Beware of the Dog

by Roald Dahl

Everything is fine, he thought. I'm doing all right. I'm doing nicely. I know my way home. I'll be there in half an hour. When I land I shall taxi in and switch off my engine and I shall say, help me to get out, will you. I shall make my voice sound ordinary and natural and none of them will take any notice. Then I shall say, someone help me to get out. I can't do it alone because I've lost one of my legs

Genres: Short Stories, Fiction, Classics, War, Audiobook, Historical Fiction, Military Fiction

11 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1946

About the author

Roald Dahl was a beloved British author, poet, screenwriter, and wartime fighter pilot, best known for his enchanting and often darkly humorous children's books that have captivated generations of readers around the world. Born in Llandaff, Wales, to Norwegian parents, Dahl led a life marked by adventure, tragedy, creativity, and enduring literary success. His vivid imagination and distinctive storytelling style have made him one of the most celebrated children's authors in modern literature.
Before becoming a writer, Dahl lived a life filled with excitement and hardship. He served as a Royal Air Force pilot during World War II, surviving a near-fatal crash in the Libyan desert. His wartime experiences and travels deeply influenced his storytelling, often infusing his works with a sense of danger, resilience, and the triumph of the underdog. After the war, he began writing for both adults and children, showing a rare versatility that spanned genres and age groups.
Dahl's children's books are known for their playful use of language, unforgettable characters, and a deep sense of justice, often pitting clever children against cruel or foolish adults. Some of his most iconic titles include Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Matilda, The BFG, James and the Giant Peach, Fantastic Mr Fox, and The Witches. These works are filled with fantastical elements and moral undertones, empowering young readers to challenge authority, think independently, and believe in the impossible.
Equally acclaimed for his work for adults, Dahl wrote numerous short stories characterized by their macabre twists and dark humor. His stories were frequently published in magazines such as The New Yorker and later compiled into bestselling collections like Someone Like You and Kiss Kiss. He also wrote screenplays, including the James Bond film You Only Live Twice and the adaptation of Ian Fleming's Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.
Despite his literary success, Dahl was a complex and sometimes controversial figure, known for his strong opinions and difficult personality. Nonetheless, his books continue to be treasured for their wit, originality, and the sense of wonder they inspire. Many of his stories have been adapted into successful films, stage plays, and television specials, further cementing his legacy.
Dahl's impact on children's literature is immeasurable. His ability to connect with young readers through a mix of irreverence, heart, and imagination has made his stories timeless. Even after his death, his books remain in print and continue to be read by millions of children worldwide. His writing not only entertains but also encourages curiosity, courage, and compassion.
Roald Dahl's work lives on as a testament to the power of storytelling and the magic of a truly original voice. He remains a towering figure in literature whose creations continue to spark joy, mischief, and inspiration across generations.

Reviews

[Shovelmonkey1 · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you mentioned Roald Dahl to people you'd most likely elicit two or three common responses. Ah yes, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and the man who wrote James and the Giant Peach and the BFG. Or isn't his granddaughter that super model who used to be bigger and is now very skinny and isn't she married to the very short musician even though she is very tall? Or even, isn't he the man who wrote scary stories to freak children out because really, he did not like small children and their self serving and mendacious ways?

Some of these things are half true. Some are not true at all but exist as a sort of wall of myth which surrounds Roald Dahl. The best thing about Dahl is that he wrote some truly excellent adult stories which have seem to have been overlooked by the public at large who are rather more fond of the chocolate rivers, giant fruit and abusive bearded guardians. Beware of the Dog is a short, well crafted war story which describes the downing of a plane and its wounded pilot. With a few hundred well placed words, Dahl takes you on a journey into the pilots mind as he considers what will happen when he returns to base, wounded from his mission and minus a limb. Never one to tell a straightforward story there's a neat little twist in the tale, after all it's not only children who enjoy surprises.

[Chantal · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really had to think about it longer to get the clue of this story (I got it). This is a nice short story which was easy to read. It could have been somewhat longer, but it is okay.

[Regina Fleck · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beware of this short story

Contrary to what the title - and the name Roald Dahl - may suggest, this story is not about an angry, foaming dog who goes through a redemption arc and becomes some kid's sweet, bubbly pet. It is, actually, a skilfully crafted psychological short story about a pilot who lost his leg during WWII.

