Bringing a new puppy or dog into your home is an incredibly exciting journey, filled with joy, companionship, and countless opportunities for learning. However, navigating the world of dog training can quickly become overwhelming, especially with the sheer volume of advice available. A quick search for “dog training books” reveals thousands of titles, and unfortunately, many contain outdated or even harmful advice that can hinder your progress and damage your bond with your new furry family member.
As a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CCPDT-KA) and Neuroscientist with over 15 years of experience, I’ve seen firsthand the confusion and frustration caused by misinformation. I was particularly discouraged when I found top search results recommending some of the least effective dog training books. This prompted me to compile a reliable list for you, focusing specifically on resources that are perfect for those starting their journey with a puppy or a newly adopted dog. While many books are out there, the ones truly worth your time emphasize positive reinforcement, understanding canine behavior, and building a strong, trusting relationship.
In 2017, a study by researchers at the University of Waikato in New Zealand highlighted this very issue, finding that only one of five top-selling dog training books provided accurate, science-backed information. The rest promoted outdated concepts like dominance and punishment, which lack scientific merit. To avoid these pitfalls, this guide will introduce you to the Best Dog Training Books For Puppies and new dog owners, endorsed by professionals, to ensure you start your training journey on the right paw. You’ll also find some great insights into understanding dog behavior, crucial for successful training, whether you’re interested in zak george puppy training 30 days or simply looking for foundational knowledge.
Top 5 Essential Dog Training Books for New Owners
Based on my extensive experience and professional certifications, these are the top 5 dog training books I recommend to anyone, especially new puppy parents, looking to build a strong foundation. I’ve read countless books on the subject, and these stand out for their accuracy, effectiveness, and ability to foster a positive training experience.
1. Don’t Shoot The Dog by Karen Pryor
Don't Shoot The Dog book cover, a foundational guide to positive reinforcement animal training
This book is truly a game-changer and was the “good book” identified in the research study I mentioned earlier. While not exclusively about dog training, Karen Pryor’s masterpiece provides universal principles of animal training that apply to any creature, including your new puppy. Pryor was a pioneer in animal training and an exceptional writer. This book transformed my approach to training, as it has for countless other renowned animal trainers. It’s an easy, entertaining, and informative read that will change how you view and interact with your puppy, making it an indispensable resource for any new owner.
2. The Culture Clash by Jean Donaldson
The Culture Clash book cover by Jean Donaldson, focusing on dog behavior and training principles
If you’re looking for a book specifically focused on dogs, “The Culture Clash” is an outstanding choice. Jean Donaldson is a highly respected trainer who has written numerous books and conducted seminars worldwide. This book is packed with valuable information on dog behavior and training, making it perfect for new puppy owners. It’s not only insightful but also fun to read, and it includes a practical guide to teaching basic dog commands, which is incredibly helpful when you’re just starting with your puppy.
3. The Other End Of The Leash by Patricia McConnell
The Other End Of The Leash book cover, exploring human and dog communication differences
Patricia McConnell, a Ph.D. and former professor specializing in animal behavior, offers unique insights into the human-dog relationship in “The Other End Of The Leash.” This book isn’t a step-by-step training guide, but it is crucial for new puppy owners because it explains the fundamental differences in how humans and dogs communicate. Understanding these differences can prevent many common misunderstandings and problems, helping you behave in ways your puppy can better comprehend. McConnell is an excellent storyteller, filling the book with engaging anecdotes. While some information on dominance theory might be slightly outdated, the core insights into communication remain invaluable.
4. Ian Dunbar’s Top Dog Academy
Dr. Ian Dunbar's Top Dog Academy program, offering online puppy and dog training resources
This isn’t just one book but a comprehensive package deal from Dr. Ian Dunbar, a veterinarian, Ph.D., and the founder of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), the largest dog trainer association globally. Dr. Dunbar created the APDT to promote professional, science-based training methods. His Top Dog Academy is an exceptional resource for anyone with a new puppy or dog. It includes PDF books, videos, and audio seminars covering puppy training, basic obedience, manners, and solutions for common behavioral issues. Dr. Dunbar is an engaging instructor, and his program offers specific exercises that make training your puppy both effective and enjoyable. It’s highly recommended if you’ve recently adopted a puppy or dog.
5. The Power of Positive Dog Training by Pat Miller
The Power of Positive Dog Training book cover, a guide to positive reinforcement methods for dogs
Pat Miller’s “The Power of Positive Dog Training” is another excellent resource, particularly for those just starting out. It’s easy to read and provides direct, actionable advice for training your dog using positive methods. The book guides you from basic obedience to more advanced training, and importantly, teaches you how to interpret your dog’s body language to better understand their emotional state. This understanding is key for building a strong, positive relationship with your puppy and addressing potential issues early on. It’s highly recommended for anyone embarking on their dog training journey.
More Highly Recommended Dog Training Books
My passion for dog training means I’m always eager to learn and share more. While the top 5 are foundational, many other excellent books can further enhance your understanding and skills, especially as your puppy grows and your training progresses.
