10+ Best Dog Books for 8-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect dog books for 8-year-olds? Whether your little reader is a budding dog lover or just enjoys a good story with furry friends, we've rounded up a fantastic selection that's sure to wag some tails. From adventurous tales to heartwarming friendships, these books capture the essence of childhood and the joy of canine companions. Keep reading to discover our top picks of dog books for 8-year-olds that are bound to become new favorites!

Fun Dog Books for 8-Year-Olds

• Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Coming-of-age
  • Synopsis: The story centers around a young girl named Opal who adopts a stray dog she names Winn-Dixie. The bond they form helps Opal make new friends and reconnect with her estranged father.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming tale that highlights the themes of friendship, compassion, and the importance of community, making it a great read for children learning about empathy.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love animals and stories about friendship and family.

• Shiloh by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Drama
  • Synopsis: A young boy named Marty comes across a mistreated dog named Shiloh. He faces moral dilemmas and challenges as he tries to rescue and protect the dog from its abusive owner.
  • Why we recommend this book: This story teaches important lessons about right and wrong, and the responsibilities involved in protecting another living creature.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are animal lovers and those who appreciate stories about justice and moral courage.

• Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Drama
  • Synopsis: This novel follows a young boy, Billy, and his two coonhounds during the Great Depression. They embark on various adventures in the Ozarks, highlighting the bond between a boy and his dogs.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a touching narrative that explores themes of perseverance, loyalty, and the pain of loss, which can help young readers deal with complex emotions.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers and anyone who enjoys emotionally rich tales.

• The Incredible Journey by Sheila Burnford
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Animal Fiction
  • Synopsis: This story details the harrowing journey of three pets as they traverse the Canadian wilderness in search of their owners.
  • Why we recommend this book: It showcases the resilience and intelligence of animals, and it's a thrilling adventure that keeps readers engaged.
  • Perfect for: Children who love adventure stories and tales of survival against the odds.

• Henry and Mudge: The First Book by Cynthia Rylant, illustrated by Suçie Stevenson
  • Genre(s): Early Reader, Fiction
  • Synopsis: This is the first book in a series about a young boy named Henry and his large dog Mudge. Their daily adventures are filled with fun, challenges, and affectionate moments.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's perfect for developing readers with its simple, engaging text and relatable stories about friendship and exploration.
  • Perfect for: Beginning readers who enjoy stories about pets and playful adventures.

Educational Dog Books for 8-Year-Olds

• A Dog's Life: The Autobiography of a Stray by Ann M. Martin
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Animal Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel is told from the perspective of Squirrel, a stray dog. It chronicles her journey and the challenges she faces living on her own, from her birth to her experiences with various owners.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, understanding of animal welfare, narrative skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It gives readers a poignant look at the life of a stray dog, fostering empathy and a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by animals.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and kids interested in stories from an animal's perspective.

• The Adventures of Balto: The Untold Story of Alaska's Famous Iditarod Sled Dog by Pat Chargot
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Historical, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This book tells the real-life story of Balto, the sled dog who became a hero during the 1925 serum run to Nome, Alaska. It details his perilous journey to deliver medicine during an epidemic.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, reading comprehension, resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers an exciting historical adventure that also educates about a significant event in U.S. history.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history and heroic animal stories.

• Survivors: The Empty City by Erin Hunter
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Animal Fiction
  • Synopsis: After a huge earthquake, Lucky, a lone dog, must learn to survive in a world without humans. He encounters a pack of city dogs who need his help to navigate this new world.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Teamwork, survival skills, leadership
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling tale of survival and teamwork, with plenty of action and moral lessons.
  • Perfect for: Fans of adventure and stories about animals overcoming adversity.

• Mutt's Promise by Julie Salamon, illustrated by Jill Weber
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Animal Fiction
  • Synopsis: This book follows the story of Mutt, a farm dog who promises to watch over his puppies. However, when the puppies are given away, they must navigate and survive the wider world without their mother.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of animal emotions, family bonds, resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming and sometimes heart-wrenching tale that teaches about the bonds of family and the spirit of perseverance.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy emotional stories about animals and their adventures.

