Dogs: A History of Our Best Friends

by Lita Judge

This illustrated history of dogs, from award-winning author-illustrator Lita Judge, explores how humans’ partnership with dogs changed our lives and theirs

Of all the animals on the planet, dogs have the widest range of roles in our daily lives. They’re protectors, helpers, lifesavers—but most of all, they’re family.

And they’ve taken a fascinating journey to get to this point. Long ago, early wolves evolved from fierce predators into trusted partners. They became dogs! While we know dogs to be lovable and full of personality, they have also historically improved our lives in many practical ways, like guarding livestock to help humans form the first settlements, cleaning out infectious wounds, and finding food. Covering over 50,000 years of history, from cave-dwelling to the present day, Dogs chronicles fascinating scientific details and the history of how dogs learned to live cooperatively alongside humans.

In this beautifully illustrated and thoroughly researched book, award-winning author and illustrator Lita Judge explores how our lives are intertwined with dogs’—and that’s what makes them our best friends.

Genres: Picture Books, Nonfiction, Dogs, Animals, History, Childrens, Nature

56 pages, Hardcover

First published April 18, 2023

Reviews

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even though it’s written for children, this amazing, short, and beautifully illustrated book would appeal to adults too. It’s a well written and extremely interesting book. It’s easy to understand with lots of interesting facts as it explains the history of man’s relationship with dogs from thousands of years ago until the present time.

If you own or simply love dogs, this book would be a fascinating read! Thank you to my GR friend Kathryn for calling my attention to this wonderful book!!

[Erin Entrada Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is worth it for the art alone! But the words are also very good. I love this PB. It gave me paws.

(Sorry, that was a terrible joke but I couldn’t help it)

[Ms. Yingling · Rating 4 out of 5]

E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus

This was a gorgeous picture book covering the history of domesticated dogs. The illustrations reminded me a bit of the 1980s books I read to my own children; more of a portrait style than the computer generated pictures I've seen in a lot of new books. The dogs are all attractive, and the expressions on the faces are very cute. There are a few mentions of dogs in wars, but most of the depictions are happier. I loved the line up of the breeds of dogs.

The E ARC had to be accessed through ISSU, which made it harder to read and take notes.

[Curren · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun book! Great illustrations and interesting facts from history - several that I didn’t already know! Excellent book for a variety of ages.

[Meg]

Me: I'm normal about dogs
Also Me: "THEY FEEL LOVE BACK FOR US 😭😭😭😭"

[Aneesa · Rating 4 out of 5]

My family is obsessed.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

My neighbor just got their first 'family' dog, what is called a "Bernie-doodle" which is thousands of years from the first ones, per a timeline and story of dogs from Lita Judge. It's a special history for those who love dogs and those who wonder how the wolf which still survives became an important part of our lives. Whether a beloved pet, that "best friend" from the title, a rescue dog, or an explosive-sniffing or disease-sniffing animal, Lita Judge takes us along on this amazing journey of a pet we just might take for granted, but should not. There's a dog at my airport that greets passengers, welcoming and often assuaging human nerves as they head out. One text keeps the story going while an added piece relates more facts. "Dogs have a sense of smell between 10,000 and 100,000 times greater than that of humans."
Illustrations just make one smile at so, so many different dogs throughout their illustrious history. Lita adds an Author's Note that includes ways to help dogs, a double-page spread of a few varied dog breeds, another with short bios of famous dogs, a timeline, and sources. It is a terrific book!

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nonfiction picture book. This book hits the sweet spot between an overly simple picture book on a topic and an overly advanced book. The topic itself is high interest, with many people having, wanting, or knowing someone who has a dog. Judge takes us through a timeline of dogs, how they gradually started camping closer to humans and eventually became integrated with the people groups. She discusses archaeological evidence, cave paintings and more. Many cultures from around the world are discussed as well as many dog breeds. The history was informative but never dry, enhanced by the great illustrations also done by Judge. The various jobs dogs have had throughout history are discussed, as well as the age-old question of whether a dog actually loves its owner. Back matter includes an author's note, a photograph of her with her childhood dog, an illustrated guide to a selection of dog breeds, profiles of select famous dogs, a timeline, and source list. Well researched, great presentation, and full of facts. Well done.

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such cute illustrations! They capture so many cute dogs w their lovable expressions. The information is captivating, too. The main narrative is presented in regular typeface and additional details are shared in italic. The ability of dogs to follow where we point and look where they observe us looking is unique in the animal world and allowed our early ancestors to start working together w dogs. Dogs could do so many things that helped out, like smell large animals, hear dangers, pull heavy loads over long distances, and watch over herds. Over time, they helped in other ways, too, and even became family members. Dog shows became popular in the second half of the nineteenth century, which led to an explosion of new breeds. The endnotes include an Author’s Note, including ways to help dogs, illustrations of several dog breeds, short blurbs about some famous dogs, a timeline, and selected sources.

[Martha · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an unforgettable way to learn about the history of dogs from 50,000 years ago to the present. Lita Judge's gorgeous watercolor and gouache illustrations make every one of these dogs come alive. Young readers will learn about the evolution of dogs from wolves to adoring pets. Careers for dogs ranging from movie stars to seeing eye dogs is covered with animated watercolor illustrations to make the dogs almost pop out of the pages. I particularly enjoyed the "Famous Dogs" double spread pages giving young dog lovers more ways to learn about famous career dogs. This will be a real crowd pleaser, especially for those who wish for a dog of their own. The last double page spread has paintings of many of the most adorable dog breeds for readers to browse for hours, as they pick their favorites.

[Sarah Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The art in this book is absolutely terrific, but by no means is the art the only reason to get this book.

