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This month is packed with humour, from Jeremy Clarkson's newest farm-to-pub chaos to the joy of the Muster Dogs TV series and the charm of Steven Rowley’s Venetian adventure. We're covering essential topics like managing highly sensitive dogs and celebrating the history of magnificent Scottish breeds and classic working dogs.
For young readers, we explore science with the Wonder Dogs, beautiful poetry, and fun stories about puppy projects and sharing. With several beautiful coffee table gift books on our list, this is the perfect time to start your Christmas gift shopping for every dog lover you know!
DIDDLY SQUAT, THE FARMER’S DOG
From Farming Fiascos to Pub Disasters
by Jeremy Clarkson (Author)
It's been another memorable year on Diddly Squat Farm - and another book full of hilarious stories
Clarkson's Farm is the gift that keeps on giving, and now our hero has decided to bring his misunderstood entrepreneurial flair to bear on a new venture- a pub. Let the doors open on The Farmer's Dog.
All British produce, Hawkstone beer on tap, a private bar for farmers and a vintage tractor hanging from the ceiling. The perfect country pub. But as the Cotswolds' newest publican quickly discovers, there's a lot more to landlording than pulling pints.
Just as well, then, that he still has Lisa, Kaleb, Cheerful Charlie and Gerald to help him through...
by Jeremy Clarkson (Author)
Clarkson's Farm is the gift that keeps on giving, and now our hero has decided to bring his misunderstood entrepreneurial flair to bear on a new venture- a pub. Let the doors open on The Farmer's Dog.
All British produce, Hawkstone beer on tap, a private bar for farmers and a vintage tractor hanging from the ceiling. The perfect country pub. But as the Cotswolds' newest publican quickly discovers, there's a lot more to landlording than pulling pints.
Just as well, then, that he still has Lisa, Kaleb, Cheerful Charlie and Gerald to help him through...
Paperback, 224 pages
Publisher: Michael Joseph, 28th October 2025
Price: $29.75 (20% off) from www.booktopia.com.au
MUSTER DOGS
The Next Generation: The new 2025 companion picture book for animal lovers and fans of the ABC television series
by Melissa Spencer, Monica O'Brien, Brianna Peacock
In vivid colour the next generation - both canine and human - and the new dramas and joy of training pups for work on the tough but glorious locations they call home.
Discover the next generation of puppies, farmers, and trainers in this new stunning companion to the beloved TV series Muster Dogs.
Publisher: Michael Joseph, 28th October 2025
Price: $29.75 (20% off) from www.booktopia.com.au
MUSTER DOGS
The Next Generation: The new 2025 companion picture book for animal lovers and fans of the ABC television series
by Melissa Spencer, Monica O'Brien, Brianna Peacock
In vivid colour the next generation - both canine and human - and the new dramas and joy of training pups for work on the tough but glorious locations they call home.
This second illustrated book captures the young pups and trainers learning from experienced handlers while introducing their own fresh ideas. Set against the breath-taking vistas of outback properties and rural landscapes, it also showcases delightful family connections and adorable pups learning new tricks and getting into the action.
So join the adventure and experience the heart-warming bond between humans and their loyal canine companions in this gorgeous tribute to tradition and innovation.
Hardcover, 192 pages
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers, 28th October 2025
Price: $33.75 (25% off) from www.booktopia.com.au
THE DOGS OF VENICE
by Steven Rowley (Author)
From the New York Times bestselling author of The Celebrants and The Guncle, a heart-warming story about finding oneself in one of the most romantic cities on Earth.
After months of planning a romantic holiday getaway in Venice, Paul is blindsided when his five-year marriage suddenly unravels. Fuelled by heartbreak, Paul endeavours to take the trip alone.
Soon after arriving in Italy, he notices a small, scruffy, self-assured dog trotting alongside a canal with the confidence he so desperately wants for himself. When their paths cross again, Paul feels compelled to learn how his new four-legged friend thrives on his own. Amid the food, sights, and welcoming people of Venice, Paul's journey culminates in a magical encounter that leads him to feel real connection--to a dog, to a foreign city and, most importantly, to himself.
Highly sensitive dogs can be perceived as timid, withdrawn or easily frightened, but they can also come across as reactive or aggressive. They might pull on the leash or bark excessively. They may attack your broomstick, react furiously to traffic, and exhibit peculiar habits that leave their caregivers puzzled and sometimes desperate.
