says no to you.
In the end, Sally's mother found Spot who was addicted to eating and didn't eat, and Spot happily licked his bowl.
Reading such thin stories written by adults for children is much more interesting and warmer than reading thick novels written by adults for adults.
Help Spot learn to tell the time in this new, interactive format. Complete with movable clock hands, follow Spot through the different times of a typical puppy's day.
Whether it's breakfast time at eight o'clock, nap time at two o'clock, or playtime at three o'clock, children can help Spot determine what time it is as they learn to tell the time by themselves. Both fun and instructive, this tell-the-time format is very timely indeed!
(b) Children's Picture Books About Dogs
As your child begins to enjoy listening to longer books they will enjoy books with characters they know and love. Kids love the adventures of the Paw Patrol, the antics of the Puppy Dog Pals, and the mischief of Clifford – everyone’s favorite Big Red Dog.
1. Clifford the Big Red Dog
Clifford the Big Red Dog by Norman Bridwell
It only takes a little to BE BIG! Meet Clifford and Emily Elizabeth in the original Clifford book! Clifford is big. Clifford is red. But most of all, Clifford knows how to BE A GOOD FRIEND.
Clifford's Big Ideas are:
- Be a Good Friend
- Share
- Be Kind
- Help Others
- Be Truthful
- Have Respect
- Be Responsible
- Play Fair
- Work Together
- Believe in Yourself
2. Counting Sheep
Counting Sheep by Judy Katschke
A super-cute Little Golden Book based on the Disney Junior show Puppy Dog Pals!
Bingo and Rolly are the cutest pug puppies around! Children ages 2 to 5 will love this Little Golden Book, which retells an episode of the new Disney Junior show Puppy Dog Pals, in which the dogs bring a flock of sheep home so Bob can count them when he has trouble falling asleep.
3. Dog Food
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Dog Food by Joost Elffers
For dog lovers of all ages, a banquet of (pepper) puppy puns!
Saxton Freymann and Joost Elffers have wowed readers with the funny food faces of HOW ARE YOU PEELING, the underwater vegetable visions of ONE LONELY SEAHORSE, and the lush produce landscapes of GUS AND BUTTON.
Now with DOG FOOD, the duo turns its talents to the canine realm, wittily reworking familiar doggy phrases for a whole new level of humor and meaning. These pepper pooches and mango mutts are guaranteed to charm dog owners, dog lovers, and even -- dare we say it -- cat fans. Chow down!
4. Picture Book by Dog
Picture Book by Dog by Michael Relth
This winning tribute to the enduring love between dog and child celebrates animal adoption -- from the dog's point of view!
In a pitch-perfect debut, animator Michael Relth channels the voice -- and artwork! -- of a loyal pup sharing the simple, sweet, and funny rhyming story of finding a forever family.
It's a clever take on a dog's journey from being lost to found -- from shelter to home. Ideal for pet owners, animal enthusiasts, and growing families, Picture Book by Dog is brimming with heart and highlights the power of belonging.
5. I Am The Longest Dog
I Am the Longest Dog by Avery Monsen
From the co-author of the hilarious national bestseller, All My Friends Are Dead comes a very tall tale about a very long dog—with a very big surprise at the tail-end! Lucy is the world's longest dog, but just how long is she? Like, are we talking pretty long?
Or super-crazy number-one-record-breaking BANANAS long? See for yourself in this hilarious picture book by best-selling author-illustrator Avery Monsen. (Warning: the dog is very long.)
Promising review: This super funny book is adorably illustrated and oh so perfectly covers the delicate issues of liking yourself the way you are and very clearly standing up to your critics.
I work really hard to try to casually push body positivity with my daughter since struggling with my own appearance tainted so much of my childhood. ---Alene K. Latimer
6. If You Give a Dog a Donut
If You Give a Dog a Donut by Laura Numeroff
If you give a dog a donut, he’ll ask for some apple juice to go with it. When you give him the juice, he’ll drink it all up. Then, before you can say “woof” . . the dog is off on a backyard adventure!
Written in the tradition of the bestselling If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, Laura Numeroff and Felicia Bond's If You Give a Dog a Donut is another winner.
The If You Give... series is a perennial favorite among children. With their spare, rhythmic text and circular tale, these books are perfect for beginning readers and story time. Sure to inspire giggles and requests to "read it again!"
