A Dog is a Dog is an excellent book for young children to read, especially if they are interested in having a dog. The author, Clarice Rutherford, brings her many years of experience with dogs into this book, and explains dogs, why they are the way they are and how to understand and train them. The book is written for the middle grade school level.

The reader will learn the basic history of dogs and their relationship to the wolf. How the dog's brain develops and the importance of early socialization and basic training is explained, as well as how the genetics and instincts of the wolf play an important role in the behavior of the dog to some extent. Establishing one's self as a leader is discussed. Training the dog to be a well-mannered companion is also explained, with good advice on why dogs do some of the things they do, and what can be done to correct those actions. Reading and understanding the body language of the dog is covered and how correct reading will help the person inte