Books I never stop learning and if you are like me, dog books and videos are fascinating. The following list is a pared down list of some of the most essential books on dog behavior and training I've read. There are MANY, MANY more but this will get you started. |
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| Dogwise - online book store | Dogwise is an online resource for books about dogs. Most if not all the books I recommend are found on this site. | ||||||
Whole Dog Journal - magazine | Whole Dog Journal is a superior monthly publication that is well known for its holistic approach to health and nutrition. It also publishes annual ratings of the top dog foods - dry, canned, frozen etc. - as well as product reviews for all kinds of things, from equipment and toys to fancy dog beds and was ranked #11 in the Chicago Tribune's annual list of "50 Best Magazines" in the U.S. | ||||||
The Third Way - Chris Bach |
Ever since I was introduced to Chris Bach's Third Way training system and philosophy I was hooked. She offers a workbook and several DVDs if you'd like to learn more from this insightful and innovative trainer. | ||||||
Behavior Problems in Dogs - William Campbell | The revised edition of Bill Campbell's classic book is filled with insights about how problems begin and persist as well as practical treatment advice. | ||||||
Dogs - Raymond & Lorna Coppinger | This absorbing account details the Coppinger's findings on the origins of the domestic dog. They describe behavioral conformation of various breeds and their evolution based on the type of work performed. The ideas and terminology the Coppinger's have given us are a giant leap forward in our understanding of dog behavior. It is an essential text for anyone who wants to understand dogs. |
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The Culture Clash - Jean Donaldson | This book has been extremely influential on positive reinforcement trainers since it was published. Filled with entertaining explanations of the difficulties dogs face when humans make assumptions about how they perceive the world it is an excellent training guide as well. | ||||||
How to Teach a New Dog Old Tricks - Ian Dunbar | Fun charming book with advice on how to prevent and solve common pet dog problems by one of the pioneers of positive reinforcement training. | ||||||
Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell and Know -Alexandra Horowitz | I love this book! It helps us humans understand our dogs by describing how dogs relate to their world. | ||||||
The Language of Dogs - Sarah Kalnajs |
An excellent resource to help learn the subtleties of dog body language. |
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Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training, Vol. 1, 2 & 3 - Steven R. Lindsay | Truly dog training text books, the thoroughness of the research is impressive. Volume One focuses on the evolution and biology of dogs, then introduces the reader to learning theory. Volume Two describes the assessment process and development of behavior problems. Volume Three describes training solutions. |
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The Other End of the Leash - |
Enlightening book that explains how we humans can't help but relate to our dogs in primate ways and how they can't help but respond in canine ways. We love Patricia McConnell! she has written excellent booklets to address a specific issues. They are short, to the point, extremely accurate, easy to read and follow.
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The Dog Whisperer - Paul Owens |
Paul is the original "Dog Whisperer" predating the TV show. I was lucky enough to take a couple of his classes. In the book his gentle training methods and humane philosophy shine through. He has some interesting exercises for relaxation and breathing not frequently seen in dog training books. |
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Domestic Dog, its Evolution, Behavior and Interactions with People — edited by James Serpell | Filled with scientific contributions by a number of well respected experts on canine behavior. The studies on genetic differences and free ranging dog behavior are fascinating and support the contention that dogs are not the social "pack" animals everyone thought they are. |
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