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Isle of Dogs: A canine adventure through Britain
Every dog must have his day.
Dogs are never just pets. Not for the British. We love them as members of the family. They work with us, sleep with us, eat with us, help us live our daily lives and come on holiday with us. Some parents will freely admit to enjoying the company of their dogs more than their children while many couples would choose the dog over their partner. So what is it that makes our bond so special?
In this fascinating adventure across Britain, Clare Balding explores the many roles dogs fulfil and the history of how they became such an intrinsic part of our lives. She talks to people whose everyday survival depends on their dog, those whose experience of life has been transformed by them and what dogs have meant to her.
From the mysteries of extinct breeds to the ancient dogs still thriving today, she journeys from Battersea to the Orkney Islands via Buckingham Palace to tell a moving and humorous tale of loyalty and partnership. Isle of Dogs is an unmissable read for anyone whose life has been transformed by a faithful hound.
Dogs are never just pets. Not for the British. We love them as members of the family. They work with us, sleep with us, eat with us, help us live our daily lives and come on holiday with us. Some parents will freely admit to enjoying the company of their dogs more than their children while many couples would choose the dog over their partner. So what is it that makes our bond so special?
In this fascinating adventure across Britain, Clare Balding explores the many roles dogs fulfil and the history of how they became such an intrinsic part of our lives. She talks to people whose everyday survival depends on their dog, those whose experience of life has been transformed by them and what dogs have meant to her.
From the mysteries of extinct breeds to the ancient dogs still thriving today, she journeys from Battersea to the Orkney Islands via Buckingham Palace to tell a moving and humorous tale of loyalty and partnership. Isle of Dogs is an unmissable read for anyone whose life has been transformed by a faithful hound.
304 pages, Hardcover
Published October 12, 2023
12 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
June 14, 2025
3.5 🌟 - Being a fan of dogs (other peoples) and a massive Claire Balding fan this was actually a signed copy I got for a friend when we went to hear her speak at a book festival in Wimbledon.
Hearing Claire Balding speak for me is always a treat and way better than the book! Undoubtably well researched and yes it was interesting and light hearted for me it was just a little saccharin sweet.
If like me you love dogs and Claire Balding you will however enjoy this light hearted read.
Hearing Claire Balding speak for me is always a treat and way better than the book! Undoubtably well researched and yes it was interesting and light hearted for me it was just a little saccharin sweet.
If like me you love dogs and Claire Balding you will however enjoy this light hearted read.
December 5, 2023
This book was a joy to read and will definitely appeal to dog people. Clare Balding has undertaken research and visits across the British Isles to learn about every different aspect of dogs and their care – meeting breeders, trainers, and those at rescue centres and charities such as the Guide Dogs for the Blind. From the dog historians we learn about the creation of the Kennel Club, the beginnings of that British institution – the Crufts dog show (created in 1891 by Charles Cruft, a dog biscuit salesman) and much more, including the rather unusual reasons some people have for tracking down relatives who were show exhibitors. Celebrity dogs also feature, for example Olive and Mabel (the two labradors owned by sports broadcaster Andrew Cotter, who came to fame during the UK lockdown restrictions), as well as dogs of the Royal Household.
Clare Balding comes across in this book as I have seen her on TV. I am assuming that she wrote this herself because it has her voice throughout. The tone is enthusiastic, engaging, informative and especially humorous being peppered with personal dog related anecdotes. Claire’s wife Alice also features at times (I loved her dry and often pithy humour) particularly when accompanying Claire on some trips (Alice has her own chapter at the end). Their continuing sadness at the loss of their dog Archie during Covid lockdown comes through clearly. Having been in that position of having to make that heartbreaking decision to say goodbye to a much loved four pawed member of the family I could very much relate. As a lover of dogs … and books, I was particularly amused by the revelation of her parent’s sofas and chairs being covered in books – not to read but to try and keep the dogs off the furniture!
I was intrigued by one dog festival, founded in 2022 on the Goodwood estate (rather more known for its Festival of Speed and horse racing). Aptly named Goodwoof it sounds a lot of fun and when I do get my much wanted dog, I shall definitely check it out.
There are no photos included which is rather a shame but instead chapters are headed with dog illustrations (drawn by Crufts commentator Jessica Holm). Nevertheless I very much enjoyed this and have no hesitation in recommending to any dog lover.
Clare Balding comes across in this book as I have seen her on TV. I am assuming that she wrote this herself because it has her voice throughout. The tone is enthusiastic, engaging, informative and especially humorous being peppered with personal dog related anecdotes. Claire’s wife Alice also features at times (I loved her dry and often pithy humour) particularly when accompanying Claire on some trips (Alice has her own chapter at the end). Their continuing sadness at the loss of their dog Archie during Covid lockdown comes through clearly. Having been in that position of having to make that heartbreaking decision to say goodbye to a much loved four pawed member of the family I could very much relate. As a lover of dogs … and books, I was particularly amused by the revelation of her parent’s sofas and chairs being covered in books – not to read but to try and keep the dogs off the furniture!
