Embarking on the exhilarating journey of dog agility training is a rewarding experience for both you and your canine companion. From weaving through poles to soaring over jumps, agility tests your dog’s speed, coordination, and your communication skills as a team. However, finding the Best Dog Agility Training Books to guide you can be as challenging as navigating a complex course. The market is flooded with thousands of dog training titles, and unfortunately, many offer outdated or even harmful advice that can hinder your progress and damage your dog’s confidence.
As an editor for “Dog Care Story,” a platform dedicated to high-quality pet care, and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CCPDT-KA) with a Ph.D. in Neuroscience and over 15 years of experience, I understand the critical need for accurate, science-based training resources. My frustration with the prevalence of misleading information in dog training literature, including some top-ranked search results, is what compels me to curate this authoritative list for you. In fact, a 2017 study by the University of Waikato in New Zealand highlighted this very issue, finding that only one of the top five best-selling dog training books provided scientifically sound information, while the rest promoted outdated concepts like dominance and punishment.
My goal is to provide a comprehensive guide to the best dog agility training books available, along with essential foundational texts that will set you up for success. Whether you’re a beginner just exploring the sport or an experienced handler looking to refine your techniques, these resources emphasize positive reinforcement, clear communication, and a deep understanding of canine behavior – principles crucial for thriving in agility.
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This list is built upon years of hands-on experience, academic knowledge, and a commitment to promoting ethical and effective dog training practices. You’ll find not only books dedicated specifically to agility but also foundational works on animal learning and behavior that are indispensable for any aspiring agility team. Understanding how dogs learn, how they perceive the world, and how to build a strong, trusting relationship with them are the true secrets to unlocking their full potential in the agility ring. Let’s delve into the top resources that will transform your agility aspirations into reality. Before we jump into specific agility guides, it’s vital to lay a strong foundation in general dog training and understanding canine behavior. Many advanced disciplines, including agility, depend heavily on these core principles. For those interested in pursuing animal care professionally, whether in the realm of training or general pet services, gaining a solid understanding of dog behavior and welfare is paramount. Learning how to properly [become a dog sitter] or even a [dog care taker at home] requires more than just affection; it demands knowledge and skill.
Essential Foundational Reads for Agility Training
Before specializing in agility, a strong understanding of animal learning theory and positive reinforcement is crucial. These books are widely regarded as the best starting points for any dog owner or trainer, laying the groundwork for all advanced training, including agility.
#1: Don’t Shoot The Dog by Karen Pryor
This groundbreaking book is not just about dog training; it’s about the universal principles of animal training. Karen Pryor, an eminent figure in the field, masterfully explains how to apply positive reinforcement to teach any animal (and even humans!). It’s the one “good book” identified in the research study mentioned earlier, and for good reason. For me, and countless others in the animal training community, this book was a life-changer. It’s an easy, entertaining, and informative read that teaches you the mechanics of behavior and how to shape it effectively without force or coercion. The concepts here are the bedrock of successful agility training, where precision and enthusiasm are key. Mastering these principles will enable you to communicate seamlessly with your dog on the agility course.
#2: The Culture Clash by Jean Donaldson
If Karen Pryor’s book offers the “how-to” of training, Jean Donaldson’s “The Culture Clash” provides the “why.” This book delves deep into dog behavior, offering invaluable insights into how dogs think and learn. Donaldson, another exceptional trainer, helps bridge the communication gap between humans and canines, which is vital for the dynamic partnership required in agility. Understanding your dog’s natural instincts, motivations, and how their world differs from ours will empower you to design more effective agility drills and resolve common training roadblocks with empathy and intelligence. This book also includes practical guides for teaching basic commands, which are the building blocks for any agility sequence.
#3: The Other End Of The Leash by Patricia McConnell
Patricia McConnell, a Ph.D. and certified applied animal behaviorist, explores the fascinating dynamics of human-dog communication in “The Other End Of The Leash.” While not a step-by-step training manual, this book is indispensable for understanding how our human behaviors and perceptions can impact our dogs. Agility is a team sport, and effective communication is paramount. McConnell helps you understand canine body language and how to adjust your own actions to be more comprehensible to your dog, fostering a stronger bond and reducing misinterpretations on the course. While some information on dominance theory might be slightly outdated, the core message about interspecies communication remains profoundly valuable.
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#4: Ian Dunbar’s Top Dog Academy
Dr. Ian Dunbar, a veterinarian and Ph.D., is the founder of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), the world’s largest dog trainer association. His “Top Dog Academy” is a comprehensive online program offering much more than just a single book. It provides PDF books, numerous video and audio seminars covering puppy training, obedience, manners, and behavior problem-solving. Dr. Dunbar’s lively approach makes learning engaging, and his practical exercises are perfect for building the foundational skills needed for agility. From reliable recalls to precise stays, the program covers the essentials that will translate directly to success on the agility field. If you’ve recently adopted a puppy or dog and are considering agility, this program is an excellent investment to build a strong training foundation. Even experienced handlers can find fresh perspectives and refined techniques within his vast resources.
