100 books like The Stray Dog

By Marc Simont,

Here are 100 books that The Stray Dog fans have personally recommended if you like The Stray Dog. Shepherd is a community of 10,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Book cover of Excellent Ed

Mônica Carnesi Author Of Little Dog Lost: The True Story of a Brave Dog Named Baltic

From my list on picture books for dog lovers.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am a librarian and a picture book author/illustrator – it’s a perfect combination as I get to spend lots of time around books. I’m also a huge animal lover, with a special fondness for dogs. I can’t resist a picture book about dogs, and it’s no surprise that my first picture book was based on a true story about one very brave little dog. It is not easy to recommend only 5 books, but these are certainly my top favorites both in text and art. Happy reading!

Mônica's book list on picture books for dog lovers

Mônica Carnesi Why did Mônica love this book?

Ed lives with the Ellis family. Ed is a good dog – a very good dog. But in Ed’s family, everyone is excellent. Could that be why he is not allowed to eat at the table? Or use the indoor bathroom? Maybe Ed needs to be excellent too. He will try to be excellent, but what will happen if he cannot do it? There’s so much to love about this earnest and sweet dog and his adoring family. 

By Stacy McAnulty, Julia Sarcone-Roach (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Excellent Ed as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Dog lovers will adore this imperfect yet endearing mutt and his quest for excellence!

***Winner of an Ezra Jack Keats New Author Honor Award!***
 
Everyone in the Ellis family is excellent--except Ed.
 
Ed wonders if this is why he isn’t allowed to eat at the table or sit on the couch with the other children. So he’s determined to find his own thing to be excellent at--only to be (inadvertently) outdone by a family member every time.
 
Now Ed is really nervous--what if he’s not excellent enough to belong in this family?
 
This funny and endearing story offers a subtle…


Book cover of Boot & Shoe

Mônica Carnesi Author Of Little Dog Lost: The True Story of a Brave Dog Named Baltic

From my list on picture books for dog lovers.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am a librarian and a picture book author/illustrator – it’s a perfect combination as I get to spend lots of time around books. I’m also a huge animal lover, with a special fondness for dogs. I can’t resist a picture book about dogs, and it’s no surprise that my first picture book was based on a true story about one very brave little dog. It is not easy to recommend only 5 books, but these are certainly my top favorites both in text and art. Happy reading!

Mônica's book list on picture books for dog lovers

Mônica Carnesi Why did Mônica love this book?

Boot and Shoe are siblings and best pals. They live together in the same house and do everything together, but they are each in charge of opposite porches: Boot can be found guarding the back porch, while Shoe takes care of the front porch. Until one day, when a squirrel ran amok around their house and turned everything upside down. Now, where is Boot? And where is Shoe? And can they find each other again? You can’t help but be fully invested in these two adorable doggie characters. 

By Marla Frazee,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Boot & Shoe as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 4, 5, 6, and 7.

What is this book about?

Boot and Shoe were born into the same litter, and now they live in the same house. They eat out of the same bowl, pee on the same tree, and sleep in the same bed. But they spend their days apart - Boot is always on the back porch because he's a back porch kind of dog, and Shoe likes to be on the front porch because he's a front porch kind of dog. This is exactly perfect for them. But then a crazy neighbourhood squirrel arrives ...and everything goes topsy-turvy! Caldecott Honor Medalist Marla Frazee brings her signature wit,…


Book cover of Time for Bed, Fred!

Mônica Carnesi Author Of Little Dog Lost: The True Story of a Brave Dog Named Baltic

From my list on picture books for dog lovers.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am a librarian and a picture book author/illustrator – it’s a perfect combination as I get to spend lots of time around books. I’m also a huge animal lover, with a special fondness for dogs. I can’t resist a picture book about dogs, and it’s no surprise that my first picture book was based on a true story about one very brave little dog. It is not easy to recommend only 5 books, but these are certainly my top favorites both in text and art. Happy reading!

Mônica's book list on picture books for dog lovers

Mônica Carnesi Why did Mônica love this book?

