Dog Lovers Book Club - April 2026

Written by Australian Dog Lover 21:45:00 - 0 Comments

As the April air turns crisp, our selection explores the profound work that defines our lives with dogs. This month, we move beyond the surface of pet ownership to delve into the high-stakes world of police and military K9s, the emotional grit of the assistance dog journey, and the evolving science of vet CPR standards. Whether you are navigating the reality of owner-training or honouring the "four-legged diggers" of our history, these titles reflect a deeper, more informed partnership with our canine protectors.

Our bumper Kids’ Corner arrives just in time for the Autumn school holidays, celebrating the high-energy joy and magical wonder of childhood pets. From the rhythmic excitement of a backyard chase to inclusive stories of service pups and "dog-tuned" enrichment, this collection is designed to engage every type of young reader.

YOSHI AND ME

How a Golden Dog Taught Me to Stay
by Yevette Ho (Author)

What happens when you need a dog to save you - but you're the one who has to train her?

Living with PTSD, chronic illness, and the daily barriers of disability, Yevette Ho never imagined that a golden retriever puppy would become her lifeline. Yoshi and Me is a raw, funny, and deeply moving memoir about survival, stubborn hope, and the unbreakable bond between human and dog.

Unlike polished tales of ready-trained service animals, this is the messy, honest story of what it means to raise and train your own assistance dog. From sleepless nights and chaotic puppyhood to breakthroughs in behaviour, disability access battles, and the nerve-wracking journey toward the Public Access Test (PAT), Yoshi proves that she's more than a dog - she's a partner in independence.

Blending heartfelt memoir with practical insight, this book explores:

✔️ The realities of owner-trained assistance dogs
✔️ The difference between emotional support animals and service dogs
✔️ The struggles and triumphs of living with PTSD and chronic illness
✔️ The humour, frustration, and joy of training a golden retriever with a purpose

At its core, Yoshi and Me is about resilience, love, and the quiet strength it takes to keep going - with muddy paws, wagging tails, and plenty of dog hair along the way.

Read More: For a deeper look at the legal and ethical framework of owner-training in Australia, don't miss our exclusive feature: The Reality of Owner-Trained Assistance Dogs.

Perfect for readers who love service dog memoirs, disability lived experience, dog training stories, or uplifting tales of survival and companionship.

Publisher: Vetz Media Publishing, 28 September 2025
Paperback,‎ 182 pages

Price: $28.59 from www.booktopia.com.au

VADER: The Legend of K9-239
by David Raymond

In the rugged terrain of North Queensland, one name commanded immediate respect: Police Dog Vader. For five years, this formidable German Shepherd and his handler, Sergeant David Raymond, formed one of the most effective K9 teams in the Queensland Police Service.

Vader is the gripping true account of their partnership—a bond forged in the humidity of Cairns and tested in the adrenaline of high-stakes manhunts. From tracking violent fugitives through dense scrub to the life-saving rescues of missing persons, the book captures the raw reality of life on the thin blue line.

David Raymond doesn't just chronicle the heroism; he shares the humour and the heartbreak of working with a partner who was as relentless as he was loyal. It is a powerful tribute to a dog that caught over 160 offenders and left an indelible mark on the community he was sworn to protect.

Why We Love It 

"More than a career retrospective, this is a masterclass in the human-canine bond. Vader wasn't just a tool for law enforcement; he was a force of nature with a personality to match. It's a must-read for anyone who respects the silent service of our working dogs."

Paperback,‎ 320 pages

Publisher: ‎Big Sky Publishing, 26 August 2025

Price: $26.11 at amazon.com.au

DOGS OF WAR: Guardians of the Battlefield

by Nigel Allsopp

From the bomb-scarred streets of Ukraine to the deserts of Afghanistan, Dogs of War uncovers the untold stories of the canine heroes who stand where others won't. These aren't just animals of burden; they are elite trackers, explosive detectors, and the emotional lifelines for soldiers facing the chaos of conflict.

Through first-hand accounts from handlers and trainers, veteran K9 expert Nigel Allsopp explores the unbreakable bond forged in the heat of battle. This collection honours the "four-legged diggers"—from rescue dogs turned warriors to silent sentries—whose loyalty and sacrifice remain etched in the hearts of those they served alongside.

Why We Love It 

"As we approach ANZAC Day, this is a powerful reminder of the silent service provided by our war animals. Nigel Allsopp doesn't just write about these dogs; he lives the mission, with royalties supporting the Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation (AWAMO)."

Hardcover, ‎336 pages
Publisher‏: Big Sky Publishing, 25 November 2025

Price: $29.75 from www.amazon.com.au

THE DOGWALKERS’ DETECTIVE AGENCY
by Michael Hogan (Author)

They've got a lot of leads, but can they collar a killer? A funny, delightfully twisty murder mystery pairing the nation's favourite genre with man's best friend!

