The Guard Dog

'The Guard Dog'

By Dick King-Smith

This was a lot more difficult to read than I imagine it would be. In fact, there are an awful lot of really tricky, 'reach for the dictionary' words in the text. The story, as in many of Dick King-Smiths books, is about an unusual animal. In this case it is a very small dog who wants to be a guard dog. All the other dogs in the pet shop initially think that this is hilarious but they soon change their minds when they hear the noise that the little dog can make. All these activites were follow-up homeworks after reading the book in class.

The Advert

Write an advert to go in the pet shop window to advertise the sixth dog. Remember, you want people to come and buy him.

The Letter

Imagine that the Guard Dog could write a letter back to the other dogs at the pet shop. What do you think he would say in his letter? Pretend you are the Guard Dog. Your homework is to write a letter to the other dogs in the pet shop telling them about your first day in a new house.

For and Against

Turn your page into a table like the one above. Imagine the Guard Dog is in your house. In one half of the table write reasons why you think you should keep the Guard Dog. In the other half write reasons why you should send him away.

Dogs & Pets Shops

The Guard Dog was originally published in 1991. It's no longer common or considered a good idea to buy pets like dogs or cats from pet shops.
Can you think of a reason or find our why this might be the case?
Use reputable sources (such as animal charity websites) to research & draw up a list of tips for buying a dog. What sorts of things should you look for? What sorts of things should you check before buying a dog? Which breeds of dog would be best for your household?