10+ Best Dog Books for 10-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read for a young dog lover? Look no further! Our roundup of dog books for 10-year-olds is packed with tales that will tug at the heartstrings and tickle the funny bones of any child. Whether your young reader is into adventures, mysteries, or heartwarming stories, we've got something that will catch their eye. Keep reading to discover our favorite picks that are sure to captivate and engage!

Fun Dog Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Family, Friendship
  • Synopsis: The story follows 10-year-old Opal as she finds a big, scruffy dog in the grocery store and names him Winn-Dixie. Together, they meet various members of their community, and Opal learns about friendship, forgiveness, and the power of memory.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming tale that shows how friendships can form in the most unexpected ways and how these relationships can help us overcome feelings of loneliness.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are new to a place or school and looking to make new friends.

• Shiloh by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Animal Stories
  • Synopsis: When Marty Preston comes across a young beagle in the hills behind his home, it's the beginning of an adventure that will teach him about integrity and responsibility. The dog, Shiloh, faces abuse from its previous owner, and Marty must decide how far he will go to protect his new friend.
  • Why we recommend this book: It presents moral dilemmas that challenge young readers to consider what is right and what is wrong, encouraging empathy and ethical decision-making.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and children who are learning about personal responsibility.

• Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Family, Classic
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of Billy and his two coonhounds during the Great Depression. Together, they explore the Ozarks, hunting raccoons and forming an unbreakable bond. The tale is one of courage, determination, and the harsh realities of life.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a touching story that explores themes of adventure and perseverance, perfect for helping kids understand the value of hard work and the importance of dreams.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers and those who appreciate stories about the human-animal bond.

• The Incredible Journey by Sheila Burnford, illustrated by Carl Burger
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Animal Stories
  • Synopsis: This classic novel follows the extraordinary travels of two dogs and a cat as they journey 300 miles through the Canadian wilderness to return to their home. Their story is one of survival and the incredible bond between pets.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an exciting adventure that showcases the resilience and loyalty of animals, inspiring readers to persevere through challenges.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love adventure tales and stories about animals overcoming the odds.

• Henry Huggins by Beverly Cleary, illustrated by Louis Darling
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: Henry Huggins’s life changes when he finds Ribsy, a dog of no particular breed, at a bus stop. Together, they embark on a series of humorous adventures, from winning a prize at a dog show to getting lost at a shopping mall.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's full of fun and laughs, making it a great pick for encouraging reluctant readers to dive into the joy of books.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy everyday adventures and those who can appreciate the humor in pet antics.

Educational Dog Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Dog Diaries: A Middle School Story by James Patterson and Steven Butler, illustrated by Richard Watson
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: This engaging book is the diary of Junior, a mischievous beagle who narrates his own life experiences and the chaos he often causes. Through his eyes, readers see his efforts to fit into a human family.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Creative writing, perspective-taking, understanding narrative voice
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a funny and captivating story that encourages creativity and helps readers understand storytelling from a unique, non-human perspective.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love animals and are interested in writing or storytelling.

• A Dog's Purpose by W. Bruce Cameron
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Told from a dog's viewpoint, this novel explores the many lives of one dog reincarnated as different canines. It delves into the dog's quest to find its purpose through its various lives and owners.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, understanding of life cycles, emotional intelligence
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers deep insights into love, loyalty, and purpose from a dog’s perspective, making it not only entertaining but also a touching read.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy emotional stories and those curious about life’s bigger questions through an animal’s eyes.

• Survivors: The Empty City by Erin Hunter
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: In a post-apocalyptic world, a Lone Dog named Lucky must decide whether to join a pack or survive on his own. This story explores themes of leadership, trust, and survival through the adventures of a group of dogs.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Teamwork and leadership skills, strategic thinking, adaptability
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines thrilling adventure with valuable lessons about trust and teamwork, all set in a richly imagined world.
  • Perfect for: Fans of action-packed stories and animal-driven narratives.

• The Poet's Dog by Patricia MacLachlan
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Poetry
  • Synopsis: A story about a dog named Teddy who can communicate with humans through speech, having learned from his poet owner. Teddy rescues two children during a blizzard, and together they share stories and find comfort in poetry.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Appreciation for poetry, emotional expression, communication skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully blends elements of poetry and storytelling, providing a gentle introduction to literature while exploring deep emotional themes.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are new to poetry and enjoy heartfelt, thought-provoking stories.

• Rescue and Jessica: A Life-Changing Friendship by Jessica Kensky and Patrick Downes, illustrated by Scott Magoon
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Biography
  • Synopsis: Based on a true story, this book follows the journey of a girl named Jessica and her service dog, Rescue. Jessica, who lost her legs, and Rescue, a dog trained to assist the disabled, learn together how to move forward in life.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of disabilities, empathy, resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s an inspiring tale of overcoming adversity and the profound impact of service animals on their human companions.
  • Perfect for: Children interested in real-life heroes and the special bond between humans and their service dogs.

