A Dog’s Purpose

I have sometimes thought of the final cause of dogs having such short lives and I am quite satisfied it is in compassion to the human race; for if we suffer so much in losing a dog after an acquaintance of ten or twelve years, what would it be if they were to live double that time?—Sir Walter Scott

Have you ever wondered what your dog is thinking, feeling or experiencing at any given moment? This heartwarming, intelligent and magical book, A Dog’s Purpose, A Novel for Humans, by W. Bruce Cameron, is one I’ve been hoping someone would write ever since I experienced my first dog friendship. I used to wonder what Baby Bear, my big black Belgian Sheepdog thought, what he did in his life before he came to me; and what became of him after he left me. Some dogs have such deep eyes that you are certain they are old souls.

This book inspires the reader to question almost everything about dogs—their lives with us and without us, what they are really thinking and remembering or seeing in their mind’s eye. It’s an enchanting fantasy and at the same time a profound down-to-earth look at the world and the inextricable connections we make as we live our lives. The narrator dog takes you on a journey from the canine point of view—in his/her voice. Things dogs may think and feel in their lives before us, apart from us, with us and after we separate.

As Toby the stray begins the story, he tells you about the hardships, including dominance struggles, joys, sheer puppy play, and the undercurrent of sadness present in the ‘yard,’ a place where a rescue group keeps the strays they find on the streets.

In his next life, the narrator is reborn as the Golden Retriever, Bailey, and introduces the reader to his boy, Ethan, who becomes Bailey’s teacher and best friend, forming a rich bond of love, affection and respect. Bailey’s friendship saves his boy from many perils.

The rich and varied lives of this dog continue. With harrowing close calls and moments that will break your heart. Each time he wonders what his purpose is. After his life with the boy, he feels he has achieved his purpose, but he’s surprised to find there’s still more work to do.

With each life and relationship he draws you in so deeply that you believe this glimpse into the mind and heart of a dog. I cried, laughed, and felt a resurgence of hope. I didn’t want this book to end.

A Dog’s Purpose has its own website. And here’s a wonderful review with an interview of the author by Kristen Seymour.

After reading this book, I don’t believe you will ever look at your dog or any dog in the same way again.