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This Dog Will Change Your Life
A uniquely insightful, uplifting, emotional, and informative book that shows us how dogs make our lives better by making us better people from the Dogist.
Elias Weiss Friedman became known as The Dogist when he took thousands of photos of dogs and posted them online along with their unique dog stories. Even before he was The Dogist, though, he was a Dogist—a fervent dog lover, and an evangelist about the relationship between dogs and humans and the joy this bond brings us in the modern world.
Over his decades of studying dogs and their people, Elias has arrived at a deceptively simple Dogs make people’s lives better by making people better. Dogs improve us. They save us. They give our lives greater meaning and fulfillment. They teach us to become the best versions of ourselves. They help us understand our own identities, deepen our relationships, and remind us of patience, purpose, and commitment. We constantly seek those things in our human life, but so many of the answers are already right in front of us, in our dogs.
This book weaves together stories of the many dogs Elias has been lucky enough to know, both in his personal life and while doing his Dogist work. Told in a light tone that does not shy away from more serious issues (Elias is not above the occasional sentimental moment or dog pun), this book charmingly explores the ways that dogs are not just our family and our friends but also irreplaceable beings capable of generating boundless love and restoring balance to our lives.
In an increasingly alienating and divisive world, there is one clear the one with four legs that rolls over for belly rubs. Dogs can change our lives, and this book might just change yours.
Elias Weiss Friedman became known as The Dogist when he took thousands of photos of dogs and posted them online along with their unique dog stories. Even before he was The Dogist, though, he was a Dogist—a fervent dog lover, and an evangelist about the relationship between dogs and humans and the joy this bond brings us in the modern world.
Over his decades of studying dogs and their people, Elias has arrived at a deceptively simple Dogs make people’s lives better by making people better. Dogs improve us. They save us. They give our lives greater meaning and fulfillment. They teach us to become the best versions of ourselves. They help us understand our own identities, deepen our relationships, and remind us of patience, purpose, and commitment. We constantly seek those things in our human life, but so many of the answers are already right in front of us, in our dogs.
This book weaves together stories of the many dogs Elias has been lucky enough to know, both in his personal life and while doing his Dogist work. Told in a light tone that does not shy away from more serious issues (Elias is not above the occasional sentimental moment or dog pun), this book charmingly explores the ways that dogs are not just our family and our friends but also irreplaceable beings capable of generating boundless love and restoring balance to our lives.
In an increasingly alienating and divisive world, there is one clear the one with four legs that rolls over for belly rubs. Dogs can change our lives, and this book might just change yours.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 3, 2025
743 people are currently reading
15706 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 323 reviews
August 18, 2025
Audiobook (9 hours) narrated by the author, Elias Weiss Friedman
Publisher: Books on Tape
The narration was pretty flat. Not bad or difficult to understand, just devoid of real emotion. There's some inflection and intent or attempts to sound humorous, but no.
The audio is flawless.
I love dogs. I am a full on dog person. I was born with a dog already installed at my home location and at one point in my life my dog was pretty much my nanny, my safe space, literally saved my life.
If you are new to the dog world, there's a lot here for you. Elias Weiss Friedman speaks about breeds of dogs, needs of the breeds, how people's needs and lifestyles pair or don't pair well with certain breeds, knowing expectations of care, exercise, etc. Lots of really great information that seemingly lots of people do now know or seek out before taking on the responsibility of these lovable, living creatures. Too often people think about what they want and not what the dog needs, this book included a lot of what the dog needs in a pretty streamlined way, right away so you get the idea to do your research and know what's up before you adopt or purchase a pet.
The stories that I thought would be more lovable dog stories are surprisingly also pretty flat. They center around the author as "the doggist" what he did as "the doggist" what he said as "the doggist" what the expectations of "the doggist"... you probably get the idea. Again, if you are not familiar with what dogs can get into or do, these stories may seem great, even though the delivery is not so great. Since I have read and watched dog stories and videos like some watch cat videos, these just were a bit disappointing.
I cannot just say that I love dog stories and leave you hanging.
One of my favorites, is the story of Hachiko: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hachik%...
Another is this dog, who there are several videos of shopping.
Here is a short: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/smDEfF...
Fairy princess doggo: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/miFtuB...
A smart doggo watching Star Wars with his person on the sofa: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/2FNHkb...
Have the best day!
Publisher: Books on Tape
The narration was pretty flat. Not bad or difficult to understand, just devoid of real emotion. There's some inflection and intent or attempts to sound humorous, but no.
The audio is flawless.
I love dogs. I am a full on dog person. I was born with a dog already installed at my home location and at one point in my life my dog was pretty much my nanny, my safe space, literally saved my life.
If you are new to the dog world, there's a lot here for you. Elias Weiss Friedman speaks about breeds of dogs, needs of the breeds, how people's needs and lifestyles pair or don't pair well with certain breeds, knowing expectations of care, exercise, etc. Lots of really great information that seemingly lots of people do now know or seek out before taking on the responsibility of these lovable, living creatures. Too often people think about what they want and not what the dog needs, this book included a lot of what the dog needs in a pretty streamlined way, right away so you get the idea to do your research and know what's up before you adopt or purchase a pet.
