Have you ever read a dog themed novel?

I have read some dog theme novels, including a couple cozy mysteries. I've also read dog themed non-fiction. I'm trying to think of a good dog related novel, but I can't think of one at the moment. However, I read a wonderful true story about a disabled woman and her experiences with her first service dog. It was called "A Dog Named Slugger".

Sometimes I shy away from animal related books. I think I have that Old Yeller fear. It seems in almost all these type of stories the animal gets hurt and dies or must be put to sleep. I can't handle that. I still get emotional when I watch Bambi.