100 Best Dog Books of All-time

by Wesley Banks | Follow Him on Instagram Here

I love books, but especially books about dogs or with dogs. So, I thought it would be awesome to go through every single dog book I could find and make a list of the best dog novels (and non-fiction stories) of all-time.

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How the books were ranked

I probably spent over 50 hours just putting this together in excel. I even created a specific algorithm for ranking books (like I did in the past) based on a combination of reviews, ratings, sales, etc.

Before we get to the list, there was one basic rule that each book had to meet in order to qualify for this list: dogs have to be important characters. I love Nicholas Sparks, but it’s not enough to slap a dog on the cover of the book and label it a “dog book.” The book doesn’t have to be about dogs alone, but they must be front and center with the other characters, or at least critical to the story.

In addition, while I did include many non-fiction books, I tried to avoid:

Books specifically about dog training
Collections of true stories
Multiple books in one series (though I included a couple sequels)
Children’s books. Not because I don’t like them, just wanted this list to be more novel based.

I’ve received many emails and comments of books to add. I just want you to know the complete list of books is now around 220. As you can see I’ve pared down the list quite a bit, but if you still feel strongly I’ve left one off don’t hesitate to leave a comment below.

One new feature I’ve added is “Current Rank” and “Last Year’s Rank.” The list is updated January of each new year, so “Last Year’s Rank” always refers to the previous year we are currently in. This let’s you track popularity over time.

Lastly, I’ve probably read ~20% of the books on this list. At some point I’m sure I’ll read all or most of them, but for now I had to rely on the reviews and ratings of thousands of other readers. There were some books left off the list, that I thought for sure were top 100. I let my algorithm do its thing and included those books as honorable mentions below the table.

(Special Note: If you’re more of a movie person, be sure to check out my list of dog movies here.)

Top 100 Dog Books Every Dog Lover Should Read

Table Legend

NR = Not Ranked (this could be a book that wasn’t previously on the Top 100 or a book that has moved out of the Top 100)
True Story Vs. Non-fiction. A “true story” is technically non-fiction, but I’ve separated “true stories” to be more of memoir style novels, whereas “non-fiction” is reserved for more training or scientific/informative books.

Note: You can filter the table by simply clicking on the column headings (i.e. genre or title).

