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Must-Read Books for Dog Lovers

A white and tan Jack Russell Terrier is leaning over a stack of books in front of a bookshelf

Are you a dog lover with an insatiable appetite for reading? Look no further! In celebration of Book Lovers Day, we've teamed up with Silicon Valley Dog professionals to curate a paw-some list of book recommendations. From heartwarming tales to expert advice, there's something for every dog enthusiast. So grab your favorite canine companion, curl up on the couch, and get ready to embark on a literary adventure!


The Cover of Don't Shoot the Dog by Karen Pryor

I will always recommend this book first to anyone interested in modifying dog behavior - or really, any behavior! This classic "bible of animal training" stands up as a well-written, approachable explanation of how behavior is shaped by consequence.


~ Stacy Braslau-Schneck, MA CBCC-KA CPDT-KA CAP2




The cover of An Immense World, by Ed Yong

While it's not just dog-related, this book offers a fascinating look into the "worlds" of a wide variety of species, exploring the strengths of their different senses and how this affects each of their realities. For example, he describes spending time with Alexandra Horowitz and her dog, and how she describes what the dog is likely perceiving with his nose. Beautifully written and well-researched.

(BTW, this book was recommended to me by Stacy Braslau-Schneck, so she should get credit for the recommendation!)


~ M Cecilia Sternzon, MBA, CPDT-KA



The cover of Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell, and Know, by Alexandra Horowitz

Alexandra Horowitz introduces the reader to dogs' perceptual and cognitive abilities and then draws a picture of what it might be like to be a dog. What's it like to be able to smell not just every bit of open food in the house but also to smell sadness in humans or even the passage of time? How does a tiny dog manage to play successfully with a Great Dane? What is it like to hear the bodily vibrations of insects or the hum of a fluorescent light? Why must a person on a bicycle be chased? What's it like to use your mouth as a hand? In short, what is it like for a dog to experience life from two feet off the ground, amidst the smells of the sidewalk, gazing at our ankles or knees? Inside of a Dog explains these things and much more.


~ Kaajal Tiwary



The cover of The Power of Positive Dog Training, by Pat Miller

The Power of Positive Dog Training doesn't just tell you how to teach the basics, such as sit and down, it also gives you a look into why positive reinforcement works and a bit about how animals learn. Knowing not just how but why we train this way started me on my journey to understanding animals and seeing them as creatures deserving of respect and choice in their day to day lives.


~ Kelly Ledtje



The cover of Animals in Translation: Using the Mysteries of Autism to Decode Animal Behavior  by Temple Grandin and Catherine Johnson

Grandin and Johnson take time to find ways we can relate to animals in ways that humans can understand, which in turn help us with our own ways of thinking, be it via neurodivergence, neurotypical, or with a learning disability that has us looking at the world differently than "normal." The writing allows us humans to be put in an animals' shoes (or paws or hooves as the case may be) to gain empathy for both companion animals and livestock for a better quality of life for all. I love anything that gets people thinking about the welfare of other living things.


~ Steph Haddad



The cover of The Other End Of The Leash - Why We Do What We Do Around Dogs  by Patricia McConnell

This is a must-read for any dog lover seeking a deeper understanding of their canine companion. Patricia McConnell's witty and engaging writing style transforms complex canine behavior into relatable and practical insights. By examining human behavior from a dog's perspective, McConnell offers a revolutionary approach to improving the human-canine bond. Her book is filled with heartwarming anecdotes and expert advice, making it an enjoyable and informative read that will undoubtedly strengthen your connection with your dog.


~ Tracey Lee Davis, CTC, CKO


We hope this curated list of dog book recommendations inspires you to embark on a literary journey to learn more about living with your dog. Whether you're a seasoned dog owner or just starting your canine companionship, there's a book out there to enrich your bond and deepen your understanding.


Ready to learn more? Explore a vast selection of books on dog training, behavior, health, and more at DogWise. They offer scientifically sound resources for dog enthusiasts on behavior and training.


Happy reading!


 

Disclosure: Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, I will earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. Thank you!

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