Other favorites in Laura Numeroff and Felicia Bond's bestselling series include:
- If You Give a Cat a Cupcake
- If You Give a Moose a Muffin
- If You Give a Mouse a Cookie
- If You Give a Pig a Pancake
- If You Give a Pig a Party
7. Pig the Pug
Pig the Pug by Aaron Blabey
A hilarious book about learning to share from the much-loved, award-winning author and illustrator Aaron Blabey.
Pig is a greedy and selfish Pug. He has all the bouncy balls, bones, and chew toys a dog could ever want yet he refuses to share with his poor friend, Trevor.
Join Pig as he learns to share - the hard way! Young readers will love the irresistibly quirky and funny illustrations that are paired with a relatable lesson of learning to share with others. For dog and pet lovers everywhere.
8. Walter the Farting Dog
Walter the Farting Dog by William Kotzwinkle
Walter is a fine dog, except for one small problem: he has gas. He can't help it; it's just the way he is. Fortunately, the kids Billy and Betty love him regardless, but Father says he's got to go! Poor Walter, he's going to the dog pound tomorrow.
And then, in the night, burglars strike. Walter has his chance to be a hero. A children's beloved classic, this story will have kids rolling on the floor with laughter. Adults are permitted to laugh too.
(c) Children's Chapter Books About Dogs
For more independent readers who enjoy dog stories, we’ve listed the best dog books for older kids! Here are some leveled readers and chapter books starring man’s best friend.
1. Pups on a Mission
Puppy Dog Pals Pups on a Mission by Disney Books
Did you know that a dog's sense of smell can be more than 1 million times stronger than ours? Or that pugs are prone to catching colds because of their super short noses?
Join Bingo and Rolly on a bar tactic mission and learn fun facts like these along the way! This reader with related facts comes with stickers and a quiz at the end of the book.
2. Wish
Wish by Barbara O'Connor
Eleven-year-old Charlie Reese has been making the same secret wish every day since fourth grade. She even has a list of all the ways there are to make the wish, such as cutting off the pointed end of a slice of pie and wishing on it as she takes the last bite.
But when she is sent to the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina to live with family she barely knows, it seems unlikely that her wish will ever come true.
That is until she meets Wishbone, a skinny stray dog who captures her heart, and Howard, a neighbor boy who proves surprising in lots of ways.
Suddenly Charlie is in serious danger of discovering that what she thought she wanted may not be what she needs at all.
From an award-winning author, Barbara O'Connor comes a middle-grade novel about a girl who, with the help of a true-blue friend, a big-hearted aunt, an uncle, and the dog of her dreams, unexpectedly learns the true meaning of family in the least likely of places.
3. Home is Where the Heart Is
Home is Where the Heart Is by Cam Higgins
Meet the loveable and rambunctious puppy, Bo Davis, in this first book of the Good Dog series! When Bo loses something important, his search takes him all over the farm.
Springtime has arrived at the Davis Family Farm! Spring showers lead to muddy hijinks for a young pup named Bo. But when Bo loses his dog tag, he gets serious and enlists all of his barnyard pals to help him find it.
From horse stalls to chicken coops to grazing fields and beyond, Bo’s adventure takes him all over the farm, introducing a cast of friends and frenemies.
With easy-to-read language and illustrations on almost every page, the Good Dog chapter books are perfect for beginning readers.
4. Lily to the Rescue
Lily to the Rescue by W. Bruce Cameron
An irresistible chapter book series from the New York Times bestselling author of A Dog's Purpose Puppy Tales featuring Lily, a rescue dog who rescues other animals!
Lily lives with her girl, Maggie Rose. Once a stray, Lily was rescued by the kind people at the animal shelter run by Maggie Rose’s mom. Now she has a very important purpose: to rescue other animals in trouble.
In Lily to the Rescue, Lily meets a crow with a broken wing, so she and Maggie Rose take the crew home to Mom.
But when the crow starts to become too tame, some unexpected problems arise. It’s Lily to the rescue!
5. I Was a Third-Grade Spy
I Was a Third-Grade Spy by Mary Jane Auch
Believe it or not–and you better believe it–Josh’s dog Arful can talk! This is very useful to Josh and his pals who want to win the school talent contest.
First, the boys have to find out what the girls are planning for the contest.
That’s when they send Artful to get an earful by spying on the girls. Just wait until show time to see what Artful the spy uncovers.
6. Tornado
Tornado by Betsy Byars
A tornado appears in the distance, and the family quickly gathers in the storm cellar. The storm rages outside, but Pete, the farmhand, knows this is the perfect time to tell his stories about a dog named Tornado.