Current Rank	Last Year's Rank	Title	Author	Genre	Where to Find
1	6	Where the Red Fern Grows	Wilson Rawls	Fiction	Buy it here
2	5	The Art of Racing in the Rain	Garth Stein	Fiction	Buy it here
3	1	A Dog's Purpose	W. Bruce Cameron	Fiction	Buy it here
4	8	Because of Winn-Dixie	Kate DiCamillo	Fiction	Buy it here
5	4	Watchers	Dean Koontz	Fiction	Buy it here
6	NR	Say Goodbye for Now	Catherine Ryan Hyde	Fiction	Buy it here
7	13	Hello Love	Karen McQuestion	Fiction	Buy it here
8	14	The Call of the Wild	Jack London	Fiction	Buy it here
9	NR	No Ordinary Dog	Will Chesney	True Story	Buy it here
10	2	A Dog's Journey	W. Bruce Cameron	Fiction	Buy it here
11	21	Old Yeller	Fred Gipson	Fiction	Buy it here
12	24	Shiloh	Phyllis Naylor	Fiction	Buy it here
13	27	Rescuing Sprite	Mark R. Levin	True Story	Buy it here
14	45	Rescuing Finley	Dan Walsh	Fiction	Buy it here
15	46	The Bravest Dog Ever	Natalie Standiford	True Story	Buy it here
16	85	Ellie's Story	W. Bruce Cameron	Fiction	Buy it here
17	NR	The Forever Dog	Rodney Habib	Non-fiction	Buy it here
18	NR	The Speckled Beauty	Rick Bragg	True Story	Buy it here
19	3	Until Tuesday	Luis Montalvan	Fiction	Buy it here
20	7	Merle's Door	Ted Karasote	Memoir	Buy it here
21	9	Following Atticus	Tom Ryan	True Story	Buy it here
22	12	Marley and Me	John Grogan	Memoir	Buy it here
23	20	The Other End of the Leash	Patricia McConnell	Non-fiction	Buy it here
24	22	A Big Little Life	Dean Koontz	Memoir	Buy it here
25	23	One Good Dog	Susan Wilson	Fiction	Buy it here
26	29	Cujo	Stephen King	Fiction	Buy it here
27	36	A Wolf Called Romeo	Nick Jans	True Story	Buy it here
28	NR	Thunder Dog		True Story	Buy it here
29	NR	When Harry Met Minnie		True Story	Buy it here
30	10	White Fang	Jack London	Fiction	Buy it here
31	11	Suspect	Robert Crais	Fiction	Buy it here
32	19	Travels with Charley	John Steinbeck	Memoir	Buy it here
33	NR	To Dance With White Dog	Terry Kay	Fiction	Buy it here
34	15	Dog On It	Spencer Quinn	Fiction	Buy it here
35	17	Cesar's Way	Cesar Milan	Non-fiction	Buy it here
36	35	Inside of a Dog	Alexandra Horowitz	Non-fiction	Buy it here
37	NR	As The Stars Fall	Steven N. Lee		Buy it here
38	NR	On Talking Terms With Dogs	Turid Rugaas		Buy it here
39	18	How Dogs Love Us	Gregory Berns	Fiction	Buy it here
40	42	Top Dog	Maria Goodavage	True Story	Buy it here
41	50	A Hairy Tail	Jamie Campbell	Fiction	Buy it here
42	NR	In Dog We Trust		Non-fiction	Buy it here
43	NR	How Dogs Love Us	Gregory Berns	Non-fiction	Buy it here
44	16	Amazing Gracie	Dan Dye	True Story	Buy it here
45	33	Winterdance	Gary Paulsen	True Story	Buy it here
46	44	A Dog's Life	Ann Martin	Fiction	Buy it here
47	47	Sergeant Rex	Mike Dowling	True Story	Buy it here
48	62	Max	Jennifer Li Shotz	True Story	Buy it here
49	81	Woodsong	Gary Paulsen	True Story	Buy it here
50	92	Bailey's Story	W. Bruce Cameron	Fiction	Buy it here
51	NR	The Lost Dogs	Jim Gorant	True Story	Buy it here
52	25	Oogy	Larry Levin	Fiction	Buy it here
53	28	The Story of Edgar Sawtelle	David Wroblewski	Fiction	Buy it here
54	48	Lily and Octopus	Steven Rowley	Fiction	Buy it here
55	49	Sounder	William Armstrong	Fiction	Buy it here
56	52	I Will See You in Heaven	Jack Wintz	Non-fiction	Buy it here
57	55	Lone Wolf	Kathryn Lasky	Fiction	Buy it here
58	60	The Incredible Journey	Shiela Burnford	Fiction	Buy it here
59	61	Dog Medicine	Julie Barton	Memoir	Buy it here
60	67	The Dog Who Could Fly	Damien Lewis	True Story	Buy it here
61	74	Navy SEAL Dogs	Mike Ritland	True Story	Buy it here
62	97	Tornado	Betsy Byars	Fiction	Buy it here
63	NR	Stepdog: A Novel	Nicole Galland		Buy it here
64	NR	The Cruelest Miles	Gay Salisbury		Buy it here
65	NR	Judy	Damien Lewis		Buy it here
66	30	It's Just a Dog	Russ Ryan	Fiction	Buy it here
67	32	A View to Die For	Richard Houston	Fiction	Buy it here
68	37	Kelly's Koffee Shop	Dianne Harman	Fiction	Buy it here
69	40	Pukka's Promise	Ted Kerasote	Fiction	Buy it here
70	64	Flash	Donna Ball	Fiction	Buy it here
71	82	The Dog Who Saved Me	Susan Wilson	Fiction	Buy it here
72	NR	Unsaid	Neil Abramson		Buy it here
73	NR	Someone To Look Up To	Jean Gill		Buy it here
74	NR	Maverick (Tin Star K9 Series Book 2)	Jodi Burnett	Fiction	Buy it here
75	NR	Storm Rising (An F.B.I. K-9 Novel Book 3)	Sara Driscoll	Fiction	Buy it here
76	31	Unspoken Bond	Blake O'Connor	Fiction	Buy it here
77	41	The Dog Master	W. Bruce Cameron	Fiction	Buy it here
78	43	The Genius of Dogs	Brian Hare	Non-fiction	Buy it here
79	NR	Lone Wolf (An F.B.I. K-9 Novel Book 1)	Sara Driscoll	Fiction	Buy it here
80	NR	Gabby	Barby Keel	True Story	Buy it here
81	26	Rescue Me, Maybe	Jackie Bouchard	Fiction	Buy it here
82	53	Lost and Found	Jacqueline Sheehan	Fiction	Buy it here
83	NR	Follow My Leader	James Garfield	Fiction	Buy it here
84	NR	Black Velvet	Steven Henry	Fiction	Buy it here
85	NR	Renegade (Tin Star K9 Series Book 1)	Jodi Burnett	Fiction	Buy it here
86	NR	Avenging Adam (FBI-K9 Series Book 1)	Jodi Burnett		Buy it here
87	34	The Stolen Dog	Tricia O'Malley	True Story	Buy it here
88	56	Free Days with George	Colin Campbell	True Story	Buy it here
89	NR	Hero	Jennifer Li Shotz		Buy it here
90	NR	Wallace	Jim Gorant	True Story	Buy it here
91	NR	Be Right Back!	Julie Naismith	Non-fiction	Buy it here
92	39	An Unexpected Grace	Kristin von Kreisler	Fiction	Buy it here
93	51	The Dog Who Danced	Susan Wilson	Fiction	Buy it here
94	57	The Sight	David Clement-Davies	Fiction	Buy it here
95	68	Through a Dog's Eyes	Jennifer Arnold	Memoir	Buy it here
96	70	Outfoxed	David Rosenfelt	Fiction	Buy it here
97	83	Lad	Albert Terhune	Fiction	Buy it here
98	89	Lassie Come Home	Eric Knight	Fiction	Buy it here
99	NR	Dogsong	Gary Paulsen	Fiction	Buy it here
100	NR	Rose In A Storm	Jon Katz	Fiction	Buy it here
NR	38	From Baghdad, With Love	Jay Kopelman	True Story	Buy it here
NR	54	Smoky Mountain Tracks	Donna Ball	Fiction	Buy it here
NR	58	The Second Chance Dog	Jon Katz	Fiction	Buy it here
NR	59	You Had Me at Woof	Julie Klam	Memoir	Buy it here
NR	63	All Dogs Go to Kevin	Jessica Vogelsang	Memoir	Buy it here
NR	65	Connected Souls: A Dog Story	Dana Landers	Short Story	Buy it here
NR	66	The Luckiest Dog in the World	Susan Palmer	Fiction	Buy it here
NR	69	Hope In Every Raindrop	Wesley Banks	Fiction	Buy it here
NR	71	A Dog Named Christmas	Greg Kincaid	Fiction	Buy it here
NR	72	A Man of His Own	Susan Wilson	Fiction	Buy it here
NR	73	Irish Red	Jim Kjelgaard	Fiction	Buy it here
NR	75	What the Dog Knows	Cat Warren	Non-fiction	Buy it here
NR	76	Must Love Dogs	Clair Cook	Fiction	Buy it here
NR	77	Miracle on Wolf Hollow Lane	Blake O'Connor	Fiction	Buy it here
NR	78	Kavik The Wolf Dog	Walt Morey	Fiction	Buy it here
NR	79	Dog Crazy	Meg Donahue	Fiction	Buy it here
NR	80	Lessons from Tara	David Rosenfelt	Memoir	Buy it here
NR	84	House Broken	Sonja Yoerg	Fiction	Buy it here
NR	86	Promise of the Wolves: A Novel	Dorothy Hearst	Fiction	Buy it here
NR	87	Pukka	Ted Kerasote	Fiction	Buy it here
NR	88	Stay	Allie Larkin	Fiction	Buy it here
NR	90	101 Dalmations	Dodie Smith	Fiction	Buy it here
NR	91	Stay	Dave Burchett	True Story	Buy it here
NR	93	The Plague Dogs	Richard Adams	Fiction	Buy it here
NR	94	Dog Sense	John Bradshaw	Non-fiction	Buy it here
NR	95	A Forever Home	Kaleigh Mills	Fiction	Buy it here
NR	96	Fell	David Clement-Davies	Fiction	Buy it here
NR	98	Katie	Glen Plaskin	True Story	Buy it here
NR	99	Just Life	Neil Abramson	Fiction	Buy it here
NR	100	Little Man in a Dog Suit	B.R. Wilson	True Story	Buy it here

