Finding the absolute best dog training books can be a daunting task, especially with thousands of titles available. A quick search reveals a vast number of books, many of which contain outdated or even harmful advice that could negatively impact your dog’s well-being and your relationship with them. As experts in dog care and training, we at Dog Care Story are committed to providing you with accurate, science-backed information. This guide compiles a list of the most highly recommended dog training books, endorsed by professionals, to help you foster a strong, positive bond with your canine companion.
Our dedication to promoting effective and humane training methods stems from a concern shared by many in the professional dog training community. A 2017 study by researchers at the University of Waikato in New Zealand analyzed the top five bestselling dog training books and found that only one offered truly accurate information, while the others promoted dominance-based theories and unscientific concepts. This disheartening finding reinforces the need for reliable resources. Fortunately, a wealth of excellent, scientifically sound dog training literature exists, and we are here to guide you through it. list of dog man books Understanding the different genres of dog-related books, from training guides to fictional stories, helps highlight the importance of choosing resources that prioritize effective, positive reinforcement methods.
Top 5 Best Dog Training Books to Read of All Time
As a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CCPDT-KA) with a Ph.D. in Neuroscience and over 15 years of experience training dogs and their owners, I’ve had the privilege of reading countless books on the subject. My recommendations are based on extensive professional knowledge and practical application, focusing on books that offer the most impactful and scientifically validated approaches.
#1: Don’t Shoot The Dog by Karen Pryor
This foundational text, praised in the aforementioned research study, is widely considered the essential guide to animal training. While not exclusively about dogs, its principles apply universally, teaching you how to train any animal (or even human!). Karen Pryor was a visionary in animal training and a superb writer. This book has profoundly influenced countless professionals in the field, including myself, fundamentally changing how we approach teaching and learning. It’s written in an accessible, informative, and entertaining style, making complex behavioral science easy to grasp. This concise read offers invaluable insights, making it a must-have for anyone serious about understanding behavior and training.
A collection of highly-rated dog training books for pet owners
#2: The Culture Clash by Jean Donaldson
If you’re looking for a book specifically focused on dogs, “The Culture Clash” is an excellent choice. Jean Donaldson, an accomplished trainer and author, provides a wealth of information on dog behavior and training. Having attended one of her seminars, I can personally attest to the quality of her insights. This book is not only insightful but also engaging, offering a comprehensive understanding of canine communication. It includes a practical guide for teaching basic dog commands, making it incredibly useful for both novice and experienced dog owners. You will certainly not regret adding this book to your training library.
#3: The Other End Of The Leash by Patricia McConnell
Patricia McConnell, a Ph.D. and former professor specializing in aggression, offers a unique perspective on human-dog interactions in “The Other End Of The Leash.” This book explores the fundamental differences in communication between humans and dogs, explaining how these disparities can lead to misunderstandings. While it’s not a step-by-step training manual, it is crucial for developing a deeper understanding of your dog’s world and learning how to behave in ways that your dog can comprehend. McConnell is an engaging writer, weaving in compelling dog stories to illustrate her points. Although some information regarding dominance theory might be slightly dated, the core insights into interspecies communication remain invaluable.
A dog engaging with its owner during a positive reinforcement training session
#4: Ian Dunbar’s Top Dog Academy
Technically not a single book, Ian Dunbar’s Top Dog Academy offers a comprehensive educational package. Dr. Ian Dunbar, a veterinarian, Ph.D., and founder of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), created this academy to elevate the standards of dog training worldwide. The APDT focuses on science-based methods and continuous professional development. His Top Dog Academy provides a wealth of resources, including PDF books, video, and audio seminars on puppy training, obedience, manners, and solving common behavioral issues. Dr. Dunbar’s lively and informative teaching style, coupled with practical exercises, makes learning enjoyable and effective for both you and your dog. It’s highly recommended for anyone bringing a new puppy or dog into their home.
#5: The Power of Positive Dog Training by Pat Miller
“The Power of Positive Dog Training” is an accessible and practical guide for anyone starting their dog training journey. Pat Miller, another respected figure in the field, provides clear, actionable advice that progresses from basic to advanced training. This book not only teaches you how to train your dog effectively but also helps you understand canine body language, allowing you to better interpret your dog’s emotional state. Its straightforward approach makes it an excellent resource for beginners seeking to implement positive reinforcement techniques.
5 More Excellent Dog Training Books
My passion for dog training means I constantly seek out new knowledge. While the top five are essential, many other outstanding books deserve recognition. For those who share this fascination and desire to learn more, here are additional excellent resources that delve deeper into various aspects of dog training and behavior. While these selections focus on training specific behaviors and understanding canine psychology, they complement the broader insights found in guides like books like dog man, which explore the narrative and creative aspects of human-dog relationships.