The stories that I thought would be more lovable dog stories are surprisingly also pretty flat. They center around the author as "the doggist" what he did as "the doggist" what he said as "the doggist" what the expectations of "the doggist"... you probably get the idea. Again, if you are not familiar with what dogs can get into or do, these stories may seem great, even though the delivery is not so great. Since I have read and watched dog stories and videos like some watch cat videos, these just were a bit disappointing.
I cannot just say that I love dog stories and leave you hanging.
One of my favorites, is the story of Hachiko: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hachik%...
Another is this dog, who there are several videos of shopping.
Here is a short: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/smDEfF...
Fairy princess doggo: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/miFtuB...
A smart doggo watching Star Wars with his person on the sofa: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/2FNHkb...
Have the best day!
May 27, 2025
There are a lot of good tidbits in here, about life with dogs and how they make our lives better. The author, also known as The Dogist, has been wildly successful with his social media posts and pictures of various dogs (mostly in NYC, where he lives). I know it’s a hazard of receiving an advance copy, but I was quite disappointed not to see any pictures (there are quotes in each chapter where there will be a corresponding photo, when the book is released). I want to see the doggos! I’m sure that people will like the book more when the photos are added.
I did want to mention that there are several times when the author talks about other people in a not-so-nice way, and that did bother me. If I was the friend who had trouble navigating…man, I would be so hurt reading that! Yikes.
Coming next week on June 3rd!
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
I did want to mention that there are several times when the author talks about other people in a not-so-nice way, and that did bother me. If I was the friend who had trouble navigating…man, I would be so hurt reading that! Yikes.
Coming next week on June 3rd!
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
July 8, 2025
As some of you know, I recently lost my 17 year old beagle, Atticus. Losing him was really very tough and watching him struggle the last 6 months to a year took its toll. I was overwhelmed by the support I got from all my friends and from those who knew Atticus. One of my friends sent me this book. I was familiar with The Dogist and followed Elias Friedman on Instagram; I now follow him on Facebook. He has been The Dogist since 2013 and this book is about how he got to be that. But it is about so much more. It's a book about the importance of dogs and how they can positively affect us, change us, help us be better people. He travels the world, literally, to see dogs, to see how dogs are trained, to see how dogs are rescued, to see in various ways how they impact the lives of the people they are with. This book made me appreciate the dogs I have had in my life even more.
So, for Buddy, Nestle, Bip Olsen, Homer, Smokey, Sara Bellum, Ophelia, and Atticus I'd like to thank Mr. Friedman for what he does. BTW, these are all the dogs I have had as an adult. There were a lot more when I was growing up, all beagles but 2.
This was a fascinating read, educational and emotional - I had to reach for the tissue on more than one occasion. I highly recommend this book, especially to dog lovers.
So, for Buddy, Nestle, Bip Olsen, Homer, Smokey, Sara Bellum, Ophelia, and Atticus I'd like to thank Mr. Friedman for what he does. BTW, these are all the dogs I have had as an adult. There were a lot more when I was growing up, all beagles but 2.
This was a fascinating read, educational and emotional - I had to reach for the tissue on more than one occasion. I highly recommend this book, especially to dog lovers.
December 1, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this book in exchange for an honest review.
Any dog lover will enjoy this book. The Dogist has such a fun and fascinating "job". He writes with an obvious love of dogs and the relationship between dogs and their humans. I enjoyed the chapters on the working dogs the most, such as the guide dogs for the blind and the hunting dogs.
Any dog lover will enjoy this book. The Dogist has such a fun and fascinating "job". He writes with an obvious love of dogs and the relationship between dogs and their humans. I enjoyed the chapters on the working dogs the most, such as the guide dogs for the blind and the hunting dogs.
July 20, 2025
Maybe it’s because The Dogist’s last book was a coffee table photo book that the editors decided that this memoir didn’t need a photo section, but it’s truly a strange decision. If ever a book needed a full-colour glossy photo add-on, it’s this one!
That aside, the charming bits of this are as charming, heartwarming and occasionally heartbreaking as you’d expect. It’s definitely an “I laughed/I cried!” read.
But on the flip side the strong “never political, never judgmental” and very general historical bits are sometimes uncomfortable in a way that’s completely unexplored. I wouldn’t object to that on its own (because I do think it means more people open up to the author when he talks to them on the street), but the casualness towards it semi-frequently feels off.
If you’re a fan of The Dogist’s social media, this is definitely worth picking up, but go in knowing that 1. There are no photos & 2. It’s fairly shallow when it comes to any of the bigger social/ethical questions surrounding dogs and people.
That aside, the charming bits of this are as charming, heartwarming and occasionally heartbreaking as you’d expect. It’s definitely an “I laughed/I cried!” read.