Honorable Mentions

The Philosopher and the Wolf. It kind of breaks my heart to not have this book on this, because it’s my absolute favorite. Not enough people have heard of it unfortunately.
Say Goodbye for Now. As of writing this, Catherine Ryan Hyde’s latest book is not yet out. It looks like it will be phenomenal, but time will tell.
Red Dog. I haven’t read this book, but I’ve had A LOT of people tell me it should be on the list. It barely missed the cut, but I think I’ll be checking it out soon, especially since there was a major motion picture made after it.

Notes On The 2022 Update

This list has officially been updated for 2022! Woohoo!

Just a few notes and thoughts…

For the 2nd year in a row I have not removed books that fell out of the Top 100. They simply remain on the list with a rank of “NR” below the new Top 100.

This year 30 books fell out of the Top 100, which means we’ve got 30 new books on the list.

We also saw a change at the top of the list for the first time in 3 years. One of my personal favorites, Where The Red Fern Grows, overtook the top spot! Well deserved.

In addition, I’m planning to add a list of the other 100+ books that don’t appear in the above table. Many of you send me fairly passionate emails about books left off the list and I want to make sure to include them somewhere even if they don’t make the Top 100. It’s going to take me a little bit, but this list will be at the very bottom of this post soon.

My Personal Favorite Dog Books

I’ve talked about my favorite books before, but never my favorite dog books. This is going to be tough, but I’ll give it a shot.

The Philosopher and the Wolf. I know I said this above, but this is my favorite by far. I don’t think this book is for everyone though. It’s laden with philosophy and discusses the life and loss of the wolf owned by Mark Rowlands.
Where the Red Fern Grows. This is probably the first book that ever made me cry. It’s a quick read, but every dog owner will be able to instantly understand the bond between a boy and his dogs.
Call of the Wild. Of every single book on this list I think Call of the Wild is the best in terms of literary accomplishment. Reading Jack London is like being transposed into the story itself.
The Sight. I’m a huge fantasy reader, so finding a book that has a pack of wolves as the main characters, and a story told in their point of view, was just stellar. I think a lot of books on this list are “better” dog books, but this is still one of my favorites in the fantasy genre.

What are Your Favorites?

While I did my best not to miss any, I’m sure I did. It was quite the undertaking to compile such a list, but my plan is to update at least annually if not semi-annually.

With that said, I’ve got two questions for you:

Which one is your favorite?
Did I miss any?

Let me know in the comments below!

I promise I read all the comments, but that doesn’t guarantee the book you recommend makes the Top 100.

P.S. If you love dog adventures with a hint of romance, don’t forget to pick up my latest book, Faith In Every Footstep.

About Wesley Banks

Wesley Banks is an author, professional engineer, world traveler, and dog lover. His latest novel Faith In Every Footstep is now available. Be sure to check him out on Instagram.

Comments

Teresa Thompson says

November 16, 2016 at 9:47 pm

I have read many of these and agree with your favorites! My top favs-Call of the Wild, for its literary genius, Marley & Me, for its humor & personal relevance, and The Art of Racing in the Rain, for my deep love of dogs, & of course, Hope in Every Raindrop for my personal dog loving connections!❤️???? Keep them coming, Wesley! Write on!????

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- Lillian says
  
  September 11, 2022 at 3:33 pm
  
  yes keep writing…the books are awesome.
  
  Reply
Susan says

November 21, 2016 at 4:43 pm

You missed: My Dog Skip by Willie Morris. This was made into a movie. Excellent book & movie.

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- Wesley Banks says
  
  November 21, 2016 at 6:12 pm
  
  Thanks Susan, will add it to the list for the 2017 update 🙂
  
  Reply
  - Linda says
    
    December 25, 2019 at 9:14 am
    
    I have been looking for a small book by a French writer, I think, and it’s about a self- dog-told escapade. Witty, wry, about a dog’s funny journey. More for adults. I read it sometime around 2006. ??
    
    Reply
  - Genine Barker says
    
    August 9, 2021 at 3:36 am
    
    When I was a little girl, some 55 years ago, my Dad used to read to me at bedtime from a book about a dog called Rainbow. I can’t find anything on this, but it was amazing – it would make me laugh and sometimes cry. I hope you come across it sometime.
    
    Reply
katrina kissinger says

November 23, 2016 at 7:33 am

i have a lot of favorite dog books white fang, call of the wild, marley and me, poor Georgie an animal shelter novel(they aren’t all centered on dogs but they are really good books) ice dogs i really loved this book, Survivors by Erin Hunter it is written by the same warriors she did another set of books for bears. runt is another good book, also magic by edmond humm, books by Jordan Taylor there is a lot of different short stories centered on one dog,The Lost Dogs: Michael Vick’s Dogs and Their Tale of Rescue and Redemption, I’m Listening With a Broken Ear are just some of them

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- Wesley Banks says
  
  November 23, 2016 at 5:06 pm
  
  Wow, that’s a lot of books I need to check out!
  
  Reply
Karen says

November 23, 2016 at 9:25 am

Choosing just one from your list would be about impossible. I loved the “Art of Racing in the Rain”, but am in the middle of “The Story of Edgar Sawtelle”, which is not only really good, but extra fun as it takes place near where I live.

One of my most favorite books from when I was growing up, didn’t make your list, and must not have been all that popular, as 20 or so years later when I went back to visit my grade school my name was still on the check-out card. It was called “Wilderness Champion” by Joseph Lippincott.

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- Wesley Banks says
  
  November 23, 2016 at 5:17 pm
  
  Karen, so far “The Art of Racing in the Rain” seems to be at the top of everyone’s list. It’s just such an amazing book.
  