When bedtime arrives, where is Fred? A big, fluffy dog, he’s busying himself with everything else, except getting ready for bed. He runs through flower beds and mud, needs a bath, plays hide-and-seek, and finally ask for one more story. Mirroring behavior of any toddler avoiding bedtime, Fred finally gets ready for a good night sleep. Drawn loosely in ink and watercolor, Fred will run away with your heart as well.

By Yasmeen Ismail,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Time for Bed, Fred! as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 4, 5, 6, and 7.

What is this book about?

It's time for bed. But will Fred go to bed? You bet he won't! From hiding up trees, and splashing in muddy puddles, to hiding in the kitchen sink and disappearing behind bookshelves, Fred will do ANYTHING to avoid bedtime. He would even prefer to have a bath. But what's this? All that running around couldn't possibly have made Fred sleepy . . . could it?

A delightful bedtime book, destined to become a classic.


Book cover of A Ball for Daisy

Mônica Carnesi Author Of Little Dog Lost: The True Story of a Brave Dog Named Baltic

From my list on picture books for dog lovers.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am a librarian and a picture book author/illustrator – it’s a perfect combination as I get to spend lots of time around books. I’m also a huge animal lover, with a special fondness for dogs. I can’t resist a picture book about dogs, and it’s no surprise that my first picture book was based on a true story about one very brave little dog. It is not easy to recommend only 5 books, but these are certainly my top favorites both in text and art. Happy reading!

Mônica's book list on picture books for dog lovers

Mônica Carnesi Why did Mônica love this book?

Meet Daisy, a bouncy puppy with a favorite red ball. One day, while playing in the park, a bigger dog bites on it and –puff! Her ball completely deflates. Daisy is crushed!  She returns home and buries herself on the sofa, totally downcast. Told in wordless panels, Daisy’s feelings are deeply felt and understood. The illustrations are amazingly expressive and perfectly capture the character’s emotional journey from playfulness to sadness. On a return visit to the park, can Daisy find a way to joy again?

By Chris Raschka,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked A Ball for Daisy as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 3, 4, 5, and 6.

What is this book about?

Winner of the 2012 Randolph Caldecott Medal

This New York Times Bestseller and New York Times Best Illustrated Book relates a story about love and loss as only Chris Rashcka can tell it. Any child who has ever had a beloved toy break will relate to Daisy's anguish when her favorite ball is destroyed by a bigger dog. In the tradition of his nearly wordless picture book Yo! Yes?, Caldecott Medalist Chris Raschka explores in pictures the joy and sadness that having a special toy can bring. Raschka's signature swirling, impressionistic illustrations and his affectionate story will particularly appeal to…


Book cover of Gaston

Alexandra Thompson Author Of A Family for Louie

From my list on joyful picture books about dogs.

Why am I passionate about this?

As a little kid, I wanted nothing more than to be best friends with every dog I met. Our family dog was a Yorkie and she was my little buddy for 17 years. A Family for Louie came about because of my love of dogs, food, and family. Naturally, my first picture book would be about all of these things! Dogs are such wonderful creatures, brimming with love, loyalty, and so much personality. I hope this round-up of books featuring our furry four-legged friends brings a little joy and laughter to your storytime. 

Alexandra's book list on joyful picture books about dogs

Alexandra Thompson Why did Alexandra love this book?

I’ll start this round-up with another book featuring an adorable french bulldog. Gaston is a story about family and that just because you might not look the same doesn’t mean you don’t belong. This story is a wonderful read-aloud with beautiful bold illustrations by Christian Robinson. This book celebrates blended families, being yourself, and as an added bonus, there are cute puppies. Who doesn’t love a book with cute puppies?!

By Kelly DiPucchio, Christian Robinson (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Gaston as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

This is the story of four puppies: Fi-Fi, Foo-Foo, Ooh-La-La, and Gaston. Gaston works the hardest at his lessons on how to be a proper pooch. He sips-never slobbers!He yips-never yaps!And he walks with grace-never races!Gaston fits right in with his poodle sisters.

But a chance encounter with a bulldog family in the park-Rocky, Ricky, Bruno, and Antoinette-reveals there's been a mix-up, and so Gaston and Antoinette switch places. The new families look right...but they don't feel right. Can these puppies follow their noses-and their hearts-to find where they belong?


