
A parent might reach for this book when their child is begging for a puppy or trying to understand a new family pet. It's an excellent resource for building a foundation of responsible pet ownership before a dog joins the family, or for helping a child who is slightly fearful learn to read a dog's signals. This classic guide explores the world of dogs, from understanding their body language like tail wags and ear positions, to learning about their basic needs for food, exercise, and training. By explaining the 'why' behind a dog's behavior, the book fosters empathy, kindness, and a sense of responsibility. For children ages 7 to 11, it’s a direct and informative look into what it truly means to be a good friend to a canine companion.
As a book from 1978, the primary sensitivity is the potential for outdated information, particularly regarding dog training. It was written before positive reinforcement became the widely accepted standard, so it may contain advice that feels mildly alpha- or dominance-based. The approach is secular and practical, with no major sensitive topics like death or abuse discussed.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a reviewThe ideal reader is an 8-year-old who has just welcomed a new puppy and is full of questions. It's also perfect for a 10-year-old who is methodically building a case for their parents about why they are responsible enough to get a dog. Additionally, it can benefit a child who is slightly timid around dogs and needs a safe, factual way to learn about them.
Parents should preview the sections on training. Given the publication date, it's wise to be prepared to supplement or correct any advice that doesn't align with modern, positive reinforcement techniques. A quick conversation might be helpful: "This book has great ideas for understanding a dog's feelings. For training, we're going to use newer methods that work even better." A parent will look for this book after hearing "Can we please get a dog?" for the tenth time. Another trigger is observing their child struggling to connect with a new family pet, saying things like, "The puppy won't listen to me!" or "Why is he chewing my toys?"
A 7-year-old will likely focus on the illustrations and the fun facts, like what different tail wags mean. They will absorb the core message of kindness. An 11-year-old can engage with the text on a deeper level, using it as a practical handbook for pet care, understanding the connection between a dog's needs and its behavior.
Its vintage, straightforward, almost encyclopedic style sets it apart from modern, glossy pet books. This Usborne classic treats the child like a serious student of animal behavior. The distinctive, retro illustrations provide a nostalgic feel, and its focus is purely on practical information rather than a narrative or character-driven story.
This is a nonfiction informational book designed to help children understand canine behavior and care. The content covers a dog's senses (particularly smell and hearing), how dogs communicate through body language (tail position, ear set, posture), and vocalizations (barks, whines, growls). It also provides a basic introduction to the responsibilities of dog ownership, including feeding, grooming, exercise, and the importance of training. The book uses simple text and illustrations to explain these concepts in a direct, educational manner.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.