Are you ready to dive into the hilarious and action-packed world of Dog Man? Dav Pilkey’s beloved series has captured the hearts of young readers (and many adults!) with its unique blend of comic book storytelling, silly humor, and heartwarming themes. If you’re looking to join the fun or make sure you haven’t missed any adventures, knowing the correct order of the Dog Man books is key. This guide will walk you through the entire series, from the very first pup-tastic installment to the latest releases, ensuring you experience every epic tale exactly as intended.
The Origins of a Canine Crusader
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the book order, let’s appreciate how this incredible series came to be. Dav Pilkey, already famous for the Captain Underpants series, introduced Dog Man in Dog Man: A Graphic Novel in 2016. The character is a hybrid of a police officer and a dog, born out of a desperate situation where a police officer and his dog are injured and saved by a heroic act of surgery, giving them the body of a dog and the head of a policeman. This origin story sets the stage for a hero who is part-man, part-dog, and all hero, facing off against quirky villains and saving the day with his unique skills and unwavering loyalty. The series is celebrated for its encouraging messages about empathy, kindness, and the importance of creativity, all wrapped up in a riotous package of jokes and engaging illustrations.
The Main Dog Man Series: Chronological Order
The core Dog Man series is where most readers begin their journey. These books follow the adventures of Dog Man and his creator, George Beard, and Harold Hutchins, as they write and draw the comic books. Here’s how to read them in order:
1. Dog Man (2016)
The book that started it all! We meet Officer Miller and his beloved dog, who are gravely injured. In a daring operation, their heads are surgically attached, creating the lovable crime-biting canine, Dog Man. He immediately sets off to fight crime, though his enthusiasm sometimes leads to messy situations. This introduction also sets up the narrative frame of George and Harold creating the comic.
2. Dog Man Unleashed (2017)
Dog Man is back, and this time he’s facing off against his archnemesis, the evil cat scientist Petey. Petey is determined to take over the world, and Dog Man must use all his canine courage and police instincts to stop him. This installment further develops the characters and their relationships, particularly the evolving dynamic between Dog Man and Petey.
3. Dog Man: A Tale of Two Kitties (2017)
In this installment, a new villain emerges: Flippy the Fish, a fish with a vendetta against Dog Man. Meanwhile, Petey the Cat is trying to turn over a new leaf, but his past actions keep catching up with him. The story also introduces Lil’ Petey, Petey’s son, who brings a new perspective to the series. Understanding the complexity of these character arcs is essential for appreciating the later books in the Dog Man book series 1-12.
4. Dog Man: Lord of the Fleas (2018)
The stakes are raised as Dog Man faces a new, formidable foe: Lord of the Fleas. This villain commands an army of tiny, flea-ridden creatures and plans to spread chaos. Petey the Cat returns, and his relationship with Lil’ Petey becomes a central theme, exploring themes of family and forgiveness.
5. Dog Man: Brawl and the Bionic Baby (2019)
A mysterious bionic baby appears, causing all sorts of trouble and confusion. Dog Man must figure out who or what this baby is and why it’s wreaking havoc. This book is packed with Pilkey’s signature humor and introduces new, imaginative scenarios that keep readers on the edge of their seats. The adventure continues to unfold in the Dog Man books 1-12.
6. Dog Man: For Whom the Bell Tolls (2019)
This title plays on classic literature, but the story is pure Dog Man fun. A mysterious bell tolls, signaling impending doom, and Dog Man must uncover its secret. The book delves deeper into the idea of responsibility and the consequences of one’s actions, showcasing Dog Man’s unwavering dedication to justice.
7. Dog Man: Fetch-22 (2020)
Another literary nod, “Fetch-22” brings new challenges for Dog Man and his crew. The story explores themes of friendship and loyalty as Dog Man faces a difficult decision that tests his values. The narrative structure, with George and Harold creating the stories, allows for endless creative possibilities, much like the Dog Man books 1 to 12.
8. Dog Man: Grime and Punishment (2020)
In this installment, Dog Man is framed for a crime he didn’t commit and must clear his name. The book tackles themes of justice and redemption, all while delivering the laugh-out-loud humor and engaging illustrations that fans have come to expect.
9. Dog Man: Mothering Heights (2021)
The series continues to evolve with “Mothering Heights,” which explores themes of family and belonging. Dog Man faces new threats and must rely on his wit and the support of his friends to save the day.
10. Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea (2023)
This latest adventure takes Dog Man and his pals on an underwater journey, facing new villains and challenges. It continues the tradition of creative storytelling and provides plenty of laughs for readers of all ages.
11. Dog Man: The Scarlet Shedder (2023)
Continuing the saga, “The Scarlet Shedder” brings more excitement and mayhem. Dog Man must confront his greatest adversary yet, testing his courage and determination.
12. Dog Man: Two Tum Tacos (2024)
The most recent addition to the series, “Two Tum Tacos,” promises more fun, more action, and more of the characters we’ve all come to love.
The Cat Kid Comic Club Series: A Spin-Off Adventure
Beyond the main Dog Man adventures, Dav Pilkey also introduced “The Cat Kid Comic Club” series. These books are presented as stories created by the characters from Dog Man, offering a meta-narrative that celebrates creativity and the process of making comics. While not direct sequels, they are set within the same universe and feature characters familiar to Dog Man fans. Reading them after getting acquainted with Dog Man can be a delightful experience. The order for this spin-off series is as follows:
- Cat Kid Comic Club (2021)
- Cat Kid Comic Club and the Rage of the Rhino-Man (2022)
- Cat Kid Comic Club: Collaborations (2023)
- Cat Kid Comic Club: Teacher’s Pet (2023)
Why Reading in Order Matters
Following the chronological order of the Dog Man books allows readers to fully appreciate the character development, the evolving relationships between heroes and villains, and the overarching narrative arc. Each book builds upon the last, introducing new elements and deepening the stories of George, Harold, Dog Man, and Petey. For fans looking for a comprehensive experience, consulting resources like the dog man books list or exploring the dog man books 1-12 can be incredibly helpful. Understanding the sequence ensures that the humor lands, the plot twists are impactful, and the emotional journey of the characters is fully experienced. Whether you’re just starting or a seasoned fan, diving into Dog Man books in order is the best way to enjoy this extraordinary series.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Man Books
Q1: What is the first Dog Man book ever published?
The first Dog Man book is simply titled Dog Man, published in 2016.
Q2: How many Dog Man books are there in the main series?
As of early 2024, there are 12 books in the main Dog Man series.
Q3: Can I read the Cat Kid Comic Club books before the main Dog Man series?
While you can technically read them independently, it’s recommended to read the main Dog Man series first to fully appreciate the characters and context within the Cat Kid Comic Club spin-off.
Q4: Are there any other spin-off series related to Dog Man?
The primary spin-off is the Cat Kid Comic Club series, which focuses on the characters within the Dog Man universe creating their own comics.
Q5: Where can I find a complete list of Dog Man books?
You can find comprehensive lists on fan wikis, author websites, and bookseller platforms. Resources like the the dog master book might also provide related information or context.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Dog Man
The Dog Man series continues to be a phenomenon, delighting children and adults alike with its unique brand of humor, creativity, and heartwarming messages. By following the books in order, readers can fully immerse themselves in the adventures of this unlikely hero and the imaginative world crafted by Dav Pilkey. Whether you’re captivated by Dog Man’s bravery, Petey’s evolving morality, or the pure joy of George and Harold’s storytelling, there’s always something new to discover. So grab your favorite Dog Man book, get comfortable, and prepare for a tail-wagging good time!
