Dogs of War

Guardians of the Battlefield: True Stories of Loyalty and Bravery

Nigel Allsopp

$36.99

Paperback

Forthcoming
Pre-Order now

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English

BIG SKY PUBLISHING
01 December 2025

True war & combat stories; True stories of heroism, endurance & survival; Farm & working animals; Dogs as pets

These are the stories we rarely hear—the ones that stay with soldiers long after the war is over.

From the bomb-scarred streets of Afghanistan and Ukraine to remote outposts across Australia, Dogs of War reveals the true stories of canine heroes who saved lives, sensed danger, and stood unwavering by their handlers’ sides.

These are stories of rescue dogs turned warriors, of fearless loyalty and unbreakable bonds forged in the chaos of conflict. Trained to track explosives, detect threats, and comfort soldiers under fire, these dogs didn’t just carry out missions — they carried the weight of war alongside those who led them.

Told through firsthand accounts from soldiers, handlers, and trainers, this powerful collection goes beyond the battlefield to explore the emotional impact of war — and the healing, hope, and heartbreak these dogs left behind. Whether it’s a nuzzle after a firefight or the silence that follows their loss, these moments live on in the memories of those who served with them.

Dogs of War is a tribute to the animals whose courage and sacrifice remain etched in the hearts of those who knew them.

Nigel Alsopp has worked with military and police dogs for over three decades, both in Australia and around the world. A former Air Force dog handler and senior police officer, he has spent the last several years in war-torn Ukraine, training and deploying dogs in frontline conditions—continuing his mission to honour the animals who serve beside us.

'They weren’t born to fight. But they chose to stand beside us.'

'More than heroes, these dogs were lifelines—loyal, fearless, unforgettable.'

‘You’ll never forget the heroes in these pages—especially the ones who wagged their tails.’

By: Nigel Allsopp
Imprint: BIG SKY PUBLISHING
Country of Publication: Australia
Dimensions: Height: 230mm, Width: 153mm,
ISBN: 9781923144736
ISBN 10: 1923144731
Pages: 336
Publication Date: 01 December 2025
Audience: General/trade , ELT Advanced
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Forthcoming

Nigel Allsopp is the founder of one of the world's largest war animal charities. The Australian War Animal Memorial Association ensures the deeds and sacrifices of service animals are not forgotten via the establishment of memorials internationally. Nigel's charity also provides veterans with therapy animals, including PTSD equine and dog programmes. A world authority on canines, Nigel served for 15 years in the RNZAF Police as an operational military working dog handler, 18 years in the Queensland Police Service as an explosive detection dog handler and is currently a senior lecturer at the Queensland Police Service Academy. An author of 14 books, including international best seller – Cry Havoc: the History of War Dogs, Nigel lives in Canungra, Queensland and was awarded Australia's RSL ANZAC of the Year Award 2017 in recognition of his positive, selfless and compassionate service to the community.