Book cover of This Is a Dog

Alexandra Thompson Author Of A Family for Louie

From my list on joyful picture books about dogs.

Why am I passionate about this?

As a little kid, I wanted nothing more than to be best friends with every dog I met. Our family dog was a Yorkie and she was my little buddy for 17 years. A Family for Louie came about because of my love of dogs, food, and family. Naturally, my first picture book would be about all of these things! Dogs are such wonderful creatures, brimming with love, loyalty, and so much personality. I hope this round-up of books featuring our furry four-legged friends brings a little joy and laughter to your storytime. 

Alexandra's book list on joyful picture books about dogs

Alexandra Thompson Why did Alexandra love this book?

This hilarious and charming book features a dog that just wants to be the star of the show. With sparse text and humorous illustrations, this book is perfect for littles learning about their animals. I love the bright colors and expressive faces on all of the animals, especially the mischievous main character. You’ll have to read to find out what the dog does to get rid of the rest of the competition so that he can have the spotlight all to himself.

By Ross Collins,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked This Is a Dog as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 2, 3, 4, and 5.

What is this book about?

A hilarious paperback picture book from the award-winning, bestselling author and illustrator, Ross Collins, about a mischievous dog who steals the limelight.

Uh-oh! An excitable (but very loveable) dog has found his way into this First Animals book and he will NOT let any of the other animals take their turn. Dogs are far more important, after all! And when the other animals get angry, this dog comes up with a very cunning plan to outwit them . . .

A funny family story to share at bedtime - or any time!

A brilliant, brightly coloured gift that will make…


Book cover of Can I Be Your Dog?

Nicole Audet Author Of Are You Eating My Lunch?

From my list on bedtime stories turning kids into book lovers.

Why am I passionate about this?

My journey as a writer began in correlation with my career as a family doctor. After reading Dr. Jacques Ferron’s, books, I knew I wanted to be an author as well as a doctor. While pursuing my medical career, I wrote medical articles and books. My husband and I have also been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul of Quebecers with the story Witness of the Last Breath. This is the story of the last night of my daughter-in-law dying of lung cancer. Before she died, I promised Marie-Noëlle that I would pursue my writing career to change the world one young reader at a time. And I did.

Nicole's book list on bedtime stories turning kids into book lovers

Nicole Audet Why did Nicole love this book?

The author makes readers aware of the importance of taking good care of adopted animals. He gets his message across by bringing to life a dog who writes handwritten letters to everyone on Butternut Street.

I love hearing and seeing my children and friends' reactions to this irresistible bedtime story book. It makes us smile and feel good.

By Troy Cummings,

Why should I read it?

3 authors picked Can I Be Your Dog? as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 3, 4, 5, and 6.

What is this book about?

The New York Times bestseller featured on THE TODAY SHOW!

A heart-tugging dog adoption story told through letters--deeply sincere and almost desperate pleas for a forever home--from the dog, himself!

This picture book shares the tale of Arfy, 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 he's house 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…


Book cover of Dog Loves Drawing

Alexandra Thompson Author Of A Family for Louie

From my list on joyful picture books about dogs.

Why am I passionate about this?

As a little kid, I wanted nothing more than to be best friends with every dog I met. Our family dog was a Yorkie and she was my little buddy for 17 years. A Family for Louie came about because of my love of dogs, food, and family. Naturally, my first picture book would be about all of these things! Dogs are such wonderful creatures, brimming with love, loyalty, and so much personality. I hope this round-up of books featuring our furry four-legged friends brings a little joy and laughter to your storytime. 

Alexandra's book list on joyful picture books about dogs

Alexandra Thompson Why did Alexandra love this book?

In this fun follow-up to Dog Loves Books, Dog receives a special package in the mail - a blank book! His Aunt Dora tells him it’s for drawing. Dog begins to fill the pages with characters and draws himself right into the adventure across the pages. I love how the illustrations are approachable and will get kids excited to break out pen and paper and draw their own adventures. It makes me feel like breaking out my sketchbook right now!