I was intrigued by one dog festival, founded in 2022 on the Goodwood estate (rather more known for its Festival of Speed and horse racing). Aptly named Goodwoof it sounds a lot of fun and when I do get my much wanted dog, I shall definitely check it out.
There are no photos included which is rather a shame but instead chapters are headed with dog illustrations (drawn by Crufts commentator Jessica Holm). Nevertheless I very much enjoyed this and have no hesitation in recommending to any dog lover.
November 10, 2025
I love watching Clare Balding on TV and her effervescent personality certainly came through in this book, which was a delight to read.
Clare and her wife, Alice, lost their Tibetan terrier, Archie, in 2020, and Clare decided to write this book while she searched for their next dog. Clare is a dog person and Alice is a cat person so although this book is primarily about dogs, cats do have a few mentions.
Clare has travelled the British Isles and chatted to lots of people about the impact dogs have on our lives. She talks about the friendships that develop between dog owners who have met while out dog walking. There’s a great sense of camaraderie between fellow dog owners which we know only too well on our walks with Millie.
I loved the historical aspect of this book - how dog shows originated; the history behind Crufts and the Kennel Club; the origin of shelters for dogs and the fantastic places which are there to help them, including Battersea and Dogs Trust. Also Dogs for Good where they train dogs to help people who can’t do some everyday jobs themselves.
This book has so many fascinating facts and I was constantly mentioning some of them to Ian (hubby) with a ‘Did you know…?’ There are sections about dogs and the royal family, dog day care centres, Medical Detection Dogs, breeding and showing dogs, dogs trained for TV, dogs in service and Goodwoof - the dog festival which was founded in 2022 on the Goodwood estate.
The book also includes snippets from Clare’s life, including her childhood, and her partner, Alice, who accompanies Clare on some of her travels. It’s quite a poignant moment when Alice writes the final chapter. Clare has a great sense of humour so I found myself breaking into a smile or chuckling away while reading this one. If you love dogs, it’s definitely a book for you! 🫶🏻🐶🫶🏻
Clare and her wife, Alice, lost their Tibetan terrier, Archie, in 2020, and Clare decided to write this book while she searched for their next dog. Clare is a dog person and Alice is a cat person so although this book is primarily about dogs, cats do have a few mentions.
Clare has travelled the British Isles and chatted to lots of people about the impact dogs have on our lives. She talks about the friendships that develop between dog owners who have met while out dog walking. There’s a great sense of camaraderie between fellow dog owners which we know only too well on our walks with Millie.
I loved the historical aspect of this book - how dog shows originated; the history behind Crufts and the Kennel Club; the origin of shelters for dogs and the fantastic places which are there to help them, including Battersea and Dogs Trust. Also Dogs for Good where they train dogs to help people who can’t do some everyday jobs themselves.
This book has so many fascinating facts and I was constantly mentioning some of them to Ian (hubby) with a ‘Did you know…?’ There are sections about dogs and the royal family, dog day care centres, Medical Detection Dogs, breeding and showing dogs, dogs trained for TV, dogs in service and Goodwoof - the dog festival which was founded in 2022 on the Goodwood estate.
The book also includes snippets from Clare’s life, including her childhood, and her partner, Alice, who accompanies Clare on some of her travels. It’s quite a poignant moment when Alice writes the final chapter. Clare has a great sense of humour so I found myself breaking into a smile or chuckling away while reading this one. If you love dogs, it’s definitely a book for you! 🫶🏻🐶🫶🏻
March 7, 2025
Clare Balding writes well and this is a nice and easy, as well as an interesting read, at least for dog people! However, for me it felt more like a plan for a TV-series or something. Each chapter (or at least most of them) begins with some general introduction to something dog-related and then CB goes off to visit somebody who is involved with just that. This means that we get a somewhat restricted and biased view, although one can of course also see this as a more personal one. For me personally, this was very evident when she came to nose-work, when she visited an ex-police officer, with a very personal approach, instead of meeting a more main-stream trainer.
November 5, 2023
A gift from a friend for a few days away. A lovely read. Fun facts to learn from Clare’s research. Emotions to feel. And nice to hear from Alice in the final chapter as well.
As a rescue dog owner (for the second time) I was pleased to read of Clare’s experiences visiting centres and owners of rescue dogs, and that this wasn’t all about the high achieving Crufts winning beauties. I also enjoyed reading about some of the jobs which dogs are being trained to do amazing as well. The dogs and the humans that train them are so consistent and dedicated.
A good book for a dog lover
As a rescue dog owner (for the second time) I was pleased to read of Clare’s experiences visiting centres and owners of rescue dogs, and that this wasn’t all about the high achieving Crufts winning beauties. I also enjoyed reading about some of the jobs which dogs are being trained to do amazing as well. The dogs and the humans that train them are so consistent and dedicated.
A good book for a dog lover
November 9, 2023
Such a great gift for a dog lover! It was given to me because I’m very much one of these, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It’s clearly been a labour of love for Clare to write this… she’s been all over
the country meeting dog breeders, dog trainers, dog rescuers, dog historians…. And it also feels
very personal: you feel you’re getting to know, not just Clare but her wife, Alice, too which provides some of the funniest moments… so the added bonus is an insight into their relationship. Definitely recommend.
the country meeting dog breeders, dog trainers, dog rescuers, dog historians…. And it also feels
very personal: you feel you’re getting to know, not just Clare but her wife, Alice, too which provides some of the funniest moments… so the added bonus is an insight into their relationship. Definitely recommend.
January 20, 2024
This is a book is written by a dog lover for all dog lovers. Clare Balding takes us on a journey of the history of the domestic dog in the UK, from Royal dogs, to those in the military, dog shows and dogs that help people. Written in a warm and amusing way, it’s interesting, informative and eye opening. I now want another dog. Or 5…. Thank you Clare Balding, please don’t stop writing, especially about animals.
January 23, 2024
I learned a lot about our history with dogs and the incredible work that is happening now. Clare didn't shy away from discussing the effect lockdowns have had and the issues of people buying dogs on line, puppy farms and the horrors of illegally importing puppies. As always with Clare's writing, this was overall an easy and uplifting read. An absolute must for anyone considering bringing a dog in to their life.
November 17, 2023
This was a nice book. I don’t know whether I was imagining something slightly different with a tour of the UK, but it was more a series of themed chapters with visits to a few places, all mostly local from what I could tell. Dog lovers will be drawn to it (as was I, being a dog person), but I don’t think I learned a whole lot of new information. 3.5 stars maybe.
January 27, 2024
I LOVED THIS BOOK! The facts the storeys such an eye opener, Clare’s writing had me feeling as if I was stood right next to her! It’s really opened my eyes and shown me how important it is that we do our research before bringing a pet into our lives
I’m going crufts in march and reading this has made me even more excited 😜
I’m going crufts in march and reading this has made me even more excited 😜
February 22, 2025
Like a conversation
An easy, comfortable read which felt like a conversation with the author. I already knew quite a lot about dogs but still found it interesting. I particularly enjoyed the chapter which featured Goodwoof and, from the author’s description, I’d quite like to visit the show.
An easy, comfortable read which felt like a conversation with the author. I already knew quite a lot about dogs but still found it interesting. I particularly enjoyed the chapter which featured Goodwoof and, from the author’s description, I’d quite like to visit the show.
February 4, 2024
Fantastic book for all dog lovers - a range of interesting topics covered and written from the heart. I think it's a touch bias towards Kennel club and breeders but not as much as I thought, much more balanced, I enjoyed it very much and would highly recommend.
March 1, 2024
A nice, gentle read reflecting on Claire Balding’s search for a dog to fill the void left by her old companion. Her journey takes her around the UK to various dog homes, charities and working dog employers and contemplates the country’s love for and fascination with Man’s Best Friend.
July 22, 2024
Loved this. Balding's love of dogs is evident and it was great to read about all the places she visited. I was touched by her own dog journey and story and it resonated with my own experiences. Read this very quickly and thoroughly enjoyed it!
January 16, 2024
Funny, informative and just a really enjoyable read
January 25, 2024
Wonderful easy read full of interesting facts and beautiful stories about all kinds of dogs. Loved it so much I bought it for mum and a friend.
February 6, 2024
Audio book, although I knew a lot of it, it was very interesting and included biographical details too.
May 11, 2024
4* Review to follow
May 11, 2024
It’s written by one of my favourite people about one of my favourite things so always getting 5* from me.
October 5, 2024
I love dogs so this was a delightful, and enjoyable audiobook.
December 20, 2024
The third book I’ve read of Clare’s and thoroughly enjoyed .
January 17, 2025
A love letter to dogs.
February 13, 2025
I thought it was a great book! Loved hearing all about Clare’s journey and research about dogs, different breeds, behaviour, jobs etc. I was engaged from
Start to finish. Light hearted but engaging
Start to finish. Light hearted but engaging
July 5, 2025
A lovely read in the company of an interesting and intelligent woman, who also happens to be from my home village! Her love of her subject shines through.
December 9, 2025
Just the kind of gentle read I needed. As always, brilliantly well written with warmth and humour.
February 7, 2025
Soothing, lots of interesting stories about dogs, enjoyed it.
August 3, 2025
As a vulnerable dog breed owner, and someone who actually loves dogs much more than people 🤣, I found this book moving, and incredibly informative. Was lucky enough to go and hear Clare Balding speak in Ely at an event to promote this book, and she was fascinating to listen to.
Also can’t wait to listen back on Audible, as she reads all her own books FABULOUSLY !!!
Love love love her !!!
Also can’t wait to listen back on Audible, as she reads all her own books FABULOUSLY !!!
Love love love her !!!
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews