Recommended Reading for Positive Reinforcement Dog Training

I have found that going to a bookstore and picking out a “How to train a dog” or “How to raise a puppy” book can be extremely overwhelming. And it’s interesting, but everyone and anyone can be an expert. Each book that you pick up has different advice than the next book—how do you choose which one is right for you, your family and your dog? Any of these books below can be purchased through Wag This Way, just send us an email and we will get back to you shortly. Here are my “Diamonds in the Ruff”:

Before You Get Your Puppy and After You Get Your Puppy, by Dr. Ian Dunbar, DVM, Animal Behaviorist. Both of these books are a great resource for you and your new puppy. Topics include preparing for a puppy, housetraining, handling, biting, socialization, chewing, resource guarding & much more!

Culture Clash, by Jean Donaldson. This book discusses the learning theory of our furry four—pawed friends. Obedience training from kindergarten levels to college levels, what is a reinforcement? What is a no—reward mark? What is the perspective of our dogs and how do we live with their thinking?

Feeling Outnumbered? The Multi-dog Household, by Patricia McConnell. Thinking about adding another dog to the household? This quick, easy read will help you understand the steps necessary to keep your house “under control” and keep that pushy puppy behaving nicely!

How to Teach a New Dog Old Tricks, Dr. Ian Dunbar DVM, Another great book by Dr. Dunbar. This book teaches you how to teach your dog basic training commands. The book contains step by step pictures for a number of the commands. This book is not just for puppies, but any dog will respond to this method of training—positive reinforcement.