An inspiring story for everyone that’s based on a true story! This book talks about hope, persistence and courage to get through your obstacles no matter how tough. It uses minimal words and beautiful illustrations to get its point across not just to kids but to adults as well. The dog who loses a limb after an accident shows how he adapts to his new life with trial and error. Dexter literally conquers steps to get to the place that made him happy before and after his accident. There is always hope when you have the will and spirit to get to places.

Thanks to NetGalley and Gnome Road Publishing for an advanced reading copy of Dexter in exchange for my honest opinion. This book will be released on September 16, 2025.

Dexter is a true story about a dog that is a beloved member of his family. He has a LOT of energy, and that energy gets him in a lot of trouble. After a car accident, Dexter loses his leg and hurts the other front one. It’s hard for him to move fast, so he learns to walk on 2 hind legs. He becomes a viral sensation during the covid 19 pandemic.

This is a heartwarming true story that children and adults should love!

"Dexter was determined. He tried again."

Ohmygosh what an adorable story!

Dexter: the Stand Up Dog is a picture book that features the true to life story of the internet sensation dog, Dexter. Prior to this, I unfortunately haven't heard of Dexter yet, but I'm so glad that this book just changed that!

It efficiently introduced and told Dexter's story—his adoption, him as a puppy, the life-changing accident, and how he overcame it. This is such an inspiring story from such an adorable dog. Dexter was a determined one who did not let what happened stop him from running and be the energetic and lovable boi that he is.

His inspiring story coupled with such colorful and beautiful illustrations just make this perfect!

Definitely recommend for kids as there's a lot they could learn from this adorable dog, and even for the kid-at-hearts who wants a quick introduction to Dexter.

After Dexter is injured in an accident, he overcomes being a tripod by teaching himself to walk upright like a biped. This is the story of his adoption into a loving home, his tragic accident, and his amazing recovery. The illustration style is playful and colorful. It was inspiring to meet Dexter and go on with him on his journey.

Sweet read about Dexter the dog, who picks himself up against after an accident. This was an uplifting story about strength, resilience and overcoming adversity. Perfect for dog lovers and owners!

The aesthetics really need some work though. Average art, inconsistent fonts and colours that clash. Why would you use black text on a navy background? It's irritating, a pain to read, and spoils the whole feel-good vibe of the book.

Dexter was such a cute story of perseverance! The illustrations of Dexter reminded me of the "poky little puppy" book from the golden books. I really enjoyed watching Dexter be a true dog have fun, get into mischief but sadly got hurt. His family stood by him and gave him all the love and healing to become the dog he is at the end! Nothing can stop him!

This is such a beautifully done book.
The story is heartwarming and inspiring and I think will help so many children who read it.
The artwork fits perfectly with the story and it’s just a truly lovely children’s book that would be a great addition to any kids bookshelf.

Wow! What an amazing and inspiring story. We meet Dexter, who due to an accident lost one of his paws. But that didn’t stop him from overcoming his obstacles. A story filled with resilience, accomplishment and love!!!

I read this story with my toddler. While he enjoyed it, it took an unexpected turn for me with the car accident. I did like how Dexter was able to overcome his new life challenges. He also managed to make it positive and bring joy to so many people.

A biographical tale of an adorable 3-legged dog that became internet famous during lockdown. The story is very cute and the illustrations are nice, but I was not drawn into the story. If I was a follower of Dexter I would have enjoyed it more. I would not reread, so it can only get 2 stars, despite being cute and enjoyable.

Who knew one little dog could walk tall and steal so many hearts?
Dexter: The Stand-Up Dog is an uplifting and inspiring story about a lovable pup who doesn’t let anything hold him back—not even the loss of his front legs. His resilience, charm, and pure joy for life are contagious.

This isn't just a book about a dog—it’s a reminder to keep going, stay kind, and embrace what makes us different. Perfect for animal lovers, dog parents, and anyone who needs a little dose of hope with their morning coffee.

Dexter truly is the goodest boy with the biggest spirit.

I absolutely loved reading this picture book! It was super inspirational, and I enjoyed hearing about Dexter's road to survival and thriving with his new reality. It is the PERFECT book to read to children because it shows them that they should never give up, despite challenging/unexpected circumstances that could happen. Thank you to Gnome Road Publishing and Netgalley for providing me a free eARC in exchange for an honest review. :)

Dexter is the inspirational story of an adopted puppy who has an unfortunate accident causing the loss of one of his front legs. While the story touches on difficult circumstances, Dexter's resilience and determination are inspiring for readers of all ages.

The illustrations are beautiful and the story is very well done. Dexter's story touched my heart, and, as an aunt, I look forward to sharing this story with my nephews. Dexter's determination to not give up after his accident is a strong message for young readers and one that deserves to be shared.

Thank you Netgalley, Bonnie Kelso, and Kentee Pasek for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Loved this book - cute story of a pup relearning how to navigate his new life and making people around him happy. 🐾

What a sweet story about a determined doggo. I will be buying this, for my great niece. You can do anything you try to do. Warm fuzzy book. Thank you to Netgalley for the early read.

I love Dexter! Found him during Covid and have loved his videos so much, getting to read his story to my kids was such fun. I loved how he was portrayed in the story, his determination and joy. The illustration was cute and colourful.

Dexter by Bonnie Kelso is an uplifting picture book that tells the true story of a Brittany Spaniel who lost the use of his front legs after an accident. Through determination and courage, Dexter learns to walk again—this time on two legs! Perfect for inspiring hope and resilience in young readers, it's also a comforting read-aloud for any child coping with a pet's injury or illness.

Oh my kids and I have absolutely loved reading about Dexter and his story! We are big time dog lovers and know a dog personally who had a similar life changing accident happen to him. Dexter took what could have been a horribly sad experience and turned it into a wonderful inspirational story. Way to turn a frown upside down!

The story is very well written and it was easy for my small kids to read with me. The pictures are bright and vibrant and very engaging while reading. We love Dexter and will be adding this book into our regular rotation.

Dexter tells the story of an adopted dog who gets hit by a car which results in a limb amputation. I don't know that this is a bedtime story, but it's a great resource if you want to talk to your kids about injuries or disabilities both in people or pets. I think it could spark good discussions on how we can overcome difficult times and be there to support our loved ones through it. The illustrations are really cute, and I liked the font choice.

A charming story of Dexter, a puppy who lost use of his front legs and learned to overcome. A great little book about overcoming obstacles, very appropriate for younger readers. The illustrations are perfect for the subject matter. I hadn't heard of Dexter's online fame before reading; the book is a great companion to his internet presence. Simple and heartwarming.

Thanks to Bonnie Kelso, Kentee Pasek, Gnome Road Publishing, and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.