Who Was Good Dog Carl the Rottweiler?

Have you heard of Carl the Rottweiler? He’s adorable, fun, and a little bit mischievous. We’re excited to introduce you to this character and how you can enjoy his adventures and share them with others. Keep reading to learn about Good Dog, Carl, and why it’s a hit book that stands the test of time. 

Let’s get into it! 

Who Was Good Dog Carl the Rottweiler?

Carl is a Rottweiler in a series of children’s books, and Good Dog, Carl was the first one published. The book tells the story of Carl who looks after a human baby named Madeleine. Written and illustrated by Alexandra Day in 1985, it’s mostly a picture book and has been in print since then. Thirteen additional “Carl” books were added after the original. 

The first book’s main character, Carl, was modeled after the author’s own Rottweiler named Toby. Throughout the series, two of her other Rottweilers have posed for Carl: Arambarri and Zabala. In fact, Alexandra Day shares in her bio that Zabala serves as an Our Best Friend therapy dog and loves to visit hospitals to bring joy to patients. It’s good to know that the fictional Carl and the real dog behind the character are changing the world for the better.

The Good Dog, Carl book has been instrumental in helping teach people English as a second language, with Alzheimer’s patients, and children who have difficulty reading. Since the stories are mostly without words it’s easy to comprehend and become invested in the storytelling. Rottweiler lovers enjoy the books too and often purchase them for keepsakes.  

What Is the Book Good Dog Carl About? 

Good Dog, Carl is about a beloved Rottweiler known for his gentle nature, unwavering loyalty, and tales of bravery. He looks after baby Madeleine while her parents are occupied. The pup and baby go on adventures and get into mischief. But they clean things up before the parents notice. 

Carl’s adventures keep readers captivated by his gentle demeanor and innate ability to save the day. He continues to inspire dog lovers worldwide, reminding us of the profound impact a loyal and loving furry friend can have on our lives.

Who Authored Good Dog Carl and the Carl Series?

Alexandra Day is the author and illustrator of Good Dog, Carl, and the Carl Series. However, a fun fact, Alexandra Day is a pseudonym. The author’s real name is Sandra Louise Woodward Darling. 

Sandra is originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, where she was born in 1941. She started painting at a young age and loved to read. Sandra also loved animals and was a dog owner. 

In 1983, she illustrated her first book called The Teddy Bears’ Picnic, written by Jimmy Kennedy. Soon after, she was traveling in Switzerland and found a volume of old German picture sheets. One of them had a poodle playing with a baby who was supposed to be napping. It was this image that became Sandra’s inspiration for Good Dog, Carl. 

How Many Books Feature Good Dog Carl? 

There are 14 books in the Carl series. They’re all about the Rotteweiler’s adventures and mischief. The original Good Dog, Carl, was followed by these thirteen titles. 

Good Dog Carl Visits the Zoo takes Carl on an adventure hanging out with a baby elephant who likes backyard wading pools, playgrounds, and fruit stands.

Goodnight, Good Dog Carl is about Carl tucking everyone in for the night after games, a glass of milk, and a bedtime story. A lullaby is included at the end of the book.

Good Dog Carl Goes to School is about Carl accompanying Madeline to school and things go a little haywire. The teacher gets locked out and Carl needs to get things back on track.

Good Dog Carl Goes to a Party features Carl left to take care of the baby while his owners are away. But Carl crashes their party and things quickly get funny and entertaining.

Carl Goes Shopping takes place in a department store. He’s told to watch baby Madeleine but they get into mischief instead down the aisles of toys, clothes, and more.

Carl at the Dog Show is a fun blending of various dog breeds when Carl and Madeleine explore a dog show. From helping groom other dogs to testing out dog beds, they get into their typical mischief. 

Carl’s Snowy Afternoon takes place on a snowy winter day when Carl and Madeleine play in the snow, including sledding, building a snowman, and sliding on an ice pond.

Carl’s Afternoon in the Park takes him on a journey of riding the carousel, romping on flowers, and going to a children’s zoo.

Special Occasions

Carl’s Birthday is about Carl knowing that his owner is trying to surprise him with a birthday party. But he and Madeleine figure it out and taste the punch, find the presents, and more.

Good Dog Carl’s Valentine tells the story of Carl and his family decorating for Valentine’s Day. Madeline is there making a Valentine for her mother and Carl helps with some mischief mixed in.

Check out this video with Alexandra Day and Carl introducing the new Valentine’s book!

Carl’s Summer Vacation is about Carl and Madeleine taking off when they’re supposed to be napping at the summer cabin. Instead, they go canoeing, pick blackberries, have a picnic, and more.

Carl’s Christmas is the story of Carl and the baby decorating the family tree, window shopping, giving to charity, and visiting Santa Claus. It’s a festive book to have around during the holidays. 

Carl’s Halloween takes Carl and Madeleine on a trick-or-treating adventure after making their own costumes. They even bob for apples at a party and make it home without their mom knowing.

Why Is Writing a Book About a Good Rottweiler Special? 

Writing a book about a good Rottweiler holds a special significance due to the prevalent stigma surrounding this breed. Rottweilers have often been portrayed negatively, perpetuating misconceptions about their temperament and behavior. By showcasing a Rottweiler as a leading and loveable character in a book, it provides an opportunity to challenge these stereotypes and shed light on the breed’s positive qualities. It allows readers to see beyond the stigma and discover their inherent goodness, loyalty, and intelligence. Through the story, Good Dog, Carl illustrates a faithful and loving Rottweiler.

The stigma surrounding the Rottweiler breed primarily stems from misconceptions and the actions of a relatively few poorly trained or mistreated dogs. It also comes from movies and pop culture that portray Rottweilers more as guard dogs or attack dogs associated with criminal activity rather than family dogs. Because of these factors, some people associate Rottweilers with aggression or believe they’re dangerous. However, it is crucial to recognize that a dog’s behavior is a reflection of its breeding, upbringing, training, and environment. Rottweilers, like any other breed, can be loving, loyal, and gentle when raised in a caring and responsible manner.

Are Rottweilers Good Family Dogs?

Rottweilers can be awesome family dogs. However, like with any dog, proper training, socialization, and a loving environment must be provided. Despite the misconceptions surrounding their temperament, Rottweilers have a strong sense of loyalty, devotion, and protectiveness toward their families. They often form deep bonds with their humans and are known to be gentle and patient with children when raised with them. Although, don’t worry about your Rottweiler being as mischievous with your child as Carl is! 

Most Rottweilers thrive on being a part of a pack and enjoy spending quality time with their family members, whether it’s going for walks, playing, or simply snuggling on the couch. With the right care and guidance, Rottweilers can be reliable, affectionate, and trustworthy companions, making them excellent additions to a loving family.

Read a Good Dog Carl Book to One of Your Favorite Young Humans

Pick up Good Dog, Carl, or a book in the Carl series to read to a young person today! We love the books and hope think they’re a great addition to any home library. Carl is a character that brings so much joy to young and old. 

Have you read a Carl book? Which is your favorite? Leave your answer in the comments below.