The Clicker Workbook: A Beginner's Guide -- by Deborah
Jones PhD ---
Wonderful introduction to the theory and practice of behavior modification
(fancy word for modern training!) This book will show you how to teach
your dog or puppy the basics of becoming a well behaved family member. No choke
chain jerks needed, only positive reinforcement and a happy wagging tail for
your (now) well behaved pet. Includes weekly lesson plans for your own
private 100% positive beginner obedience classes w/ Dr Jones right in your
backyard.
Clicker Fun -- by Deborah Jones PhD ---
An excellent way to use clicker training's all positive methods to teach your
dog some fun tricks, entertain the kids and impress the neighbors. Also a
nice introduction to clicker training for those who have trained dogs w/ other
methods and are thinking of giving the clicker a try. Here are some new
behaviors to teach in a new way and you will quickly see how much you and your
dog can really enjoy this fast, accurate and reliable training method.
Taking Care of Puppy Business: A Gentle Approach for
Positive Results --
by Gail Pivar and Leslie Nelson ---
The title pretty much says it all! All the basics a new mom and dad need for the
newest 4 legged addition. Positive solutions to common puppy issues. The
housebreaking part is a little weak but the rest is exactly what all new owners
need to know. Great little book for breeders to send home w/ each new puppy
buyers (only about $10.)
Sirius Puppy Training -- by Ian Dunbar DVM ---
This book and video set is from the "god" of modern dog training. Dr
Dunbar is the founder of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and really first
introduced positive training methods in this country. Highly recommended for all
new puppy owners. He also has a fantastic sense of humor, a major plus for
anyone working w/ animals (or kids).
Don't Shoot the Dog: The New Art of Teaching and Training,
second edition -- by Karen Pryor ---
Learn to use operant conditioning to change anyone's behavior....from dogs and
dolphins to your spouse or yourself! Understand what you are really
communicating w/ the various methods of changing behavior. Not a training
manual, this is more a background to the principles of behavior modification for
those interested in going a little deeper into real understanding. She is a
wonderful writer and the reading flows easily. A must for serious dog people.
Culture Clash -- by Jean Donaldson ---
These two cultures (canine and human) are often living together w/ little
understanding of the other's point of view. Here you learn to see things the way
your dog does and you may be surprised! If you are "into dogs" this is
an essential part of your library. Not a "how to" training manual,
rather a guide to deeper understanding of canine thought process; this book is
based on good scientific research. Fascinating reading.
How Dogs Learn -- by Mary Burch PhD and Jon Bailey PhD
---
A detailed explanation of operant conditioning and how this applies specifically
to dog training. After reading this well written book, the dog trainer
will have a clear understanding of the the real science of operant conditioning.
Dogs Are From Neptune -- by Jean Donaldson ---
As the cover says, "candid answers to urgent questions about aggression and
other aspects of dog behavior." Explains how dogs' rules for social
interaction are quite alien from our own and gives practical advice on problem
solving.
The Cautious Canine: How to Help Dogs Conquer Their Fears
--
by Patricia McConnell PhD ---
This title is self explanatory too. For the many sweet Berners who tend toward
shyness, this is a great little booklet to (ideally) prevent a serious shyness
problem in a quiet puppy or even to solve a serious fear of strangers once it
has started. This is a nice quick read with an straightforward explanation of
how to use systematic desensitization to help your dog become a confident and
happy member of society. All positive training methods. If you think your dog
might possibly benefit from additional confidence in new settings and/or w/ new
people, the $7 is certainly well worth it.
Toolbox For Remodeling Your Problem Dog -- by Terry Ryan
---
Solutions to common behavior problems in a fun and positive way. Crisis
intervention for dogs.
Competition Obedience: A Balancing Act -- by Judy Byron
and Adele Yunck ---
If you are seriously thinking about competing in obedience obedience trials w/
your Berner (and they CAN do it!) this is a resource that will take you from
Pre-Novice thru Utility in style. Explains all the exercises clearly for
newcomers to the obedience ring and gives a careful step by step approach to get
you to your goals, be it a CD or an OTCH.
To order these books, as well as finding other recommended reading in many other topics, please go to: