I love books about animals, and books about rescue animals have a special place in my heart because I rescue dogs and cats. These books could very well inspire readers to rescue a dog (or cat) of their own! I can only hope that such is the case. The first picture book is perfect.

“My Someone: A Pet Adoption Story” is a simply illustrated, simply written story of a homeless dog and the change that is wrought in that dog when he is first found and placed in a shelter and then adopted. The author/illustrator used yellow as a joyful note throughout the story, and when the dog is sad and the day is gray, the bright yellow dog hints that happier days are ahead for this little pup. This is a book that younger readers will enjoy and that can be used to induce a discussion about empathy and understanding how that dog would feel, first not having a home and then at the end. Asking children what dogs and people might have in common will help them bridge the gap from literal understanding of the story and learning that all creatures need to feel safe and loved. (Rise x Penguin Workshop)

“Everything You Need to Know About Life You can Learn From a Dog” is a book that almost makes me wish I were still teaching because I would love to introduce my students, all of them, to this fabulous picture book filled with life lessons for humans as well as dogs. Bruce Littlefield wrote some wonderful words of wisdom, ostensibly about how dogs live their best lives, but that advice is pure gold for all of us. “Greet each day with enthusiasm.” “You’re cute just as you are.” (Think about it; dogs do come in all sizes and shapes and colors! “Stay curious.” Those are just a few of the thoughtful and important words of advice that are explained in more detail in the text below. The illustrations by Maribel Lechuga are filled with joy and beautiful accompaniment to the text. This is a must-have for dog-lovers, teachers, and parents. Pre-order now for July 2026 release. (Nancy Paulsen Books)

A picture book that celebrates Spanish and the Mexican art of alebrijes is “Leo’s Lobo” by Melissa Cristina Márquez and Maria Gabriela Gama. In this colorful picture book, Leo and his family are looking for the perfect pet. (FYI: There’s no such thing as the perfect pet.) They go to an animal shelter but Leo doesn’t find a connection with any of the animals there, but while they are wandering the market, he sees a colorful tail, and there’s a sign: Alebrijes en adopción. Alebrijes are beautifully created, colorful, fanciful animals usually made from wood or paper maché, and the Oaxaca region of Mexico is known for them, especially the town of San Martín Tilcajete. Leo finds his “perfect” pet there, a dog/wolf combination picked Leo to be his. But what Leo finds out is that no pet is perfect, but the love we receive from them makes up for stinky poops and other minor issues. This beautifully illustrated book includes a bit of español in the text, and will get kids excited to visit Mexico for their own alebrije. (Penguin Workshop)

And while I love dogs, I also adore cats. “That is NOT a dog!” by Bea Birdsong and Charlie Alder features Ollie, a cat who is terrified of dogs because of all the horrible stories he’s been told. So when he takes a walk one day and encounters a bunch of friendly creatures, he’s sure they must be a: cow, hippo, bear, sheep, and even a…marshmallow! The story is filled with humor, because we readers know that Ollie is really playing with dogs, but poor Ollie has no idea. Kids will get a kick out of the misunderstanding. The illustrations are simple and colorful, and the expressions of happiness on the faces of all the animals is adorable. (Nancy Paulsen Books)

For younger children, two board books about dogs will get even the youngest readers hooked on dog books.

“My Dog Laughs” by Rachel Isadora may be a board book, but it’s filled with information. The dogs that inhabit the pages of this little book are of all sizes, shapes, and colors. They get trained well, but sometimes they make mistakes. Don’t we all? We see all kinds of doggie apparel and that we should clean up after our dog. Different children narrate what their dog likes and doesn’t like, what their dog can do, what their dog barks at. It’s a delightful little gem perfect for small fingers. (Nancy Paulsen Books)

Finally, a very simple, very sturdy picture book. “What do Puppies Love?” by D. J. Steinberg is all about things that puppies love like napping, playing, running, snacking, belly rubs, walking, eating, and the terrible one: chewing. But most of all, this book proclaims: puppies love you! Another solid choice for young dog lovers or wannabe dog lovers. (Grosset & Dunlap)

Please note: This review is based on the final, hardcover books provided by the publisher for review purposes.