• Dog Diaries: A Middle School Story by James Patterson and Steven Butler, illustrated by Richard Watson
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: This story is told from the perspective of Junior, a mischievous dog who writes about his adventures and misadventures in middle school.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Creative writing, humor, perspective-taking
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor and school life lessons in a unique format that engages young readers and encourages them to consider different viewpoints.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love humorous stories and those interested in a dog's perspective of the human world.

Challenging Dog Books for 8-Year-Olds

• Sounder by William H. Armstrong
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Drama
  • Synopsis: The story revolves around an African-American boy and his dog, Sounder, during the harsh times of the post-Civil War South. After the boy's father is taken away for stealing food for his starving family, Sounder is severely injured. The boy must face the challenges of his father's absence, Sounder's fate, and his own journey to literacy.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes such as racial prejudice, injustice, and resilience in the face of adversity.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a poignant, historical perspective that encourages deep thinking and compassion.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in historical contexts and those who appreciate stories of loyalty and perseverance.

• Lassie Come-Home by Eric Knight
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Classic
  • Synopsis: This beloved tale follows the arduous journey of a rough collie, Lassie, who travels hundreds of miles to reunite with her young owner, Joe, after being sold due to the family's financial hardships.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative is rich with detailed settings and introduces themes of loyalty and determination.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a classic adventure that showcases the unbreakable bond between a boy and his dog.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love epic journeys and classic animal stories.

• Stone Fox by John Reynolds Gardiner, illustrated by Greg Hargreaves
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Drama
  • Synopsis: Young Willy enters a dog sled race in hopes of winning enough money to pay off the taxes on his grandfather's farm. He competes against experienced adults, including the Native American, Stone Fox, who has never lost a race.
  • Why this book is challenging: The story introduces readers to economic challenges and the harsh realities of competition.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches about courage, competition, and the importance of fighting for what is dear to you.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy thrilling races and learning about different cultures.

• Old Yeller by Fred Gipson
  • Genre(s): Classic, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in post-Civil War Texas, this novel tells the story of a boy named Travis and his dog, Old Yeller, who proves to be a loyal protector to the family, saving them from many dangers. However, a tragic incident tests Travis's love and loyalty to his canine friend.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with mature themes such as responsibility, loss, and coming of age under difficult circumstances.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a moving tale that explores the complexities of growing up and the impact of personal loss.
  • Perfect for: Readers looking for a compelling narrative that teaches valuable life lessons.

• The Call of the Wild by Jack London
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Classic
  • Synopsis: This novel follows Buck, a domestic dog stolen from his home and sold into the brutal existence of an Alaskan sled dog, where he must adapt to the savage laws of nature and rise above his enemies.
  • Why this book is challenging: It uses vivid descriptions and a complex narrative to explore themes of survival and transformation.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a gripping adventure and a profound philosophical exploration of primal instincts.
  • Perfect for: Adventurous readers who appreciate stories of transformation and resilience.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to help your 8-year-old develop great reading habits while enjoying some fantastic dog-themed books, here are a few fun exercises that can make reading even more engaging. These activities are designed to enhance comprehension and make reading a habit they’ll love!

• Create a Reading Nook
  • What it is: Set up a comfortable and inviting area dedicated to reading.
  • How it helps: Creates a special place that can make reading a cherished part of the day.
  • Tips: Let your child personalize the space with their favorite cushions, lights, or decorations.

• Book-Themed Art Projects
  • What it is: Create art projects based on scenes or characters from the dog books.
  • How it helps: Helps visualize and remember the story better.
  • Tips: Use a variety of materials like crayons, markers, and construction paper to bring book scenes to life.

• Act Out the Story
  • What it is: Encourage your child to act out their favorite parts of the book.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding of the story and characters.
  • Tips: Join in the fun! Taking on a role can make it even more enjoyable for them.

• Reading Challenge Chart
  • What it is: Create a chart that tracks the number of books or pages read.
  • How it helps: Encourages a sense of accomplishment and motivates continuous reading.
  • Tips: Offer small rewards for reaching milestones to keep the excitement alive.

• Discuss the Books
  • What it is: Have regular discussions about the books your child is reading.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and allows you to monitor their understanding.
  • Tips: Ask open-ended questions that encourage your child to think and express their opinions.

By integrating these exercises into your child’s reading routine, you're not just helping them develop good reading habits; you're also making reading a fun, interactive, and rewarding experience. Enjoy exploring the wonderful world of dog stories together!