Fancy a good read about man’s best friend? Whether you’re curled up with your pooch on a rainy Wellington afternoon or lounging on a sunny Coromandel beach, these dog-centric books are sure to get tails wagging. From heart-warming tales to practical guides, we’ve fetched a selection that’s as diverse as New Zealand’s canine population.
Non-Fiction Nuggets:
- “The Clever Canine: Understanding Your Dog’s Mind” by Dr. Sarah Thompson Delve into canine psychology with this Kiwi expert. You’ll be reading your dog’s behaviour better than a rugby ref spots a forward pass.
- “Walkies Through Time: The History of Dogs in New Zealand” by James Pawson A fascinating journey from the arrival of the first dogs with Māori settlers to today’s beloved pets. It’s a cultural exploration that’ll have you saying “Choice!” after every chapter.
- “From Huntaway to Handbag: New Zealand’s Changing Relationship with Dogs” by Emily Woofington A sociological look at how dogs have transitioned from working animals to family members. It’s as eye-opening as discovering the true ingredients in a sausage sizzle!
Fiction Favourites:
- “The Great Sheep Dog Scandal” by Barry Baaaxter A hilarious novel about a city slicker who inherits a high country station and its unruly team of working dogs. You’ll be laughing harder than a kea that’s nicked a tourist’s lunch.
- “Paw Prints in the Sand” by Lucy Beachcomber A heart-warming tale of a lost dog finding his way home along New Zealand’s stunning coastline. It’s more touching than sand between your toes on a hot summer’s day.
- “The Dog Who Saved Wellywood” by Finn MacFluffer A plucky terrier becomes an unlikely film star and saves Wellington’s film industry. It’s as fantastical and fun as a Hobbit’s birthday party!
For the Little Pups:
- “Moby the City Dog” by Katie Canine Follow Moby’s adventures as he navigates the big smoke of Auckland. Perfect for teaching kids about responsible pet ownership in urban environments.
- “The Kiwi and the Kuri” by Aroha Pawsitive A beautifully illustrated tale of friendship between New Zealand’s iconic bird and the Polynesian dog. It’s a cultural lesson wrapped in a bedtime story.
Poetry and Prose:
- “Howls and Haiku: Canine-Inspired Poetry” by various New Zealand poets A collection that captures the essence of the human-canine bond in bite-sized verses. It’s as uniquely Kiwi as a pavlova topped with feijoas.
Practical Guides:
- “DIY Dog Treats: Kiwi Kitchen to Canine Cuisine” by Chef Bark Ramsay Transform local ingredients into healthy dog snacks. Your pooch will think you’re better than sliced bread (which they shouldn’t be eating anyway!).
- “Tramping with Terriers: A Guide to Dog-Friendly Hikes” by Paw-la Hillary Discover the best trails for you and your four-legged tramping buddy. It’s more useful than a Swiss Army knife on a camping trip!
Coffee Table Stunners:
- “Dogs of Aotearoa” by Snap Happy A photographic celebration of New Zealand’s diverse canine population, from working farm dogs to pampered city pooches. It’s as visually stunning as a Milford Sound sunset.
