The Elephant and the Dog
Two very different friends who belong together
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The Elephant and the Dog
A king in India had an elephant, and a little dog began visiting the elephant’s stable for leftover food. The dog had no fine stall of his own.
The elephant noticed the little visitor coming back day after day. At first, food was what brought the dog there.
The Elephant and the Dog
Before long, the elephant and the dog became friends and shared their food. The elephant no longer waited until his meal was over to let the dog eat.
When they played, the elephant gently lifted the dog in his trunk and swung him to and fro. He was careful with his small companion.
The Elephant and the Dog
When the elephant lay down to sleep, the dog curled up beside him. They spent their quiet hours together as well as their playful ones.
Neither friend was quite happy unless the other was near. They ate together, played together and slept together.
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Explore this illustrated story at four reading levels. Each level follows the same essential events.
Collection: World folktales
Retelling: India · Jātaka tradition
For parents: After Abhinha Jataka, The Elephant and the Dog (no. 27), translated by T. W. Rhys Davids in Buddhist Birth Stories (1880). Retells the central animal parable, retaining the keeper’s sale, grief, wise minister, proclamation threatening a fine, reunion and the king’s honour for his minister. Daily-life scenes expand the friendship. No invented refund or changed cause of release.
Public-domain source: View the recorded source edition