COUNTRY LIFE’S BOOK OF DOGS
From Countryside to Hearthside, At Home with Our Four-legged Friends
by Agnes Stamp, Tony Allcock (Foreword by)
A celebration of the many breeds of dog we love, as seen through the pages of Country Life magazine, from working the fields to romping through splendid gardens to lounging in beautifully appointed sitting rooms.
Throughout its 125-year history, Country Life has chronicled our love affair with dogs. This elegantly designed volume features seventy breeds based on Royal Kennel Club classifications: hounds, working dogs, terriers, gundogs, herding dogs, toys, and utility. Each breed profile includes modern and archival photographs along with history, anecdotes, and lore.
Here we see the romance of English country living through a canine lens. From Jilly Cooper and her rescue greyhound to Trudie Styler’s wolfhounds and many famous country estates, such as Badminton House, Belvoir Castle, Castle Howard, and Holkham Hall—as well as the Royal Family with their dogs at Balmoral, Windsor Castle, and Highgrove—the book offers an intimate look at Britain’s stately houses, gardens, and gorgeous countryside.
Most of today’s breeds originated in Britain or were codified by the Royal Kennel Club, as covered by Country Life from its inception. The book poignantly raises awareness about breeds that are today considered vulnerable to extinction, such as the winsome Norwich terrier, the stout Bull Terrier, or the resolute Otterhound, currently ranked most endangered.
Also included are non-native breeds that have long associations with the Royal Family or the nobility—such as Pomeranians, Queen Victoria’s lifelong passion, and Pugs, native to China but long an aristocratic favourite.
Hardcover, 348 pages
Published: 16th September 2025
Price: $115.25 from www.booktopia.com.au
DOG ONLY KNOWS
BOOK CLUB – KIDS’ CORNER
DOGS WITH JOBS
The heroic hounds who make a difference
by Andrea Rowe, Julia Murray (Illustrator)
Give a bark for the dogs who do. Raise a paw for dogs with professions. Wag your tail for dogs who are trained to help humans out.
For hundreds of years, dogs with jobs have helped us in so many ways. Dogs have dedication, extraordinary noses, extra special skills to understand commands, the ability to pick up smells and sounds that humans can't, and the power to comfort and communicate with the humans they love. Dogs can do almost anything we ask them to.
They're Dogs with Jobs – from therapy and companion, to tracking and herding, and search and rescue support. They're here to save the day in so many remarkable ways! Why you'll love this book:
✔️ Everybody's BFF: A celebration and exploration of the vital roles dogs play within our society.
✔️ Award-winning writer: Andrea Rowe is the award-winning author of bestselling picture books Jetty Jumping, Sunday Skating, In the Rockpool and Amid the Sand Dunes.
✔️ Perfect Present: Perfect for year-round gifting to all those non-fiction loving primary-aged readers.
✔️ Packed with Info: Covers a wide range of jobs, including guide dogs, rescue dogs, therapy dogs and many, many more!
Hardcover, 48 pages
The second book in this series celebrates friendship, family, neurodiversity, creativity and a love of animals and books. By the bestselling author of The Tea Chest and The Wonderful Thing about Phoenix Rose.
Millie and Stella have wanted a puppy for the longest time. So when Fergus, an adorable assistance dog in training, needs their help, they’re up for the challenge. But it’s harder than they thought and the cheeky puppy has his own plans about what to learn.
Paperback, 224 pages
Publisher: Penguin Books kids, Imprint: Puffin, 2 September 2025
RRP: $16.99 at www.penguin.com.au
THE DOG IS FULL OF LOVE
Poems about how we love dogs and they love us
by Lou Peacock, John Bond (Illustrator)
A brilliantly illustrated collection of over 30 poems about how we love dogs and they love us - the perfect gift for dog lovers!
Loyal, cheerful, kind and very silly, dogs steal all the space in the bed, and they steal our hearts too. With poems from a wide range of voices, this warm and witty collection of canine poetry is the perfect celebration of (almost) everyone's favourite pet.
Curl up with a pup and enjoy these heartfelt poems about why we love dogs, and they love us.
Hardcover, 48 pages
Publisher: Nosy Crow, 14th October 2025
For Ages: 7 - 12 years old
When Boofa Boy Jones steals Skippy Gillespie's very big bone, a marvellous doggy race ensues. All through the night the pair run through the suburban streets from the doggy dump to the dog park and home again.
So join the adventure and experience the heart-warming bond between humans and their loyal canine companions in this gorgeous tribute to tradition and innovation.
