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Looking for the best dog breeds for bookworms? You might say we’ve collected a card catalogue of the most valuable editions for you! Some of these dogs are featured in beloved tails both old and new, while others simply bring their smarts and cuddles to the couch. Now if only they could learn how to fetch you that glass of wine…
Keep scrolling for cute pics and details about why each made the list.
Best Dog Breeds for Book Lovers
- Clumber Spaniel
- Collie
- Greyhound
- Newfoundland
- Pembroke Welsh Corgi
- Basset Hound
- Cocker Spaniel
- Neapolitan Mastiff
- Chinese Crested
- Cairn Terrier
Clumber Spaniel
The Clumber spaniel is truly a couch potato, which means you’ll have some cuddly company as you curl up on the sofa with the latest bestseller.
Known for a mellow demeanour, this kid-friendly K-9 is ideal for tiny literature-lovers looking to lean on something fluffy while they flip the pages.
Collie
“Timmy’s in the well!” Luckily there’s always Lassie to the rescue.
First seen in a short story in The Saturday Evening Post, Lassie later starred in the novel Lassie Come Home and went on to TV fame. Considering that collies are revered for their uncommon intelligence, gentleness, devotion to family, and love of children—it only makes sense.
Greyhound
Whether you’re diving into the latest true crime tale, brushing up on the classics, or flying with fantastical characters, there’s nothing better than a lanky greyhound napping at your feet.
Though predominately known for their screamin’ speed, these quiet companions really crave a calm environment.
Newfoundland
Anyone who’s read the classic Peter Pan won’t be surprised that the Newfoundland’s nickname is “Nanny Dog.” The character of Nana embodies all of the sweetness and patience that Newfoundlands are known for.
Well-known literary figure Lord Byron also had a soft spot for this giant breed, penning Epitaph to a Dog where he describes his beloved Newfoundland, Boatswain, as “Beauty without Vanity, Strength without Insolence, Courage without Ferocity.”
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Sort of like that super-knowledgeable British bookstore clerk you admire, this distinguished little fella seems like he has all the answers.
Corgis are not only affectionate and kind, they’re also super-smart, making them the ideal companions at the bookstore (they’ll have great suggestions!) and the perfect dogs to go over complex plot points with. Probably.
Bassett Hound
Looking for a lazy, low-key pal for drizzly Sunday afternoons? Look no further than the Basset Hound.
Always easygoing, these floppy-eared dogs are happiest curled up with you and your favourite book all weekend. Just be sure to break away for a quick walk between chapters, since they can easily pack on the pounds without proper exercise.
Cocker Spaniel
These dogs have inspired poets and novelists alike. In fact, Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s cocker spaniel Flush earned an entire biography written by the legendary Virginia Woolf (plus a couple of poems by Barrett Browning herself).
Told through the eyes of the cocker, Woolf’s novel explores the complex, loving bond between dogs, humans, and the city.
Neapolitan Mastiff
Who could forget the not-so-fearless Fang from the Harry Potter series? Identified as a ‘boarhound’ in the novels, Fang was played by a Mastiff in the movies. His loving disposition and devotion to his family—Hagrid—is typical of the breed.
His tendency to slobber all over everything (including Harry’s robes) is also standard. Just make sure you’ve got a hand towel tucked away in your book bag to catch some of that drool.
Chinese Crested
Delightful and delicate, these toy-sized dogs make loving companions for book lovers looking for lighter breeds. Pack them along with a picnic basket and take them with you for an afternoon reading in the park.
Another plus: their unique fur(less) situation makes them ideal for dressing up. Transform your dog into your favourite character from a story—a miniature Sherlock Holmes, perhaps?
Cairn Terrier
Toto took this breed to a new degree of fame with his role in The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.
Known as Dorothy’s beloved companion to Oz and back, Toto encompasses the true cheerful and independent-minded spirit that’s so valued in Cairn terriers.
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Featured image via Better World Books
