Bobby the dog

Bobby the dog

Bobby the dog, also known as Greyfriars Bobby, was a small Skye Terrier from Scotland roaming the streets of Edinburgh. He became famous for his loyalty to his owner, and the story about him is known all over the world.

Bobby belonged to a man named John Grey, who was a night watchman in the Edinburgh police, the capital city of Scotland. John Grey and Bobby were very close, and they spent a lot of time together. Sadly, John Grey became ill with tuberculosis. A fatal disease at that time. He passed away in 1858 and was buried in a cemetery called Greyfriars Kirkyard in Edinburgh.

After John Grey died, Bobby showed amazing loyalty to his owner. Every day, Bobby would go to Greyfriars Kirkyard and sit by John Grey’s grave. He did this for 14 years, until Bobby himself passed away in 1872. He was buried just inside the gate of the churchyard. He could not be buried with his master, since church ground is sacred.. Even though Bobby was just a dog, he became a symbol of loyalty and love.

People in Edinburgh were very touched by Bobby’s devotion to his owner. The local community took care of Bobby, giving him food and shelter. They were so impressed by Bobby that they made sure he was safe. The Lord Provost of Edinburgh, who was an important official, even paid for Bobby’s dog license so that he could stay in the city.

Bobby became so famous that a fountain with a statue of him was built near Greyfriars Kirkyard in 1873. This statue is still there today, and many people visit it to remember Bobby and his story. The statue shows Bobby sitting and looking very loyal, just as he was in life.

Bobby’s story has inspired many books, movies, and even songs. His tale of loyalty has touched the hearts of people around the world, making him one of the most famous dogs in history.

Today, people still remember Greyfriars Bobby as a symbol of loyalty and friendship. Visitors to Edinburgh often go to see his statue and the grave where he watched over his owner for so many years. Bobby’s story shows us how strong the bond between a pet and its owner can be, and how love and loyalty can last even after someone is gone.

Vocabulary list

Roaming: Moving around without a fixed plan or place to go.

Loyalty: Staying true and faithful to someone or something, even in difficult times.

Tuberculosis: A serious disease that affects the lungs and can cause coughing, fever, and sometimes death.

Cemetery: A place where people are buried after they die.

Sacred: Something very special, holy, or important, often related to religion.

Devotion: Strong love and loyalty towards someone or something.

Shelter: A place where someone can stay safe and protected.

Official: A person who holds a position of authority or has a specific job in an organization or government.

Fountain: A structure that sends water up into the air, often found in parks or public places.

Inspired: When someone is motivated or encouraged by something to do something creative or positive.

Greyfriars bobby – childrens book

Test your knowledge about bobby

What kind of dog was Bobby?

Answer and follow the instruction

  1. Summarise the text.
  2. Why do you think people like the story about Bobby the dog, also know as Greyfriars Bobby?

You will now write a modern version of the story about Bobby. But you shouldn’t “write” it. You should try and get AI to write it for you. The conditions for your story are the following:

  • It should be about an animal.
  • The animal needs to be devoted to someone.
  • Something sad should happen.
  • It should be modern or futuristic.
  • Take place somewhere in the United Kingdom.
  • No longer than 308 words and no shorther than 306 words.
  • Create 1 image that matches your story. (use on of the websites to the right)
  • Read your story to the one you are sitting next to.