Recommended books & resources
There's a wealth of wonderful information to help you learn more about your dog. A little time spent educating yourself pays off hugely — whether you're planning to get a dog or already have one.
With the help of books, internet sources and knowledgeable advice, you can select the perfect breed for your lifestyle, solve behavior issues, and find fun new sports to play with your dog. The selections below are the ones I've found most useful — they're not the only good ones. Use your own good judgment, and especially on the internet, a liberal dose of salt may be in order!
Books
The Culture Clash
by Jean Donaldson
The number-one pick of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers — a wonderfully written, nuts-and-bolts look at how dogs learn and how to train them. More theory than how-to, but if you read only one book, this is the one.
The Power of Positive Dog Training
by Pat Miller
A terrific companion to The Culture Clash, focused on the how-to with clear, concrete exercises in a week-by-week plan. A great place to start if you plan to train your puppy yourself.
The Other End of the Leash
by Patricia McConnell, Ph.D.
A wonderful look at how our genetic baggage as primates conflicts with the canine world-view of our dogs. Loaded with practical wisdom for improving our relationships with our dogs. Visit www.patriciamcconnell.com.
Bones Would Rain from the Sky
by Suzanne Clothier
Heartfelt, beautifully written and deeply thoughtful — less about how to train than about why to train, putting the heart connection first. Worth reading, and worth thinking about.
Before & After You Get Your Puppy
by Dr. Ian Dunbar
The master of positive puppy training's brilliant how-to for everything puppy. Available FREE as PDF downloads at dogstardaily.com. Visit www.dogstardaily.com.
Internet resources
APDT
The Association of Pet Dog Trainers — a directory of trainers nationwide plus excellent book and video recommendations.
Karen Pryor Clicker Training
The site of Karen Pryor, a former dolphin trainer and pioneer of the clicker-training movement. Excellent articles and products.
Dogwise
A favorite online store for the best and latest dog books — all the books on this list are available here.
Siskiyou Humane Society
Our local humane society: services, adoptable pets, events and much more.