But on the flip side the strong “never political, never judgmental” and very general historical bits are sometimes uncomfortable in a way that’s completely unexplored. I wouldn’t object to that on its own (because I do think it means more people open up to the author when he talks to them on the street), but the casualness towards it semi-frequently feels off.
If you’re a fan of The Dogist’s social media, this is definitely worth picking up, but go in knowing that 1. There are no photos & 2. It’s fairly shallow when it comes to any of the bigger social/ethical questions surrounding dogs and people.
June 30, 2025
Yes, read this book if you love dogs and The Dogist. TW for Chapter 17: pet death and su*cide rate of veterinarians. This book is both informative and heartwarming.
January 15, 2025
This is a fun read for dog-lovers, and it will surely be picked up by the author's legion of fans on his Instagram account, the Dogist. Friedman writes in a conversational style, and while it does tend to ramble in sections, it's an enjoyable, light, and engaging read.
July 17, 2025
Did it keep my interest? 3 I did some skimming because I found myself grinding through this slower than I usually listen.
Did I enjoy the topic? 5. Heartwarming stories, even the sad ones. Elias has dedicated his life’s work to dogs and that makes him a hero in my mind
Was the dialogue realistic? 5. Elias’ nerd is in full blossom and it’s charming. I had not found the Dogist and I immediately went to Instagram and started following him. He’s awkward with people, fantastic with dogs.
Would I recommend to Jen (smart, discerning reader)? 4. I’d recommend she read it, not listen. Jen is such a dog person. When we take Otis to the park I’m more antisocial. I am polite, but like to keep on walking with Otis. Jen is the treat lady and dogs will sprint from 100 yards away to see her. Then she chats with all the owners. It’s very sweet, but it’s not me
Would I have recommended to my Mom (read for entertainment)? 5. Mom loved dogs and she would love this book
Quality of narrator? 3. No one else could have read Elias’ book, but this was a stretch for him
Did I enjoy the topic? 5. Heartwarming stories, even the sad ones. Elias has dedicated his life’s work to dogs and that makes him a hero in my mind
Was the dialogue realistic? 5. Elias’ nerd is in full blossom and it’s charming. I had not found the Dogist and I immediately went to Instagram and started following him. He’s awkward with people, fantastic with dogs.
Would I recommend to Jen (smart, discerning reader)? 4. I’d recommend she read it, not listen. Jen is such a dog person. When we take Otis to the park I’m more antisocial. I am polite, but like to keep on walking with Otis. Jen is the treat lady and dogs will sprint from 100 yards away to see her. Then she chats with all the owners. It’s very sweet, but it’s not me
Would I have recommended to my Mom (read for entertainment)? 5. Mom loved dogs and she would love this book
Quality of narrator? 3. No one else could have read Elias’ book, but this was a stretch for him
June 24, 2025
The PERFECT book for the dog lover! 🐾
Thank you, Random House & PRH Audio, for the gifted copy of This Dog Will Change Your Life {partner}
Genre: Non-Fiction
Format: 🎧📖
Pub Date: 6.3.2025
Pages: 304
Star Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆
"That's what dogs do; they get into your soul, and they don't disappear. Even when they physically do."
If you've been following me for a while (or even a short time), you know that my dogs are my world. They occupy the majority of my thoughts, make me laugh the hardest, evoke the most profound emotions, and have been my companions during my lowest times. They have changed my life.
I've been following The Dogist for years now, and I always enjoy reading his stories about the dogs he encounters. So when I saw that Elias Weiss Friedman would be publishing a book, I immediately added it to my TBR list.
TDWCYL is full of incredible details about dogs, how they impact our lives, how we impact theirs, and the important role they play in our world. Friedman takes a matter-of-fact approach with the book and doesn't skim over the tough bits — but instead brings the reader's attention to the problematic (and realistic) ways that dogs are treated around the world. But he also tells story after story about dogs that changed people's lives.
Friedman discusses the details of certain breeds, explaining what makes them unique and why it's essential to thoroughly research a dog's breed before bringing it into your life. Taking on the responsibility of a dog is not just a fleeting thing but a lifetime commitment.
Audiobook Review: ☆☆☆☆☆
The author narrates the audiobook, and I could hear every bit of emotion in his voice as he told his story. Highly recommend.
Read if you enjoy:
🐶 Dogs
🦮 History of Dogs
🐕 Stories about dogs
At the end of This Dog Will Change Your Life — Friedman shares a list of organizations, from shelters to international dog rescue operations and organizations. I highly recommend checking the book out and donating to one of the causes.
______
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chaptersofc...
Follow me on Goodreads:https://www.goodreads.com/chaptersofc...
Follow me on StoryGraph:https://www.instagram.com/chaptersofc...
