May I Pet Your Dog?: The How-to Guide for Kids Meeting Dogs (and Dogs Meeting Kids)

Children encounter dogs wherever they go: in the park, on the sidewalk, at their friends’ homes. Sometimes it’s love at first sight, on both sides—but not always. The right way for a child to approach a dog to ensure that the first connection is a complete success begins with this question to the owner: “May I pet your dog?” Using Harry the dachshund as a gentle guide, Stephanie Calmenson addresses this valuable yet overlooked topic with care and precision, and Jan Ormerod’s warm illustrations portray a wide variety of breeds and personalities and depict situations that are realistic but never scary. Unique and straightforward, this is the essential guide to bringing children and dogs together—for kids and parents alike.

"Dachshund Harry leads the youngest readers through every step of kid-meets-dog etiquette." Horn Book, Starred

"Straightforward guidelines and a positive, encouraging tone make this book appealing and practical." School Library Journal

"Children who are afraid of dogs, as well as those who love them, will find this volume useful and encouraging." Kirkus Reviews