[Avery · Rating 4 out of 5]

Personal Response: Overall the story was really amazing and i feel like i could relate to the book because of how much i like history. WWII is a big part in history and i know a lot about it.

Plot Summary: Peter other known as the man is in a Plane where he is missing his right leg. As he is trying to stay awake he faints. He then wakes up in a hospital where the Nurse tells him is in Germany. Peter lost his leg in the plane crash, so he had to be nursed and bathed and treated. When the nurse left the room for the night he crawls out of bed to the window to see where he really is because things didn't seem like they would if it were Germany. When he moves the curtains from the window he see three words "Garde au chien" these words are not in German they are in French. After he realizes that he is actually in France he finds out a General is coming to see him to report a combat injury forum. When the French General comes in he asks for his ranking and his number so he can report his injury for the "French soldier" the man says "My name is Peter Williamson. My rank is Squadron Leader and my number is nine seven two four five seven . . ." This means that Peter is now telling the French General that he is an Ally not an Axis. This then concludes the story. Peter betrayed his country instead of saying he was the enemy.

Character Analysis: The main character's name is Peter Williamson, he is a German Pilot whose plane was shot down by the Allies in WWII. Later in the story he finds out that the only way to survive is to pretend he is a French Pilot and betray his country.
Recommendation: I would like to rate this 4/5 stars and recommend this short story to anyone that is a fan of history that include WWII.

[Prashant · Rating 3 out of 5]

I hadn't read the introduction and review of this story and so wasn't expecting a story for adults coming from the mind of Dahl.

But the fact is, Dahl have actually written some stories for adults and this is one among them. The story goes fine but the ending is a little abrupt and it left me confirming twice if the story has actually ended.

It's a short story of a pilot who lost his leg in the combat and it gives the thoughts going on his mind vis-a-vis his reunion with his friends in the light of the recent developments. The story has it's twists but still it left me wanting for more.

I just read that in reality Dahl hated children and abhorred their shenanigans. That's interesting, especially for the most acclaimed children's books writer.

[Madeline · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars.

What an ending....

[Sarah Elizabeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read as part of The Complete Short Stories: Volume One 1944-1953
* Beware Of The Dog - 3 stars - A pilot is trying to fly home having lost a leg. He ends up being found half dead and wakes up in a hospital. When a member of the RAF comes to ask him some questions he says nothing. I can only think that I'm not concentrating very well today, because I didn't really understand this one.

[Jenny Schow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ii have a very clear memory of reading this short story as a class in the fourth grade. I couldn't for the life of me remember what it was called, until reddit helped me out. Then my local library had to ship it in from out of state so I could read it again. It holds up, the story is just as thrilling and visceral as it remember. Actually it made me really question why we were reading it as children, but I am so glad that we did if only so I could rediscover it later

[Eloise · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unless I forgot one, this is the best short story that I have ever read. A truly engrossing piece, and I greatly enjoyed how well the author messed with my mind. Within the given length, Roald Dahl was able to take me on a gruesome and terrifying adventure, and I am left in awe of his talents. What a read, and may we learn of past misgivings through various mediums such as reading so that we do not repeat them.

[🌶 peppersocks 🧦 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reflections and lessons learned:
“‘I’ve lost a leg’ he said
‘That’s nothing, we’ll get you another one!’”

Tales from another time - the between wars dichotomy of kids still wanting to be fighter pilots, but having to deal with the realities of what could happen… short but suspense filled and quite chilling

[Smiley C]

I don't really understand because of knowing nothing about the context; however as usual Dahl's captivating style is unmistakable.

[Naddy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enjoying Dahl short treasures..

[Debarati · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked the way it ended... shocking because it is so abrupt.

[Neda · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nice anti-war short story..

[Julio The Fox · Rating 5 out of 5]

You wake up to find that everything around you looks, feels and tastes the same, yet there is something very, very wrong with this world. Your picture of reality just doesn't coincide with any memory of that reality. THE MATRIX? Well, yes, but also BEWARE OF DOG, one of the first short stories written by the master of suspense and horror, Roald Dahl. Based on his own World War II experience in the RAF of having his plane shot off from under him and spending months in recovery, Dahl begs the reader to reconsider everything he takes to be true and solid. In this nightmare, the water tastes the same yet somehow it isn't the water the pilot is used too. NOT A SPOILER: This is not a parallel universe but rather something much more sinister. How Dahl managed to combine being a pilot, spy, children's writer (CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY, JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH) and ace author of horror tales is itself a mystery.

