Paw-sitive Reading: How Dogs Can Help Struggling Readers Thrive

Written by Melissa Smith, Doctor of Education student (teacher for 18 years), Central Queensland University

I’ve always believed that the most meaningful educational programs often have a spark of creativity - the kind that lights up students’ eyes and makes learning feel less like work and more like an exciting discovery. In 2020, I first came across reading-to-dog programs. These initiatives pair struggling readers with a human volunteer and dog team, offering a calm, reassuring space to practice reading aloud. Modelled on a US program called Reading Education Assistance Dogs (READ), the largest example of this program in Australia is Story Dogs. As well as Story Dogs, there are many smaller and more flexible programs in action, including Reading Dawgz (in the ACT), SHARE (in QLD), and Reading with Dogs sessions at Yarra Plenty Region Libraries (in VIC). All three of these smaller programs willingly engaged in my research exploring the experiences and perspectives of reading-to-dog program participants.

Why dogs? Why not cats, turtles or chickens? Well, it turns out that a calm, well-trained, canine companion can provide something that many struggling readers crave: an accepting, non-judgmental audience. Most of us remember what it felt like in school when we were asked to read aloud. A split second of stumbling over a word could feel like an eternity. Our cheeks burned, and we hoped no one would giggle. Students of any age participating in reading-to-dog programs find that fear seems to melt away. Instead of dreading a misstep, children and young people see gentle eyes, a cheeky tail wag and the offer of a supportive cuddle - even if they skip a word or mispronounce a sentence.

Through my research - which used reflexive thematic analysis - I interviewed teachers, volunteers and library staff who facilitate reading-to-dog sessions. While I could only collect a few “draw and write” reflections from children and young people, these still offered valuable glimpses into the program’s positive effects. Themes from the children and young people included feelings of safety, happiness, fun, and an increased willingness to read aloud. Meanwhile, the insights and experiences shared by educators and volunteers consistently highlighted their observations that these sessions help students build self-confidence, improve reading fluency, and reduce both generalised and reading-specific anxiety.

Libraries often play an influential role in establishing reading-to-dog programs, thanks to their welcoming atmosphere and wealth of reading resources. School and public library branches, particularly, have become vibrant hubs where children can explore books, discover new interests, and develop their literacy skills in a supportive environment. Hosting reading-to-dog sessions in a library aligns well with the goal of inclusivity, offering children who might otherwise be hesitant a relaxed space to practice reading. Plus, these programs don’t require fancy equipment - just a comfortable spot, a patient pup, and a stack of engaging books. At the same time, every school or community has its own unique context, so not all sessions operate within a library setting. Some take place in classrooms, offices or other community venues, proving that reading-to-dog sessions can adapt to different environments while still promoting an innovative approach to reading support.

I love how something as simple as reading alongside a four-legged, furry friend can enhance literacy and overall well-being. It’s a wonderful reminder that learning isn’t just about reaching milestones or memorising facts; it also thrives on experiences that nurture emotional growth and build confidence. When children feel supported and free of judgement, they’re often more eager to tackle challenges and develop a genuine enthusiasm for reading. For K–12 educators, librarians, and anyone looking to inspire reluctant readers, these dog-centred programs offer a fresh and engaging way to complement existing literacy strategies.

Melissa is presenting in the Capacity Building School Libraries Conference Brisbane on 31 July - 1 August 2025 at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre