If you’ve ever heard your youngster chuckling excessively while paging through a graphic novel, it’s likely they’re reading Dog Man. This series, created by the same mind that brought us Captain Underpants, combines ridiculous humour, action-packed stories, and surprisingly touching themes. But if you’re wondering, “Where do I start?” or “What’s the correct Dog Man reading order?” you’ve come to the right spot.
Let’s go through the entire Dog Man series in chronological order!
Who Created Dog Man?
Dog Man was created by Dav Pilkey, the genius who also brought us the Captain Underpants series. Pilkey’s stories are inspired by the comic strips he created as a kid and Dog Man was born out of one of those very doodles!
Why Dog Man is So Popular
From its comic-style illustrations to its laugh-out-loud jokes, Dog Man hits all the right notes for young readers. It tackles themes like friendship, bravery, and doing the right thing without ever feeling preachy.
Complete List of Dog Man Books in Chronological Order
1. Dog Man (2016)
The first book in the Dog Man series, Dog Man (2016) introduces readers to a hilarious half-dog, half-human cop created by George and Harold of Captain Underpants fame.
Written and illustrated by Dav Pilkey, this graphic novel blends action, humor, and heart as Dog Man battles evil villains like Petey the Cat.
With engaging artwork and silly yet meaningful storytelling, this book launched a beloved children’s series.
Dog Man - Dog Man Books in Order
2. Dog Man: Unleashed (2017)
In Dog Man: Unleashed, the second book in the series, Dav Pilkey raises the stakes with more action and hilarious chaos.
This time, Petey the cat escapes from jail and creates a clone, Little Petey, while Dog Man tries to stop a mysterious robbery involving an evil fish named Flippy.
Packed with humor, comic-style art, and heartwarming moments, this installment deepens the characters while keeping readers laughing throughout.
Dog Man: Unleashed - Dog Man Books in Order
3. Dog Man: A Tale of Two Kitties (2017)
In Dog Man: A Tale of Two Kitties, Dav Pilkey introduces Li’l Petey, a lovable kitten clone of the villainous Petey. As Dog Man tries to keep the peace, chaos erupts when Li’l Petey struggles between good and evil.
This third book in the series blends humor, heart, and heroism, marking a turning point with deeper character development and themes of redemption, friendship, and second chances.
Dog Man: A Tale of Two Kitties - Dog Man Books in Order
4. Dog Man and Cat Kid (2018)
In Dog Man and Cat Kid, the fourth book in Dav Pilkey’s hit graphic novel series, Dog Man teams up with his mischievous sidekick, Cat Kid, to fight crime and save the day.
This installment dives into superhero tropes with hilarious twists, cinematic flair, and creative storytelling.
Packed with humor, heart, and comic-style action, it highlights friendship, redemption, and the importance of doing what’s right even when it’s hard.
Dog Man and Cat Kid - Dog Man Books in Order
5. Dog Man: Lord of the Fleas (2018)
Dav Pilkey’s Dog Man: Lord of the Fleas is a spectacular journey that is both funny and touching.
When Petey’s past resurfaces in the shape of an old wicked group known as the F.L.E.A.S., Dog Man and his allies must take action to stop them.
This fifth installment expertly balances action, camaraderie, and redemption, making it a standout in the popular graphic novel series.
You may also read: List of Richard Osman Books in Order: Complete Reading Guide
Dog Man: Lord of the Fleas - Dog Man Books in Order
6. Dog Man: Brawl of the Wild (2019)
Dav Pilkey’s Dog Man: Brawl of the Wild delves with themes of identity, loyalty, and justice as Dog Man is wrongfully accused of a crime. Banished from society, he must discover the facts and establish his innocence.
With humorous moments, profound lessons, and high-stakes action, this sixth installment sends a strong message about staying true to oneself even when the world turns against you.
Dog Man: Brawl of the Wild - Dog Man Books in Order
7. Dog Man: For Whom the Ball Rolls (2019)
Dog Man: For Whom the Ball Rolls (2019) is the seventh installment in Dav Pilkey’s hugely successful graphic novel series. This part delves into themes of temptation, growth, and responsibility, as Dog Man battles to avoid distractions while learning to be a better hero.
The novel, which features Pilkey’s typical humour and heart, introduces new villains and devices, making it a fast-paced, enjoyable read that continues to appeal to young readers throughout the world.
Dog Man: For Whom the Ball Rolls - Dog Man Books in Order
8. Dog Man: Fetch-22 (2019)
In Dog Man: Fetch-22, Dav Pilkey brings humor and heart as Petey the Cat starts to change for the better, while a new villain Flippy the psychokinetic fish returns with a diabolical plan.
This seventh installment blends fast-paced action with meaningful messages about empathy, redemption, and second chances.
Packed with comic-style illustrations and laugh-out-loud moments, Fetch-22 continues to delight young readers while encouraging kindness and growth.
Dog Man: Fetch-22 - Dog Man Books in Order
9. Dog Man: Grime and Punishment (2020)
In Dog Man: Grime and Punishment, the ninth book in Dav Pilkey’s bestselling series, Dog Man is fired from the police force and must prove his worth to be reinstated.
With his loyal friends by his side, he battles injustice and embraces empathy, forgiveness, and growth.
This installment deepens emotional themes while keeping the humor and action that fans love, making it both heartfelt and hilarious.
Dog Man: Grime and Punishment - Dog Man Books in Order
10. Dog Man: Mothering Heights (2021)
Dav Pilkey’s Dog Man: Mothering Heights combines humour and heart as Dog Man overcomes unprecedented emotional and physical obstacles.
This tenth installment delves further into themes of love, generosity, and resilience, while also providing fast-paced action and comic-strip-style entertainment.
Petey is learning to be a better father, while Lil’ Petey offers wisdom beyond his years, making this one of the series’ most emotional chapters.
Dog Man: Mothering Heights - Dog Man Books in Order
11. Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea (2023)
Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea (2023) is the eleventh installment in Dav Pilkey’s enormously successful series. In this underwater adventure, Dog Man must confront a growing army of mutant fleas who threaten to take over the city.
With high-stakes action, heartbreaking moments, and lots of laugh-out-loud humour, this installment combines Pilkey’s unique humorous style with a powerful message about courage, camaraderie, and doing the right thing even beneath the waves.
Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea - Dog Man Books in Order
12. Dog Man: The Scarlet Shedder (2024)
Dog Man: The Scarlet Shedder (2024) is the twelfth thrilling volume in Dav Pilkey’s popular graphic novel series. In this action-packed adventure, Dog Man confronts a strange new villain who threatens to tear the city apart literally.
With his trademark mix of wit, passion, and heroism, Dog Man must solve the mystery of the scarlet slime invasion while learning fundamental lessons about loyalty, collaboration, and self-acceptance.
Dog Man: The Scarlet Shedder - Dog Man Books in Order
13. Dog Man: Big Jim Begins (2024)
Dog Man: The Scarlet Shedder (2024) is the twelfth thrilling volume in Dav Pilkey’s popular graphic novel series.
In this action-packed adventure, Dog Man confronts a strange new villain who threatens to tear the city apart literally.
With his trademark mix of wit, passion, and heroism, Dog Man must solve the mystery of the scarlet slime invasion while learning fundamental lessons about loyalty, collaboration, and self-acceptance.
Dog Man: Big Jim Begins - Dog Man Books in Order
Why Kids (and Parents) Love Dog Man
Humor and Heart
One of the main reasons Dog Man appeals to both children and parents is its ideal balance of humour and pathos. The series creates laugh-out-loud moments with absurd circumstances, funny dialogue, and outlandish comic-style visuals.
However, beyond the amusement, it conveys important truths about friendship, commitment, and charity.
This balance keeps young readers engaged while discreetly promoting emotional intelligence and empathy, making it enjoyable for parents to read and discuss with their children.
Lessons and Learning
Beyond the laughs and wild adventures, Dog Man delivers valuable life lessons that resonate with both kids and parents.
The series subtly teaches empathy, resilience, forgiveness, and the power of doing good even when it’s hard.
Through characters like Petey and Lil’ Petey, readers witness personal growth and second chances, fostering emotional intelligence.
These heartwarming messages are woven seamlessly into the story, making learning feel natural and enjoyable while encouraging positive behavior and critical thinking in young minds.
Where to Buy Dog Man Books
You can grab the entire Dog Man series at:
- Amazon
- Scholastic
- Barnes & Noble
- Local bookstores
- Libraries (don’t underestimate them!)
Box sets and hardcover editions are also available for collectors.
Conclusion - The Dog Man Book Series
Dog Man isn’t just a silly comic it’s a gateway into reading for millions of kids around the world. Whether you’re a parent trying to get your child interested in books or a young reader discovering the joys of storytelling, Dog Man delivers in every way.
So grab the first book, sit back, and prepare for laughs, lessons, and a lot of tail-wagging action!
Frequently asked questions
Yes! Dog Man began as a comic drawn by the characters in Captain Underpants—so technically, it’s part of that same universe.
A movie adaptation is in development by DreamWorks Animation, so stay tuned for updates!
Absolutely. Many adults appreciate the humor, the messages, and the nostalgic comic-strip style.
Yes, you can find both individual hardcovers and box sets online and in bookstores.
Definitely. Teachers love Dog Man for its ability to engage reluctant readers and teach storytelling, emotional intelligence, and even vocabulary.