Hardcover, 192 pages
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers, 28th October 2025
Price: $33.75 (25% off) from www.booktopia.com.au
THE DOGS OF VENICE
by Steven Rowley (Author)
From the New York Times bestselling author of The Celebrants and The Guncle, a heart-warming story about finding oneself in one of the most romantic cities on Earth.
Soon after arriving in Italy, he notices a small, scruffy, self-assured dog trotting alongside a canal with the confidence he so desperately wants for himself. When their paths cross again, Paul feels compelled to learn how his new four-legged friend thrives on his own. Amid the food, sights, and welcoming people of Venice, Paul's journey culminates in a magical encounter that leads him to feel real connection--to a dog, to a foreign city and, most importantly, to himself.
Capturing Steven Rowley's signature wit, insight, and indelible characters, The Dogs of Venice offers another timeless story of love lost, and independence found--a holiday tonic for the soul.
Hardcover, 80 pages
Publisher: G.P. Putnam's Sons, 14 October 2025
Hardcover, 80 pages
Publisher: G.P. Putnam's Sons, 14 October 2025
Price: $34.11 from The Nile
DOGSIVITY
A Guide to Living with Highly Sensitive Dogs
by Ineke Vander Aa
Dogs can be highly sensitive to the sights, sounds, and smells from their environment. They can even be highly sensitive to the moods of their family members.
DOGSIVITY
A Guide to Living with Highly Sensitive Dogs
by Ineke Vander Aa
Dogs can be highly sensitive to the sights, sounds, and smells from their environment. They can even be highly sensitive to the moods of their family members.
These dogs come in all shapes and sizes, but they share one thing in common: conditioning methods such as obedience training or traditional behaviour therapy do not contribute to the dog's long-term well-being. This book is an invitation to let go of old ways, and explore a new way of living with dogs based on insight, empathy and equality.
Dogsitivity uses real-life examples and the latest research on high sensitivity in both humans and dogs to inspire a more conscious, empathetic approach to the dogs we share our lives with. This revised edition focuses on our responsibility as loving caregivers, and inspires the reader to create a healthy living environment and lifestyle for both dog and human.
Paperback, 354 pages
Publisher: Shewolf, 15th October 2025
Price: $45.75 from www.booktopia.com.au
TAILS OF SCOTLAND
The Story of Scottish Dogs
by Peter MacQueen
Dog-loving Scotsman Peter MacQueen is embarking on an extraordinary adventure. A deep dive into Scotland's iconic dog breeds, filled with stunning photography.
Dog-loving Scotsman Peter MacQueen is embarking on an extraordinary adventure, guided by some of the most iconic, spirited and lovable dogs to ever leave their pawprints on Scotland's history. From the sheep-covered hills of the Borders to the windswept and majestic Isle of Skye, Peter dives into the world of Scotland's most celebrated breeds with his new book Tails of Scotland: The Story of Scottish Dogs.
For a small country, Scotland has a remarkable number of native breeds of dogs - each chapter is a journey of discovery, revealing the history, traits and distinct personalities of twelve distinct Scottish dogs. From the regal Scottish Deerhound, the gentle giant of the glens, to the mischievous West Highland Terrier stealing hearts (and socks!) across the country, Peter meets the people who adore them and uncovers what makes each breed a perfect fit for its place - and its people.
Whether he's watching a Border Collie command its flock or exploring the inquisitive spirit and unique charm of a Dandie Dinmont, Peter unearths the traditions that make these dogs an integral part of Scotland's heritage.
Packed with lively storytelling, stunning photography of dogs in Scotland's breath-taking landscapes, and practical tips for both current and future owners, Tails of Scotland is a heartfelt celebration of dogs and the folk who can't live without them.
Hardcover, 256 pages
Publisher: Bonnier, 23rd October 2025
RRP: $45.75 from www.booktopia.com.au
Dogsitivity uses real-life examples and the latest research on high sensitivity in both humans and dogs to inspire a more conscious, empathetic approach to the dogs we share our lives with. This revised edition focuses on our responsibility as loving caregivers, and inspires the reader to create a healthy living environment and lifestyle for both dog and human.
Paperback, 354 pages
Publisher: Shewolf, 15th October 2025
Price: $45.75 from www.booktopia.com.au
TAILS OF SCOTLAND
The Story of Scottish Dogs
by Peter MacQueen
Dog-loving Scotsman Peter MacQueen is embarking on an extraordinary adventure. A deep dive into Scotland's iconic dog breeds, filled with stunning photography.
