While observing all the dogs in the park, Hazel realizes that first impressions are never the whole story of someone's personality.

Hazel has things all figured out—she is one clever girl. So, when she encounters a snarling dog in the park, she knows that dog is mean. And as her walk continues, she identifies a sweet dog, a sad dog, a naughty dog, and many more. But then something happens that leads Hazel to experience all kinds of different reactions herself, and she takes a second look at the dogs. Soon she sees that dogs—and people!—are not just one thing. We're each our own special mix of all sorts of emotions and behaviors. We're all that—and more. And what of the snarling dog? A surprise is in store for Hazel and the reader!