Discovering the best dog training books can be a daunting task, with thousands of titles available. Unfortunately, many can be outdated or offer dangerous advice. To help you navigate this, this guide presents a curated list of highly recommended books for dog owners.
Top 5 Dog Training Books of All Time
As a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CCPDT-KA) with a Ph.D. in Neuroscience and over 15 years of experience, I’ve read extensively in this field. Based on my expertise and the consensus of many leading animal trainers, these are the top dog training books you should consider.
1. Don’t Shoot the Dog by Karen Pryor
This foundational book, recognized in a significant research study for its quality information, isn’t exclusively about dog training but rather animal training in general. Pryor, a respected figure in animal training, offers insights applicable to any creature. Many professional trainers, including myself, consider this book life-changing. It’s an accessible, entertaining, and concise read that provides a strong basis for understanding animal behavior and training principles.
2. The Culture Clash by Jean Donaldson
Focusing specifically on dogs, Jean Donaldson’s The Culture Clash offers excellent information on canine behavior and training. Donaldson is a renowned trainer, and this book is highly recommended for its engaging content and practical advice, including a guide to basic dog commands.
3. The Other End Of The Leash by Patricia McConnell
Written by Ph.D. Patricia McConnell, this book delves into the complexities of human and dog behavior, exploring how differences in communication can lead to misunderstandings. While not a step-by-step training manual, it provides crucial insights into canine communication and how to interact with your dog more effectively. Some information regarding dominance theory might be slightly dated, but the core content remains valuable.
4. Ian Dunbar’s Top Dog Academy
While not a single book, Dr. Ian Dunbar’s comprehensive program is an invaluable resource. As a veterinarian, Ph.D., and founder of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, Dunbar offers science-based methods through his Top Dog Academy. This package includes PDF books, video, and audio seminars covering puppy training, obedience, behavior issues, and more. It’s highly recommended for new puppy owners.
5. The Power of Positive Dog Training by Pat Miller
Pat Miller’s book is an easily digestible guide offering practical advice for both basic and advanced dog training. It also covers how to interpret your dog’s body language and understand their needs. This is an excellent choice for those new to dog training.
More Excellent Dog Training Books
For those passionate about dog training, here are additional highly regarded books:
- “Click for Joy!” by Melissa Alexander: This book focuses on clicker training in a Q&A format, emphasizing the joyful aspect of this technique for both owners and dogs.
- “Bones Would Rain From The Sky” by Suzanne Clothier: This book shifts the focus to the human-canine connection and bond, complementing training-focused books by highlighting the emotional aspect of the relationship.
- “Plenty in Life is Free: Reflections on Dogs, Training and Finding Grace” by Kathy Sdao: Sdao explores ethical and effective communication with pets from a partnership perspective, pushing the boundaries of positive dog training.
- “Better Together: The Collected Wisdom of Modern Dog Trainers” edited by Ken Ramirez: This collection features articles from top trainers on various topics, including puppy training, behavior problems, and aggression.
- “When Pigs Fly: Training Success With Impossible Dogs” by Jane Killion: Recommended for owners of dogs perceived as “stubborn,” this book offers practical advice for training independent or challenging breeds.
Insightful Dog Behavior Books
Understanding dog behavior is crucial for effective training. These books offer deeper insights:
- “Dog Sense” by John Bradshaw: Bradshaw explores dog evolution and offers current theories on canine behavior.
- “Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell and Know” by Alexandra Horowitz: Horowitz explains how dogs perceive the world differently from humans, providing fascinating information on their sensory experiences.
Advanced Dog Training Resources
For those looking to delve deeper, advanced training books cover specialized skills and a more profound understanding of canine psychology:
- “Agility: Right from the start” by Eva Bertilsson & Emelie Johnson-Vegh: This book offers exercises that can improve various behaviors, even if you’re not pursuing dog agility.
- “PORTL: The Portable Operant Research and Teaching Lab” by Dr. Jesús Rosales-Ruiz and Mary Hunter: Designed for serious students of animal training, this book helps develop proficiency in basic training principles through hands-on experimentation.
- “Problem Animal Behavior – Functional Assessment & Constructional Contingency Management Planning” by James O’Heare: O’Heare’s work delves into advanced dog psychology and behavior assessment.
Books for Reactive and Aggressive Dogs
Addressing challenging behaviors requires specialized resources:
- “The New Click to Calm” by Emma Parsons: This book offers a holistic approach and useful information for owners of aggressive or reactive dogs.
- “Control Unleashed: Reactive to Relaxed” by Leslie McDevitt: McDevitt provides excellent recommendations and practical exercises for managing reactivity and aggression.
Essential Dog Psychology Books
For a thorough understanding of learning theory and its application to dog behavior:
- “Excel-Erated Learning” by Pam Reid: A concise and accessible introduction to learning theory, though some concepts may be slightly dated, the foundational knowledge is sound.
- “Learning and Behavior” by Paul Chance: A comprehensive textbook that provides deep insights into the principles of animal learning and behavior.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Books
What is a good dog training book?
The books listed in this guide, particularly the top 5 and the additional recommendations, are excellent choices.
What dog training method is best?
Positive reinforcement methods are highly recommended. Avoid any techniques that involve dominance, alpha rolls, or punishment-based tools.
What is the number one rule in dog training?
Train the dog in front of you, meaning adapt your methods to your individual dog’s needs and responses. Timing and skill are also paramount.
Ready to Train Your Puppy the Smart Way?
The NeoPuppy Program, developed by Dr. Natalia Rozas, a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and Neuroscientist, offers a science-backed approach to puppy training through over 80 videos and personalized coaching.
Enjoy exploring these resources and enhancing your bond with your dog through effective training!
References
- This article was written by Natalia Rozas, Ph.D. and Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA #4071465), updated on December 7th, 2023.
