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10 Best Dog Training Books 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Dog Training for Kids: Fun and Easy Ways to Care for Your Furry Friend

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,290
Target Audience

Most important from
2688 reviews

Target Audience
Perfect for kids, with well-organized, fun-to-read instructions and explanations.

Dog Training for Kids: Fun and Easy Ways to Care for Your Furry Friend is a paperback book, ideal for children aged 5 to 10, specifically from grade levels 3 to 7. The book, published by Z Kids, is designed to teach children how to train and care for their dogs in a fun and engaging way. It measures 8 x 0.46 x 9.9 inches and weighs about 2.31 pounds, making it a substantial yet manageable size for young readers.

The book is written in English and spans 176 pages, featuring simple and accessible language suitable for its target audience. The training methods outlined are kid-friendly, focusing on basic commands and care routines, which are easy for children to understand and implement. One possible drawback might be that it may not cover more advanced behavioral issues comprehensively.

The author's expertise appears to be tailored towards providing a fun and educational experience for children, likely engaging them through fun activities and practical tips. This book is a good choice for parents and guardians who want to introduce their children to the responsibilities of dog ownership, combining education with enjoyable activities that foster a positive relationship between kids and their pets.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,290
Target Audience

Most important from
2688 reviews

Target Audience
Perfect for kids, with well-organized, fun-to-read instructions and explanations.
#2

Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training, Vol. 1: Adaptation and Learning

Rating
9.7
Training Method
Author's Expertise
Target Audience

Most important from
93 reviews

Training Method
Covers a wide range of topics including the origins and domestication of dogs, development of behavior in puppies, neurobiology, sensory abilities, classical conditioning, and human-dog companionship.
Author's Expertise
A culmination of 100+ years of scientific research and case studies. This is for those who need an extra level of knowledge beyond typical dog training books.
Target Audience
An invaluable resource for professional trainers and those looking for an in-depth analysis of canine origins, neurobiology, and behavior. It's a technical and dense read, often referenced repeatedly.
Format and Accessibility
A foundation for understanding what trainers are doing and why it may work—or not. Written at the collegiate level, it feels like a comprehensive psychology and biology textbook.

The 'Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training, Vol. 1: Adaptation and Learning' is a comprehensive guide that delves into the scientific aspects of dog behavior and training. Written by experts in the field, this book provides in-depth information on behavior adaptation and learning processes in dogs.

The training methods discussed are evidence-based, supported by scientific research, making them reliable and effective. This is particularly beneficial for those who want to understand the why and how behind dog behaviors and training techniques. The authors bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise, ensuring that the content is both accurate and insightful.

This book is best suited for readers who are interested in a deep understanding of canine behavior, including professional dog trainers, animal behaviorists, and dedicated dog owners keen on applying scientific principles to training their pets. It addresses various behavioral issues from a highly detailed and technical perspective, which might be overwhelming for casual dog owners looking for quick and easy solutions.

Rating
9.7
Training Method
Author's Expertise
Target Audience

Most important from
93 reviews

Training Method
Covers a wide range of topics including the origins and domestication of dogs, development of behavior in puppies, neurobiology, sensory abilities, classical conditioning, and human-dog companionship.
Author's Expertise
A culmination of 100+ years of scientific research and case studies. This is for those who need an extra level of knowledge beyond typical dog training books.
Target Audience
An invaluable resource for professional trainers and those looking for an in-depth analysis of canine origins, neurobiology, and behavior. It's a technical and dense read, often referenced repeatedly.
Format and Accessibility
A foundation for understanding what trainers are doing and why it may work—or not. Written at the collegiate level, it feels like a comprehensive psychology and biology textbook.
#3

Sporting Dog and Retriever Training: The Wildrose Way: Raising a Gentleman's Gundog for Home and Field

Rating
8.8
Training Method
Author's Expertise
Target Audience

Most important from
330 reviews

Training Method
Mike presents his methods, especially the drills, in a fantastic and practical way.
Author's Expertise
Wild Rose Kennels is one of the premier dog trainers for English Labrador Retrievers in the US, and this book is a great companion to their video.
Target Audience
The book is highly recommended for anyone training a sporting dog.

