Navigating the vast ocean of dog training literature can be a daunting task, especially when seeking reliable, effective, and humane advice. With countless titles promising the “best” methods, it’s easy for even the most dedicated dog owner to feel overwhelmed. A simple online search can yield tens of thousands of results, many of which are unfortunately outdated, promote harmful techniques, or lack scientific backing. 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 personally sifted through countless resources to identify the truly exceptional. My goal is to guide you to the Highest Rated Dog Training Books that professionals trust and recommend, ensuring you provide your canine companion with the best possible education.
The concern over the prevalence of poor dog training information is widespread. A 2017 study by researchers at the University of Waikato in New Zealand highlighted this issue, finding that only one of the top five best-selling dog training books provided accurate, scientifically sound information. The others often perpetuated debunked theories like dominance and punishment, which can be detrimental to a dog’s well-being and the human-animal bond. This unsettling reality underscores the critical need for expert-curated recommendations when searching for the highest rated dog training books. This list aims to cut through the noise, offering insights into titles that advocate for positive reinforcement, clear communication, and a deep understanding of canine behavior, helping you in your journey to foster a harmonious relationship with your furry friend, and perhaps even inspire you to seek further guidance from a qualified dog sitter trainer.
The journey to effective dog training begins with the right knowledge. My selections are based on years of practical experience and a solid scientific understanding of animal learning. These books are not just theoretical texts; they are practical guides that empower you to build a strong, positive relationship with your dog. They emphasize understanding your dog’s perspective, communicating effectively, and using methods that are both kind and highly effective.
Top 5 Highest Rated Dog Training Books to Transform Your Approach
It’s challenging to narrow down the vast array of excellent resources, but these five stand out as foundational texts for anyone serious about humane and effective dog training. Each of these books offers unique insights, whether you’re a beginner or looking to deepen your existing knowledge.
#1: Don’t Shoot The Dog by Karen Pryor
Karen Pryor’s “Don’t Shoot The Dog” is not just one of the highest rated dog training books; it’s a seminal work in the field of animal training as a whole. This is the book that the New Zealand research study identified as providing truly accurate information. Pryor, a true luminary in animal training and an exceptional writer, demystifies the principles of operant conditioning, making them accessible to everyone. The book is not exclusively about dogs but rather about the universal science of behavior and how to apply it to any animal, including humans. Its insights are so profound that it has transformed the lives and careers of countless animal trainers worldwide. Many esteemed professionals cite this book as a pivotal influence in their understanding and practice of training. This transformative work truly embodies the great dog story of how understanding animals can redefine relationships.
Karen Pryor’s approachable writing style ensures that complex concepts are easy to grasp, making it both informative and highly entertaining. Despite not focusing solely on canines, the principles outlined are directly applicable to dog training, offering a robust framework for understanding how learning occurs. It’s a relatively short and engaging read that promises to fundamentally change how you approach teaching and communication with your dog. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to develop effective and ethical training skills.
Curious dog looking at a book on dog training
#2: The Culture Clash by Jean Donaldson
If you’re looking for one of the highest rated dog training books that specifically delves into canine behavior, “The Culture Clash” by Jean Donaldson is an unparalleled choice. Donaldson, an esteemed trainer and author, provides an in-depth exploration of dog behavior, offering crucial insights into why dogs do what they do and how human expectations often clash with their natural instincts. Her ability to explain complex behavioral concepts in a clear, engaging manner makes this book incredibly valuable for dog owners.
Having had the privilege of attending one of her seminars, I can attest to her profound understanding and engaging teaching style. The book is not only informative but also enjoyable to read, offering practical advice and a foundational guide for teaching basic commands. “The Culture Clash” will help you bridge the communication gap between you and your dog, fostering a deeper understanding and a more harmonious relationship. It’s an essential read for anyone committed to understanding their dog from a behavioral perspective.
#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 in “The Other End Of The Leash.” While not a step-by-step training manual, this book is one of the highest rated dog training books for understanding the nuances of human-dog communication. McConnell brilliantly illustrates how our human behaviors, often subconsciously, affect our dogs and how misunderstandings arise from our differing communication styles. By exploring the differences between human and canine social structures and signals, she empowers owners to behave in ways their dogs can better understand.
McConnell’s writing is rich with illustrative dog stories, making the information both relatable and memorable. Although a minor caveat is that some information regarding dominance theory may be slightly outdated, the vast majority of the book’s content on interspecies communication and behavior is invaluable. It helps you recognize and adjust your actions to improve your relationship with your dog, making it a critical read for enhancing your bond and preventing behavioral issues.