Blown into their lives by a twister when Pete was a boy, Tornado was no ordinary dog—he played card tricks, saved a turtle’s life, and had a rivalry with the family cat.
Forgetting their fear, the family hangs on every word of Pete’s stories—both happy and sad—of this remarkable dog.
7. Girl’s Best Friend
Girl's Best Friend by Leslie Margolis
Dogs are disappearing in her neighborhood, and Maggie Brooklyn Sinclair knows all about it. After all, she has a semi-secret after-school gig as a professional (ok, amateur) dog walker.
Maggie hates to see a pup in trouble, so she's even willing to help her ex-best friend Ivy recover her rescue dog, Kermit.
Kermit's being held for ransom, and Maggie has noticed some suspicious behavior lately. But she never suspected her crush Milo could be involved.
8. Dog Man
Dog Man by Dav Pilkey(vintage children's books about dogs)
George and Harold have created a new breed of justice. With the head of a dog and the body of a human, this heroic hound digs into deception, claws after crooks, rolls over robbers, and scampers after squirrels.
Will he be able to resist the call of the wild to answer the call of duty?
Dav Pilkey's wildly popular Dog Man series appeals to readers of all ages and explores universally positive themes, including empathy, kindness, persistence, and the importance of being true to one's self.
(d) Children's Non-Fiction Books About Dogs
These non-fiction books about dogs are perfect for kids who want to learn all about dogs. Learn about different breeds, jobs that dogs have, and how to train a dog.
1. Every Dog: A Book of Over 450 Breeds
Every Dog: A Book of Over 450 Breeds by Nancy Hajeski
The over 450 breeds are thoroughly researched and represent canines from around the world. They range from rare breeds for the dog lover who wants something different to the favorite breeds that make for a reliable choice.
There are ancient breeds and modern breeds, including the "designer dogs" that have become so popular in recent years.
The over 450 breeds are organized into various categories, such as type (which share loosely common ancestry and traits), purpose, and more.
For example, Spitz-Type Dogs typically have thick and dense fur, pointed ears and muzzles, and puffy tails that curl up and over their rears.
They descend from ancient breeds that came from Arctic regions. Spitz dogs include the Akita, Canaan, American Eskimo, and Pomeranian.
Each breed is described on one page and includes these details:
- English and any alternative names, place of origin, and year of first known introduction
- Icons and keys indicating all available coat colors; exercise requirements; graph indicating average weight, height, and life expectancies
- At a Glance chart rating Intelligence; Ease of training; Affection; Playfulness; Good guard dogs; Good with children; Good with other dogs; and Grooming required.
- Descriptive text and a brief history of the breed
- Two-color photographs, one adult and one puppy.
In addition to the hundreds of breeds of all types, origins, and purposes, the book includes the many designer breeds developed over the last couple of decades, making it undoubtedly the most up-to-date and detailed breed book currently available.
2. The Dog Encyclopedia for Kids
The Dog Encyclopedia for Kids by Tammy Gagne
Icelandic Sheepdogs are born with extra toes. Dalmatians are born without spots. Some Siberian Huskies have one blue eye and one brown eye. Learn all about the characteristics of various dog breeds and much more!
Packed with amazing photographs and fun facts, dog owners and fans will get an in-depth look at these curious, lovable canines.
3. The Everything Book of Dogs and Puppies
The Everything Book of Dogs and Puppies by DK
This book is for anyone who loves dogs and puppies, whether they're dog owners or want-to-be owners.
Learn what dogs are showing with their body language, what are they dreaming about, and what they are trying to say to you.
Packed with wonderful pictures and adorable dog and puppy facts, this book takes you into their world.
Find out about the individual features of different breeds and how to take the best care of them, and be amazed by their super-senses and agile antics.
4. A Kid’s Guide to Dogs
A Kid's Guide to Dogs: How to Train, Care for, and Play and Communicate with Your Amazing Pet! by Arden Moore
A Kid's Guide to Dogs delivers the basics of caring for and training a dog to develop good canine habits with humor and creativity.
In addition to learning about dog health and preparing for the arrival of a new dog at home, kids will discover fascinating tips on decoding a dog's body language and how to teach a dog simple tricks.
A special treat is the running sidebars featuring Pet Safety Dog Kona unleashing savvy doggy insights.
Full of colorful photos and illustrations, the book features easy crafts for making a dog bed, a doggy piñata, and toys; and offers dozens of ideas for getting both kids and dogs active, with indoor and outdoor games, hiking, swimming, and even a dog party with special treats kids can make themselves.