#5: The Power of Positive Dog Training by Pat Miller
Pat Miller’s “The Power of Positive Dog Training” is an excellent, accessible guide that provides direct and applicable advice for training your dog using positive reinforcement. It covers everything from basic obedience to more advanced concepts, teaching you how to read your dog’s body language and understand their emotional state—skills that are incredibly beneficial in the fast-paced world of agility. This book is particularly recommended for those new to dog training or seeking to refine their positive reinforcement techniques, offering a clear pathway to building a confident and cooperative agility partner.
Top Agility-Specific Training Books
Now that we’ve covered the foundational texts, let’s dive into books specifically designed to guide you and your dog through the exciting world of agility. These resources offer specialized techniques, drills, and insights to master obstacles and improve your performance.
#1: Agility: Right from the Start by Eva Bertilsson & Emelie Johnson-Vegh
This book is an absolute gem for anyone serious about dog agility. Even if you’re not yet committed to competitive agility, the authors provide a fresh perspective on how to teach various signals and behaviors using positive, choice-based training methods. Bertilsson and Johnson-Vegh emphasize building a strong foundation and understanding the mechanics of movement and learning, which are paramount in agility. They focus on clear communication and building intrinsic motivation, ensuring your dog enjoys the sport and performs eagerly. This book will give you a wealth of exercises to practice with your dog, enhancing their body awareness, focus, and responsiveness—all vital attributes for an agility dog. It’s a must-read for developing a thoughtful and effective approach to agility training.
Agility Right from the Start Book Review
#2: The Dog Agility Bible: The Complete Guide to Training and Competing by Tracy Skelton
While not listed in the original article, this book is a highly respected resource in the agility community. Tracy Skelton provides a comprehensive guide that covers everything from starting a puppy in agility to advanced competition strategies. It includes detailed instructions for training on various obstacles, handling techniques, and troubleshooting common problems. The book’s focus on clear, step-by-step instructions makes it ideal for both beginners and experienced handlers looking for structured guidance. It often incorporates positive reinforcement methods and emphasizes building a strong partnership with your dog, aligning perfectly with the ethos of effective, humane training.
#3: Shaping Success: The Education of an Agility Dog by Susan Garrett
Susan Garrett is a world-renowned agility competitor and trainer, and “Shaping Success” offers a deep dive into her philosophy and methods. This book is particularly valuable for understanding how to break down complex behaviors into manageable steps and build incredible drive and precision in your dog. Garrett’s emphasis on “shaping” behaviors and using positive reinforcement to create highly motivated and successful agility dogs is inspiring. It’s a more advanced read that will push you to think critically about your training strategies and develop a more nuanced understanding of how to achieve peak performance. Her insights are particularly useful for those who [dog monthly cost] consider investing significantly in their dog’s training and well-being.
Further Expanding Your Agility Knowledge
Beyond the core agility books, a deeper understanding of animal learning and canine psychology will greatly enhance your agility journey. These books, though not exclusively about agility, provide critical context and tools for effective training.
“Click for Joy!” by Melissa Alexander
Clicker training is a cornerstone of modern positive reinforcement, and it’s especially effective in agility for marking precise behaviors and building strong associations. “Click for Joy!” is an outstanding resource that explains clicker training in a clear, Q&A format. It simplifies the mechanics of using a clicker and shows how this technique creates joyful learning for both dog and owner. Integrating clicker training into your agility practice can dramatically improve your dog’s understanding of cues and obstacles, making the process more efficient and fun.
“Bones Would Rain From The Sky” by Suzanne Clothier
While “Don’t Shoot the Dog” and “The Culture Clash” might sometimes make training feel like a mechanical input-output process, “Bones Would Rain From The Sky” reminds us that dogs are much more than robots. Suzanne Clothier’s beautiful writing emphasizes the profound human-canine connection and bond. In agility, where trust and partnership are paramount, understanding and nurturing this bond is just as important as mastering techniques. This book encourages you to approach training with a focus on relationship and mutual respect, which ultimately leads to a more harmonious and successful agility team. This trio—Pryor, Donaldson, and Clothier—forms an unbeatable foundation for any serious dog enthusiast.
“Plenty in Life is Free: Reflections on Dogs, Training and Finding Grace” by Kathy Sdao
Renowned animal trainer Kathy Sdao challenges and expands our understanding of positive reinforcement in this thought-provoking book. She advocates for training from a partnership perspective, exploring ethical and effective ways to communicate with our pets. “Plenty in Life is Free” will push you beyond simply using treats to a more nuanced appreciation of how to truly motivate your dog and build lasting behaviors. For agility, where motivation and drive are essential, Sdao’s insights can help you refine your approach and get even more enthusiastic performances from your dog.