Thank you, Random House & PRH Audio, for the gifted copy of This Dog Will Change Your Life {partner}
Genre: Non-Fiction
Format: 🎧📖
Pub Date: 6.3.2025
Pages: 304
Star Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆
"That's what dogs do; they get into your soul, and they don't disappear. Even when they physically do."
If you've been following me for a while (or even a short time), you know that my dogs are my world. They occupy the majority of my thoughts, make me laugh the hardest, evoke the most profound emotions, and have been my companions during my lowest times. They have changed my life.
I've been following The Dogist for years now, and I always enjoy reading his stories about the dogs he encounters. So when I saw that Elias Weiss Friedman would be publishing a book, I immediately added it to my TBR list.
TDWCYL is full of incredible details about dogs, how they impact our lives, how we impact theirs, and the important role they play in our world. Friedman takes a matter-of-fact approach with the book and doesn't skim over the tough bits — but instead brings the reader's attention to the problematic (and realistic) ways that dogs are treated around the world. But he also tells story after story about dogs that changed people's lives.
Friedman discusses the details of certain breeds, explaining what makes them unique and why it's essential to thoroughly research a dog's breed before bringing it into your life. Taking on the responsibility of a dog is not just a fleeting thing but a lifetime commitment.
Audiobook Review: ☆☆☆☆☆
The author narrates the audiobook, and I could hear every bit of emotion in his voice as he told his story. Highly recommend.
Read if you enjoy:
🐶 Dogs
🦮 History of Dogs
🐕 Stories about dogs
At the end of This Dog Will Change Your Life — Friedman shares a list of organizations, from shelters to international dog rescue operations and organizations. I highly recommend checking the book out and donating to one of the causes.
______
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chaptersofc...
Follow me on Goodreads:https://www.goodreads.com/chaptersofc...
Follow me on StoryGraph:https://www.instagram.com/chaptersofc...
June 29, 2025
Barnes and Noble2025 Summer Reading Challenge Wk 3 [Hot Dogs]
If you love dogs, this book is for you.
If you love and have owned dogs, this book is for you.
If you love dogs and are thinking about buying/adopting one, this book is for you.
If you are unsure about dogs, this book is for you.
IF [for whatever reason], you do not like or are afraid of dogs, this book is V E R Y much for you [as someone who, because of being bitten twice, is afraid of most dogs, but still loves them so much, I have such hope now that someday I too will be able to find a dog that will heal me and I too can be a dog owner].
This was just such a gorgeous book that filled me with hope, made me laugh, and absolutely made me weep [some of the stories that Elias tells....WHOOSH!].
In these uncertain times, we NEED books like this and I am so grateful the publisher granted my wish and I was able to read this absolutely fantastic book. I know it will stay with me for forever.
I wished for this book on NetGalley and the publisher, Random House Publishing - Ballantine/Ballantine Books was so gracious in granting that wish and I thank them, Elias Weiss Friedman, Ben Greenman - Contributor, and NetGalley for providing the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
If you love dogs, this book is for you.
If you love and have owned dogs, this book is for you.
If you love dogs and are thinking about buying/adopting one, this book is for you.
If you are unsure about dogs, this book is for you.
IF [for whatever reason], you do not like or are afraid of dogs, this book is V E R Y much for you [as someone who, because of being bitten twice, is afraid of most dogs, but still loves them so much, I have such hope now that someday I too will be able to find a dog that will heal me and I too can be a dog owner].
This was just such a gorgeous book that filled me with hope, made me laugh, and absolutely made me weep [some of the stories that Elias tells....WHOOSH!].
In these uncertain times, we NEED books like this and I am so grateful the publisher granted my wish and I was able to read this absolutely fantastic book. I know it will stay with me for forever.
I wished for this book on NetGalley and the publisher, Random House Publishing - Ballantine/Ballantine Books was so gracious in granting that wish and I thank them, Elias Weiss Friedman, Ben Greenman - Contributor, and NetGalley for providing the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 16, 2025
As a rescue dog owner, I loved everything about this book. I have been a huge fan of The Dogist for many years, but now I have a greater appreciation for the work Elias does, and a greater understanding of these incredible animals that we are lucky enough to share our lives with. Amazing 👏👏👏
June 12, 2025
Maybe not the best time for me to read this book but was also therapeutic in a way. I learned a lot about dogs and how they truly impact and change people's lives. If you have lost a pup this book will get you in your feels but also was very sweet and educational. I really liked the dog introductions at the end of each chapter!
August 12, 2025
Taken from Goodreads synopsis. "Elias Weiss Friedman became known as The Dogist when he took thousands of photos of dogs and posted them online along with their unique dog stories. Even before he was The Dogist, though, he was a Dogist—a fervent dog lover, and an evangelist about the relationship between dogs and humans and the joy this bond brings us in the modern world.
Over his decades of studying dogs and their people, Elias has arrived at a deceptively simple Dogs make people’s lives better by making people better. Dogs improve us. They save us. They give our lives greater meaning and fulfillment. They teach us to become the best versions of ourselves. They help us understand our own identities, deepen our relationships, and remind us of patience, purpose, and commitment. We constantly seek those things in our human life, but so many of the answers are already right in front of us, in our dogs."
