5 Best Dog Training Books: Buyer’s Guide

Peter Armani | 20-12-2025

Choosing the right dog training book can make a big difference in your journey as a pet owner. Whether you’re starting with a new puppy or looking to teach advanced tricks, a well-written guide can offer clear steps and proven techniques. This comparison highlights a range of books, from comprehensive trick manuals to positive reinforcement guides, to help you find the best fit for your training goals.

Editor's Choice
The Big Book of Tricks for the Best Dog Ever
The Big Book of Tricks for the Best Dog Ever
Premium Pick
The Practical Positive Dog Training Bible
The Practical Positive Dog Training Bible
Budget Pick
How to Raise the Perfect Dog: Through Puppyhood and Beyond
How to Raise the Perfect Dog: Through Puppyhood and Beyond

Top 5 Dog Training Books

We researched and compared the top products in the Dog Training Books category to provide you with these recommendations.

1. The Big Book of Tricks for the Best Dog Ever

Fun Trick Training
The Big Book of Tricks for the Best Dog Ever
9.8

Workman

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This book features a playful and engaging approach, with a soft paperback feel that's easy to handle during practice sessions. It's designed for owners who want to make training enjoyable and interactive, focusing on a wide variety of tricks and stunts. The format encourages bonding and mental stimulation, making it a good match for active dogs and creative owners.

What We Like:

  • Step-by-step instructions for each trick
  • Covers a wide range of skill levels
  • Encourages interactive play
  • Useful for building confidence in dogs

What Could Be Improved:

  • Less emphasis on basic obedience
  • Some tricks may require extra patience

2. The Practical Positive Dog Training Bible

Positive Reinforcement Guide
The Practical Positive Dog Training Bible

This book uses a gentle, reward-based approach that feels approachable for most dog owners. The writing is straightforward, making it easy for beginners to follow along with everyday training routines. It's especially practical for those looking to address common behavioral issues in a humane way.

What We Like:

  • Focuses on humane training strategies
  • Clear step-by-step solutions
  • Addresses common issues like barking and jumping
  • Suitable for all ages of dogs

What Could Be Improved:

  • May not cover advanced tricks
  • Some topics could use more depth

3. How to Raise the Perfect Dog: Through Puppyhood and Beyond

Puppyhood Essentials
How to Raise the Perfect Dog: Through Puppyhood and Beyond
9.1

Three Rivers Press

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This guide offers a supportive tone and practical advice for every stage of your dog's early life. The content is organized to help first-time owners build daily routines and navigate common challenges. Real-life examples make the advice relatable and easy to apply in everyday situations.

What We Like:

  • Covers all stages of development
  • Practical tips for everyday routines
  • Emphasizes socialization and manners
  • Encourages long-term relationship building

What Could Be Improved:

  • Less focus on advanced training
  • Some advice may feel basic for experienced owners

4. Puppy Training in 7 Easy Steps

Quick Start Basics
Puppy Training in 7 Easy Steps
8.9

Callisto

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This concise guide is lightweight and straightforward, perfect for busy owners or those new to dog care. The pages are easy to navigate, and the instructions break down puppy training into small, manageable tasks. It's a practical choice for tackling housebreaking and basic commands with a young dog.

What We Like:

  • Easy-to-follow structure
  • Focus on essential commands
  • Great for new puppy parents
  • Addresses housebreaking and crate training

What Could Be Improved:

  • Limited coverage of advanced topics
  • May not suit older dogs

5. Lucky Dog Lessons

Rescue Dog Focus
Lucky Dog Lessons
8.7

Harperone

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This book offers insights from an experienced trainer, with a special emphasis on working with rescue and adopted dogs. The advice is compassionate and realistic, addressing the unique needs of dogs adjusting to new homes. It's a helpful resource for anyone looking to build trust and confidence in their pet.

What We Like:

  • Tailored for rescue dog challenges
  • Encourages patience and empathy
  • Real-life examples included
  • Focuses on building trust

What Could Be Improved:

  • Less detail on puppy-specific issues
  • Some techniques may require extra time

How to Choose Dog Training Books

Training Philosophy

Choose a book that matches your beliefs about training. Some guides emphasize rewards and gentle correction, while others may use more structured routines.

Target Audience & Dog Age

Books for puppies often focus on early habits, while others address challenges unique to adult or rescue dogs.

Practicality & Readability

Look for books that are easy to follow and fit your learning style. Visual aids and real scenarios can help reinforce key concepts.

Coverage of Topics

Assess whether the book covers the specific issues you want to address, from housebreaking to advanced tricks.

Everyday Use

Consider how you'll use the book day-to-day. Some owners prefer compact guides for training sessions, while others like comprehensive manuals for deeper reading.

FAQ For Dog Training Books

1. What should I look for in a dog training book?

Look for clear instructions, a training philosophy that matches your values, and coverage of the behaviors or skills you want to teach. Consider whether the book is designed for beginners or more advanced trainers.

2. Are positive reinforcement methods effective for all dogs?

Positive reinforcement is widely recommended and effective for most dogs, but some may require tailored approaches depending on their background or specific challenges.

3. Do I need a different book for puppies and adult dogs?

Some books focus specifically on puppy training, while others address the needs of adult or rescue dogs. Choose a guide that matches your dog's age and experience level.

4. Can a book help with serious behavioral problems?

Books can provide helpful strategies for common issues, but severe behavioral problems may require guidance from a professional trainer or behaviorist.

5. How do I know if a training book is right for my learning style?

Preview the book's layout and writing style if possible. Some people prefer step-by-step guides with visuals, while others benefit from narrative explanations and case studies.
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Peter Armani

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