21 Best Dog Training Books

Karen Pryor introduces behavioral training methods built around reinforcement and the gradual shaping of desired actions. Examples involving pets, children and adults show how the same learning principles can be applied to different kinds of everyday problems.

Patricia McConnell examines the relationship between dogs and their human companions from both species' perspectives. She explains how human habits and signals can confuse dogs and explores ways to communicate more clearly during everyday interactions.

Jean Donaldson explores the mismatch between human expectations and the way domestic dogs learn and behave. She uses that difference to explain common training difficulties and outline methods for understanding dogs and changing unwanted behavior.

Pamela Reid explains the learning processes behind animal training, including classical and operant conditioning. Dog-focused examples connect behavioral principles to teaching decisions, helping readers understand why training succeeds, stalls, or produces an unintended response.

Pat Miller explains positive reinforcement and turns its principles into a six-week basic training program. Exercises and practical examples help owners build everyday skills while considering how rewards, communication, and the relationship influence their dog’s learning.

Kyra Sundance presents 101 activities ranging from basic commands to more elaborate dog tricks. Photographed steps, difficulty ratings, prerequisite skills, and troubleshooting advice show owners how to practice each activity while keeping their dogs engaged.

Sophia Yin explains how owners' behavior influences their dogs and how learning theory can guide everyday training. Illustrated exercises and quizzes develop practical skills, using positive reinforcement to address unwanted habits and teach more useful responses.

Brandon McMillan builds a dog-training program around trust, attention, and seven basic commands. Step-by-step lessons address problems including barking, chewing, and house training, alongside stories from his experience working with dogs on Lucky Dog.

Zak George and Dina Roth Port explain how to raise and train a dog using affection and positive reinforcement. Covering selection, housetraining, behavior problems, health, and tricks, they emphasize adapting instruction to each dog's personality.

Allie Bender and Emily Strong examine how meeting a dog’s physical, sensory, social, and cognitive needs can support wellbeing. They explain how to assess an individual dog and make enrichment a practical part of everyday life.

Leslie McDevitt presents exercises designed to help dogs relax and focus in distracting or stressful environments. Developed around canine-sport challenges, the program uses structured games to build confidence, attention, and a more cooperative relationship with the handler.

Laura VanArendonk Baugh offers training exercises for dogs overwhelmed by fear, excitement, or frustration. Short sessions help owners build calmer responses and attention, while the guide also considers when behavioral difficulties call for veterinary help.

Turid Rugaas describes the gestures and movements she calls calming signals, using examples and photographs of dogs communicating. The short guide helps readers notice signs of tension and consider how their own responses affect an interaction.

Larry Kay and Dawn Sylvia-Stasiewicz offer a five-week dog-training program built on rewards and trust. Brief daily exercises cover basic cues, house and crate training, and behavior problems, with additional lessons on social comfort and safety.

Cesar Millan explains his approach to everyday dog behavior through canine instincts, pack relationships, and owners' responses. Drawing on his work with troubled dogs and his own life, he discusses discipline, communication, and common behavior problems.

Veterinary behavior specialists explain how dogs think, learn, and communicate, then examine unwanted behaviors and their possible causes. The guide covers socialization, training, and problems such as aggression, with an emphasis on positive methods and prevention.

The Monks of New Skete combine dog training with guidance on choosing and caring for a canine companion. Their manual addresses everyday commands, feeding, grooming, exercise, and behavior problems across different homes and stages of ownership.

Barbara Woodhouse argues that troublesome dogs often reflect gaps in their owners' training knowledge. She explains her approach to basic obedience and handling nervous or unruly animals, emphasizing confident instruction and the owner's attitude toward the dog.

Sophia Yin uses photographs and a structured starting plan to guide new puppy owners through socialization, house training, and basic life skills. Lessons on body language and communication explain how to encourage appropriate behavior from the outset.

Colleen Pelar introduces children to the responsibilities of bringing home and raising a puppy. Illustrated guidance covers supplies, daily care, house training, socialization, body language, and clicker training, with additional advice for parents supervising the relationship.

Patricia McConnell and Brenda Scidmore outline a six-week foundation for raising a young puppy. Positive reinforcement exercises cover basic cues, house and crate training, and the transition toward adolescence, with guidance for making practice enjoyable.