I will start with what I liked about the book. I enjoyed a lot of the stories. I learned some things about some dog breeds. I was shown how quick and strong relationships can be formed between human and dog lasting even after a dog has passed away.
Now for what I did not like. No pictures is a big complaint. Some stories did not have enough information to complete the whole picture or went overboard with information. I also got bored because of its dry read, needed more emotion. Last complaint, Friedman lacks the ability stay on topic.
Overall I just can't put my finger on just why it was a ok book. Even after listing my likes and dislikes it just does not feel enough to give a fair rating of any kind so two stars it gets.
Over his decades of studying dogs and their people, Elias has arrived at a deceptively simple Dogs make people’s lives better by making people better. Dogs improve us. They save us. They give our lives greater meaning and fulfillment. They teach us to become the best versions of ourselves. They help us understand our own identities, deepen our relationships, and remind us of patience, purpose, and commitment. We constantly seek those things in our human life, but so many of the answers are already right in front of us, in our dogs."
I will start with what I liked about the book. I enjoyed a lot of the stories. I learned some things about some dog breeds. I was shown how quick and strong relationships can be formed between human and dog lasting even after a dog has passed away.
Now for what I did not like. No pictures is a big complaint. Some stories did not have enough information to complete the whole picture or went overboard with information. I also got bored because of its dry read, needed more emotion. Last complaint, Friedman lacks the ability stay on topic.
Overall I just can't put my finger on just why it was a ok book. Even after listing my likes and dislikes it just does not feel enough to give a fair rating of any kind so two stars it gets.
July 23, 2025
As expected, I cried my eyes out and immediately recommended this book to my co-workers
I have worked in the veterinary field since 1995 when I was a senior in high school at a three doctor practice. Then in and after college I worked at two specialty and emergency practices. It is appreciated that Elias went into the high cost of mental and physical health of those of us in the veterinary field. NOMV is a wonderful organization that also brings our struggles into the public eye. I don't think you can find one person in the veterinary field that hasn't felt the loss of a coworker to suicide ( unless they are new to the field).
I am so glad that there are people like Elias in this world working so hard to bring rescues and animal service organizations into the limelight that should have been there all along.
Working with animals in clinical and rescue settings is a labor of love. We are not in it for the money. The combination of the cost of education, our physical and mental health are very high. This is a hot button topic for me, so I will leave it at that.
The loss of our patients, our pets and the pets of our friends pets weighs heavily on all of us. The stories that Elias brought us in the book are heartwarming and some heartbreaking, but all worth time in our hearts to bring us humility.
I have worked in the veterinary field since 1995 when I was a senior in high school at a three doctor practice. Then in and after college I worked at two specialty and emergency practices. It is appreciated that Elias went into the high cost of mental and physical health of those of us in the veterinary field. NOMV is a wonderful organization that also brings our struggles into the public eye. I don't think you can find one person in the veterinary field that hasn't felt the loss of a coworker to suicide ( unless they are new to the field).
I am so glad that there are people like Elias in this world working so hard to bring rescues and animal service organizations into the limelight that should have been there all along.
Working with animals in clinical and rescue settings is a labor of love. We are not in it for the money. The combination of the cost of education, our physical and mental health are very high. This is a hot button topic for me, so I will leave it at that.
The loss of our patients, our pets and the pets of our friends pets weighs heavily on all of us. The stories that Elias brought us in the book are heartwarming and some heartbreaking, but all worth time in our hearts to bring us humility.
September 8, 2025
There wasn't anything inherently wrong or bad about this book, everything just felt flat. Lots of good information for those without much of knowledge of dogs, but none of the personal stories really hit for me. I also don't know why the author needed to include a stray detail about going on his "birthright" trip to Israel?? Brother, its 2025- read the room. And how does that relate to dogs in any capacity? He could've just said "I got back from a vacation"
June 17, 2025
Really cute book about the magic of dogs. This book made me very excited to get my own dog! Rating only 4 stars because the author made a comment about people ordering service dog/emotional support dog vests on Amazon that rubbed me the wrong way (please don't do this!!!!). Otherwise I enjoyed the audiobook but of course wished I could have seen more pictures of dogs.
July 26, 2025
I was fortunate to be able to attend the authors book tour and it was excellent, as was the book. I laughed and cried (sobbed actually) while reading this. I also found the author’s story about becoming the Dogist really inspiring. In a world full of doom and gloom and division, we have dogs to love us unconditionally, and to make us laugh, and to be our cuddle buddies. If you love dogs, I highly recommend this book.
August 6, 2025
A guy whose life has been blessed by dogs. He's matured a lot through his decade of being The Dogist. He covers a lot of ground about dogs. Be prepared to shed some tears. I can't even begin to imagine life without dogs.