  I’ll check out “Wilderness Champion” and see if it makes the list next year, thanks for the recommendation.
  
  Reply
  - Sharon Flenner says
    
    July 3, 2021 at 6:51 am
    
    Wesley, thank you for this list of dog books. I have just discovered it in July 2021!
    I must say ditto on “The Art of Racing in the Rain”! One of my other favorites is “Howling Across Bridges” by James Miller but I think it was limited in print and very difficult to come by but a great read!!
    
    Reply
    - Wesley Banks says
      
      August 15, 2021 at 1:17 pm
      
      Sharon, so glad you enjoyed the list! Adding “Howling Across Bridges” to look into for my next update.
      
      Reply
- stephen Wallace says
  
  July 5, 2020 at 9:09 pm
  
  I looked up Wilderness Champion” by Joseph Lippincott and saw one hardcopy one for $1500… must be a good book 🙂
  
  Reply
Alittlediamond says

November 25, 2016 at 5:32 pm

Lily and the Octopus! I loved this novel. It was both heartbreaking and life affirming.

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- Wesley Banks says
  
  November 27, 2016 at 3:49 pm
  
  I think that’s the perfect description of any great book, especially Lily and the Octopus 🙂
  
  Reply
Jason McCormick says

November 27, 2016 at 5:09 pm

My favorite is #4 on your list “The Watchers” by Dean Koontz. Sadly “Together” (the story about a mountain climber who, after a tragic misstep, looses his sight [and his will to live] finds new hope in the love of a dog originally deemed to aggressive for the seeing-eye program) by (blind author) Tom Sullivan, & (actress) Betty White is not on your list and definitely deserves an honorable mention at least. Also, and with all due respect to Mr. King, Cujo does not belong on this pertcular list. Good luck on your new book.

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- Wesley Banks says
  
  November 27, 2016 at 5:13 pm
  
  Jason, thanks for the tip on “Together.” I’ve got it written down to check out.
  
  Reply
Ingrid Place says

November 28, 2016 at 9:37 am

“The Art of Racing in the Rain” & A Dog’s Purpose.”
Absolutely love dog books! You made a wonderful list! Thanks!

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Phyllis Alsip says

November 28, 2016 at 9:42 am

Loved reading A Dog’s Purpose and Marley & Me.

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Debby says

November 28, 2016 at 11:43 am

I love “The Art of Racing in the Rain” as well as “A Dog’s Purpose”. Love the list! Thanks for sharing. I can’t wait to start reading those I have not yet!

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- Wesley Banks says
  
  December 4, 2016 at 2:45 am
  
  Debby,
  
  Be sure to come back and let me know what other ones you end up loving.
  
  Reply
Barbara d maver says

November 28, 2016 at 11:54 am

A Dog’s Purpose is my favorite. I have not read any of your books yet, but I will now!

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- Wesley Banks says
  
  November 28, 2016 at 5:19 pm
  
  Be sure to let me know what you think Barbara!
  
  Reply
  - Barbara d maver says
    
    November 28, 2016 at 5:52 pm
    
    I sure will!
    
    Reply
  - Barbara d maver says
    
    November 29, 2016 at 1:52 pm
    
    I just finished your two books. I am pre-ordering the new one. Hooked.
    
    Reply
    - Wesley Banks says
      
      December 4, 2016 at 2:46 am
      
      Holy cow that was fast Barbara! So glad you liked them.
      
      Reply
Ramona Peck says

November 28, 2016 at 12:03 pm

Any of David Cameron’s books. “A Dogs Journey” is my favorite and then “The Dog Master.” I will definitely be checking out some of the others.

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Rebecca says

November 28, 2016 at 1:09 pm

Wow, I have read over half of your top 100, and have several more on my bookshelf waiting or on my nook. My top favorite is A Dog’s Purpose. 2nd favorite is Marley and Me.

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- Wesley Banks says
  
  November 28, 2016 at 5:25 pm
  
  That’s pretty impressive Rebecca. It’s hard to beat those two.
  
  Reply
- stephen Wallace says
  
  July 5, 2020 at 9:26 pm
  
  Rebecca and Wesley. Nice to hear of a dog book collector like my self. I have over 130 books so far, but prefer the true stories or memoirs. Love to compare notes.
  By a quick count, I have over at least 21 on his list and have read I think 15.
  I really appreciate suggestions. There are a lot of great books on dog sledding not on the list. He has ‘the dog who could fly’ but the other book by that author ‘Judy’ is even more amazing. Dog talk by Harrsion Forbes should be on the list. Chaser, about the dog that learned 1000 words should be on everyone’s list to really glimpse the potential.
  I am halfway through ‘the art of racing in the rain’ and it hasn’t really grabbed me. I thought ‘Amazing Gracie’ was interesting, but not as powerful as Merle’s Door or Following Atticus. I will keep coming back to this site and making comments. i always appreciate good suggestions.
  
  Reply
- Steve says
  
  July 28, 2020 at 3:59 pm
  
  Wow, that is impressive. I only own 26 of the books on his list of 100. After my latest order comes in I think I will have 149 books on dogs on my shelf. He doesn’t cover training, which I also have. And my interest is more on True Story/Memoirs where his is on fiction. But I enjoy fiction like old yeller, where the red fern grows and others. Love to share notes with you if there is a way we can contact each other, purely on a dog book discussion level.
  
  Reply
Sheila Bergin Goss says

November 28, 2016 at 1:13 pm

I absolutely love The Art of Racing in the Rain….I have never recommended a dog book as much as that one! ( Though just thinking about The Incredible Journey brings tears to my eyes…Bodger!

I did not see Follow My Leader by James Garfield …my favorite dog book as a kid, and made sure my kids had a chance to read it as well!

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- Wesley Banks says
  
  November 28, 2016 at 5:25 pm
  
  Got it added Sheila. And “The Art of Racing in the Rain” is looking like the fan favorite for sure.
  
  Reply
Donna says

November 28, 2016 at 3:07 pm

Rose In A Storm by Jon Katz is very good. But my all time favorite is The Art Of Racing In The Rain. I send my friends who lose their dogs a copy of A Dog Purpose.

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- Wesley Banks says
  
  November 28, 2016 at 5:20 pm
  
  Haven’t heard of “Rose In A Storm,” but adding it to the list. Thanks Donna!
  