By Louise Yates,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Dog Loves Drawing as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 4, 5, 6, and 7.

What is this book about?

Dog loves books, but one day he receives a strange one in the post - it's blank! Soon, Dog realises that this book is not for reading, but for drawing, and before long Dog is doodling and drawing himself into a new world, full of friends and surprises.


Book cover of Dog Songs: Poems

Amy Lee Kite Author Of Goodbye, Gus

From my list on children and adults coping with the loss of a pet.

Why am I passionate about this?

Ever since I was a young girl, I always turned to writing to work through anything that was happening in my life, ranging from the first time I experienced loss to my parents’ divorce. I have since published three children’s books on tough topics as I have aimed to provide parents, children, and teachers with tools to discuss loss and change. My most recent book, Goodbye, Gus is specifically about the loss of a pet. My dad died when I was 21, and that was the first death (other than my dogs) that I ever experienced. I was able to experience first-hand the fact that the loss of my pets helped prepare me to cope with grief, and I also learned that we can all focus on what we did have and hang on to those memories forever. 

Amy's book list on children and adults coping with the loss of a pet

Amy Lee Kite Why did Amy love this book?

I am recommending Dog Songs as a dog lover and as a poet. Two of my favorite things are dogs and poetry, and Mary Oliver combines the two in her beautiful celebration of the love between humans and dogs. I think this is a great choice when people are grieving, as the magic of the canine/human connection is conveyed in these poems, providing a source of beauty and comfort for the reader. All of her selections emphasize that unique love that we have with our pets, reminding us to enjoy life’s precious moments. 

By Mary Oliver,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked Dog Songs as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

'The popularity of [Dog Songs] feels as inevitable and welcome as a wagging tail upon homecoming' Boston Globe

In Dog Songs, Mary Oliver celebrates the special bond between human and dog, as understood through her connection to the dogs who across the years accompanied her on her daily walks, warmed her home and inspired her work. The poems in Dog Songs begin in the small everyday moments familiar to all dog lovers and become, through her extraordinary vision, meditations on the world and our place in it.

Dog Songs includes visits with old friends, like Oliver's most beloved dog Percy,…


Book cover of Rescue and Jessica: A Life-Changing Friendship

Michal Babay Author Of I'm a Gluten-Sniffing Service Dog

From my list on children’s books about service dogs.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am a mother, author, teacher, and animal lover. I write humorous picture books focused on gratitude, persistence, and joy. My inspiration for writing I'm a Gluten-Sniffing Service Dog came from my oldest daughter’s painful celiac struggles, which included steroids and hospitalizations. As I researched ways to keep her healthy long-term, without medication, I read more about gluten-sniffing dogs and how amazingly helpful they are for people with severely sensitive celiac disease. Fast forward a few years and now my daughter always has her best friend, Chewie, by her side: the goofiest, sweetest, most lovable gluten-sniffing poodle in town! I hope you enjoy these picture books showcasing disabilities and service dogs.

Michal's book list on children’s books about service dogs

Michal Babay Why did Michal love this book?

I love everything about this book! Loosely based on the partnership between Boston Marathon bombing victim Jessica and her real-life service dog, this story is heart-warming and inspirational. Rescue grew up expecting to become a Seeing Eye dog, but when it turns out he’s better suited to being a service dog, Rescue worries he won’t be able to do the job. Then one day, he meets Jessica, whose life has also been turned upside down. Rescue and Jessica work together to help each other find a way forward, one step at a time. This book belongs in every school and home library!

By Jessica Kensky, Patrick Downes (, Scott Magoon (illustrator)

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Rescue and Jessica as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 5, 6, 7, and 8.

What is this book about?

“An inspiring tale of compassion and perseverance.” —Booklist (starred review)

Rescue thought he’d grow up to be a Seeing Eye dog, but when he gets the news that he’s better suited to being a service dog, he’s worried that he’s not up to the task. Then he meets Jessica, a girl whose life is turning out differently than the way she’d imagined it, too. Now Jessica needs Rescue by her side to help her accomplish everyday tasks. And it turns out that Rescue can help Jessica see after all: a way forward, together, one step at a time. Based on…


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