*The Smell of Wet Dog by Barney Saltzberg

Canine-loving poetry enthusiasts will actually enjoy The Smell of Wet Dog.

*The Smell of Wet Dog: And Other Dog Poems and Drawings by Barney Saltzberg. Neal Porter Books, 2024. 40 pages.

• Reading Level: Picture books, ages 4-8
• Recommended For: Ages 4-8

Playful illustrations and poems abound in Barney Saltzberg’s poetic ode to canines. The poems include the titular smell of wet dog: 
“Imagine moose and skunk perfume 
An odiferous stench, a paint-peeling plume.” 

And continue on to poems about balls, fur, sitting and staying: the list goes on to a satisfying amount of dog-related poems paired with illustrations. It’s clear that the author loves dogs and this book captures that love for a young audience. (Note: some mild potty humor in an amusing poem/sketch about little dogs.)

*indicates a Redeemed Reader starred review, an outstanding example in its field.

Bottom Line: A great gift for a poetry-loving dog enthusiast who might just want to memorize “The Smell of Wet Dog.”

Recommended Reading at Redeemed Reader

• Book Reviews: Other funny picture books include I’m Very Busy; Cranky, Crabby Crow; and the Critter Jitters books.
• Book Review: Readers who enjoy poetry might enjoy 100 Great Poems for Boys (girls will enjoy this one, too!).
• Resource: Browse our picture book category for more ideas!

You may purchase The Smell of Wet Dog from Amazon.