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10 Best Dog Training Books 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

How to Raise the Perfect Dog: Through Puppyhood and Beyond

The book 'How to Raise the Perfect Dog: Through Puppyhood and Beyond' is authored by Cesar Millan, a well-known dog trainer with extensive experience, which adds credibility to the content. He is recognized for his effective and humane training methods, focusing on nurturing a balanced and well-behaved dog from puppyhood.

The book is tailored for dog owners who are looking to prevent or address common behavioral issues such as house training, obedience, and socialization. It delivers practical advice in an easy-to-understand format, which is helpful for novices and seasoned dog owners alike. The paperback version makes it accessible and convenient to carry around, though it might not be as durable as a hardback.

With 320 pages, it offers a comprehensive guide, though some readers may find it a bit lengthy. The book's dimensions and weight make it relatively portable for everyday use. The book was published in 2009, so it may not include the latest developments in dog training techniques. Regardless, its foundational principles remain valuable for creating a harmonious relationship with your dog.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Training Method
Cesar Millan's methods are gentle and focused on the well-being of the dog, blending discipline with positive reinforcement.
Author's Expertise
Real-life examples from puppies Millan raised enrich the content and provide practical insights.
Target Audience
The book is highly informative, practical, and suitable for both beginners and experienced dog handlers.
Specific Behavioral Issues
It emphasizes understanding dog psychology and training owners to communicate effectively with their dogs.
Format and Accessibility
The step-by-step instructions and extensive appendix of further reading suggestions are particularly useful.
#2

Puppy Training in 7 Easy Steps: Everything You Need to Know to Raise the Perfect Dog

The book 'Puppy Training in 7 Easy Steps: Everything You Need to Know to Raise the Perfect Dog' promises a straightforward approach to training your puppy. It's designed for new dog owners looking for a step-by-step guide to raise a well-behaved dog. The training method focuses on positive reinforcement, which is a widely recommended and effective approach for teaching puppies good behavior.

The author’s expertise is noticeable throughout the book, providing practical tips and detailed explanations, making it accessible for beginners. At 180 pages, it’s a manageable read that won’t overwhelm you with too much information at once. The book is well-organized and tackles common behavioral issues such as house training, biting, and basic commands, making it a versatile resource for various training needs.

However, for those seeking in-depth training techniques or advanced behavioral modification, this book might seem a bit basic. Additionally, while the paperback format and illustrations are helpful for visual learners, the book’s weight (2.31 pounds) might be a downside for those who prefer more portable options. In summary, 'Puppy Training in 7 Easy Steps' is a handy and user-friendly guide for novice dog owners, especially those with young puppies, looking to establish a solid training foundation through positive reinforcement.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Training Method
If you're looking for a book on simply training a puppy basic commands, there are better choices out there.
Target Audience
A must-have for first-time puppy owners or those who haven't had a puppy in a long time.
Format and Accessibility
This book is great! It covers all the topics needed when first bringing a puppy home in a very easy-to-read manner.
#3

The Big Book of Tricks for the Best Dog Ever: A Step-by-Step Guide to 118 Amazing Tricks and Stunts

The Big Book of Tricks for the Best Dog Ever: A Step-by-Step Guide to 118 Amazing Tricks and Stunts is a paperback book that focuses on teaching dogs a variety of tricks and stunts. Written in English and published by Workman Publishing Company, the book spans 320 pages and is illustrated, making it visually engaging.

The training methods presented are detailed step-by-step, which can be very helpful for dog owners who are interested in not just basic obedience but also fun and advanced tricks. This could be particularly appealing for those looking to strengthen their bond with their pets through interactive and rewarding activities. The large number of tricks (118) suggests a comprehensive approach that could cater to various skill levels of dogs and owners alike.

The target audience seems to be general dog owners who want to teach their dogs new and impressive tricks, rather than those addressing specific behavioral issues. The book is accessible in its paperback format and easy to handle given its moderate dimensions (7.15 x 0.65 x 9 inches) and weight (2.31 pounds). It is best suited for pet owners looking for fun and engaging ways to train their dogs.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Training Method
The step-by-step instructions make it easy to communicate with dogs and teach them new tricks effectively.
Target Audience
Great for kids to use, as even children under 10 have successfully taught their dogs some tricks using this book.
Format and Accessibility
While some tricks may be challenging for smaller breeds, the book offers a wide variety that can cater to different sizes and abilities.

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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