  Reply
Brandi McCauley says

November 28, 2016 at 3:50 pm

Favorite: Dog On It- Quinn
Missed: Thunderdog- the story of a seeing eye dog that got his master out of the twin towers during 9/11.

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- Wesley Banks says
  
  November 28, 2016 at 5:23 pm
  
  Thanks Brandi, I think “Thunder Dog” will end up pretty high on the list when I update it. Looks like an amazing book.
  
  Reply
Teresa Benoist says

November 28, 2016 at 8:24 pm

This book was inspiring. I live in St. Louis… and have a soft spot in my heart for Stray Rescue of St. Louis. The book is The Man Who Talks to Dogs: The Story of Randy Grim and His Fight to Save America’s Abandoned Dogs Paperback – July 1, 2004

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katie waterman says

November 29, 2016 at 10:39 am

I have read so many of these books but I suggest you read a few of Angelo and Leland Dirk’s books. I loved Angelo’s Journey so much. And Seven Dogs in Heaven is also a favorite of mine.

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- Shelly Baker says
  
  November 29, 2016 at 3:22 pm
  
  I completely agree!! Both books are wonderful and shouldn’t be missed by any dog lover!
  
  Reply
Diane Thompson says

November 29, 2016 at 11:25 am

Angelo’s Journey by Leland Dirks

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Nancy Kisselstein says

November 29, 2016 at 1:15 pm

Your list is great, but can I suggest adding Mindful Dogs and Angelo ‘ s Journey by Leland Dirks

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- Wesley Banks says
  
  December 4, 2016 at 2:48 am
  
  That’s the second Angelo’s Journey recommendation in a row. Definitely going to get it added next time.
  
  Reply
Valerie LaCount says

November 29, 2016 at 1:21 pm

Great list! I, too have read about 20% and this gives me lots to add to my reading list. I loved “Art of Racing in the Rain” as well as “Dog’s Purpose” & “Dog’s Journey”. I was surprised not to see either “Angelo’s Journey” or “Seven Dogs in Heaven”, both by Leland Dirks. I’ll be checking out your work too! Thank you.

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RMG says

November 29, 2016 at 5:27 pm

I have too many favorites! I honestly don’t know which to pick. I just finished and loved A Dog’s Purpose and I loved The Amazing Gracie story. I’m looking forward to reading your books and have put them on my Christmas wish list.

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Patricia Lavallee says

November 29, 2016 at 7:42 pm

I have read several of them, but my favorite is A Dogs Purpose. Read when it first came out & 2 more times. It’s a very special book that transcends that it’s just about dogs!! I did enjoy Art of Racing in the Rain, and others too!!
You did miss a nice story: I Thought You Were Dead by Pete Nelson. I enjoyed that book too!
Looking forward to your books!!

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Traci Jones says

December 2, 2016 at 2:32 pm

My favorite is A Dogs Purpose which is going to be a movie continuing to A Dogs Journey. I’ve read about 25 percent of these. Thank you for the list which I plan on reading. Look forward to your email. Thanks Traci

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Alice Coleman says

December 2, 2016 at 8:44 pm

Thank you for the list! I love Bruce Cameron’s A Dog’s Purpose and A Dog’s Journey. I actually saw this post on their A Dog’s Purpose’s FaceBook page! I have some new books to read! I am looking forward to checking out your books. Thanks!

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Mary says

December 3, 2016 at 7:01 pm

I was very surprised to see how many of the books I have read. Many more are on my to read list. You may have dismissed this book because it is classes for youth but I enjoyed it very much The Returnns M.K.Clinton

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Rob Snyder says

December 3, 2016 at 7:41 pm

My personal favorite, and one that’s a bit different from all the others is Poker Night: The Real Story of Dogs Playing Poker by Rob Snyder.

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- Wesley Banks says
  
  December 4, 2016 at 2:52 am
  
  Just took a look at it Rob. It talks about that famous painting. Cool stuff!
  
  Reply
Marcy Graybill says

December 5, 2016 at 8:51 pm

My favorite would be Other end of the leash by McConnell. The one I would suggest would be Bones would rain from the sky by Clothier. Though there are others . . .

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Deb Link says

December 5, 2016 at 9:03 pm

I loved all of the “Lad” (Albert Payson Terhune) books as a kid, as well as the “Big Red” books (Kjelgaard). White Fang is wonderful. The Art of Racing in the Rain is poignant and stays with you when you look into your own dog’s eyes. I also enjoyed several of Jon Katz’s books as well as a few by Dr. Nicholas Trout.

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Sandra Anderson says

December 7, 2016 at 4:37 am

Thank’s for this wonderful list! Being a big dog lover I have read many of your picks and my all time favorite is The Art of Racing in the Rain followed by A Dog’s Purpose. My recommendation would be Leland Dirks book Angelo’s Journey.

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Jackie Bouchard says

December 8, 2016 at 9:32 am

Fun list! Very excited to see my book-baby RESCUE ME, MAYBE at #26! I see a lot of books on here that I’ve loved. One of my top faves that I don’t see on the list is Peter Mayle’s (of A YEAR IN PROVENCE fame) A DOG’S LIFE. Really funny, cute book. (I prefer books where the dog doesn’t die at the end!) 🙂

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Kasee Johnson says

December 9, 2016 at 10:18 am

I was not surprised to see Call of the Wild and White Fang on the list. But I am so happy that you included Watchers by Dean Koontz! It’s one of my all-time most-favorite books.

I can’t think of any books that you missed, but I hope to see The Journey Of Natty Gann make your movie list. For me, that movie is all about the wolf.

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Donna Ball says

December 9, 2016 at 2:18 pm

So happy to see two of my own books on this list! I think Rose in a Storm by Jon Katz is the best dog novel since Lassie Come Home, and greatly under-appreciated. The Art of Racing in the Rain is a classic of course. I was surprised Dogtripping (David Rosenfelt) didn’t make it. Fun list!

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Kay Lynn Odle-Moore says

December 9, 2016 at 4:35 pm

Like many others, I have so many favorites on your list (thanks for compiling). Old Yeller was my favorite as a child and I remember crying and sobbing at the end. As an adult, Nick Jans’s A Wolf Called Romeo evoked the same emotions in me – a wonderful story with an incredibly sad ending.