June 9, 2025
I laughed, I cried. 5 ⭐️
October 25, 2025
I love my dog & I think everyone should love dogs
December 14, 2025
My Rosie Lou 🥰🥹
October 13, 2025
If you love dogs, you’ll love this. Not a ton of substance but so many sweet little anecdotes about our furry besties
August 24, 2025
Een ode aan de hond, op heel veel verschillende vlakken.
Nu wil ik een hond.
Nu wil ik een hond.
October 9, 2025
Always love a book about dogs.
June 22, 2025
4.5! I'm embarrassed to be giving this book 4 stars only because I wanted to see puppy pictures too. It was a very comprehensive explanation of the origin of dogs from wolves and how dogs integrate into our lives. I love the Dogist!
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August 10, 2025In "This Dog Will Change Your Life: How Dogs Reshape Our Hearts, Minds, and Purpose", Elias Weiss Friedman shares his personal journey of discovering the transformative bond between humans and dogs. Known for creating 'The Dogist' photography project, Friedman found his calling in capturing the essence of dogs after years of uncertainty in his career. Dogs had always been a presence in his life, but as he grew older, he came to see them as more than pets - they were mirrors, healers, and life companions who guide people toward meaning and self-discovery. The book weaves together history, personal anecdotes, and moving stories to illustrate how dogs can alter our routines, strengthen relationships, and even heal emotional wounds.
Friedman begins with a vivid look at the deep history between humans and dogs. Thousands of years ago, during the Ice Age, certain wolves chose proximity over hostility, lingering near human camps in search of food and warmth. Over time, humans and these wolves entered into a silent pact: protection and assistance in exchange for sustenance and shelter. This mutual relationship spurred physical and behavioral changes in the animals - softer features, gentler temperaments, and an ability to read human emotions. As people spread across the globe, these early dogs adapted alongside them, evolving into countless breeds designed for hunting, herding, guarding, or companionship. The result was not just domestication, but co-evolution, a shared history of survival and trust.
The author then turns to modern examples of how dogs can subtly yet profoundly change an individual’s life. He recounts the story of his friend Jeff, who adopted a Basset Hound named Gertie despite being warned about the breed’s stubborn streak and medical needs. Far from being a burden, Gertie provided Jeff with structure, daily purpose, and a reason to slow down and savor quiet moments. Friedman also shares his own shift from a long-time 'dogless Dogist' to a committed owner when he fostered - and ultimately adopted - a nervous Husky-mix named Elsa. Through caring for her, he experienced firsthand how a dog can shape daily routines, foster patience, and create deep emotional bonds.
One recurring theme is the unspoken communication between dogs and humans. Friedman recalls meeting Lunchbox, a Lab-Pit Bull mix with visible scars from past mistreatment. His story resonated with millions online, highlighting how dogs carry emotional histories much like humans do. Adopting such a dog means stepping into an ongoing narrative that requires patience, trust, and empathy. Beyond verbal tricks or button-pressing devices, dogs have always communicated clearly - through a paw on the lap, a wagging tail, a nudge at the door. This honesty strips away human pretenses and teaches us to engage more sincerely with the world.
Dogs also enhance human connections beyond the owner–pet bond. Regular walks not only promote health but serve as natural social bridges. Encounters between dog owners often feel easier because the focus remains on the animal, reducing social awkwardness. Dogs can even influence romantic relationships; Friedman’s relationship with his now-fiancée blossomed in part through their mutual affection for Elsa. For parents, dogs help children learn responsibility, empathy, and how to navigate emotions - life lessons wrapped in play and affection.
The book also highlights how dogs can serve as healers in more formal ways. Programs like Puppies Behind Bars allow prison inmates to train service dogs, fostering compassion and responsibility in an environment that often suppresses these traits. Service dogs for veterans with PTSD provide emotional grounding, companionship, and in some cases, physical health improvements such as better sleep. Stories like Sandy’s - a veteran who re-entered the world after meeting her Golden Retriever, Barb - demonstrate how a dog’s gentle presence can dissolve barriers built by trauma.
Rescue and working dogs further showcase the breadth of canine impact. Search-and-rescue dogs save lives during disasters; guide dogs restore independence to the visually impaired; therapy and facility dogs bring comfort to hospitals, schools, and care homes. Friedman shares an encounter with Maggie, a facility dog trained to offer hugs on command - a simple act that carried an unexpectedly powerful emotional charge. In these roles, dogs use their innate empathy to remind people they are not alone, encouraging presence and connection over anxiety or isolation.
Friedman’s stories make clear that dogs are not accessories or temporary diversions; they are long-term commitments that reward us with immeasurable emotional returns. They anchor us in the present, helping us navigate life’s unpredictability with loyalty, joy, and a grounding sense of love. Whether shaping the course of a romantic relationship, improving physical health, fostering human empathy, or aiding in personal healing, dogs have an unmatched ability to transform lives in ways both subtle and profound.