“Click for Joy!” by Melissa Alexander
Click for Joy! book cover, a guide to clicker training for dogs and owners
If you’re interested in positive reinforcement, “Click for Joy!” is a wonderful introduction to clicker training. Written in a practical Q&A format, it beautifully illustrates how this technique creates a joyful and engaging learning experience for both you and your puppy. It’s an ideal follow-up to the foundational books, providing specific techniques to implement.
“Bones Would Rain From The Sky” by Suzanne Clothier
Bones Would Rain From The Sky book cover, emphasizing the human-canine connection and bond
While many training guides focus on mechanics, “Bones Would Rain From The Sky” emphasizes the profound human-canine connection and bond. After learning the mechanics from books like “Don’t Shoot the Dog” and “The Culture Clash,” this book provides crucial perspective, reminding us that our dogs are more than just responders to cues. This trio forms a powerful combination for understanding and training your puppy holistically. It helps you deepen your relationship, which is particularly important as you bond with a new puppy.
“Plenty in Life is Free: Reflections on Dogs, Training and Finding Grace” by Kathy Sdao
Plenty in Life is Free book cover, exploring ethical positive dog training methods
Renowned animal trainer Kathy Sdao pushes the boundaries of positive reinforcement in this wonderful book. She explores advanced concepts in ethical dog training, moving beyond simple treat-based rewards to a deeper understanding of partnership. If you consider yourself a positive dog trainer, this book will reveal new depths to learn and apply, benefiting your puppy’s development and your training practices.
“Better Together: The Collected Wisdom of Modern Dog Trainers” edited by Ken Ramirez
Better Together book cover, a collection of articles on modern dog training techniques
This newer collection features articles from some of the best animal and dog trainers today. While focusing on clicker training, it covers a wide array of topics, including specific chapters on puppy training, training older dogs, and addressing behavioral challenges. Ken Ramirez, a top animal trainer, contributes to this book, which actively pushes the field forward by integrating advanced concepts and enhancing our understanding of canine cognitive abilities. It’s a great resource as your puppy matures and you explore more specialized training.
“When Pigs Fly: Training Success With Impossible Dogs” by Jane Killion
When Pigs Fly book cover, offering practical advice for training challenging or stubborn dogs
For those who perceive their dogs as “stubborn,” this book is a must-read. In my experience, most “stubborn” dogs simply don’t understand what their owners are asking. Jane Killion provides practical advice on using appropriate methods for dogs with more independent personalities, helping owners patiently achieve success. While aimed at more challenging dogs, the principles of clear communication and appropriate methodology are invaluable for any puppy owner looking to prevent future “stubborn” behaviors. This approach helps prevent issues that can develop if a cesar millan dog training book or similar dominance-based training is used.
Essential Dog Behavior Books
Understanding your dog’s behavior is just as crucial as understanding training techniques. Often, what appears to be “bad” behavior in a puppy or dog is simply normal canine behavior misunderstood by humans. Learning about dog behavior can help you solve many problems even without specific training techniques, fostering a harmonious household.
“Dog Sense” by John Bradshaw
Dog Sense book cover by John Bradshaw, exploring dog evolution and alternative behavior theories
Ph.D. Professor John Bradshaw guides readers through the evolutionary history of dogs and presents alternative theories to explain canine behavior. While it might be a bit dense for some, the information is current, fascinating, and provides a deeper understanding of your puppy’s natural instincts and motivations. This context is invaluable for proactive training and problem prevention.
“Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell and Know” by Alexandra Horowitz
Inside of a Dog book cover, detailing how dogs perceive the world differently from humans
If you’ve ever wondered about your puppy’s perspective, “Inside of a Dog” by Dr. Alexandra Horowitz is an incredible read. It vividly explains how dogs perceive the world through their unique senses, particularly smell and hearing, and how this differs from human perception. This amazing book is filled with intriguing information that will transform how you interact with and understand your canine companion, from their early days as a puppy into adulthood. Reading an i am a puppy book can give you a different kind of insight, but Horowitz’s work provides a scientific and immersive look.
Advanced Dog Training Books
Once you’ve mastered the basics with your puppy, you might be interested in exploring advanced dog training. This involves going beyond fundamental commands to delve into specialized skills, refine communication, and strengthen the dog-handler bond. These books are for those eager to push boundaries and engage in activities like agility, therapy work, or competitive obedience. This comprehensive approach deepens your relationship, ensuring precision and reliability in diverse environments. For those who want to compare, it’s interesting to note how some of the best selling dog training books might not cover these advanced concepts.
“Agility: Right from the Start” by Eva Bertilsson & Emelie Johnson-Vegh
Agility: Right from the Start book cover, a guide to foundational agility training techniques
Even if competitive agility isn’t your immediate goal, this book is fantastic for teaching new signals and behaviors. It offers a different perspective on communication and teamwork that can be applied to many aspects of your dog’s training, enhancing their understanding and responsiveness.