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“Better Together: The Collected Wisdom of Modern Dog Trainers” edited by Ken Ramirez
This collection of articles from top animal and dog trainers, edited by the legendary Ken Ramirez, covers a vast array of topics related to clicker training. From puppy foundations to advanced behavior problem-solving, the insights shared can be invaluable for agility enthusiasts. Ramirez himself is a pioneer, pushing the boundaries of animal training and cognitive abilities. The diverse perspectives within this book offer practical strategies that can be adapted to improve focus, motivation, and problem-solving skills in agility dogs.
Advanced Dog Training & Behavior Books for Agility Nerds
For those who want to dive even deeper into the science and psychology behind dog training and behavior, these resources offer a more advanced perspective crucial for excelling in demanding sports like agility.
“PORTL: The Portable Operant Research and Teaching Lab” by Dr. Jesús Rosales-Ruiz and Mary Hunter
Are you truly committed to advanced dog training, perhaps even aiming to become a professional [dog care taker at home] or trainer yourself? As Ken Ramirez often says, “Advanced training is just the basics done really, really, really well.” PORTL is designed for serious students of animal learning, providing a hands-on approach to understanding operant conditioning. This book allows you to experiment with and master the fundamental principles of shaping behavior. For agility, where precise timing and seamless communication are paramount, gaining proficiency in these basics through PORTL can give you a significant edge in teaching complex sequences and refining obstacle performance. If you’re a “super nerd” like me, this book will be a fascinating and highly practical addition to your library.
PORTL book cover
“Problem Animal Behavior – Functional Assessment & Constructional Contingency Management Planning” by James O’Heare
While primarily focused on behavior problems, James O’Heare’s advanced book offers a deep dive into functional assessment and behavior modification techniques. Understanding the underlying causes of behavior, even subtle ones, can be incredibly beneficial in agility. It helps you identify why your dog might be struggling with a particular obstacle or showing a lack of motivation, allowing you to address the root cause with scientific precision. This book is for those ready to tackle the “serious dog psychology” that underpins truly effective training and problem-solving.
Understanding Canine Cognition and Psychology
To truly excel in agility, it’s not enough to just know how to train; you must also understand how your dog thinks and perceives the world. These books provide profound insights into canine cognition and psychology.
“Dog Sense” by John Bradshaw
Ph.D. Professor John Bradshaw takes readers on a journey through the world of dogs, exploring their evolution and offering alternative theories to explain canine behavior. This book delves into how dogs experience emotions, form bonds, and interact with their environment. Understanding these aspects can help you better interpret your dog’s behavior on the agility course, anticipate their responses, and build a training approach that aligns with their natural predispositions rather than working against them. While it might be a bit “heavy” for some, the up-to-date information is incredibly interesting and relevant.
“Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell and Know” by Alexandra Horowitz
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s truly like to be a dog, Dr. Alexandra Horowitz’s “Inside of a Dog” is the book for you. She brilliantly explains how dogs perceive the world through their unique senses—primarily smell, which is far more dominant for them than sight for us. This book offers an amazing and deeply interesting perspective that can transform how you interact with your dog. In agility, where environmental distractions and subtle cues play a huge role, understanding how your dog processes information can give you a significant advantage in guiding them successfully through a course. It’s a powerful tool for enhancing your empathy and observational skills as a handler. While exploring such rich topics, it’s always interesting to look at the [list of dog man books] to see how different authors portray the deep bond and varied interactions between dogs and humans across various genres.
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“Excel-Erated Learning” by Pam Reid
For those with limited knowledge of learning theory, Pam Reid’s “Excel-Erated Learning” is an ideal starting point. This short, easy-to-read book provides an accessible introduction to the principles of animal learning. While some concepts, such as imitation, have been further refined since its publication, the basic knowledge it imparts is still accurate and incredibly useful. Understanding classical and operant conditioning, reinforcement schedules, and other learning principles is fundamental to effective agility training. This book will get you started on a fascinating journey into how dogs learn, making your agility training more intentional and successful.
“Learning and Behavior” by Paul Chance
If you are genuinely interested in mastering the principles of animal learning and behavior—the very foundation of all effective training, including agility—then Paul Chance’s “Learning and Behavior” is an unparalleled resource. While it’s a psychology textbook rather than a “dog psychology” book specifically, it provides the most comprehensive and scientifically rigorous explanation of learning theory available. Delving into this book will equip you with a deep understanding of why training methods work, how to troubleshoot complex behaviors, and how to optimize your dog’s learning experience on and off the agility course. It’s for the truly dedicated student of animal behavior.
Why Agility Training is So Beneficial
Dog agility is more than just a sport; it’s a fantastic way to enhance your dog’s physical and mental well-being, strengthen your bond, and build confidence.
