Dogs really are (hu)man’s best friend. There’s nothing better than snuggling up to your pup after a long day with a good book. And if that book is about dogs, even better!
Books about dogs are some of the top-selling genres in books today. And while your dog can’t read, they sure do bring a calming presence when you lounge on the couch or porch and crack open a new book.
One study even found that when dogs sat in a room with second graders, the children had better attitudes about reading!
We love heart-warming stories about our furry friends. Dogs love us unconditionally — and that kind of love is hard to come by! Whether you enjoy reading non-fiction, short stories, graphic novels, or you’re looking for a great book to read to your kids (or your dog), we’ve rounded up the best dog books to enjoy this spring.
Coffee Table Book: “Underwater Dogs” by Seth Casteel
If you were ever curious about what happens under the water when you play fetch, you’ll love this popular dog book that makes a great addition to coffee tables and library collections.
What do you get when a photographer with a pool and a few dogs get a little curious? Genius photographs! From Labs to Dachshunds, catch pups in action as they hurl themselves into the water for a ball or stick.
See new personalities emerge from your favorite dog breeds in over 80 stunning portraits that will make you belly laugh at every page.
See what dogs look really look like under the surface >
Children’s Book: “Where the Red Fern Grows” by Wilson Rawls
As a modern classic, this children’s book tops the charts for great dog stories.
Follow Billy and his two furry pals Old Dan and Little Ann as they try to become the best hunting team in the Ozarks. With Old Dan’s muscle and Little Ann’s smarts, they work together to overcome every obstacle.
This book is likely on your child’s reading list in English class. Read along with them (and your pup, of course) to discuss the themes of hard work, healing, and learning from tragedy.
Read this timeless classic about man’s best friend >
Graphic Novel: “Stray Dogs” by Tony Fleecs and Trish Forstner
If you love comics and a good mystery, grab this 5-part suspense thriller that’s a wicked cross between Lady and the Tramp and Silence of the Lambs.
Pup Sophie can’t remember how she ended up where she is or where her owner is. And she’s surrounded by strange dogs she doesn’t know. Follow her as she uncovers clues and tries to make it back to safety.
If you’re a horror fan who also like to cuddle with your dog when you get scared, this will be your new favorite!
Collect all 5 of these fascinating dog graphic novels >
Novel: “Marley & Me” by John Grogan
You’ve no-doubt experienced some waterworks after seeing this New York Times bestseller adapted into a hit movie with Owen Wilson and Jennifer Aniston.
But of course, you also know the books are always better than the movies!
Now a classic dog book, this wholesome tearjerker teaches us all the power of a dog’s love and that even the “world’s worst dog” has something to teach us about life, loyalty, and finding humor in everything.
Grab a box of Kleenex for this heart-warming dog story >
Novel: “Tomorrow” by Damian Dibben
What lengths do you think your dog would go through to be reunited with you?
For Tomorrow (a time-traveling Lab), he’ll cross centuries, battlefields, and royal courts to get back to his human companion.
This novel is perfect for dog lovers and history buffs. You’ll fall for Tomorrow, our loyal dog narrator, and root for him through all of the obstacles he must face to make it back to his friend.
Travel through time with this book about a dog and his epic quest >
Poetry: “Dog Songs” by Mary Oliver
Dive into the world of dogs with poems that celebrate the daily life with your beloved tail-wagging companions. From small everyday moments to thoughtful meditations, Oliver shows the love and laughter dogs bring to your life.
Including beautiful ink illustrations alongside the poetry, this makes for the perfect read in the morning with your pup cuddled up next to you.
Enjoy a compilation of poems about dogs with your furry best friend >
Memoir: “Dog Years” by Mark Doty
One of the best dog-themed memoirs you’ll find out there, this touching story follows Mark after he adopts a dog named Beau for his dying partner.
Beau isn’t doing so great either, and requires some love and attention as well, making them a perfect duo.
With the help of the other family dog, Arden, Beau becomes rejuvenated and helps Doty overcome the unthinkable. Poignant and profound, this story sheds light on love and loss, and the power that dogs have in our health and wellbeing.
Read this New York Times bestseller while you snuggle your pup >
Novel: “The Art of Racing in the Rain” by Garth Stein
Don’t you ever wonder what your dog is thinking? If you do, this popular dog book is an excellent insight into the world of dogs and their many thoughts.
Join Enzo, a rather philosophical dog, as he follows around his human on his journey to becoming a world-class race car driver. With humor and tenderness, Enzo becomes the hero of the story as he hopes to be reincarnated as a human in the next life.
After you finish the book, watch the movie with your dog.
Read this book about a dog and his human >
Dote on Your Dog This Spring
Reading books about dogs can be a great way to relax. Your dog will certainly love having access to cuddles with you as you read.
Dogs bring us humor, joy, and have plenty to teach us in the world — whether you’re reading about a fictional character or a real-life inspirational dog story.
If you’re looking for a quick pick-me-up, check out our favorite wholesome and heart-warming stories about dogs from the past year.
We’re talking dogs that fly planes and real stories of lost dogs who miraculously find their way home again.
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