For a small country, Scotland has a remarkable number of native breeds of dogs - each chapter is a journey of discovery, revealing the history, traits and distinct personalities of twelve distinct Scottish dogs. From the regal Scottish Deerhound, the gentle giant of the glens, to the mischievous West Highland Terrier stealing hearts (and socks!) across the country, Peter meets the people who adore them and uncovers what makes each breed a perfect fit for its place - and its people.
Whether he's watching a Border Collie command its flock or exploring the inquisitive spirit and unique charm of a Dandie Dinmont, Peter unearths the traditions that make these dogs an integral part of Scotland's heritage.
Packed with lively storytelling, stunning photography of dogs in Scotland's breath-taking landscapes, and practical tips for both current and future owners, Tails of Scotland is a heartfelt celebration of dogs and the folk who can't live without them.
Hardcover, 256 pages
Publisher: Bonnier, 23rd October 2025
RRP: $45.75 from www.booktopia.com.au
COUNTRY LIFE’S BOOK OF DOGS
From Countryside to Hearthside, At Home with Our Four-legged Friends
by Agnes Stamp, Tony Allcock (Foreword by)
A celebration of the many breeds of dog we love, as seen through the pages of Country Life magazine, from working the fields to romping through splendid gardens to lounging in beautifully appointed sitting rooms.
Here we see the romance of English country living through a canine lens. From Jilly Cooper and her rescue greyhound to Trudie Styler’s wolfhounds and many famous country estates, such as Badminton House, Belvoir Castle, Castle Howard, and Holkham Hall—as well as the Royal Family with their dogs at Balmoral, Windsor Castle, and Highgrove—the book offers an intimate look at Britain’s stately houses, gardens, and gorgeous countryside.
Most of today’s breeds originated in Britain or were codified by the Royal Kennel Club, as covered by Country Life from its inception. The book poignantly raises awareness about breeds that are today considered vulnerable to extinction, such as the winsome Norwich terrier, the stout Bull Terrier, or the resolute Otterhound, currently ranked most endangered.
Also included are non-native breeds that have long associations with the Royal Family or the nobility—such as Pomeranians, Queen Victoria’s lifelong passion, and Pugs, native to China but long an aristocratic favourite.
Hardcover, 348 pages
Published: 16th September 2025
Price: $115.25 from www.booktopia.com.au
DOG ONLY KNOWS
The Dog Portraits of Alison Friend
by Alison Friend (Author)
The next must-have gift book for every dog lover from artist and Instagram sensation Alison Friend, featuring over 125 of her irresistible dog portraits-each uniquely mischievous, sweet, poignant, and funny.
Welcome to Alison Friend's world of dogs. Meet Dave, the Boston terrier who loves gummy bears. Pip, the Border Collie who'd rather solve her Rubik's Cube than herd sheep. Debbie, a Chihuahua sipping a raspberry mojito. Douglas, master etch-a-sketch artist. And Super Dog, dressed in a mask and cape, whose superpower is hearing snacks being opened from a mile away.
With dogs of every personality, every breed, and every interest, and with witty captions accompanying each portrait, Dog Only Knows is a collection full of humour and charm on every page.
Hardcover 224 pages
Publisher: Artisan, 21 October 2025
Price: $37.50 (25% off) from www.amazon.com.au
The next must-have gift book for every dog lover from artist and Instagram sensation Alison Friend, featuring over 125 of her irresistible dog portraits-each uniquely mischievous, sweet, poignant, and funny.
With dogs of every personality, every breed, and every interest, and with witty captions accompanying each portrait, Dog Only Knows is a collection full of humour and charm on every page.
Hardcover 224 pages
Publisher: Artisan, 21 October 2025
Price: $37.50 (25% off) from www.amazon.com.au
DOGS WITH JOBS
The heroic hounds who make a difference
by Andrea Rowe, Julia Murray (Illustrator)
Give a bark for the dogs who do. Raise a paw for dogs with professions. Wag your tail for dogs who are trained to help humans out.
They're Dogs with Jobs – from therapy and companion, to tracking and herding, and search and rescue support. They're here to save the day in so many remarkable ways! Why you'll love this book:
✔️ Everybody's BFF: A celebration and exploration of the vital roles dogs play within our society.