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- Stephen Wallace says
  
  April 27, 2022 at 11:45 am
  
  A Wolf Called Romeo is a great book, but it is a wolf book and don’t really consider it a dog book…
  
  Reply
Lynn Charlotte Guy says

December 10, 2016 at 5:01 pm

How about James Herriot’s “Dog Stories”

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Mary Anne Carlson says

December 18, 2016 at 7:09 am

Wow, I’ve actually read a few of these! So happy to see The Autobiography of a Stray here, it’s a little gem of a book. But thought for sure I would see Jim Gorant’s books on this list: 1) Wallace 2) The Lost Dogs. And I have to say that I hated Marley and Me with a passion. (I feel the same way about the book as the one star reviews on Amazon. My favorite: John, Jen and me: life with the world’s worst dog owners.) The subtitle: ‘Life with the world’s worst dog’ wasn’t the joke I thought it was, the author truly believed his dog was the worst. Horrible.
Right now, totally enjoying Following Atticus and I’m savoring it, not rushing through it.

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- Stephen Wallace says
  
  April 27, 2022 at 11:43 am
  
  I have to agree with you that Wallace and Lost Dogs need to be in the list of all time best books on dogs. I didn’t hate Marley and found more good in it than I expected. I thought Following Atticus should be on the list of best, but didn’t like the sequel Will’s Red Coat nearly as much.
  Appreciate the recommendation of The Autobiography of a Stray, I have added it to my list. I own a couple of her (Ann M. Martin) books already and may read them first.
  I could not find John, Jen and me: life with the world’s worst dog owners, so will need some help with the author.
  I always like to hear what other people think are the best dog books ever and appreciate Wesley having this site, even if I don’t agree with all his choices.
  
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Mary Jane Coniglio says

December 18, 2016 at 7:18 am

Thank you for this list — I’m going to add some to list of books to read. I loved Marley & Me and also Merle’s Door but also so many others that slip my mind. One book not on your list that is an easy, fun read is “Buster’s Diaries” as told to Roy Hattersley. It’s the story of a dog and his man from the dog’s viewpoint — charming and amusing British humor.

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Mike Gagliardo says

December 18, 2016 at 8:02 am

“To Dance with the White Dog” by Terry Kay is excellent. Also, a recent book, “Dog Gone,” by Pauls Toutonghi. But “The Art of Racing in the Rain” is my favorite!

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Mary skelton says

December 18, 2016 at 8:39 am

Thank you for this wonderful list many of them I have read and I agree dog books are just a special, uplifting read. You missed a really great dog story. Shadow by Michael Murpurgo is a book I use in my middle school ELA classroom and the students absolutely love this story of heroism and devotion . Many of my 11 year old readers claim Shadow is the best book they have ever read. Please check it out and let me know what you think. Set in Afghanistan and England it is often my students first real understanding of war and how it effects ordinary people.

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Bonnie says

December 18, 2016 at 8:45 am

I didn’t see Pack of Two by Knapp or A Dog Year by by Katz. Those are two of my favorites. ????

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- Howard Jaeckel says
  
  December 13, 2021 at 5:22 pm
  
  I agree on “Pack of Two.” It’s wonderful.
  
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Susan Kohlhof says

December 18, 2016 at 1:29 pm

Read “Greyfriar’s Bobby” this year as it was a free classic on my kindle…an excellent story!

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Janet Christensen says

December 19, 2016 at 7:13 am

Mr. Wolf and Me by Mary Francis Shura is my all time favorite.

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Candy Morgan says

April 13, 2017 at 11:14 pm

Tales from the Rainbow Bridge is quite a unique dog book. I read it in one sitting.

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Candy Morgan says

April 13, 2017 at 11:25 pm

Unsaid is also a winner. I had to pass on my copy to my vet!

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Jennie says

October 30, 2019 at 6:27 pm

A shot in the dark, but anyway….. I’m looking for a dog book published prior to 1969. A boy overcame objections from his dad and a few other difficulties to acquire a puppy to raise for the seeing-eye dog program. I just can’t remember anything else about it!!

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Steve Duno says

January 10, 2020 at 2:25 pm

You left out Last Dog On the Hill (St Martin’s Press, 2009). Read three pages and you will understand.

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- Wesley Banks says
  
  February 17, 2020 at 12:41 pm
  
  Will definitely check it out!
  
  Reply
Kirk Schermerhorn says

February 9, 2020 at 9:43 am

For anyone who likes dog stories and science fiction the “Taken” trilogy by Alan Dean Foster (“Lost and Found”, “The Light-Years Beneth My Feet” and “The Candle of Distant Earth”) is a great Trilogy about a man abducted from earth and an enhanced intelligence dog who becomes his traveling companion as they try to make their way back to earth.

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Tony Figurelli says

March 17, 2020 at 8:22 am

There was a short book that I picked up back in the 70s that was written in the perspective of the dog, Very touching story that takes the dog thru his entire life and his feelings on his owner. I remember it as named “Peter” but can’t seem to find it anywhere. Hoping you or anyone knows about this book

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Bridget AEW says

June 7, 2020 at 1:45 pm

Thank you for this list! As an avid dog lover and reader this was most helpful in finding more books to fill my time and heart with. Seeing some personal favorites at the top boosts my confidence In your and your algorithms choices!

As for one of my favorite dog books I would have to say a short book about a bird dog names Tad takes the cake! The book, “Pick of the Litter” by Bill Wallace is a sweet tale of growing up, learning love, and coming to hands with life’s decisions. Even though it’s more for the younger crowd it still holds a near and dear place in my heart for spurring and nurturing my love for bird dogs. (Of which I have now been the proud owner of many)
The Last Dogs by Christopher Holt is a small series that I can also recommend simply because it will drag you in from the first page leaving you with lasting memory of Max and his comrades struggles.

