Dogs are more than just pets—they are some of the greatest teachers we’ll ever have. Through their loyalty, resilience, and pure-hearted nature, they show us what it means to live fully, love unconditionally, and appreciate the simple joys of life. In Amazing Dog Stories by David Wilk—which has earned solid five-star reviews and was just named a finalist for the National Dog Writers Association’s Book of the Year—we see just how much dogs can teach us about being better humans.
No matter if it’s their capacity for forgiveness, their boundless energy, or their unshakeable dedication, dogs have the ability to teach us valuable lessons in the most unlikely ways. Here are some of the most significant life lessons we can gather from our canine companions.
1. Live in the Moment
Dogs don’t concern themselves with what’s past or future. They live in the moment with energy—whether that’s running after a ball, welcoming their master at the door, or tumbling in the grass.
In Amazing Dog Stories, Wilk’s dogs remind him of this plain fact repeatedly. Gracie, for example. Having managed to survive a terrifying flood that swept her away, she just shrugged it off as if nothing had happened at all. Rather than brooding over the danger that she had just experienced, she just continued on—awaiting the next adventure.
As humans, we get caught up in overthinking and worrying about things beyond our control. But dogs remind us that sometimes the best we can do is just be present and absorb it.
2. Love Without Conditions
Dogs love their people no matter what. They don’t mind if you’ve had a bad hair day, if you botched the job at work, or if you’re sad. Their affection is unconditional, pure, and unwavering.
Wilk’s Golden Retriever, Yosemite, embodied this type of love when she remained at his wife Terryle’s side during a serious bout of illness. She didn’t have to do anything extraordinary—simply being there was sufficient. And that’s a lesson for all of us. At times, the greatest way to express love is not through words or big gestures, but merely by being present for the individuals who require it.
3. Forgive and Move Forward
If you’ve ever trodden on your dog’s tail by mistake, you’ll understand how quickly they forgive. They yelp one minute, and the next they’re licking your face as if nothing had ever occurred. Dogs don’t hold grudges, and they don’t dwell on errors.
Think about how much lighter life would be if we all took this approach. Clinging to anger or bitterness only holds us back. Dogs show us that forgiveness is not forgetting—it’s deciding to move forward in love.
4. Find Joy in the Little Things
Dogs don’t require high-end toys or high-end experiences to make them happy. A belly rub, a ride in the car, or a trip to the park can make them blissful.
One of the most humorous moments in Amazing Dog Stories is from Petey, a small puppy who once went missing at a family party—only to be discovered licking blissfully away at a forgotten can of turkey grease. Though it was a harrowing experience for his owners, Petey was entirely happy in his small moment of heaven.
Life is full of little pleasures, but we tend to ignore them for something grander and more complex. Dogs remind us that pleasure is frequently right in front of us—if only we pay attention.
5. Be Loyal to Those Who Matter
Maybe the most important thing that dogs can teach us is the importance of loyalty. They are always there for their people, in good times and bad, never expecting anything in return.
Wilk’s dogs personified this kind of devotion to him throughout each stage of his life, from his very first cherished dog, Jenny, to the many Golden Retrievers that followed. They were his companions, his protectors, and his best bringers of joy. And their devotion was unwavering.
As human beings, we too can learn from their example by placing the individuals who matter most in our lives at the forefront—being there for them, standing with them, and loving them unconditionally.
6. A Book That Celebrates the Wisdom of Dogs
There’s a reason Amazing Dog Stories has been recognized as a finalist for the National Dog Writers Association’s Book of the Year—it’s more than just a collection of heartwarming stories. It’s a tribute to the lessons, laughter, and love that dogs bring into our lives.
If you’ve ever shared your home with a dog, you already know how much they can teach us. And if you haven’t, this book will show you why these incredible animals are some of life’s greatest teachers.
Because at the end of the day, dogs don’t just make our lives better—they show us how to live better.