“Click for Joy!” by Melissa Alexander
This wonderful book is entirely dedicated to clicker training, presented in an easy-to-understand Q&A format. Melissa Alexander masterfully teaches the mechanics of clicker training while beautifully conveying the sheer joy this technique brings to both dog and owner. It’s an inspiring read that highlights the positive impact of this highly effective training method.
“Bones Would Rain From The Sky” by Suzanne Clothier
After reading books that might portray dogs as mere creatures responding to cues, Suzanne Clothier’s “Bones Would Rain From The Sky” offers a refreshing perspective. This special book emphasizes the profound human-canine connection and bond. I often recommend reading this book after foundational training texts, as it helps solidify the understanding that dogs are complex, emotional beings, not just “robots.” It adds a vital layer of empathy to your training approach.
“Plenty in Life is Free: Reflections on Dogs, Training and Finding Grace” by Kathy Sdao
Renowned animal trainer Kathy Sdao challenges and advances the field of positive dog training in “Plenty in Life is Free.” She explores ethical ways to communicate with our pets, pushing readers to consider deeper levels of partnership. If you believe using treats alone makes you a “positive” trainer, this book will reveal the extensive nuances and further learning opportunities within true positive reinforcement.
A dog looking attentively at its human, showcasing effective communication
“Better Together: The Collected Wisdom of Modern Dog Trainers” edited by Ken Ramirez
This recent publication is a collection of articles from some of the world’s leading animal and dog trainers. While centered on clicker training, it covers a broad spectrum of topics, including puppy training, working with older dogs, problem-solving behaviors, and addressing aggression. Ken Ramirez, known for pushing the boundaries of animal cognition and training, brings together diverse expertise to create a truly enriching resource.
“When Pigs Fly: Training Success With Impossible Dogs” by Jane Killion
For owners with “stubborn” or independently minded dogs, “When Pigs Fly” is an invaluable guide. In my experience, most so-called stubborn dogs simply don’t understand what their owners are asking. This book provides practical advice and effective methods tailored for dogs that may be more challenging to train due to their personality or breed traits. It emphasizes patience and the right techniques to achieve success where other methods might have failed.
Essential Dog Behavior Books
Beyond training techniques, a comprehensive understanding of dog behavior is crucial. Often, what we perceive as “bad” behaviors are simply normal canine expressions. Learning about your dog’s natural needs and communication will help you solve many problems, sometimes even without specific training. These excellent books will deepen your knowledge of canine psychology:
“Dog Sense” by John Bradshaw
Ph.D. Professor John Bradshaw takes readers on a journey into the world of dogs, exploring canine evolution and offering alternative theories to explain dog behavior. While it can be a dense read for some, the information is incredibly interesting and current, providing a scholarly yet engaging look at our best friends.
“Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell and Know” by Alexandra Horowitz
If you’ve ever wondered how your dog perceives the world, this book is for you. Dr. Horowitz meticulously explains the sensory experiences of dogs and how they differ from human perception. It’s a fascinating read, packed with intriguing information that will forever change how you view your dog’s perspective.
Advanced Dog Training Books
Advanced dog training goes beyond basic obedience, delving into sophisticated methodologies and a deeper understanding of canine psychology and the nuances of human-dog interactions. This level of training often encompasses specialized skills like agility, search and rescue, therapy work, and competitive obedience. It focuses on refining communication, ensuring precise and reliable responses even in high-distraction environments. This comprehensive approach enhances a dog’s skills and strengthens the bond with their owner, leading to a more harmonious and fulfilling relationship. Here’s a selection of advanced dog training books to help you and your dog reach new heights.
“Agility: Right from the Start” by Eva Bertilsson & Emelie Johnson-Vegh
Even if agility isn’t your primary goal, this book is a fantastic resource for learning how to teach various signals and behaviors. While rooted in agility sports, the techniques and perspectives offered can be broadly applied to improve your overall training skills and communication with your dog, giving you a fresh approach to classical training methods.
“PORTL: The Portable Operant Research and Teaching Lab by Dr. Jesús Rosales-Ruiz and Mary Hunter
For those truly committed to advanced training, “PORTL” is an exceptional resource. As Ken Ramirez wisely states, “Advanced training is just the basics done really, really, really well.” This book is designed for students and trainers alike, allowing them to learn and experiment with operant conditioning principles. If you’re a “super nerd” about training, like many professionals, this book will help you become proficient in foundational dog training concepts through hands-on practice.
