When India’s Supreme Court recently ordered the removal of thousands of stray dogs from Delhi and surrounding areas—prompted by rising dog‑bite incidents and rabies fears—it reopened a heated debate over public safety versus animal welfare. Debates regarding the potential overcrowding, logistical chaos, and disruption of community-based dog care networks has reignited discussions on how to coexist with India’s community dogs compassionately and effectively.
That’s where books come in. Reading books about Indian street dogs helps us see them differently—not as a nuisance, but as creatures of history, culture, and companionship. Some books are playful and designed for children, others are deeply researched guides, and a few are poignant stories told through photographs and fiction. Together, they celebrate the resilience of India’s most overlooked dogs.
In this article, we look at four remarkable books that explore the world of Indian street dogs. But first…
Why Indian Street Dogs Deserve Our Attention
India is home to a rich variety of indigenous dogs often labeled as “strays” or “pariahs.” They are one of the oldest landraces in the world—resilient, disease-resistant, clever, and deeply adapted to Indian conditions. Beyond purebred pariahs, many urban strays are mixed breeds, bearing traits passed down from intermingled lineage with various foreign breeds.
“Indies” guard our colonies, trail alongside children on bikes, and quietly curl up outside shops. Yet, their stories are rarely told with empathy. In times of crisis, like today, books about Indian street dogs help us see beyond headlines. They tell stories of loyalty, heritage, and empathy. And they may just help us find compassion again.
4 Must-Read Books About Indian Street Dogs
Actress Gul Panag calls it “an engaging and insightful read for both kids and adults… highly recommended for all animal lovers.” And she’s right. Written by Anusha Ramanathan, this is the first picture book of its kind that focuses entirely on India’s indigenous dog breeds.
Through the eyes of Runi and Baba, two children trying to choose a new dog for their family, readers are introduced to Indian breeds like the Chippiparai, Rampur Greyhound, Jonangi, and many more. It is woven with facts, delightful illustrations, and a gentle message about love, responsibility, and adoption.
This one is for serious dog enthusiasts. Written by S. Theodore Baskaran, it’s a comprehensive history of Indian dog breeds, from hunting companions of royalty to hardy pariahs of modern streets. With rich research and cultural anecdotes, it restores dignity to native dogs often ignored in favour of foreign pedigrees.
If you want to understand the heritage of Indian dogs—and why they’re perfectly suited to our environment—this book is a must-have reference.
In 2021, during the pandemic lockdown, photographer Rohit Chawla found himself walking Goa’s deserted beaches. His only companions? Stray dogs left behind after tourists vanished. What began as casual photographs soon turned into something more—an intimate documentation of loneliness, resilience, and quiet companionship.
Rain Dogs combines Rohit’s hauntingly beautiful photographs with essays and stories from thirty writers. Together, they capture not just the plight of stray dogs during the pandemic, but also the profound connection between humans and animals in times of crisis. All royalties from the book go to registered animal welfare charities, making it as much an act of kindness as a work of art.
Meet Franco—the self-proclaimed “most handsome dog in the neighbourhood.” This children’s book is witty, lively, and narrated by a dog with plenty of attitude. Franco tells the tale of how he sniffs out clues, rescues a monkey-dog, and saves the day, all while giving young readers a fun peek into a dog’s perspective.
Playful illustrations and a fast-paced story make this book an excellent pick for children learning about empathy, adventure, and animal friendships.
Why These Reads Matter More Than Ever
In the shadow of a controversial court order, books about Indian street dogs do more than entertain—they offer context, empathy, and a sense of purpose. They remind us that these dogs are not “problems,” but part of our communities. Whether through delightful picture books, historical accounts, evocative photography, or mischievous tails, each title invites us to rethink our relationship with India’s street dogs.
