Getting a puppy is a big deal. I knew it would be a big change for my two girls. Our old dog but was already middle-aged by the time they came around. My 3 year old in particular can be a little, shall we say, overzealous in her affection.
Big changes go better when little kids know what to expect. How to prepare them? With books, of course! New siblings, moves, going to school for the first time, … The library shelves are packed with books to help kids through these transitions. Why not use books to prepare kids for a new puppy?
Here are a few of our favorite puppy books.
This was a big hit with my 3 year old. It’s the story about a dog having puppies as told by a little girl. It’s also my top pick for preparing kids for a puppy. It explains puppy development and behavior in an age appropriate way. More importantly, it also shows kids how to behave. How to approach a new puppy. How it will act. How to hold a puppy. Play gently. Perfect!
If I Ran The Dog Show: All About Dog’s
This book covers a lot! It discusses growth, different breeds, anatomy, and on and on. It packs an informational punch wrapped up in Seussical rhyme.
My girls already love this big red dog. They loved reading about his start as a tiny red puppy. How did Clifford go from being a tiny runt to a gigantic hound? Read to find out the secret ingredient.
This was another great informational book. It compares puppies and kitten. Great for setting expectations for little kids!
We’ve had our puppy a week today and things are going great!