Read books about dogs with preschoolers to introduce them to various types of dogs. Go to the library or bookstore to select children's picture books about dogs. The picture books should be age-appropriate with colorful pictures, simple facts, and rhyming words to attract preschoolers. Some books about dogs that are appropriate for preschoolers include "Dogs" by Emily Gravett and "All About Dogs and Puppies" by Laura Driscoll. Share the books with small groups of preschoolers during circle time.
Set up a veterinarian's office in the dramatic play area. Cut cardboard boxes and use them as kennels and dog cages. Provide stuffed animals as patients and set up exam tables. Set out a prop box with lab coats, stethoscopes, plastic gloves, cotton balls, gauze and surgical masks. Also add medicine bottles, pet brushes and magnifying glasses to the prop box. Children can take turns in small groups pretending to be veterinarians and dog owners.
Songs and finger plays captivate children and help them learn about dogs. Implement finger plays which are short poems, rhymes or songs that are spoken or sung while children act out the words with their hands. Teach children finger plays with a dog theme. First, demonstrate the finger play then encourage children to sing or chant along. Some examples of finger plays are "My Puppy" and 'I Wanna Be a Dog."
A game of "Feed the Dog" helps preschoolers develop hand-eye coordination. Draw, color and decorate a dog on sturdy poster board or cardboard and cut it out. Cut a large hole for the dog's mouth. Lean the dog cutout against a wall. Provide children with bone-shaped biscuits, plastic bones or small beanbags. Encourage children in small groups to take turns tossing the objects into the dog's mouth to feed the dog.