Heartwarming Christmas Dog Books To Read This Holiday

As the cold winter nights settle in, there’s nothing quite like curling up by the fire with a warm mug of cocoa and a good book. And if you’re a dog lover like us, you’re likely on the lookout for stories that not only capture the magic of the season but also feature our furry, four-legged friends. After all, Christmas wouldn’t be the same without our beloved pups, who seem to understand the holiday spirit in their own special way.

It’s no surprise, then, that so many authors have penned tales where dogs play an essential role in bringing Christmas cheer. There’s something inherently comforting about a story where man’s best friend takes center stage, and when you pair that with the charm of Christmas, well, you’ve got yourself a story that promises to tug at your heartstrings and maybe even tickle your funny bone.

Best Christmas books with dogs

These books illustrate everything from the innocent wonder of a child’s first Christmas to the deep, unconditional love that dogs offer, all while weaving in some yuletide spirit.

‘The Christmas Dog’ by Melody Carlson

Melody Carlson’s “The Christmas Dog” is a story about finding joy in unexpected places. The book follows Betty, a widow who is less than thrilled about her grumpy new neighbor and his scruffy dog. However, as the holiday season progresses, Betty discovers that appearances can be deceiving. Through laughter and a bit of holiday magic, she learns that friendship and community often come in the most surprising forms. Carlson’s storytelling is both witty and touching, making it easy to get lost in this delightful holiday read.

‘The Dog Who Saved Christmas’ by Allan Zullo

This collection of true stories is like a hug in book form. Each tale shares a heartwarming adventure featuring our favorite four-legged heroes, proving once again that dogs have an uncanny knack for spreading holiday cheer. From courageous canines who perform miraculous rescues to those who simply bring a smile to a lonely face, these stories are packed with feel-good moments. If you’ve ever loved a dog — or just need a reminder of the goodness in the world — this book is sure to warm your heart.

‘A Dog Named Christmas’ by Greg Kincaid

“A Dog Named Christmas” has quickly earned its place as a beloved holiday classic, so much so that it has also been adapted into a wholesome movie. When a young man named Todd hears about a local animal shelter’s program to foster dogs for the holidays, he’s all in. Determined to make a difference, Todd sets out on a mission to persuade his initially reluctant family to welcome a dog into their home for Christmas.

What unfolds is a tale filled with warmth and humor, as Todd’s conviction shines through. The dog, whom Todd affectionately names Christmas, ends up bringing the McCray family closer together, while teaching them lessons about compassion and responsibility. Kincaid writes with an easygoing style that makes you feel right at home, even if you’re miles away from Kansas, where the story takes place.

‘The Twelve Dogs of Christmas: An Andy Carpenter Mystery’ by David Rosenfelt

If you’re in the mood for a bit of mystery with your holiday cheer, David Rosenfelt’s “The Twelve Dogs of Christmas” might be just the ticket. This novel is part of the Andy Carpenter series, where lawyer and dog lover Andy finds himself defending a friend accused of murder. With twelve puppies thrown into the mix, this Christmas-themed whodunit will keep you guessing while also providing plenty of canine antics that leave you smiling.

‘A Very Marley Christmas’ by John Grogan

Marley is back, and this time he’s spreading Christmas cheer in true Marley fashion. Anyone who knows the lovable yet troublemaking Labrador can expect a blend of humor and heartwarming moments. In “A Very Marley Christmas,” Marley’s antics take the spotlight as he dives headfirst into holiday preparations.

From knocking over the Christmas tree to tearing down decorations and even mistaking the tree for an indoor bathroom, Marley’s clumsy yet adorable behavior keeps the Grogan family on their toes. Despite the mishaps, Marley reminds the Grogans — and us — that Christmas is all about love and togetherness, even when things don’t go perfectly.

‘The Dogs of Christmas’ by W. Bruce Cameron

Known for his bestselling book “A Dog’s Purpose,” W. Bruce Cameron brings us another touching story with “The Dogs of Christmas.” If you’re already familiar with his work, Cameron has a knack for getting to the heart of human-dog relationships, and this book is no exception.

Josh Michaels’ life takes an unpredictable turn when he’s left in charge of a pregnant dog, Lucy, right before the holidays. Totally clueless about dog parenthood — let alone raising a litter of puppies — Josh feels overwhelmed. Nonetheless, what starts as chaos quickly becomes a journey filled with humor, growth, and the joys of puppy love.

Along the way, Josh meets Kerri, a dog trainer, and there’s a little bit of romance that spices things up. Through caring for Lucy and her pups, Josh begins to realize the importance of companionship and unconditional love, two things that dogs offer without hesitation. Cameron manages to mix humor and sentimentality in a way that makes this book hard to put down.

