Nello
Nello is the main character and protagonist of the novel. When Nello was two years old, his mother died, leaving him with no one to take care of him. Luckily, Jehan Daas, Nello's grandfather, agrees to take the boy in and raise him as his own. However, Jehan is a very poor man and Nello must quickly learn to be resourceful because he is working with so few resources. Not only that, Nello must draw upon his tremendous intelligence, compassion, grace, and artistic ability to make a life for himself, his dog, his grandfather, and eventually, his love interest. Nello is mature despite his young age and is a fundamentally good person, unlike many of the people who live with him in his village.
Patrasche
One day, Nello and his grandfather, Jehan Daas, come across a dog that was nearly beaten to death. They take the dog in and the two call him "Patrasche," which is a name usually given to someone who is a strong and natural leader. Patrasche, who is a strong, loyal, hard-working, and kind Belgian working dog, loves Nello dearly. The two are also the best of friends and trusted companions for each other. For instance, when Nello needs to earn money by running a milk stand to help his grandfather afford rent, Patrasche decides to help Nello set up and run the stand.
Jehan Daas
After Nello's mother dies, Jehan Daas decides to take Nello in and raise him as his own. This action illuminates many of Jehan's most important characteristics. Most specifically: his kind heart and compassion for those in need (despite not having much himself). Although he is an older man, Jehan is very active and frequently spends time with Nello and Patrasche, both of whom he loves dearly.
Alois
Alois is Nello's love interest, who he meets despite objections from her father and the town at large. Nello and Alois' relationship, though loving, is frowned upon because Alois comes from money and Nello is nearly a pauper. Alois is a kind woman, but bends to the will of her father fairly often. That's why, when her father forbids her from seeing Nello again, she listens to her father.