In "This Dog Will Change Your Life: How Dogs Reshape Our Hearts, Minds, and Purpose", Elias Weiss Friedman shows that our connection to dogs is not simply about affection - it’s about partnership, growth, and mutual transformation. Dogs mirror our emotions, challenge us to live more intentionally, and remind us of values often lost in modern life: loyalty, presence, and unconditional care. Whether through personal stories like Elsa’s, historical reflections on our shared evolution, or accounts of service and therapy dogs at work, Friedman illustrates that when we open our lives to a dog, we often discover new depths within ourselves. In honoring the bond, we honor the promise made thousands of years ago - to walk side by side through life, shaping and changing each other for the better.
Friedman begins with a vivid look at the deep history between humans and dogs. Thousands of years ago, during the Ice Age, certain wolves chose proximity over hostility, lingering near human camps in search of food and warmth. Over time, humans and these wolves entered into a silent pact: protection and assistance in exchange for sustenance and shelter. This mutual relationship spurred physical and behavioral changes in the animals - softer features, gentler temperaments, and an ability to read human emotions. As people spread across the globe, these early dogs adapted alongside them, evolving into countless breeds designed for hunting, herding, guarding, or companionship. The result was not just domestication, but co-evolution, a shared history of survival and trust.
The author then turns to modern examples of how dogs can subtly yet profoundly change an individual’s life. He recounts the story of his friend Jeff, who adopted a Basset Hound named Gertie despite being warned about the breed’s stubborn streak and medical needs. Far from being a burden, Gertie provided Jeff with structure, daily purpose, and a reason to slow down and savor quiet moments. Friedman also shares his own shift from a long-time 'dogless Dogist' to a committed owner when he fostered - and ultimately adopted - a nervous Husky-mix named Elsa. Through caring for her, he experienced firsthand how a dog can shape daily routines, foster patience, and create deep emotional bonds.
One recurring theme is the unspoken communication between dogs and humans. Friedman recalls meeting Lunchbox, a Lab-Pit Bull mix with visible scars from past mistreatment. His story resonated with millions online, highlighting how dogs carry emotional histories much like humans do. Adopting such a dog means stepping into an ongoing narrative that requires patience, trust, and empathy. Beyond verbal tricks or button-pressing devices, dogs have always communicated clearly - through a paw on the lap, a wagging tail, a nudge at the door. This honesty strips away human pretenses and teaches us to engage more sincerely with the world.
Dogs also enhance human connections beyond the owner–pet bond. Regular walks not only promote health but serve as natural social bridges. Encounters between dog owners often feel easier because the focus remains on the animal, reducing social awkwardness. Dogs can even influence romantic relationships; Friedman’s relationship with his now-fiancée blossomed in part through their mutual affection for Elsa. For parents, dogs help children learn responsibility, empathy, and how to navigate emotions - life lessons wrapped in play and affection.
The book also highlights how dogs can serve as healers in more formal ways. Programs like Puppies Behind Bars allow prison inmates to train service dogs, fostering compassion and responsibility in an environment that often suppresses these traits. Service dogs for veterans with PTSD provide emotional grounding, companionship, and in some cases, physical health improvements such as better sleep. Stories like Sandy’s - a veteran who re-entered the world after meeting her Golden Retriever, Barb - demonstrate how a dog’s gentle presence can dissolve barriers built by trauma.
Rescue and working dogs further showcase the breadth of canine impact. Search-and-rescue dogs save lives during disasters; guide dogs restore independence to the visually impaired; therapy and facility dogs bring comfort to hospitals, schools, and care homes. Friedman shares an encounter with Maggie, a facility dog trained to offer hugs on command - a simple act that carried an unexpectedly powerful emotional charge. In these roles, dogs use their innate empathy to remind people they are not alone, encouraging presence and connection over anxiety or isolation.
Friedman’s stories make clear that dogs are not accessories or temporary diversions; they are long-term commitments that reward us with immeasurable emotional returns. They anchor us in the present, helping us navigate life’s unpredictability with loyalty, joy, and a grounding sense of love. Whether shaping the course of a romantic relationship, improving physical health, fostering human empathy, or aiding in personal healing, dogs have an unmatched ability to transform lives in ways both subtle and profound.
In "This Dog Will Change Your Life: How Dogs Reshape Our Hearts, Minds, and Purpose", Elias Weiss Friedman shows that our connection to dogs is not simply about affection - it’s about partnership, growth, and mutual transformation. Dogs mirror our emotions, challenge us to live more intentionally, and remind us of values often lost in modern life: loyalty, presence, and unconditional care. Whether through personal stories like Elsa’s, historical reflections on our shared evolution, or accounts of service and therapy dogs at work, Friedman illustrates that when we open our lives to a dog, we often discover new depths within ourselves. In honoring the bond, we honor the promise made thousands of years ago - to walk side by side through life, shaping and changing each other for the better.