The book 'Sporting Dog and Retriever Training: The Wildrose Way: Raising a Gentleman's Gundog for Home and Field' is a comprehensive guide for those interested in training sporting dogs, specifically retrievers. The training method emphasized in the book is the Wildrose Way, which is known for its gentle and effective approach to raising well-mannered gundogs. The author, Mike Stewart, is a recognized expert in the field of dog training, lending credibility and depth to the book's content. His expertise ensures that the training techniques are both practical and reliable, making it easier for dog owners to implement them successfully.

The target audience for this book includes both novice and experienced dog trainers who are looking to raise their dogs for both home companionship and field activities. It is particularly beneficial for those who own or are interested in owning hunting dogs and want to train them in a humane and effective manner. The book addresses specific behavioral issues such as obedience, retrieving, and field skills, which are crucial for sporting dogs.

The book is available in a hardcover edition with 256 pages, making it a substantial resource. Its dimensions are 8.86 x 1.08 x 11.31 inches, and it weighs 3.55 pounds, indicating that it is a large and detailed book. The language of the book is English, and it is published by Universe in an illustrated edition, which likely includes helpful visual aids to complement the text. One potential drawback is its size and weight, which might make it less portable. However, for those serious about training their dogs, this book offers a wealth of information and practical advice. Its ranking among bestsellers suggests it is a popular choice among dog owners and trainers.

Rating
8.8
Training Method
Author's Expertise
Target Audience

Most important from
330 reviews

Training Method
Mike presents his methods, especially the drills, in a fantastic and practical way.
Author's Expertise
Wild Rose Kennels is one of the premier dog trainers for English Labrador Retrievers in the US, and this book is a great companion to their video.
Target Audience
The book is highly recommended for anyone training a sporting dog.

Buying Guide for the Best Dog Training Books

Choosing the right dog training book can make a significant difference in how effectively you can train your dog. The right book will provide you with the knowledge and techniques you need to understand your dog's behavior and teach them new skills. When selecting a dog training book, consider your dog's age, breed, and any specific behavioral issues you want to address. Additionally, think about your own experience level with dog training and what type of training methods you are comfortable with. Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing a dog training book.
Training MethodThe training method is the approach the book uses to teach your dog. Common methods include positive reinforcement, clicker training, and dominance-based training. Positive reinforcement focuses on rewarding good behavior, while clicker training uses a clicker device to mark desired behaviors. Dominance-based training emphasizes establishing the owner as the pack leader. It's important to choose a method that aligns with your values and is suitable for your dog's temperament. For example, positive reinforcement is generally recommended for most dogs as it builds trust and encourages learning through rewards.
Author's ExpertiseThe author's expertise refers to their background and experience in dog training. Look for books written by certified dog trainers, veterinarians, or animal behaviorists. These professionals have the knowledge and experience to provide reliable and effective training advice. An author's credentials and years of experience can give you confidence in the techniques and information presented in the book. If you are new to dog training, choosing a book by a well-known and respected expert can be particularly beneficial.
Target AudienceThe target audience is the group of people the book is written for. Some books are geared towards beginners, while others are intended for more experienced trainers. Additionally, some books focus on training puppies, while others address adult dogs or specific breeds. Consider your own experience level and your dog's age and breed when selecting a book. If you are a first-time dog owner, a book for beginners with step-by-step instructions and clear explanations will be most helpful.
Specific Behavioral IssuesSpecific behavioral issues refer to particular problems the book addresses, such as aggression, separation anxiety, or house training. If your dog has a specific issue you want to work on, look for a book that provides detailed strategies and solutions for that problem. Books that focus on common behavioral issues can offer targeted advice and techniques to help you address and correct these behaviors effectively.
Format and AccessibilityThe format and accessibility of the book refer to how the information is presented and how easy it is to understand. Some books include step-by-step guides, illustrations, and photographs to help explain the training techniques. Others may offer online resources, videos, or companion websites. Choose a book that is well-organized and easy to follow, with clear instructions and visual aids if needed. If you prefer a more interactive learning experience, look for books that offer additional online content or multimedia resources.

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