Challenging Dog Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Sounder by William H. Armstrong
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Drama
  • Synopsis: This poignant novel tells the story of a young African American boy, his family, and their dog Sounder during the harsh times of racial discrimination and poverty. When the boy's father is unjustly arrested, Sounder is severely injured and the boy must grow up quickly in the face of adversity.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book addresses complex themes of racial injustice, suffering, and resilience which require a mature understanding from readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a powerful look at history and human endurance through adversity, providing young readers with a deep, emotional narrative that fosters empathy and awareness.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in historical contexts and those looking for emotionally moving stories.

• The Call of the Wild by Jack London
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Classic
  • Synopsis: This classic novel follows Buck, a domestic dog who is kidnapped and sold into the brutal life of an Alaskan sled dog. He must adapt to the savage laws of nature and rise above his circumstances to become a leader in the wild.
  • Why this book is challenging: It uses a distinctive narrative style and explores dark, existential themes that challenge the reader’s understanding of nature and survival.
  • Why we recommend this book: This gripping tale teaches about resilience, adaptation, and the intrinsic call to nature, making it a profound read for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Adventure lovers and those interested in stories of transformation and survival.

• White Fang by Jack London
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Animal Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel is a companion to The Call of the Wild, presenting a tale from the perspective of White Fang, a wild wolfdog's journey from wild to domesticated life. His harsh beginnings, and eventual softening under the kindness of a human master, weave a compelling arc about struggle and redemption.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative explores intense themes of violence and redemption, requiring readers to grapple with complex moral questions.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a nuanced perspective on animal and human interactions, and the transformative power of kindness and love.
  • Perfect for: Those who enjoy deep, thought-provoking stories and animal-centric narratives.

• Lassie Come-Home by Eric Knight, illustrated by Marguerite Kirmse
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Classic
  • Synopsis: This beloved story follows the loyal collie, Lassie, as she undertakes a treacherous journey across Scotland to reunite with her young owner, Joe, after being sold to a distant duke due to family financial hardships.
  • Why this book is challenging: The rich, descriptive language and intricate plot demand higher-level reading skills and comprehension.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a classic tale of loyalty and perseverance that highlights the unbreakable bond between a child and his dog.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who appreciate stories of adventure and enduring friendship.

• Old Yeller by Fred Gipson
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Drama
  • Synopsis: Set in post-Civil War Texas, this story explores the life of a boy named Travis and his relationship with Old Yeller, a stray dog he initially loathes but grows to love. The dog proves his worth, protecting the family from various dangers.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with mature themes such as death, survival, and moral dilemmas, requiring readers to confront difficult aspects of life and growth.
  • Why we recommend this book: This emotional story teaches about love, loss, and the realities of life, providing a profound experience for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Readers looking for a moving story that teaches valuable life lessons through a historical lens.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into some tail-waggingly good dog books, why not boost your reading experience with a few fun exercises? These activities are designed specifically for 10-year-olds to help develop strong reading habits while enjoying stories about our furry friends. Give them a try!

• Create a Reading Schedule
  • What it is: Set specific times each day dedicated to reading.
  • How it helps: Encourages a consistent reading habit.
  • Tips: Choose a quiet time, such as after dinner or right before bedtime.

• Discuss With Friends
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends who are reading the same book or have read it.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and retention through discussion.
  • Tips: Form a small book club or discuss during school breaks.

• Draw the Story
  • What it is: Draw scenes or characters from the book.
  • How it helps: Boosts imagination and helps visualize the story.
  • Tips: Use the drawings to recap chapters and add personal artistic touches.

• Predict the Plot
  • What it is: Guess what might happen next after each chapter.
  • How it helps: Engages critical thinking and anticipation skills.
  • Tips: Write down predictions and check how many were right after finishing the book.

• Map the Story
  • What it is: Create a map based on the story’s setting and plot movements.
  • How it helps: Aids in understanding the geographical and physical context of the story.
  • Tips: Use colored pencils or markers to differentiate various important locations.

• Character Diary
  • What it is: Write diary entries from the perspective of a character in the book.
  • How it helps: Develops empathy and deeper understanding of characters.
  • Tips: Choose your favorite character or one that faces interesting challenges.

Wrapping up, these exercises are not just about reading; they're about making reading an active, engaging, and enjoyable part of your day. So, grab your favorite dog book, pick one or two of these exercises, and start enhancing your reading journey. Happy reading, and may the adventures within the pages inspire you every day!