A thoughtful quote about dog training
#4: Ian Dunbar’s Top Dog Academy
While technically not a single book, Ian Dunbar’s Top Dog Academy is an entire comprehensive package that deserves its place among the highest rated dog training resources. Dr. Ian Dunbar, a veterinarian, Ph.D., and the founder of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), is a towering figure in the world of dog training. His mission has always been to professionalize the field, promoting science-based methods and continuous learning. The Academy offers an extensive collection of books in PDF format, alongside numerous video and audio seminars covering everything from puppy training to advanced obedience, manners, and solving common behavioral problems.
Dr. Dunbar’s lively and engaging presentation style, which I’ve experienced firsthand at seminars, makes learning both entertaining and incredibly informative. His programs provide specific, actionable exercises that ensure you and your dog have a rewarding and fun training experience. This comprehensive resource is highly recommended for anyone bringing home a new puppy or dog, offering a wealth of knowledge that truly sets the standard for professional development in dog training. This commitment to elevating the field can even inspire individuals to start my own dog walking business after gaining such extensive expertise.
#5: The Power of Positive Dog Training by Pat Miller
“The Power of Positive Dog Training” by Pat Miller is another outstanding entry among the highest rated dog training books, particularly for those just beginning their training journey. Miller provides clear, direct, and immediately applicable advice on how to train your dog using positive reinforcement methods. The book guides you through various stages, from basic obedience to more advanced skills, all while teaching you how to interpret your dog’s body language and understand their emotional state.
This book stands out for its practicality and its emphasis on building a strong, trusting relationship with your dog without resorting to outdated or harsh techniques. It’s an easy-to-read guide that empowers owners to tackle training challenges effectively and kindly. If you’re new to dog training and looking for a comprehensive yet accessible resource, Pat Miller’s book is an excellent starting point that will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to succeed.
5 More Highly Recommended Dog Training Books
My passion for dog training and continuous learning means I’ve explored far more than just the top five. To truly excel, one needs to continuously engage with new ideas and perspectives. For those who share this fascination and desire to delve deeper, here are five more highest rated dog training books that offer exceptional value and further insights into the world of canine behavior and training.
“Click for Joy!” by Melissa Alexander
“Click for Joy!” is an essential read for anyone interested in clicker training. Melissa Alexander presents this powerful training technique in a unique Q&A format, making it incredibly accessible and engaging. The book beautifully illustrates not only how to clicker train your dog but also why this method fosters such a joyful and rewarding experience for both handler and dog. It emphasizes the positive reinforcement and clear communication that clicker training provides, helping you build precise behaviors and strengthen your bond.
“Bones Would Rain From The Sky” by Suzanne Clothier
While many training books focus on the mechanics of behavior, “Bones Would Rain From The Sky” by Suzanne Clothier offers a much-needed emphasis on the human-canine connection and bond. After reading books that might portray dogs as mere responders to cues, Clothier reminds us that dogs are complex, emotional beings. This special book explores the deeper relationship, moving beyond transactional training to focus on understanding and nurturing the profound connection we share with our dogs. It’s often recommended as a perfect follow-up to more technically focused training guides, creating a holistic understanding of our canine companions.
Dog training tips and a pensive dog
“Plenty in Life is Free: Reflections on Dogs, Training and Finding Grace” by Kathy Sdao
Kathy Sdao’s “Plenty in Life is Free” is another outstanding contribution to the field of positive dog training. A renowned animal trainer, Sdao advocates for a partnership-based approach, challenging readers to move beyond simple treat delivery to truly understand and ethically communicate with their pets. This book pushes the boundaries of positive reinforcement, encouraging trainers to explore more nuanced and effective ways to interact with dogs. If you consider yourself a positive trainer, this book will undoubtedly offer new perspectives and areas for growth, demonstrating that there’s always more to learn in our pursuit of ethical and effective training methods.
“Better Together: The Collected Wisdom of Modern Dog Trainers” edited by Ken Ramirez
Edited by the influential animal trainer Ken Ramirez, “Better Together” is a collection of articles from some of the best animal and dog trainers working today. This book focuses on clicker training but covers a broad spectrum of topics, including puppy training, working with older dogs, addressing common behavior problems, and managing aggression. Ramirez, known for his groundbreaking work with wild animals and expanding our understanding of canine cognition, ensures that this collection is at the forefront of modern training philosophies. It’s a fantastic resource for gaining diverse insights and learning innovative techniques from leading experts.
“When Pigs Fly: Training Success With Impossible Dogs” by Jane Killion
For owners with “stubborn” or challenging dogs, Jane Killion’s “When Pigs Fly” is one of the highest rated dog training books you can find. In my experience, “stubborn” often means “misunderstood.” This book provides practical advice and effective methods for training dogs with more independent personalities or those who simply haven’t yet clicked with conventional approaches. Killion emphasizes patience and finding the right communication strategies for these unique individuals, helping owners achieve breakthroughs and build strong, cooperative relationships even with the most challenging dogs. It’s a testament to the idea that every dog can learn when approached with understanding and appropriate techniques. Understanding this profound connection, much like in the movie with dog named hachi, is a cornerstone of advanced training.