- Physical Exercise: Agility provides an excellent full-body workout for dogs, improving their stamina, muscle tone, and coordination. It’s particularly beneficial for high-energy breeds that need an outlet for their boundless enthusiasm.
- Mental Stimulation: Navigating courses requires dogs to think, solve problems, and respond to cues, offering crucial mental engagement that prevents boredom and destructive behaviors. This mental workout is just as important as physical exercise for a well-adjusted dog.
- Strengthened Bond: Working together as a team on the agility course builds trust and communication between you and your dog. You learn to read each other’s signals, fostering a deeper partnership and mutual understanding.
- Increased Confidence: Successfully overcoming obstacles and mastering new skills boosts a dog’s confidence, especially for shy or timid individuals. The positive reinforcement used in agility training further reinforces a positive self-image.
- Socialization: Participating in agility classes or competitions provides opportunities for your dog to socialize in a structured and positive environment, learning to be comfortable around other dogs and people. This also provides opportunities for human handlers to connect with like-minded individuals, perhaps even finding networking opportunities if they wish to
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Agility training truly embodies a holistic approach to canine well-being, making it a valuable endeavor for almost any dog and owner.
Frequently Asked Questions About Agility Training Books
What should I look for in a good dog agility training book?
Look for books that:
- Emphasize positive reinforcement and force-free methods.
- Provide clear, step-by-step instructions for teaching obstacles and handling techniques.
- Offer strategies for building your dog’s confidence and motivation.
- Discuss foundational skills and mental preparation for both dog and handler.
- Are written by experienced agility competitors, trainers, or animal behaviorists with relevant credentials.
- Include troubleshooting tips for common agility challenges.
Can I train my dog for agility using only books?
While books provide an excellent theoretical and practical foundation, hands-on experience and professional guidance are invaluable. Books can teach you the “what” and “how,” but a good instructor can provide real-time feedback, correct timing issues, help you read your dog’s body language in motion, and offer personalized solutions. Consider books as your primary resource, but supplement them with local classes, workshops, or even online coaching programs where you can receive personalized feedback.
Are there specific agility training books for different skill levels (beginner, intermediate, advanced)?
Yes, many agility books cater to different skill levels. Beginner books often focus on building foundational skills, introduction to equipment, and basic handling. Intermediate books delve into more complex sequences, specific handling moves, and improving speed. Advanced books typically cover competition strategies, fine-tuning performance, and mastering nuanced handling techniques. Always choose a book that matches your and your dog’s current skill level to ensure optimal learning and prevent frustration.
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I sincerely hope this curated list of the best dog agility training books and foundational resources helps you and your dog achieve your agility goals. Enjoy the learning process, cherish the bond, and have incredible fun on your agility journey together!
References used in this “Best Dog Agility Training Books” article:
This article was written by Natalia Rozas, Ph.D. and Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA #4071465) updated on December 7th, 2023.
- Pryor, K. (1999). Don’t Shoot the Dog!: The New Art of Teaching and Training. Bantam Books.
- Donaldson, J. (1996). The Culture Clash. James & Kenneth Publishers.
- McConnell, P. (2002). The Other End of the Leash: Why We Do What We Do Around Dogs. Ballantine Books.
- Miller, P. (2001). The Power of Positive Dog Training. Howell Book House.
- Bertilsson, E., & Johnson-Vegh, E. (2010). Agility: Right from the Start. Dogwise Publishing.
- Alexander, M. (2003). Click for Joy!: Questions and Answers from the ClickerTrain YahooGroup. Sunshine Books.
- Clothier, S. (2002). Bones Would Rain From The Sky: Deepening Our Relationships With Dogs. Grand Central Publishing.
- Sdao, K. (2012). Plenty in Life Is Free: Reflections on Dogs, Training and Finding Grace. Dogwise Publishing.
- Ramirez, K. (Ed.). (2018). Better Together: The Collected Wisdom of Modern Dog Trainers. Dogwise Publishing.
- Rosales-Ruiz, J., & Hunter, M. (2018). PORTL: The Portable Operant Research and Teaching Lab. Dogwise Publishing.
- O’Heare, J. (2005). Problem Animal Behavior: Functional Assessment & Constructional Contingency Management Planning. Dog Psych Publications.
- Bradshaw, J. (2011). Dog Sense: How the New Science of Dog Behavior Can Make You a Better Friend to Your Pet. Basic Books.
- Horowitz, A. (2009). Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell, and Know. Scribner.
- Reid, P. (1996). Excel-Erated Learning: Explaining How Dogs Learn & How Best to Teach Them. Dogwise Publishing.
- Chance, P. (2008). Learning and Behavior. Wadsworth Publishing.
- University of Waikato Research Paper (referencing original article’s point on outdated books, specific citation not provided in original, so general reference maintained).