When Charlie Boardman and his beloved Staffy, Ruby, stumble across a corpse in the woods, the sleepy coastal town of Framstone is rocked by the discovery that the local pub landlord has been murdered.

Charlie and his fellow dogwalkers take it upon themselves to try and sniff out any clues that might help the local police with their investigation.

But what begins as idle speculation and gossip quickly becomes something more sinister, when Charlie starts receiving anonymous threats warning him off the case.

Then, a second body washes up on the beach...

Can Charlie hunt down a killer, before he becomes the next victim?

Paperback, ‎ 480 pages
Publisher: ‎Michael Joseph, 20 January 2026

Price: $18.75 from www.amazon.com.au

IT’S A TOUGH JOB BEING A DOG
Life Through a Dog's Eyes
by Iain Welch

With charming watercolour artwork and witty, soulful captions, It's a Tough Job Being a Dog reminds us that behind every lick is plenty of hard-earned love.

In this tender and whimsical tribute to the quiet heroes in our homes, Iain Welch invites readers into the delightful world of his beloved canine characters.

From the quiet nobility of guarding the sofa to the daily drama of squirrels and surviving terrifying vacuum monsters, these dogs face life's ups and downs with unwavering heart and wagging tails.

Perfect for dog lovers of all ages, this collection reminds us that while being a dog isn't always easy, it's always filled with love, loyalty and the occasional muddy pawprint. These charming stories, brought to life with delightful art, prove that being man's best friend is no walk in the park.

Hardcover, 128 pages
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers, 12th March 2026

RRP:$30.75 from www.booktopia.com.au

ADVANCED CANINE AND FELINE CPR AND EMERGENCY LIFE SUPPORT 
by Amy D'Andrea (Author), Gregory D'Andrea (Editor)

In a pet emergency, the first few minutes are the most critical. 

This definitive guide from Pet Emergency Education, LLC provides a vital overhaul of emergency protocols, based on the 2024 RECOVER Initiative updates—the first major revision of veterinary CPR guidelines in over a decade.

Designed for both veterinary professionals and high-stakes pet industries (groomers, trainers, and first responders), this manual moves beyond basic first aid. It delivers step-by-step instructions for:

• The 2024 CPR Overhaul: Updated compression rates and rescue breathing techniques for dogs and cats.

• Professional Triage: Rapid assessment protocols to prioritize care during multi-animal crises or disasters.

• Critical Care: Handling shock, heatstroke, and trauma with the latest evidence-based safe restraint and transport methods.

Whether you are a pet parent or an industry pro, this resource ensures you are acting on the most current, life-saving science available in 2026.

Paperback, 125 pages
Publisher:‎ Independently published, ‎ 18 September 2025

Price: $50.01 at www.amazon.com.au

BOOK CLUB - KIDS CORNER

ABSOLUTE BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO DOGS AND PUPPIES FOR KIDS
Everything You Need to Know about Breeds, Training, Safety, and More!
by Lynn Guelzow

You've got a new puppy or dog--now what? This guide will help you learn how to build a wonderful relationship, keep your new puppy healthy and happy, and avoid common mistakes of first-time dog and puppy owners.

Whether you have a dog, are thinking about getting a dog, or just love puppies and dogs, this guide is packed with the essential information, tips, and advice that every dog-loving kid will enjoy.

Every chapter begins with a short story to introduce the topic and engage the reader. Stories are short but lead directly into the information, showing the importance in everyday situations from destructive puppy chewing to sports and games to play with a dog. Adorable pictures and photos aid in understanding, as well as keeping a young reader interested.

The Absolute Beginners Guide to Dogs and Puppies covers a lot of important topics including:

✔️ Preparing your home for a new dog
✔️ Dog breeds and their characteristics
✔️ Amazing dogs in movies, books and real-life heroes
✔️ House-training
✔️ Basic obedience
✔️ Nutrition and health care
✔️ Unique needs of puppies and young dogs
✔️ Domestication of wolves into dogs
And so much more

Series: Best Beginner's Guide for Kids with Pets
Paperback, 160 pages
Publisher: Skyhorse Publishing, Inc., 15 April 2026
For Ages: 8 - 12 years old

Price: $18.75 at www.amazon.com.au

PAWS: THE TROUBLE WITH LEO
by Nathan Fairbairn (Author), Michele Assarasakorn (Illustrator)

The girls of PAWS have a bone to pick with a group of rival (BOY! Ugh.) dog walkers...

It's been seven whole dog years of PAWS (or just one if you're a human), and the girls' business is at an all-time high! But after a run-in with Gabby's arch-nemesis, Leo, things take a turn - and Leo leaves the girls with a message- "You're not the only one who can walk dogs..."

Sure enough, it's not long before the PAWS girls notice flyers advertising a new dog walking business, SCAMPS - and Leo is behind it! And when Gabby and Mindy take some not-so-righteous revenge on the boys, what was a little healthy competition turns into an all-out turf war.