A Couple of Great Dog Behavior Books
To truly master dog training, one must also delve into dog behavior. Often, what we perceive as “bad” behavior is simply normal canine behavior misunderstood by humans. A deeper understanding of your dog’s natural instincts and communication can resolve many issues even without specific training techniques. These books offer invaluable insights into the canine mind:
“Dog Sense” by John Bradshaw
Ph.D. Professor John Bradshaw takes readers on a captivating journey into the world of dogs in “Dog Sense.” This book explores dog evolution and presents alternative theories to explain complex canine behaviors. While it might be a denser read for some, the information is incredibly interesting, scientifically informed, and up-to-date. Bradshaw challenges conventional wisdom and provides a richer, more nuanced understanding of our domesticated companions. It’s an excellent resource for anyone looking to go beyond basic training and understand the underlying motivations for their dog’s actions.
“Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell and Know” by Alexandra Horowitz
If you’ve ever wondered how your dog perceives the world, Alexandra Horowitz’s “Inside of a Dog” is an astonishing read. Dr. Horowitz, a cognitive scientist, brilliantly explains how dogs experience the world through their unique senses, particularly smell, which is vastly different from our own. This book is packed with fascinating information that will fundamentally change how you view your dog’s interactions with their environment and with you. It’s an amazing book that offers a truly immersive perspective into the canine mind and sensory world.
Advanced Dog Training Books
Advanced dog training goes beyond basic obedience, delving into intricate techniques, behavioral nuances, and specialized skills such as agility, therapy work, or competitive obedience. It requires a profound understanding of canine psychology and the ability to fine-tune communication for precise, reliable responses in diverse environments. This level of training not only refines a dog’s abilities but also significantly deepens the human-dog bond, fostering a more collaborative and fulfilling partnership. For those ready to elevate their training journey, here is a list of advanced dog training books.
“Agility: Right from the start” by Eva Bertilsson & Emelie Johnson-Vegh
Even if competitive agility isn’t your primary goal, “Agility: Right from the Start” is a fantastic resource for expanding your training repertoire. This book, by Eva Bertilsson and Emelie Johnson-Vegh, offers excellent insights into how to teach complex behaviors and signals using positive reinforcement. It provides a structured approach to learning and practicing new skills, which can be applied to various aspects of dog training, not just agility. Reading this book will broaden your perspective on how to communicate and engage with your dog in dynamic and challenging ways, ultimately enhancing your overall training proficiency.
“PORTL: The Portable Operant Research and Teaching Lab” by Dr. Jesús Rosales-Ruiz and Mary Hunter
For the truly dedicated “science nerds” of dog training, “PORTL: The Portable Operant Research and Teaching Lab” by Dr. Jesús Rosales-Ruiz and Mary Hunter is an exceptional choice among advanced dog training books. As Ken Ramirez wisely says, “Advanced training is just the basics done really, really, really well.” PORTL is designed for students and trainers to learn and experiment with operant conditioning principles firsthand. It provides a structured, hands-on approach to mastering foundational training concepts, enabling you to become incredibly proficient in applying these basics to complex scenarios. This book has been invaluable in teaching students to develop precise timing and keen observational skills, essential for truly advanced training.
“Problem Animal Behavior – Functional Assessment & Constructional Contingency Management Planning” by James O’Heare
James O’Heare is a prolific author in dog training and behavior, and “Problem Animal Behavior” is one of his more advanced offerings. This book is for those ready to dive deep into serious dog psychology and behavior modification. It provides a comprehensive framework for conducting functional assessments of problematic behaviors and developing constructional contingency management plans. This approach focuses on building desirable behaviors rather than merely suppressing undesirable ones. If you’re a professional trainer or an exceptionally keen owner dealing with complex behavioral issues, this book offers a rigorous, scientific approach to understanding and resolving them.
Highest Rated Dog Training Books for Reactive and Aggressive Dogs
Dealing with reactive or aggressive dogs presents unique challenges that require specialized knowledge and techniques. The highest rated dog training books in this category provide invaluable resources for owners and trainers navigating these complex behaviors. These books offer deep insights into the root causes of aggression and reactivity, helping readers understand the underlying psychological and environmental factors. They provide practical, step-by-step training techniques centered on positive reinforcement to modify behavior, replacing undesirable responses with more appropriate ones.
Advanced strategies such as desensitization and counter-conditioning are thoroughly explained, guiding owners in gradually reducing their dog’s fear or anxiety triggers, thus making them more manageable in various situations. Crucially, these books emphasize safety and management strategies to prevent incidents while training is underway. Ultimately, they highlight the profound importance of the human-dog bond, reinforcing that patience, understanding, and ethical approaches are paramount in rehabilitating reactive and aggressive dogs.
