Meet Dude

Dude’s journey began in 2012 when he was found as a four-month-old puppy in a parking lot, and since then he’s filled his life with love, adventure, and friendship. Dude loves discovering new places and sharing his adventures with friends back home!

Join Dude the adventurous pup as he explores six U.S. states in this playful 32-page children’s book! From city streets to sandy beaches and friendly farms, Dude discovers new places, makes animal pals, and proves the world is full of fun and friendship..

Join Dude the pup as he hops aboard a train for a colorful journey! This coloring book invites children to explore and bring Dude’s adventure to life, one page at a time.

Book cover illustration of a woman walking a brown dog along a sandy beach with water nearby. The title reads 'Brown Dog Goes to the Beach,' written and illustrated by Cheryl Merz.
Cartoon brown dog with an orange collar, sitting and facing forward.

COMING SOON!

ANNOUNCED 10/1/2026

Brown Dog Goes to the Mountains follows Dude and his Mom on a road trip through the mountains of Virginia, discovering new places, meeting new friends, and learning along the way.

May 2026 - Listen to author Cheryl Merz share the story behind Brown Dog Goes to the Beach—how it all began, what sparked the idea, and the real-life beach adventure that inspired the book!

Listen Here
SHOP THE BOOKS

  • “What a fun introduction to Dude the dog, who encourages trying new things, meeting new people and experiencing adventures!"

    - K.ZINN, Symbols I Send

  • “Brown Dog Goes to the Beach is pure joy! Dude packs more fun into a multi-day beach vacation than most of us do in a year, from sandy paws to surprise seaside friends. It’s a blast seeing the world through Dude’s eyes! ”

    - Leslie Hurst, Infinity Focus Media

  • "Brown Dog Goes to the Beach is a delightful story where Dude and his new Mom visit six states. It’s no surprise that Dude makes new friends everywhere along his journey and his new friends just love him. This story will delight children of all ages.."

    Ed Formica, Mr. Tigglesworth’s Funny Bunnies

  • My kids LOVE Brown Dog Goes! They love books with adventure and animals, so the combo is perfect! New List Item

    ‍ ‍- Erika K.

  • Our girls love reading about Dude and his adventures! Hearing about his adventure to the beach creates an exciting topic during storytime and helps children learn the importance of developing friendships. Every child should read Brown Dog Goes!! Happy Reading!

    -Chris, Kim, McKenzie, Kelsea and Lucy