Cover of 'PORTL: The Portable Operant Research and Teaching Lab'
“Problem Animal Behavior – Functional Assessment & Constructional Contingency Management Planning by James O’Heare
James O’Heare is known for his more advanced books on dog training and behavior. This particular title is for those ready to dive deep into serious dog psychology. It provides a robust framework for assessing and managing problem behaviors using sophisticated contingency planning. Prepare for an intensive learning experience that will significantly expand your understanding of animal behavior modification.
Best Dog Training Books for Reactive and Aggressive Dogs
Books specializing in reactive and aggressive dogs are essential for owners and trainers navigating these challenging behaviors. They offer deep insights into the root causes of aggression and reactivity, addressing the psychological and environmental factors involved. These resources often provide practical, step-by-step training techniques focused on behavior modification, emphasizing positive reinforcement to replace unwanted responses with appropriate ones.
Advanced strategies detailed in these books include systematic desensitization and counter-conditioning, which gradually reduce a dog’s fear or anxiety triggers, making them more manageable in various situations. Additionally, these books underscore the critical importance of safety and management strategies to prevent aggressive incidents during training. Finally, and no less important, they highlight the significance of strengthening the human-dog bond. If you have a reactive dog, these two books will provide immense help and guidance.
“The New Click to Calm” by Emma Parsons
This absolutely wonderful book is packed with useful information for dog parents dealing with aggressive or reactive pets. Emma Parsons adopts a holistic approach, ensuring that all of the dog’s needs are met while providing clear, practical guidance. It’s an indispensable resource for fostering calm and confidence in challenging situations.
Cover of 'The New Click to Calm' offering solutions for reactive dogs
“Control Unleashed: Reactive to Relaxed” by Leslie McDevitt
Another excellent resource for owners with problematic dogs, Leslie McDevitt’s “Control Unleashed: Reactive to Relaxed” is an amazing guide filled with top recommendations and highly effective exercises. This book equips you with practical tools to help your reactive dog find relaxation and focus, transforming challenging moments into opportunities for growth.
Best Dog Psychology Books
The best dog psychology books are indispensable for anyone seeking a profound understanding of canine behavior and the principles underpinning effective training. These texts delve into advanced learning theory, offering a comprehensive view of why dogs act the way they do.
By grasping the underlying psychology, trainers can develop more humane and effective methods rooted in positive reinforcement, building trust and enhancing communication between dogs and their handlers. This deep knowledge not only optimizes training outcomes but also strengthens the bond between humans and their canine companions, leading to more harmonious and fulfilling relationships.
If you are new to dog training literature, these might be a bit advanced. We recommend starting your journey with Karen Pryor’s “Don’t Shoot the Dog” before diving into these deeper psychological explorations.
“Excel-Erated Learning” by Pam Reid
If you have no prior knowledge of learning theory, “Excel-Erated Learning” is the perfect starting point. This short and easy-to-read book will introduce you to the fascinating world of how animals learn. While some concepts are slightly older (e.g., the idea that dogs can’t learn by imitation, which we now know they can), the foundational knowledge remains accurate and provides an enjoyable entry into behavioral science.
“Learning and Behavior” by Paul Chance
While technically a psychology textbook and not specifically a “dog” psychology book, “Learning and Behavior” is an unparalleled resource for anyone truly interested in the principles of animal learning and behavior. If you’re serious about understanding the scientific underpinnings of why animals (including dogs) behave the way they do, this comprehensive book will not disappoint.
Cover of 'Learning and Behavior' a foundational psychology textbook
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Training Books
What is a good dog training book?
Based on professional recommendations, here is a list of excellent dog training books that are highly regarded for their accurate and effective methods:
- “Don’t Shoot The Dog” by Karen Pryor
- “The Culture Clash” by Jean Donaldson
- “The Other End Of The Leash” by Patricia McConnell
- “Ian Dunbar’s Top Dog Academy”
- “The Power of Positive Dog Training” by Pat Miller
What dog training method is best?
The best dog training method unequivocally involves positive reinforcement. Avoid any methods or trainers that advocate for “alpha,” “leader,” “dominance,” “choke collars,” “leash jerks,” or other punishment-based techniques. By reading the books recommended in this article, you will gain a clear understanding of why positive methods are superior and how to identify and avoid outdated or harmful training advice.
What is the number one rule in dog training?
The number one rule in dog training is to “train the dog in front of you.” This means paying close attention to your individual dog’s responses, learning style, and personality, and adapting your training approach accordingly. Additionally, precise timing and skilled application of techniques are crucial for effective training.
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We hope this comprehensive guide to the best dog training books helps you on your journey to a more fulfilling relationship with your canine companion. Happy reading and enjoy the learning process with your dog!
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.