[Anatoly · Rating 5 out of 5]

The short story “Beware of the Dog” by British writer Roald Dahl was closely connected to the former profession of the author, as he was a pilot. Roald Dahl also wrote a well-known book worldwide for children called “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”.

The story includes many vivid descriptions and a suspenseful plot which leads to an unexpected ending. The narration pictures, the actions, the thoughts, the feelings of the main character in detail, and this phrase - "Garde au chien" (beware the dog) stay in the memory after finishing reading.

This is a link to the text of the story:
https://www.classicshorts.com/stories...

[Esha · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read in 2023 as part of Trickery, Skin and Other Stories, and Over to You: Ten Stories of Flyers and Flying.

[Tally · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although Roald Dahl's child's books are some of his books, I much prefer his adult books! This one is no exception.

It's a really hard one to review without spoiling due to its length. But it's a fast paced war time thriller (that dosnt involve any animals unfortunately).

Only lost a star becouse I hated the ending and it spoilt the whole story for me. I know many people enjoy sudden, open endings, but there honestly not for me.

[Shane · Rating 3 out of 5]

Roald Dahl takes a drastic change from his typical children stories in this short story. In "Beware the Dog", Dahl writes an ending that leaves you chilled and with a desire to read more. It is a shame that the story is short. Well written and crafted, Roald Dahl's "Beware the Dog" is in all sense of the word, a good read.

[Maya Hyman · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really loved this book and would love to read more of his stories from WWII. Roald gives such a different perspective of history of events or scenario, which makes his writing so unique from others. The way he describes the internal dilemma that the British soldier is having in the fake hospital could be a very real casino during that time period, Nazi-occupied countries would do anything to captiviate and or capture their enemies to find out any necessary information. I recommend this book because it gives a real-life situation that could happen, that's not a very happily ever after.

[Patrick Stooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book very enjoyable due to the manner in which the story progresses, with Peter so suddenly yet casually revealing the loss of his right leg, as well as the slow reveal, through the use of subtle hints most would not notice, that he is captive in France. I also enjoyed the end of the story, with Peter knowing the steps to take to secure the safety of himself and his fellow troops.

[Steven Fox · Rating 2 out of 5]

In Beware of the Dog, Roald Dahl, one of the world's favourite authors, tells of an injured pilot recovering in hospital who makes a disturbing discovery . . .

Beware of the Dog is taken from the short story collection Over to You, which includes nine other dramatic and terrifying tales of life as a wartime fighter pilot, and is drawn from Dahl's own experiences during the Second World War.

[Preetam Chatterjee · Rating 4 out of 5]

A combat story – a near-death situation , in due course culminating into a psychological tale, where the protagonist’s own mind plays the cruelest tricks on him. There is a handful of guts and gumption in this story too. After finishing the last sentence, you’d only be left speculating as to why this account did not on on to become an Alistair Maclean or a Desmond Bagley thriller!! Kudos Dahl.

[Jackson Wingo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought this short story by Roald Dahl was interesting and well written. It contained many vivid descriptions and a suspenseful buildup to a surprising end. Although the end had a great twist, it was very abrupt and felt like it was paced differently than the rest of the short story.

[rixx · Rating 3 out of 5]

[Beware of the Dog](http://www.classicshorts.com/stories/...) is a short story by *Roald Dahl* about a WW2 pilot who loses his leg – it was alright, but (at least for me), the timing for the reveal and ending felt way off.

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the shortest book I've ever read and based on the few pages I read it's hard to properly review this and rate this. It was just a little fragment, and with Roald Dahl's writing style pleasant to read.

[Bradley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dahl has a command of language that keeps you engaged the same way his stories entrance children. While he elaborates about what a WWII pilot is experiencing, Dahl crafts a tale of subtle manipulation. I enjoyed it. Guess I’ll be reading more from Roald Dahl.

[Augurey · Rating 3 out of 5]

a story about the consequences of war on soldiers who don't just lose their lives or parts of their body, but how much it affects them more when they remain breathing but as a shadow of who they were.

[Dan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amazing prose that got me from the start. Wish the ending was more of a bang, it's pacing felt a little off.

[Plum · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully revealed, excellent story.