Popular pet expert Arden Moore brings her expertise and years of sharing her pet knowledge with audiences on radio, television, and in live talks and award-winning books to this kid-geared guide.
Whether the dog is new to the household or a long-time family member, this is the perfect resource for getting kids to take more responsibility -- and have more fun -- with their canine pals.
5. Dog Training for Kids
Dog Training for Kids: Fun and Easy Ways to Care for Your Furry Friend by Vanessa Estrada Marin
Every child wants a dog, yet not every child--or even grown-up!--is equipped to take on the responsibilities that come with owning a dog.
But with the help of Vanessa Estrada Marin, the director of a sought-after dog-training program for kids, your child will have fun being in charge!
Dog Training for Kids breaks down lessons and tutorials into simple steps and with easy-to-follow instructions. Kids will have everything they need to be caring and responsible dog owners:
- Basic Training Lessons including Stopping Unnecessary Barking, Potty and house Training, Obedience, Leash Training, Crate Training
- Essential Commands include Sit, Stay, Heel, Drop It
- Clever Tricks including Roll Over, Speak, High Five, and Leap
- Super Fun Games including Obstacle Course, Frisbee, Tunnel
- And More -- Equipment List, How to Train Your Dog to Be Calm at the Vet, How to Dog Proof Your Home
Whether young dog lovers will be raising puppies, adopting rescues, or getting their first dogs, this all-in-one book will give them the confidence and knowledge to properly train, take care of, and establish a lasting bond with their well-behaved furry friends.
6. How to Speak Dog
How to Speak Dog by Author TBD
Do you speak dog? How to Speak Dog is a fun, informative, and photographically driven book that helps kids understand what their dog is trying to tell them through body language and behavior.
Super-engaging dog photography, along with National Geographic Kids' signature bold and bouncy design, helps illustrate the key canine concepts.
Quick-hit tip boxes, fun facts about mankind's best friends, and informative sidebars from the experts enliven the text.
Readers young and old will respond to the irresistible call of the canine in this delightful book that will warm hearts and wag tails everywhere--a must-have in every home where pups are looking for love and understanding.
(e) Favorite Children’s Books About Dog
1. Uh Oh, Rollo!
Uh-Oh, Rollo! by Reed Duncan
Rollo is a good dog. But sometimes he does things that get him into trouble.
Meet Rollo, a little bulldog with a BIG personality. Rollo loves to dig, but sometimes he digs too much.
He loves to chase things, but sometimes he chases things he should not--like a chipmunk that's heading for a wall! Follow Rollo for an action-packed day as he gets in--and always out, of course--of trouble.
Exciting, easy-to-read books are the stepping stone a young reader needs to bridge the gap between being a beginner and being fluent.
2. I Want a Dog
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I Want a Dog by Jon Agee
The Copley County Animal Shelter has an aardvark, a lizard, a goose, a weasel, and plenty more. But do they have a puppy?
The girl with her wagon is ready to adopt a dog--not an aardvark, lizard, or goose! Can the shelter manager help her to find her perfect pet?
3. Can I Be Your Dog?
Can I Be Your Dog? by Troy Cummings
Arfy is a homeless mutt who lives in a box in an alley. Arfy writes to every person on Butternut Street about what a great pet he'd make. His letters to prospective owners share that his house was broken! He has his own squeaky bone!
He can learn to live with cats! But, no one wants him. Won't anyone open their heart--and home--to a lonesome dog? Readers will be happily surprised to learn just who steps up to adopt Arfy.
Troy Cummings's hilarious and touching story is a perfect gift for a child wanting a dog and for pet adoption advocates.
It also showcases many different styles of letter writing, making it appealing to parents and teachers looking to teach the lost art of written communication.
4. Stormy
Stormy by Guojing
In this heartwarming, wordless picture book that's perfect for dog lovers, a woman visits a park and discovers a pup hiding under a bench--scruffy, scared, and alone.
With gentle coaxing, the woman tries to befriend the animal, but the dog is too scared to let her near.
Day after day, the woman tries--and day after day, the dog runs away. With perseverance and patience--and help from an enticing tennis ball--a tentative friendship begins.
But it's not until a raging storm forces the two together that a joyous and satisfying friendship takes hold.
Guojing poignantly explores how trust doesn't always come easily, but how, over time, and with kindness and determination, forever love can grow.
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