Not only is it full of cute facts about dogs, it’s extremely informative. I learned a ton about dogs and their roles in history, and it was presented in a way that had my kids fascinated. It’s also presented in a way that isn’t overwhelming for young (preschool aged and up) children would enjoy, but similarly detailed so middle schoolers will be entertained, engaged, and learning.

There is a good deal of evolution in the first few pages but it’s easily discussed or skipped if you don’t like it.

Probably the best kids’ book on dogs I’ve ever read. Highly recommend.

[Bethe · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars. Outstanding look at all things dog: from their gradual accompaniment to early humans to a favored spot on our modern day couches. Two sets of text to read, the basic statements, then detailed information below. I learned that domesticated herd animals didn’t happen until dogs were used to help. Also learned that Dalmatians were in the firehouse to clear the way for the horses pulling the fire truck and also to calm them. Got confirmation that a dog licking you boo boo can help it get better. Author note, timeline, and sources. Fabulous illustrations everywhere, including endpages and case cover art. Perfect book for anyone who loves a dog!

[Hilary Margitich · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this Cybils-nominated work of nonfiction for elementary-age kids! A treat for anyone who knows and loves a dog. Judge finds the most fascinating and endearing nuggets of information from history and weaves them together for the reader's delight. Examples: dogs were the only animals who followed our gaze by looking in same direction as they observed us looking; in the Middle Ages, dogs were found to have healing properties for the sick, etc. And Lita Judge also beautifully illustrated everything! Such talent.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a must-have for my library. Kids are always asking for more dog books and this book is a real treat. Once again, young kids can just have the large print read, and older kids can access the small print too, which gives more detail.

The illustrations are fantastic. The expressions on the faces of the dogs is precious.

I like the extras in the back too. Famous dogs, dog breeds, and facts about the author as a person.

[Jennifer Long · Rating 5 out of 5]

My new favorite book. I love the illustrations: the dogs look so life-like and animated. There is an appropriate amount of facts on each page. Even as a dog lover, I learned much from this book. For example, folks carrying around small dogs is not a new thing. A former king of France used to wear a dog in a basket around his neck. Helpful resources and back material make this a first-rate non-fiction read.

[Tracie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this even more on the re-read.

A kid-friendly picture book history of how dogs evolved from wolves to become humankind's best friend, and all of the important jobs that dogs have done (and still do) to make our lives better. Each spread includes a bit of engaging narrative and a more detailed, italicized passage that provides context and additional information. Includes abundant backmatter and a resource list to further sparks of wonder.

[Kirsten · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every dog loving family needs this delightful book. I really love books like this one that feature different fonts for various reading and interest levels. And, the back matter is just as fascinating as the book itself. Great job. I especially love the mention of therapy dogs, proper dog care and training, historical dogs and the evolution of dogs to become such an important part of our human lives. A 2026 Utah Beehive Book Award Nominee for informational books. I loved it.

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so fun, it tells how dogs turned into pets. There are many kinds of dogs everyone loves their own dogs. I have two dogs one is Doxie-Poo, named Princess, she is half Dachshund and Poodle.
Our other dog is a Havie-Poo, his name is Coal, he is Coal Black. A Havenese dog came from Havana, Cuba. We loved them both so much and so our neighbors, when they go on a walk, the neighbors say, "Hi Princess and Coal!".

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent illustrations and the interesting history about dogs make for a unique picture book. My kids and I enjoyed how it started off like a story and then dove into the history. The ending shares a timeline, different dog breeds and lists famous dogs. Dog lovers and history lovers alike will enjoy this book.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's no secret that I love dogs, so I found this book extremely fascinating. I learned a lot of new information, and I loved the inclusion of a timeline, dog breed pictures, famous dogs, ways we can help dogs, and my personal favorite that always signifies a great nonfiction book, the sources. I can't wait to add this book to our school library collection for the students to check out.

[Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful! Oversize format and Judge's warm and charming illustrations make this a winner for kids. Simple text with more additional information provided to be read to the child or for the older reader on her own.

Back matter includes an Author's Note, things that anyone can do to help dogs, a Timeline of Domestication. Breeds of Dogs, Famous Dogs and sources.

[Panda Incognito · Rating 4 out of 5]

This beautifully illustrated nonfiction picture book covers the history of domesticated dogs, ways that dogs have helped humans throughout history, and the importance of the bond between humans and dogs. This is educational and quite touching.

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really cute book with good info and the illustrations are so good. The only thing - I hated how some of the passages were Italicized and others weren't and it didn't really seem like there was a particular reason. That just seems like an editing choice. Otherwise A+!

[Alice · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought this book was great and I like dogs like I like people it is on a case by case basis. I still enjoyed this book, It made me always want a dog...almost...
I love Lita Judge works and that is why I picked it up, but it was well done, well written well illustrated.

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book as an adult reader for the AR Diamond Book Award. I really enjoyed this book, but I think that it may be a little much for this award. Tons of good information about dogs, their history, their breeds, etc. spread throughout. Also, the illustrations are adorable!

[Jackie "the Librarian" · Rating 5 out of 5]

Engaging overview of our history with dogs, from wolves to working companions, to beloved pets. Charming illustrations with interesting facts make this a fun and informative read. Recommended for 2nd grade and up.
Towner Award winner for best Washington state nonfiction for kids, 2025.

[Samantha Ania · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just love dogs so much. :'O <3

[Michele Knott · Rating 5 out of 5]

This history of dogs is going to be well-loved by young canine enthusiasts!

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

A cute book about our four legged best friends.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stunning illustrations and a wonderful overview of human’s history with dogs.