10 Best Puppy Training Books 2026 in the United States

The book 'Perfect Puppy in 7 Days: How to Start Your Puppy Off Right' is authored by Dr. Sophia Yin, a well-known veterinarian and animal behaviorist, which gives it a strong foundation in expertise. Her methods are grounded in positive reinforcement, focusing on building a good relationship with your puppy from the start. This approach is generally well-regarded in the pet training community for its humane and effective techniques. The book is reasonably comprehensive for its size, packing a lot of useful information into its 176 pages.

It covers a wide range of topics from basic commands to house training and socialization, making it a good starting point for new puppy owners. One of its strengths is its clear, straightforward language, which makes it easy to understand even for those new to puppy training. The inclusion of real-life examples and case studies helps to illustrate the concepts and provide practical insights into common training scenarios. The physical book is portable and user-friendly, with dimensions and weight that make it easy to carry around for quick reference.

However, it is worth noting that its content might not be sufficient for those looking for more in-depth or advanced training techniques and might serve better as an introductory guide. This book is particularly suited for new puppy owners looking for a practical and easy-to-follow guide to start their puppy training journey.

The Big Book of Tricks for the Best Dog Ever is authored by experienced trainers, making it a credible source for teaching your puppy new tricks. The training methods outlined in the book are practical and varied, allowing for a comprehensive approach to dog training. With 118 tricks and stunts, the book covers a wide range of activities that can keep your puppy engaged and mentally stimulated.

It is structured as a step-by-step guide, which is helpful for ease of understanding, even for beginners. The language used is simple and accessible, making it easy for readers to follow along without feeling overwhelmed. Additionally, the book includes real-life examples and case studies, which can be very useful for applying the techniques in real-world scenarios.

Some readers might find that the book is more focused on entertaining tricks rather than foundational obedience training. Also, the paperback format means it might not be as durable with frequent use. For those looking to add some fun and engaging activities to their puppy's training regimen, this book is a solid choice.

Raising Your Dog with the Monks of New Skete is a video guide lasting just over three hours, created by the respected Monks of New Skete, who have a long-standing reputation for thoughtful and compassionate dog training. Their expertise shines through in the training methods presented, which focus on developing a strong, respectful bond between you and your puppy. The video format is engaging and uses real-life examples to demonstrate techniques, making it easier to understand how to apply them in daily situations.

The content provides a solid foundation for new puppy owners seeking practical training guidance, although it may not delve deeply into advanced topics. Some viewers might find the presentation style somewhat dated given the release date, yet the core principles remain valuable. For those who prefer learning through visual and practical examples and seek guidance from a trusted source, this product offers helpful instruction.

While the video format offers practical demonstrations, it might be less convenient for individuals who prefer written instructions or quick reference guides. Additionally, the absence of updated editions and interactive elements means it may not incorporate some modern training resource features.