Situational irony: Sam the Hero
It is ironic that the Apache Indians only knocked out Sam but did not kill him as they did not think much of the animal, but in the end, it is because of Sam that the children are saved.
Dramatic irony: Apache Indians vs Cowboys
It is obvious to the reader, who are well aware of the historical context behind the distrust and hostility between the Apache Indians and the Western Americans, that in the end the Western American’s would win as this was what happened in reality.
Dramatic irony: The Fight
Even the fight between the Apache Indians and the Western Americans was graphic for a children’s novel, the reader knows that in real life it was a bloody massacre that resulted in a loss of many lives.
Verbal irony: Savage Sam
It is ironic that Sam is called “Savage” as he is a very loyal and kind-hearted dog. He does protect the Coate’s family by engaging in physical battles if he has to, but for the most part, he is a very mellow dog.
