Dogger: questions to ask and activities to try
Dave loves his toy Dogger more than anything, so losing him is the worst thing ever. Dogger is a much-loved classic about losing something special, and a big sister's kindness.
What age is it for? Dogger is best for ages 3–7. Good for: Losing a favourite toy, and a kind big sister.
Dogger (Shirley Hughes)
- Age
- 3-7
- Best for
- Losing a favourite toy, and a kind big sister
Read it slowly and let your child feel Dave's sadness. The turning point is Bella's choice, so pause there and ask why she did it. It's a gentle way to talk about kindness between siblings.
What it helps with
- Losing a favourite toy or comforter
- Big feelings of sadness and worry
- Kindness between brothers and sisters
- Giving something up for someone you love
Comprehension and discussion questions
Pick two or three, not all of them. “I don’t know” is a fine answer, and you can always come back to it another day.
- “Why was Dogger so special to Dave?”
- “How did Dave feel when Dogger was lost?”
- “Where did Dave find Dogger?”
- “What did Bella do?”
- “Why do you think she did it?”
- “What is your most special toy?”
5-minute activities to try together
Special toy story
Ask your child to tell you the story of their most special toy: where it came from and why they love it.
Kind swap
Talk about something kind someone did for your child, and plan one kind thing to do for a brother, sister or friend.
Free printables: Dogger worksheet and activity pack
This book’s one-page worksheet with the questions and activities above, plus our activity pack: printable scenario cards, three 5-minute activities and a “What could I try?” page for practising everyday skills together. Enter your email and download them straight away.
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If your child liked this, try
Alfie Gets in First (Shirley Hughes)
- Best for
- Solving a problem yourself when you're stuck
- Age
- 2-6
The Rabbit Listened (Cori Doerrfeld)
- Best for
- Sitting with difficult feelings
- Age
- 4-8
Pumpkin Soup (Helen Cooper)
- Best for
- Sharing jobs, falling out and making up with friends
- Age
- 3-7
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 10 October 2026
Growing Wise offers educational ideas for parents and carers. It is not a substitute for professional medical, developmental or mental-health advice. As an Amazon Associate, Growing Wise earns from qualifying purchases.