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- Steve Wallace says
  
  July 28, 2020 at 8:51 pm
  
  I will have to check out Pick of the Litter as you recommended. I have 149 books on dogs, (haven’t finished reading all yet, but read most) and one I think you would like is ‘Upland Passage: A Field Dogs Education, by Robert F. Jones. Very nice book.
  I picked up one book in ‘The Hunting & Fishing Library’ for Upland Game Birds that has a chapter on all the dogs used for hunting birds. the rest of the book is on the respective game birds, pheasant, grouse, quail, etc and where to find them and strategies for hunting. Almost makes me want to take up hunting birds so I have a reason to go out with them.
  Wesley’s list has ‘The Dog Who Could Fly’ , but Judy : The Unforgettable Story of the Dog Who Went to War and Became a True Hero’ by the same author is incredibly good and it is about an English Setter.
  Love how there are so many great books on dogs!
  
  Reply
  - Stephen Wallace says
    
    February 21, 2022 at 2:36 pm
    
    I own 405 books on dogs now, and read over 250 of them so far. On the 2022 list, I know have read 40. Don’t agree with all the ratings but fun to try to read them all and compare an opinion on the books versus what the rating algorithm comes up with.
    
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    - Eric Lodin says
      
      April 2, 2022 at 10:13 am
      
      Gosh, Stephen, you are really a specialist on dog books! I’ve written a trilogy of short novels (each about 40K words) about a Pacific island dog leading his pack against a tyrannical team of rivals. There is some island magic involved. Would you consider giving the series a shot as a beta reader before I publish them? If so, please get in touch with me through my author website: ericlodin.com. This request/offer is open to the other dog book fans on this website as well. I’d really appreciate it!
      
      Reply
      - Stephen Wallace says
        
        April 27, 2022 at 11:03 am
        
        I sent you a note through your website Eric.
        At this moment I now have 470 books on dogs and have read about 300. I am trying to get to as much of the ones Wesley has listed as well as find my own ‘best dog books of all time.’
        When not reading or working, I also like to research books and have a list of 429 at the moment, books on dogs that I don’t have (and not included is where there are books in a series, or all the books by Terhune and by Jim Kjelgaard). There is soooo many books with dogs.
Vini says

January 1, 2021 at 8:00 am

Does anyone remember the name of a children’s book about a long haired (ivory coloured coat) dog? It was approximately 45 years ago. It would have been an elementary school level book.

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Stephen Saltonstall says

January 1, 2021 at 5:05 pm

Stickeen by John Muir. A must read for dog lovers and different from anything else written about dogs.

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- Steve Wallace says
  
  November 21, 2021 at 6:18 pm
  
  Thanks for the recommendation! I just ordered it.
  
  Reply
Maria Perez says

January 10, 2021 at 3:57 pm

Desert Dog: Jim Kjelgaard
Tawny: Thomas C Hinkle

Fantastic list. Are you familiar with tehse titles?

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Chris Dant says

October 24, 2021 at 2:12 pm

You should consider two great novels by Christopher Dant, “Rescue” and “Promised Heart”’ both terrific stories about a wonderful service and later therapy Golden Retriever named Chauncey—on Amazon

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- Stephen Wallace says
  
  February 21, 2022 at 2:33 pm
  
  I added them to my list to get.
  
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Ralph Spagnola says

November 29, 2021 at 1:46 pm

Can’t find ,don’t remember name of book ,story based on the training of German Shepard type dogs , trained in barn , book made reference many times of seeing eye Morristown and the famous Akita !the dogs were brilliant , the ending was super sad ! I tossed it and wish I had kept it , would you know this book and title Thank you Ralph Spagnola

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Howard Jaeckel says

December 13, 2021 at 5:16 pm

You did miss one, but so does everybody else, maybe because it was originally written in Hungarian. The book is “Niki: The Story of a Dog” by Tibor Déry. Let me quote, if I may, the review of the book I posted on the Amazon and Goodreads web sites:

****

This book is a gem. Without a touch of sentimentality or anthropomorphism, Déry touchingly imagines the interior life of a dog, a creature of little understanding but great feeling. Anyone experienced in observing canine behavior will be completely convinced of the dead-on accuracy of the author’s portrayal.

The book is set in Hungary during the late forties and early fifties, a period of Stalinist oppression. The human characters understand as little of the arbitrary arrests and disappearances that have cast a pall of terror over their lives as our animal protagonist, Niki, does of the comings and goings of her mistress and the sudden absence of her beloved master, who for reasons unknown simply vanishes from her life. For both man and beast, such utter vulnerability to the incomprehensible can be made bearable only by “a strong reciprocal affection.” That mutual affection allows Niki and her mistress, whose husband has disappeared, to go on, at least for a time.

As noted, human emotions and thoughts are not attributed to Niki. She is not a heroine, just a dog. But this reader came away with a renewed sense of the infinite value of these living and sentient creatures, and more convinced than ever that the word “dog” should never be accompanied by the modifier “just.”

****

I hope somebody reads t because of this post. It’s a classic.

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Bear Books says

January 30, 2022 at 8:57 pm

You don’t have “DOGS CAN TALK TOO!” in your listing.

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- Stephen Wallace says
  
  February 21, 2022 at 2:28 pm
  
  There seems to be several books with a title similar to that, can you let me know what the author is?
  
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Nic says

March 10, 2022 at 6:16 pm

I am looking for the stories that our mum read to us 70 years ago about the adventures of two dogs. A I recall, it was about two floppy eared dogs, named Flip and Flap.
Not the story of the two penguins, Flip and Fop.
At the time we lived in North western Europe, before moving to Australia, just after the second world war.
Thank you for any assistance that you are able to give.

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Tim E Watson says

March 31, 2022 at 1:32 am

In 1939 I read “PATCH”, the story of a mongrel terrier just like ours. Perfect for an eight-year-old. it seems to be forgotten.

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Joe Heron says

March 31, 2022 at 9:26 am

For many years I’ve enthusiastically told others that some of my favorite books were about dogs. Finding your web page and column I see that I am not alone. It appears you have some experience and knowledge about the Great Race, the Iditarod serum run. One of my favorite true stories is about, Togo, the sled dog who stoically stayed on the trail for an extraordinarily long time when there where no lead dogs available to replace him. Have you considered his story

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Betty Sultan says

April 17, 2022 at 3:50 am

I am looking for an old book called Pepe the Great.
I saw a letter about it in MM Magazine May/June 2001.
I have searched diligently without finding it. Can you help me?

