As dedicated dog lovers and owners, we understand the importance of effective and humane training methods. The journey of training a dog is a rewarding one, and the right resources can make all the difference. This guide delves into a selection of highly recommended training books and videos, focusing on simplicity, effectiveness, and ethical practices to help you build a strong bond with your canine companion.
Essential Dog Training Books for Every Owner
When choosing a dog training book, two key criteria stand out: the ease of implementing the training methods and their humane effectiveness. Overly complex techniques or excessive equipment often lead to frustration and can be counterproductive. The following books offer practical, straightforward approaches that are beneficial for both novice and experienced dog owners.
The Ultimate Guide to Bird Dog Training by Jerome B. Robinson
This comprehensive guide covers a wide array of topics, offering alternative methods for training your dog. Many of the techniques presented are simple to execute, making it accessible for beginners while still providing value for more experienced handlers. The book is generally well-regarded for its practical advice and engaging content. However, a single page suggests the use of a severe spike collar for specific behavioral issues, which is a point of contention given its potentially harsh nature. Despite this, it remains a valuable and interesting resource for bird dog enthusiasts.
Training the Versatile Hunting Dog by Chuck Johnson
A standout in its field, this book is one of the first to comprehensively address training for both land and water, along with a dedicated section on tracking. The author’s Montana roots are evident, though the black and white photographs, while informative, don’t fully capture the breathtaking landscapes. This book offers an in-depth look at training versatile pointing breeds, making it an excellent choice for those interested in this specific type of dog.
How to Have the Best Trained Gun Dog by Joan Bailey
Joan Bailey’s approach, which utilizes German training techniques, emphasizes training without the use of electronic devices. This no-nonsense guide focuses on teaching fundamental skills effectively. The training methods detailed in this book were developed by individuals who dedicated their lives to the discipline of training versatile dogs, ensuring a time-tested and reliable methodology.
Highly Recommended Training Videos
The market is flooded with training videos, but not all are created equal. The following two selections are highly recommended for their quality and effectiveness.
Great Beginnings by George Hickox
This 52-minute video offers substantial value without unnecessary filler. It provides a fairly comprehensive overview of foundational training concepts, presented in an easily understandable manner. This makes “Great Beginnings” an excellent choice for beginners looking to establish a solid training base with their new dog.
Whoa, Dog. Whoa! by Mark Payton, Sr.
This specialized video focuses exclusively on “Whoa” training – teaching your dog to stop on command. It covers this single topic with exceptional thoroughness and expertise, making it a worthwhile investment for any owner looking to master this crucial command.
Inspiring Dog Stories
Beyond training, the deep connection between humans and dogs is beautifully illustrated in these heartwarming stories.
Merle’s Door: Lessons from a Freethinking Dog by Ted Kerasote
This is a truly fabulous story about a man and a stray dog he found wandering in the desert. Ted Kerasote’s writing is captivating, making the book entertaining, interesting, and emotionally resonant. It’s a must-read for anyone who deeply cherishes dogs and understands the profound relationships we share.
Champion Dog: Prince Tom by Jean Clute and Tom Fritz
This remarkable account details how a dog from humble origins, Prince Tom, became an unexpected champion through a fortunate turn of events. Though the book has been available since the 1950s, its inspiring narrative still holds strong and is well worth the read for any dog lover.