✔️ Award-winning writer: Andrea Rowe is the award-winning author of bestselling picture books Jetty Jumping, Sunday Skating, In the Rockpool and Amid the Sand Dunes.
✔️ Perfect Present: Perfect for year-round gifting to all those non-fiction loving primary-aged readers.
✔️ Packed with Info: Covers a wide range of jobs, including guide dogs, rescue dogs, therapy dogs and many, many more!
Hardcover, 48 pages
Publisher: Hardie Grant Children's Publishing, Imprint: Bright Light, 28th October
For Ages: 6 - 10 years old
Price: $19.95 at www.booktopia.com.au
THE PUPPY PROJECT
For Ages: 6 - 10 years old
Price: $19.95 at www.booktopia.com.au
THE PUPPY PROJECT
Millie and Stella Best Friends Forever
by Josephine Moon, Jedda Robaard
Join best friends Millie and Stella for a week of friendship, fun and a lot of puppy chaos . . .
by Josephine Moon, Jedda Robaard
Join best friends Millie and Stella for a week of friendship, fun and a lot of puppy chaos . . .
Millie and Stella have wanted a puppy for the longest time. So when Fergus, an adorable assistance dog in training, needs their help, they’re up for the challenge. But it’s harder than they thought and the cheeky puppy has his own plans about what to learn.
Paperback, 224 pages
Publisher: Penguin Books kids, Imprint: Puffin, 2 September 2025
RRP: $16.99 at www.penguin.com.au
THE DOG IS FULL OF LOVE
Poems about how we love dogs and they love us
by Lou Peacock, John Bond (Illustrator)
Loyal, cheerful, kind and very silly, dogs steal all the space in the bed, and they steal our hearts too. With poems from a wide range of voices, this warm and witty collection of canine poetry is the perfect celebration of (almost) everyone's favourite pet.
Curl up with a pup and enjoy these heartfelt poems about why we love dogs, and they love us.
Hardcover, 48 pages
Publisher: Nosy Crow, 14th October 2025
For Ages: 7 - 12 years old
Price: $22.75 from www.booktopia.com.au
THE WONDER DOGS CAUGHT IN A THUNDERSTORM
by Lisa Spencer, Dylan Hale
A zigzagging flash of lightning streaks across the sky, followed by a loud crash of thunder. Scary? Not at all! Professor Woofensmart, along with Lucy, Litzy, and their newest recruit, Lyla, are thrilled! They can't wait to test their storm-tracking gadgets at the Wonder Lab and beyond.
However, their plans change when they notice a child playing in the park. The Wonder Dogs spring into action. Will they save him from the oncoming storm?
Introducing The Wonder Dogs, a team of pups who sprinkle scientific facts throughout their exciting adventures in the Wonder Lab. Discover more about weather phenomena with Professor Woofensmart's experiments at the end of the book.
Paperback, 44 pages
THE WONDER DOGS CAUGHT IN A THUNDERSTORM
by Lisa Spencer, Dylan Hale
However, their plans change when they notice a child playing in the park. The Wonder Dogs spring into action. Will they save him from the oncoming storm?
Introducing The Wonder Dogs, a team of pups who sprinkle scientific facts throughout their exciting adventures in the Wonder Lab. Discover more about weather phenomena with Professor Woofensmart's experiments at the end of the book.
Paperback, 44 pages
Publisher: Solander Press, 9th October 2025
For Ages: 3 - 10 years old
RRP: $19.99 from www.amazon.com.au
THE MIDNIGHT CHEW
A picture book about two dogs and the spirit of sharing
by Sally Morgan, Karen Blair
In this fun, canine adventure, Boofa Boy Jones and Skippy Gillespie must learn the importance of sharing.
For Ages: 3 - 10 years old
RRP: $19.99 from www.amazon.com.au
THE MIDNIGHT CHEW
A picture book about two dogs and the spirit of sharing
by Sally Morgan, Karen Blair
When Boofa Boy Jones steals Skippy Gillespie's very big bone, a marvellous doggy race ensues. All through the night the pair run through the suburban streets from the doggy dump to the dog park and home again.
But who will win the mighty bone, and will they feast all alone?
Hardcover, 32 pages
Publisher: Fremantle Press, 30th September 2025
For Ages: 2 - 5 years old
RRP: $21.75 from www.booktopia.com.au
Hardcover, 32 pages
Publisher: Fremantle Press, 30th September 2025
For Ages: 2 - 5 years old
RRP: $21.75 from www.booktopia.com.au
