The Dog Rules
on Goodreads (127)
What’s inside...
Meet Monty, an energetic pup who tends to get into trouble as if it's his full-time job. His house is full of rules, but Monty sometimes finds it difficult to follow them. Various distractions like the smell of gym shorts, the prettiest pooch on the block, and an evil parrot with a plan often lead him astray. If Monty fails to adhere to the Dog Rules, he risks being permanently banished from his home.
Discussion points
What do you think are the most important rules that the dog follows in the story?
How did the dog's behavior change throughout the book? What made it change?
If you were to teach our pet a new rule, what would it be and why?
How do the other characters react to the dog’s rules? Do you think these reactions are fair?
Can we think of some rules we follow at home? Why are they important?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the rules they follow daily, both at home and school, and relate them to the dog's rules in the book.
Discuss the concept of empathy by asking how they feel about the reactions of other characters in the book towards the dog.
Use the book as a starting point to talk about responsibility and why rules are essential for harmony in any setting.
After reading, engage in a fun activity where you and your child come up with a 'rulebook' for a fictional pet, drawing parallels to the book's themes.
Ask your child to explain their thoughts on why rules might change as situations change, mirroring the dog’s experiences in the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: In 'The Dog Rules', the main character learns the importance of taking care of their pet through regular feeding, walking, and grooming.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by helping with household chores, taking care of any family pets, or even looking after their own belongings to develop a sense of responsibility.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Throughout the book, the character also understands the feelings and needs of their dog, fostering a deep emotional connection.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to recognize and respond to the feelings of others, whether it's their friends, family members, or pets, thus enhancing their emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The main character encounters and resolves various challenges that arise while caring for the dog, such as figuring out why the dog is unhappy or how to fit dog walks into a busy schedule.
Real-World Application: This lesson prepares children to think critically and solve problems they encounter in school or in social settings.
Example Lesson: Commitment
Explanation: The book highlights the ongoing commitment required to care for a pet, showing the character consistently making time for and tending to the dog.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of dedication and persistence, applicable to their education, hobbies, and relationships.
Example Lesson: Consequences of Actions
Explanation: ‘The Dog Rules’ subtly teaches that the character’s actions directly affect the well-being of their pet, emphasizing accountability.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand that their actions have direct impacts on others and teach them to make thoughtful decisions.