“PORTL: The Portable Operant Research and Teaching Lab” by Dr. Jesús Rosales-Ruiz and Mary Hunter
PORTL: The Portable Operant Research and Teaching Lab book cover, for advanced learning theory
Are you truly seeking advanced dog training books? Ken Ramirez wisely states, “Advanced training is just the basics done really, really, really well.” PORTL is designed for serious students of animal training, helping them learn and experiment with advanced concepts. If you’re a “super nerd” like me, this book will significantly deepen your understanding of the foundational principles of animal learning.
“Problem Animal Behavior – Functional Assessment & Constructional Contingency Management Planning” by James O’Heare
Problem Animal Behavior book cover, an advanced text on dog psychology and behavior modification
James O’Heare has authored many advanced books on dog training and behavior. This particular title is for those ready to delve into serious dog psychology. It’s an in-depth look at functional assessment and contingency management, perfect for professionals or highly dedicated owners facing complex behavioral challenges.
Best Dog Training Books for Reactive and Aggressive Dogs
For owners dealing with reactive or aggressive behaviors, these books are invaluable. They offer deep insights into the causes of these challenging behaviors, helping you understand the underlying psychological and environmental factors. These resources provide practical, step-by-step techniques for behavior modification, emphasizing positive reinforcement to replace undesirable responses with appropriate ones. They also stress safety, management strategies, and the critical importance of the human-dog bond.
“The New Click to Calm” by Emma Parsons
The New Click to Calm book cover, offering solutions for reactive or aggressive dogs
This book is absolutely wonderful, packed with useful information for owners of aggressive or reactive pets. Emma Parsons takes a holistic approach, ensuring the dog’s needs are met while providing effective strategies for reducing reactivity and building confidence. It’s a compassionate and practical guide for managing and improving challenging behaviors.
“Control Unleashed: Reactive to Relaxed” by Leslie McDevitt
Control Unleashed: Reactive to Relaxed book cover, providing exercises for problematic dogs
Another outstanding resource for owners with problematic dogs, Leslie McDevitt’s “Control Unleashed: Reactive to Relaxed” is filled with excellent recommendations and highly effective exercises. This book helps dogs learn to manage their arousal and anxiety, enabling them to make better choices in challenging situations. It’s a vital tool for transforming reactive behaviors into calm, controlled responses.
Best Dog Psychology Books
To truly master dog training, a profound understanding of dog psychology is essential. These books explore advanced learning theory, offering a comprehensive view of why dogs behave as they do. By grasping the underlying psychology, you can develop more humane and effective methods that build trust, enhance communication, and rely on positive reinforcement. This knowledge not only improves training outcomes but also strengthens the bond between you and your puppy, leading to a more fulfilling relationship. If you’re just starting, I recommend beginning with Karen Pryor’s “Don’t Shoot the Dog” before delving into these more advanced texts.
“Excel-Erated Learning” by Pam Reid
Excel-Erated Learning book cover, explaining how dogs learn and best teaching methods
If you have no prior knowledge of learning theory, “Excel-Erated Learning” is an excellent starting point. It’s a concise, easy-to-read book that will introduce you to the fascinating world of animal learning. While some concepts are older (like the idea that dogs can’t learn by imitation, which we now know they can), the foundational knowledge remains accurate and will get you started on your journey in a very enjoyable way.
“Learning and Behavior” by Paul Chance
Learning and Behavior book cover, a psychology textbook on animal learning principles
This may not be a “dog” psychology book in particular, but it is an essential psychology textbook that delves deep into the principles of animal learning and behavior. If you are truly interested in understanding the science behind training, you will not be disappointed. It provides a comprehensive academic foundation that underpins all effective animal training.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Training Books for Puppies
What is a good dog training book for a puppy?
For puppies, “Don’t Shoot The Dog” by Karen Pryor, “The Culture Clash” by Jean Donaldson, and Ian Dunbar’s Top Dog Academy are excellent starting points. They focus on positive reinforcement and understanding canine behavior, providing a solid foundation for your puppy’s development.
What dog training method is best for puppies?
Definitely any positive reinforcement method. Avoid approaches that involve “alpha,” “leader,” “dominance,” choke collars, or leash jerks. These methods are outdated and can be harmful to your puppy’s well-being and your relationship. The books recommended in this article will help you understand why positive methods are superior and how to avoid bad advice.
What is the number one rule in puppy training?
The number one rule is to “train the dog in front of you,” meaning to observe your puppy, understand their individual needs and reactions, and adapt your training accordingly. Additionally, precise timing and consistent skill are crucial for effective puppy training.
Ready to Train Your Puppy the Smart Way?
NeoPuppy Program cover, offering online puppy training with a certified dog trainer
I’m Dr. Natalia Rozas, a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and Neuroscientist. My NeoPuppy Program combines over 80 short videos and four online private coaching sessions to help you train your puppy effectively and kindly, backed by science. Train at your own pace, receive personalized online guidance, and achieve results without stress or punishment.
👉 Explore the NeoPuppy Program
I hope this guide to the best dog training books for puppies and new owners helps you find the information you need to build a wonderful relationship with your canine companion. Enjoy reading and learning with your puppy!
References used in this “Best Dog 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.
- Home
- Dog Commands
- Recommended Books
