A special program is pairing attentive dogs with kids who struggle to read – with promising results.

The Story Dogs Program invites Australian students with literacy difficulties as well as emotional and social challenges to read aloud to dogs, in a bid to boost self-confidence.

Eight-year-old Perth student Jasmine Jovanovic is one of four students to take part in the program at St Vincent’s Catholic Primary School.

Her mother Nicole Jovanovic said she has witnessed a dramatic transformation since her daughter began the program 12 months ago.

“Her confidence has grown so much, she’s more willing to read anything – signs, around the shop, people’s shirts, whatever she can now – so it’s really good,” Ms Jovanovic told 9NEWS.

“She will pick up a book on her own, even if we’re out and about and she sees a book, she’ll just sit down and start reading, she’ll even read to her younger brother and sister.”

Teacher Bianca van Ryt said she has also noticed a remarkable improvement in the confidence and literacy levels of program participants.

The year-long weekly program employs 175 volunteers, and is seeking more canine volunteers.

Story Dogs coordinator Lindy Ettridge said the program accepts dogs of all breeds but only those of a specific temperament.

One in six Australian school students struggle with reading difficulties.

For more information, visit storydogs.org.au .