Why did I read this book?

I love dogs. I love the cover–the sheer joy on the dog’s face. I love that the essays are written by well-known writers, some of whom I’ve read. I love that no one is ever too famous to be bowled over by the mysterious nature of a dog, even one with frustrating quirks!

What is this book about?

Dogs: rescue dogs, puppies, big dogs, little dogs, working dogs, pampered dogs, dogs with big personalities, shy dogs. Dogs who come into our worlds and make our lives better. Dogs who need our help to make their lives better.

Why did I like this book?

I laughed. I cried. I sighed. I nodded my head in complete understanding at least once as I read each essay, recognizing at least one trait that could be found in one of the many dogs I’ve known. Each essay is a delight–a well-written, mini-philosophical exploration of our relationships with dogs.

The best way to read this book?

With a dog!

I’d been writing in my office, when my grand-dog Nellie entered with a toy in her mouth, her whole body wiggling, her tail furiously wagging. My interpretation: “Hey, Nana, you’ve been writing long enough. Come spend time with me and I’ll give you this toy.” I followed her out of the office and picked up The Best Dog in the World. I sat on the couch and invited her up. Content, she curled up into a tight ball.

I read the last few essays with her curled up by my side, the warmth of her body radiating into mine, my left hand gently resting on her back because human touch is important to her. Afterall, she’s a Vizsla: aptly nicknamed Velcro dog.

AND TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL DOG MONTH . . .

Nellie had a trip to Canal Park and Fitgers in Duluth, both dog-friendly places. She started with a shopping spree at A Place for Fido, located in Fitgers. She picked out a dog flotation device for her upcoming water adventures, a pink flamingo stuffy, and a bag of treats. Next, she pranced along the Duluth Lakewalk with my grandkids and me. She dipped her toes in Lake Superior, received numerous compliments about her pretty looks, had a bit of vanilla ice cream, and walked with us across the Aerial Lift Bridge.