‘The Puppy That Came for Christmas’ by Megan Rix

Megan Rix’s “The Puppy That Came for Christmas” is a beautiful memoir that will resonate with any dog lover. Megan and her husband, Ian, yearn to start a family but face the setbacks of infertility. In search of comfort and purpose, they volunteer to foster puppies training to become assistance dogs for people with disabilities. And that’s when they meet Emma, a tiny Labrador puppy with a big personality. Emma’s arrival marks the beginning of a new chapter brimming with joy, love, and a bit of chaos — the kind only a puppy can bring. However, fostering isn’t easy — each puppy eventually moves on to fulfill their role, leaving Megan and Ian with both full hearts and aching ones.

Just when they think they can’t do it anymore, along comes Traffy, a sweet pup who stays for good. This book is a rollercoaster of emotions. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and most importantly, you’ll feel a deep connection to Megan and Ian’s journey. If you’re a sucker for stories about puppies and Christmas miracles, this one should definitely be on your reading list.

‘Santa Paws’ by Nicholas Edwards

This classic series kicks off with a homeless puppy who, by a twist of fate, becomes a hero in a small town just before Christmas. Santa Paws — as he’s eventually named — has a knack for being in the right place at the right time, performing Christmas miracles for the townsfolk. It’s a delightful tale that will make you believe in holiday miracles and the profound impact a dog can have on a community.

‘A Dog for Christmas’ by Linda Byler

Before we jump into this book, we must give you a heads-up: you’ll want to keep plenty of tissues nearby for this one. In “A Dog for Christmas,” author Linda Byler presents a deeply moving tale that revolves around young Amish twins Henry and Harvey. One Christmas, while sledding, they discover a stray Newfoundland dog and adopt him, naming him Lucky. The pooch becomes a constant companion for the boys, especially Henry, after tragedy strikes when Harvey drowns in a creek.

As Henry grows up, his life becomes further complicated by family hardships during the Great Depression and his unrequited love for a girl named Katie, who eventually marries someone else. Yet, despite the pain, Henry’s story is ultimately one of healing and hope, as he learns that love and joy can emerge even after years of longing. With its heartfelt exploration of family, faith, and the healing power of pets, this story will have you thinking about the unexpected blessings in your own life, especially during the holiday season. It serves as a powerful testament that, even in our toughest moments, there’s always room for love and renewal​.

‘A Christmas Home’ by Greg Kincaid

“A Christmas Home” is an endearing sequel to Greg Kincaid’s “A Dog Named Christmas.” Set once again in rural Kansas, the story reconnects us with Todd McCray, now a 24-year-old working at the local animal shelter. But this holiday season comes with new challenges — economic struggles in the town threaten the shelter’s future, putting the fate of many dogs at risk. In order to save the shelter and find homes for all the animals before Christmas, Todd embarks on a mission filled with hope and perseverance. Luckily, he isn’t alone. His trusty dog, Christmas, is by his side, offering companionship and support as Todd navigates these ups and downs.

Kincaid beautifully weaves themes of hope, resilience, and community spirit, all wrapped in the warmth of a small-town holiday. As you turn the pages, you’ll find yourself rooting for Todd, feeling every emotion as he discovers the true meaning of responsibility, love, and the power of coming together.

Picking your favorite Christmas dog book

With so many dog-themed books, how do you pick just one to cozy up with this Christmas? Here are some tips to help you find your next holiday read:

• Consider your mood: Are you in the mood for a heartfelt tearjerker or a lighthearted romance? Think about what kind of emotional journey you want your book to take you on.
• Think about the length: Depending on your schedule, you might prefer a short story to quickly dive into during a busy season, or a longer novel to enjoy over a few cozy evenings.
• Look for recommendations and reviews: Word of mouth can be helpful. See what others are saying about the book, and don’t be afraid to ask fellow readers for suggestions. Reviews can give you insight into whether a book’s tone and content will match your expectations.
• Sample a chapter: If you’re still unsure, try reading the first chapter. Often, the writing style and initial setup can be enough to let you know if it’s the right fit for you.
• Follow your instincts: Ultimately, let your intuition guide you. If a book cover catches your eye or a blurb piques your interest, give it a go. Sometimes the best reads are the ones you stumble upon by chance.

Remember, there’s no “wrong” way to pick a book — what matters most is finding something that speaks to you. Take your time, explore your options, and let your next favorite story surprise you. Happy reading, and may your holidays be filled with warmth, joy, and plenty of furry snuggles!