“The New Click to Calm by Emma Parsons”
Emma Parsons’ “The New Click to Calm” is an absolutely wonderful resource, overflowing with useful information for dog parents grappling with aggressive or reactive pets. This book adopts a holistic approach, ensuring that all of the dog’s needs—physical, mental, and emotional—are thoroughly addressed. Parsons provides detailed, step-by-step instructions for using clicker training and positive reinforcement to help dogs overcome fear, anxiety, and reactivity. Her methods are compassionate and effective, focusing on building confidence and teaching alternative behaviors rather than punishment. This book is indispensable for anyone seeking to bring peace and calm back into their home with a reactive dog.
“Control Unleashed: Reactive to Relaxed by Leslie McDevitt”
“Control Unleashed: Reactive to Relaxed” by Leslie McDevitt is another excellent resource that stands out among the highest rated dog training books for challenging behaviors. McDevitt offers a groundbreaking approach that empowers dogs to make better choices and regulate their own arousal levels in stimulating environments. The book is packed with innovative and highly effective exercises designed to build self-control, focus, and confidence in reactive dogs. Her “Control Unleashed” program teaches dogs to work calmly around distractions, providing owners with practical tools and strategies to help their pets navigate a complex world. This book is a must-have for any owner whose dog struggles with reactivity or anxiety.
Best Dog Psychology Books
To truly excel as a dog trainer or owner, understanding the principles of dog psychology is fundamental. The highest rated dog psychology books are essential for gaining a profound understanding of animal learning theory and the underlying reasons behind canine behavior. These books delve into the science of why dogs behave the way they do, offering a comprehensive view that goes beyond simple cause-and-effect. By grasping these psychological underpinnings, trainers can develop more humane, effective, and ethically sound methods that rely on positive reinforcement. This deep knowledge not only optimizes training outcomes but also significantly strengthens the bond and enhances communication between humans and their canine companions, leading to more harmonious and fulfilling relationships.
If you are new to dog training books, I strongly recommend starting your journey with Karen Pryor’s “Don’t Shoot the Dog” before diving into these more advanced psychological texts. It will provide you with a solid foundation.
“Excel-Erated Learning” by Pam Reid
For those with no prior knowledge of learning theory, Pam Reid’s “Excel-Erated Learning” is the perfect starting point. This book is remarkably short, easy to read, and yet incredibly insightful, serving as an excellent introduction to the science of how animals learn. While some concepts might be slightly older (e.g., the idea that dogs can’t learn by imitation, which we now know they can), the fundamental principles of learning theory remain accurate and highly relevant. Reid’s accessible writing style makes complex psychological concepts enjoyable to learn, setting you on a fascinating path to understanding behavior that you won’t want to leave.
“Learning and Behavior” by Paul Chance
While not exclusively a “dog” psychology book, Paul Chance’s “Learning and Behavior” is a classic textbook in psychology that is invaluable for anyone truly interested in the principles of animal learning and behavior. If you are serious about understanding the science that underpins all effective training, you will not be disappointed by this comprehensive resource. It covers operant and classical conditioning, reinforcement schedules, motivation, and more, all with rigorous scientific detail. This book provides a robust academic foundation that will deepen your understanding of why and how all animals, including dogs, learn and behave.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Books
What is a good dog training book?
Based on professional recommendations and scientific backing, a truly good dog training book advocates for positive reinforcement and humane methods. Titles like Karen Pryor’s “Don’t Shoot The Dog,” Jean Donaldson’s “The Culture Clash,” and Pat Miller’s “The Power of Positive Dog Training” are consistently among the highest rated dog training books and provide excellent foundational knowledge.
What dog training method is best?
Definitely any positive reinforcement method. It is crucial to steer clear of anyone advocating for concepts like “alpha,” “leader,” “dominance,” or using tools such as “choke collars,” “prong collars,” or methods involving “leash jerks.” These approaches are outdated, can be harmful, and lack scientific support. The books recommended in this article will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of why positive, science-based methods are not only the most effective but also the most ethical way to train your dog.
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,” meaning you must observe your individual dog’s responses, personality, and needs, and adapt your training accordingly. Additionally, precise timing and skilled observation are paramount for effective and clear communication with your dog during training sessions.
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I sincerely hope this curated list of the highest rated dog training books proves invaluable in your journey to understand and train your dog. Enjoy the rewarding experience of learning and growing with your canine companion!
References used in this “Highest Rated Dog Training Books” article:
This article was written by Natalia Rozas, Ph.D. and Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA #4071465) and updated on December 7th, 2023.
- University of Waikato (2017) research paper on dog training book accuracy.
- Natalia Rozas, Ph.D., Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA #4071465).
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