Dogs have been man’s best friend for centuries, and the world of literature, is no different. From faithful companions to lovable troublemakers, these canine characters have left their paw prints in some of of our favourite books. With the Booker Prize coming up, we thought we’d celebrate a few of our favourites. Let’s dive into the tales of these literary legends to see who made it past the final draft.
6. Bull’s-eye from Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens (1838)
You know how they say dogs look like their owners? Well, in Oliver Twist, Bull’s-eye, the white, scruffy sidekick of the villainous Bill Sikes, doesn’t just resemble his master—he embodies him. The dog is as loyal as he is terrifying, sticking with Sikes right through his life of crime. But when guilt catches up with Sikes after murdering Nancy, even Bull’s-eye ditches him—a not-so-subtle nod to the idea that Sikes’ cruelty is coming back to bite.
As a bull terrier, Bull's-eye's sturdy build might have suited Sikes, but it’s the breed's fierce loyalty—even walking away from its master at the end—that likely secured Bull’s-eye's spot in Dickens' imagination.
5. The Dog from The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13 ¾ by Sue Townsend (1982)
Poor Adrian Mole. Growing pains, misunderstood genius, and… an unnamed family dog that runs riot in the background. While never the main event, this mischievous pup brings chaos to the Mole household, living the kind of carefree life any dog would dream of. The Moles may be a tad neglectful, but when the family finally realises they care, it hits home. Proof that even the most overlooked dogs can leave the biggest void when they’re gone.
Although unnamed in the books, the 1980s TV series cast a lively Border Collie in the role—a fitting choice for a dog that needed plenty of energy to keep up with the Mole family’s antics.
4. Bosun from Life After Life by Kate Atkinson (2013)
If dogs could be comfort blankets, Bosun would be the fluffiest. This big, brindled French mastiff is a gentle giant, offering his family unwavering love and loyalty through all the twists and turns of Life After Life. Kate Atkinson has admitted that writing about a dog’s death hurts more than writing about humans, and with Bosun, it’s easy to see why. He’s the kind of dog who seems to know what you need before you do—and really, who wouldn’t want a Bosun by their side?
With the breed known for its calm, protective nature, the mastiff’s “large, powerful, well-knit frame” makes Bosun the perfect choice for such a steadfast companion in Atkinson’s novel.
3. Nana from Peter Pan by J.M. Barrie (1904)
The Darling family’s beloved nursemaid, Nana, isn’t your typical babysitter—she’s a big-hearted, no-nonsense Newfoundland with a knack for keeping things in order. From tidying up the nursery to making sure the children have their medicine, Nana’s dedication to her young charges is unmatched, even if her methods are, well, a little dog-like!
Newfoundland, with their gentle temperament and loyalty, make a natural fit for Nana’s character. Known for their excellent swimming and rescue skills, these dogs are born guardians—a perfect choice for a loving nanny who watches over her charges with unfailing devotion.
2. Buck from The Call of the Wild by Jack London (1903)
If any dog could rival Bear Grylls, it’s Buck. Once a pampered pet, Buck is kidnapped and thrust into the unforgiving world of Alaskan sled dogs. As the wilderness calls, Buck embraces his primal instincts, discovering his true place in nature. His story may be about returning to the wild, but his loyalty and strength make him a hero for the ages—though maybe not one you’d want to take on a casual walk in the park!
The perfect fit for this role? A St Bernard. Known for their heroic exploits in the Swiss Alps, the St Bernard breed, with its instinct for survival and protective nature, mirrors Buck’s remarkable transformation.
1. Gaspode from the Discworld series by Terry Pratchett (1990)
Ever heard of a talking dog with human-level intelligence who doesn’t bother to tell anyone? That’s Gaspode. This scruffy little terrier from Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series is smarter than most humans, but he knows better than to make a fuss. After all, who listens to dogs? Straddling the line between lovable underdog and master manipulator, Gaspode always finds a way to get what he wants. If any dog deserves a bone for brains, it’s this one.
With his quick wit and scrappy attitude, Gaspode seems to channel the spirit of a fox terrier—friendly, brave, and always ready for a bit of mischief.
From the streets of Dickensian London to the mystical realms of Discworld, these literary dogs have left their mark on the world’s greatest stories. Whether they’re loyal companions or forces of chaos, one thing’s for sure: literature wouldn’t be the same without these four-legged legends!