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Zanna says

May 15, 2022 at 10:56 am

I liked “Kavik the World Dog” by Walt Morey.

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- Stephen Wallace says
  
  July 25, 2022 at 11:28 am
  
  Kavik the Wolf Dog does sound good. Thanks for the suggestion. (I corrected your typo on the name, I find it so easy for them to creep in.
  
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Linda Johnson says

May 18, 2022 at 2:04 pm

I love so many of these books and have laughed and cried through most. But, in terms of “Literature” I have to say that The Story of Edgar Sawtelle is one of the best books period that I have ever read.

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- Wesley Banks says
  
  May 24, 2022 at 11:18 am
  
  Agreed, loved that book!
  
  Reply
Lillian says

September 11, 2022 at 3:31 pm

You have a lot of books that i am going to read because they look very intersting.

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Stephen Wallace says

October 24, 2022 at 2:19 pm

I would love to have a discussion of what you might add/subtract from your 2023 version.

I don’t know how you come up with your list, or the details of your algorithm to create it. In one sense I don’t care that much, you can make your own list of ‘favorites’ of anything you want. I find it a fun starting place for conversations, so I am reasonably ok with whatever you want on your list. There sure seems to be a lot of dog books, I have read about 60 on your list, own 600 books on dogs, and have a list of other dog books that has another 600 on it that I don’t have (yet). I added all the books people have mentioned on your site to my list of owned or want to read. I do have some comments/suggestions on your list and what you plan on putting together for next year.

I am not sure if you should include books primarily about wolves. If so, maybe change the title from best dog books, to best books on dogs and wolves. A Wolf Called Romeo was a great book, and although there was a dog or two mentioned, it is primarily a wolf book.

It feels odd to have a book in a mystery series that is somewhere past volume 1. I am trying to get to version one of the more than 30 mystery book series that seem to be a ‘mystery with a dog’. I can appreciate it that a book 4 may be one of the best of all dog books, but how does the first 3 stack up?

Possibly relating to the last reason why a volume 4 for a series may pop up with a high rating, I am wondering if when a book comes up, if friends of the author or people warmed by a free book in exchange for an honest review, give higher ratings on a book, where an older one with the full breadth of a larger audience may not be as generous. Is there any consideration for how long a book has been out?

A flip side to age of a book is on ones that have been out for a while. While Where the Read Fern Grows and Call of the Wild are so well known to rightfully stay on top, I feel this affects some older books that are not so well known, including the original 1001 Dalmatians, which I feel should still be considered as one of the best dog books. I see Irish Red was kicked off the top 100, and fear for Lad: A Dog, and Lassie. So be interested in hearing your thoughts on how much an old book would get fair play.

Lastly, I see you seem to prefer Fiction over non-fiction. Have you considered splitting your list into two or more groups?

Would love to talk more on the topic of ‘best dog books.’

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- Stephen Wallace says
  
  January 2, 2023 at 2:08 pm
  
  Hey Wesley!
  Since your category for ‘last year’s books is near the year before last year, are you going to come up with a new list for the year? While you have a lot of what I would consider the best dog books, there are some that don’t seem to be rated so high. Will you look at things with your algorithm?
  I see in addition to book one, you also have a couple of books that are book 2 or 3. Are all of these books so good that you include more in the series?
  Maverick (Tin Star K9 Series Book 2)
  Storm Rising (An F.B.I. K-9 Novel) book 3
  Hope you hear back from you on the question ‘are you going to revise your list for this year?’
  Steve
  
  Reply
Francine says

October 25, 2022 at 11:44 am

I am a dog lover who has had over 9 dogs in my life so far- and I love your list, so I am hoping you will add, “Doggy Dementia & Alzheimer’s: Shamrock’s Story…” This book not only tells the tale of a dog rescued from Hurricane Katrina and her journey through stages of doggy dementia, but has interwoven advice from over 50 experts, including veterinarians, Alzheimer’s specialists, researchers and best-selling authors. This book is a must read whether for a puppy parent or a senior dog… This book gives pet parents the tools and the power of 3, “Early Prevention, is Key, Recognition of Signs, is essential and Understanding Treatments is vital. Please help me help other dogs…please review this book.

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- Stephen Wallace says
  
  November 30, 2022 at 9:01 am
  
  Francine, Sounds like a worthy book and I have added it to my list, but not sure if should be in a list of the 100 best dog books of all time. His list is not a list of all dog books. Still good to let people know about it though.
  
  Reply
Thomas Finch says

November 28, 2022 at 1:34 pm

You missed a few titles involving hound dogs like 1)The Voice of Bugle Ann, 2) Bristleface, 3) The Daughter of Bugle Ann, and 4) The Gideon Horn.

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- Stephen Wallace says
  
  November 30, 2022 at 8:58 am
  
  I couldn’t find ‘The Gideon Horn’, can you check the title and maybe provide the author? The only thing I found that may match are the series of books by Alan Russell starting with Burning Man which is book one in his Gideon and Sirius series.
  
  Reply
Francine says

November 29, 2022 at 10:15 pm

I am still hoping you will add “Doggy Dementia & Alzheimer’s: Shamrock’s Story…” With the recent study by The Dog Agign Project stating that 52% of dogs will get dementia, this is a really important book for pet parents to read. With the story of Shamrock, rescued from Hurricane Katrina and her journey to dementia comes the advice of over 50 experts in this field to help pet parents not only recognize signs and understand treatment, but also be able to take precautions long before signs ever appear. Starting with puppies pet parents can better understand what this disease is and how to help their babies.

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100 Best Dog Books of All-time

Faith In Every Footstep

How the books were ranked

Top 100 Dog Books Every Dog Lover Should Read

Honorable Mentions

Notes On The 2022 Update

My Personal Favorite Dog Books

What are Your Favorites?

Come Behind The Scenes With Me

More About Me

Don’t Miss a Thing!

Faith In Every Footstep

How the books were ranked

Top 100 Dog Books Every Dog Lover Should Read

Honorable Mentions

Notes On The 2022 Update

My Personal Favorite Dog Books

What are Your Favorites?

About Wesley Banks

Come Behind The Scenes With Me

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