As the battle between the two groups escalates, with neither side is playing fair, the girls are forced to consider... just WHO is the real bad guy here... ?

Paperback, 176 pages
Publisher: Puffin, 24 March 2026
For Ages: 9-11 years old

Price: $14.99 from www.amazon.com.au

THE BOY AND THE DOG TREE 
by Fiona Wood (Author)

Magical. Whimsical. Wild. This exceptional middle-grade novel about the special bond between a boy and his dog will set your heart free.

'So, are you my dog?' Mitch whispered, hardly daring to ask.
'No,' said Argos. 'But you are my boy. For a time.'

Mitch's life has been uprooted. Instead of the whole family moving to a new city, Mitch and his sister are staying with their gran while their parents are stuck on the other side of the world. As he struggles to fit in at school, with the Grade Five bully picking on him, Mitch knows the one thing that would make his life better is a dog. If only he could persuade his parents.

Then Mitch discovers an old oak tree that seems to ... growl. And one night, a strange, majestic dog-like creature emerges from the trunk. His name is Argos. He has been bound in the tree by 'history, mystery, magic and chance' and he is here to help Mitch find his way.

While at first Mitch looks to Argos for friendship and protection, there comes a time he must stand up for this wild and magical beast.

A heart-lifting tale of friendship, courage and belonging by three-time CBCA Award-winning author Fiona Wood.

Paperback, 256 pages
Publisher: University of Queensland Press, 3 March 2026
For Ages: ‎ 7 - 10 years

Price: $16.75 from www.amazon.com.au

ANDY: A DOG’S TALE 
by John Kelly (Author), Canine Companions Ignite Animation Studios (Producer)

Adapted from the award-winning short film, this heart-warming picture book follows Andy—the smallest puppy in his litter—as he overcomes adversity to discover his purpose as a service dog. 

From his early days of training to his eventual placement, the story mirrors the real-world dedication and bond required to prepare Canine Companions for people with disabilities. 

It is an uplifting tale of resilience and compassion, proving that even the smallest beginnings can lead to a life of extraordinary purpose.

Hardcover, ‎32 pages
Publisher: ‎The Collective Book Studio, 16 December 2025
For Ages: 4 - 8 years

Price: $32.59 at www.amazon.com.au

A TAIL OF TWO DOGS
Friendship, bravery, and discovering your own magic
by Shannon Faye, Timothy A

Featuring expressive watercolour illustrations, A Tail of Two Dogs follows the journey of two canine friends, Eloise and Z, as they navigate a world of change. 

Written with cross-generational appeal, this story serves as a calming read-aloud that invites readers to stay grounded in the present moment. 

By focusing on the bond between the two dogs, it transforms the concept of "change" from something to fear into an opportunity for resilience and growth.

Paperback, 44 pages
Publisher: Balboa Press, 30th January 2026
For Ages: 4 - 8 years

Price: $32.78 from www.amazon.com.au

ARE YOU THE GOODEST DOG?
by N.G. Welis | Illustrated by Milia Finn

Part of the Books to Read to Dogs series, this rhyming picture book is written to be narrated directly to a canine audience. 

The story follows a dog’s daily perspective, celebrating familiar habits like "peemail" checks, enthusiastic sniffing, and bed-hogging.
The book utilises a specific "Dog Tuned™" reading rhythm—incorporating intentional pauses and elongated phrasing—designed to help dogs settle and connect with the sound of a human voice. 

It includes a guide at the back for readers looking to use the story for calming enrichment or as a tool for children practicing their literacy skills with a non-judgmental furry listener.

Paperback,‎ 35 pages

Publisher: Best DOG'S Life Publishing, 18 February 2026
For Ages: 4-8 years old

Price: $15.52 at www.amazon.com.au

THE CHASE
by Jenny Bloomfield (Author)

FETCH!

A girl on a beach throws a ball for one eager little dog.

Suddenly one dog becomes two--three--TEN leaping, bounding doggies, hot on its trail! The chase is on: who will be the lucky pup to fetch the bright red prize?

The race leads them down the beach, through the city, into the museum; high up over the city balanced on an iron girder; through the park down the river, until: what's that rumbling sound? Oh dear! But not even a thundering waterfall will stop these determined dogs from chasing down that ball...

An utter joy from beginning to end, this book combines the charm--and an adorable canine crew--of Hairy Maclary with the infectious rhythm and energy of We're Going on a Bear Hunt.

Paperback,‎ 34 pages
Publisher: ‎Frances Lincoln Ltd, 3 February 2026
For Ages: 3 - 5 years

Price: $16.95 from www.amazon.com.au

Haven't found your perfect read yet?

If this month’s selection hasn’t quite hit the mark, or if you are looking for even more canine-centric inspiration, head over to the BOOK CLUB tab on our main menu. There, you can explore our full archives—including our last 10 monthly instalments—to find the ideal story, training guide, or professional resource for your shelf.

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