August 29, 2025
“Dogs teach sharing. Dogs teach coexistence. Dogs teach anger management and the importance of alone time. Dogs instill in children a profound awareness of a life that is not their own. …
And above all, beyond all these complex and nuanced lessons, there is one simple and powerful one: dogs teach love.”
(From page 135)
I had never heard of The Dogist when I came upon Elias Weiss Friedman’s book, THIS DOG WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE, in a Goodreads Giveaway. I did not win the Giveaway, but I put the book on my TBR list. I gifted a hardcover copy of the book to a true dog lover for her birthday and shortly thereafter bought a Kindle copy for myself. Having finished it, I am so glad I own a copy. It is a treasure.
The quote at the top of this review is from a chapter in which Elias discusses the benefits of bringing a dog into a home with children. But really, this quote could apply to anyone, with or without a partner or family, considering acquiring or already owning a dog. I particularly enjoyed the chapters that focused on stories of people and their dogs, whether they were specially trained animals or like Elias’s dog, Elsa, who he says, “represents the majority of dogs, the so-called everyday dogs, whose purpose isn’t herding sheep, saving someone from drowning, or stopping a bad guy with a gun but, rather, providing affection. Sometimes a dog’s purpose is just to be a dog – a human companion, a sympathetic mirror, a source of comfort, a reason to smile.” (page 240).
I was most moved by the chapter on the death of a beloved dog. Our chocolate Lab, Phoebo, died a little over a year ago at age eleven and it was like losing a family member. I am not sure I could have read that chapter right after it happened, but at this point I was comforted by Elias’s compassionate storytelling.
I would recommend this book to any dog lover.
And above all, beyond all these complex and nuanced lessons, there is one simple and powerful one: dogs teach love.”
(From page 135)
I had never heard of The Dogist when I came upon Elias Weiss Friedman’s book, THIS DOG WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE, in a Goodreads Giveaway. I did not win the Giveaway, but I put the book on my TBR list. I gifted a hardcover copy of the book to a true dog lover for her birthday and shortly thereafter bought a Kindle copy for myself. Having finished it, I am so glad I own a copy. It is a treasure.
The quote at the top of this review is from a chapter in which Elias discusses the benefits of bringing a dog into a home with children. But really, this quote could apply to anyone, with or without a partner or family, considering acquiring or already owning a dog. I particularly enjoyed the chapters that focused on stories of people and their dogs, whether they were specially trained animals or like Elias’s dog, Elsa, who he says, “represents the majority of dogs, the so-called everyday dogs, whose purpose isn’t herding sheep, saving someone from drowning, or stopping a bad guy with a gun but, rather, providing affection. Sometimes a dog’s purpose is just to be a dog – a human companion, a sympathetic mirror, a source of comfort, a reason to smile.” (page 240).
I was most moved by the chapter on the death of a beloved dog. Our chocolate Lab, Phoebo, died a little over a year ago at age eleven and it was like losing a family member. I am not sure I could have read that chapter right after it happened, but at this point I was comforted by Elias’s compassionate storytelling.
I would recommend this book to any dog lover.
July 19, 2025
This is an easy book to love, for anyone who has ever had a dog. Friedman, aka “The Dogist,” is a guy who goes around the world taking photos of dogs, talking with their owners/handlers, and posting about them on various social media platforms. The book isn’t sticky-sweet sentimental, although it does have some tear-provoking sections. He narrates the audiobook and does a decent job of it. As someone who recently lost her eleven-year-old White Swiss Shepard, I was on the fence about going through the angst of getting, training, and eventually losing another dog. Friedman’s stories convinced me to jump back into it. Not preachy, just illustrative of the amazing and endless gifts our dogs can give us.
August 9, 2025
I really enjoyed the book and The Dogist as a whole. I appreciated that he ventured into controversial topics, since that is the reality of how dogs are treated in our society. We don't all agree on how to take care of our dogs or pets in general. The only thing that troubled me was that the book had an "If I can do it, you can do it" message without taking into consideration that the author came from a much more affluent background than the average person. Not everyone has a family summer home on Martha's Vineyard and a pied-á-tarre in Manhattan as well as the financial security that affords you. That being said, I am happy that he is out advocating for dogs and using his success to help others.
May 16, 2025
I have followed The Dogist on Instagram for three or for years, and his posts always make me smile. As the owner/mother of a very spoiled German Shorthaired Pointer mix named Pepper, I love all things dogs. This book will definitely appeal to the very sizable dog-loving audience. Mr. Weiss Friedman was very lucky to see the potential of social media as a potential lucrative career opportunity. His book is filled with anecdotes, interesting stories about various philanthropic and important rescue organizations. I enjoyed the book, but it definitely will appeal mostly to animal lovers.
Thanks to the author (come to North Carolina to photograph Pepper the pointer mix!), NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group/Ballantine Books for the eARC and the opportunity to read and review this book.
Thanks to the author (come to North Carolina to photograph Pepper the pointer mix!), NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group/Ballantine Books for the eARC and the opportunity to read and review this book.
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