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.

How to Raise the Perfect Dog: Through Puppyhood and Beyond is authored by Cesar Millan, a renowned dog behaviorist and trainer known for his expertise in dog psychology. The book is designed to guide new and experienced dog owners through the critical stages of puppy development and training. Millan's approach is rooted in understanding canine instincts and natural behaviors, which can be very effective for building a strong foundation with your puppy.

The book covers a range of training methods, emphasizing positive reinforcement and clear communication. It's quite comprehensive, addressing various aspects of puppy care, including housebreaking, socialization, and basic commands. The language used is simple and easy to follow, making it accessible for readers without a background in dog training. Real-life examples and case studies are included, which can help readers relate to their own experiences and see practical applications of the advice given.

This book is a valuable resource for anyone looking to raise a well-behaved and happy puppy, especially if they appreciate a thorough and methodical approach to dog training.

The Cesar Milan 3 Books Collection offers a solid choice for puppy owners seeking guidance from a well-known dog behaviorist. Cesar Milan’s expertise in dog psychology is clear throughout the set, making the training methods straightforward and practical for many common puppy challenges. The books cover a broad range of topics, from basic training to managing problem behaviors and establishing leadership in a friendly way.

They are written in an accessible style that most readers will find easy to follow, with plenty of real-world examples that help illustrate the points. Some readers might find the approach somewhat focused on older dogs rather than very young puppies, and the pack leader concept doesn’t resonate with everyone. While this collection is quite comprehensive, it may not include every puppy training style, especially those preferring reward-based or exclusively gentle training methods.

Reviews tend to be positive, praising Cesar’s clear advice and practical tips, although a few note that some advice may feel a bit rigid or outdated compared to modern training philosophies. This set is well suited for puppy owners looking for confident and experienced guidance who appreciate a structured approach to training.