Are you in search of dog books? If you're a new puppy parent, the answer's probably a resounding "YES!". Because once you have a puppy, there seem to be a thousand things you suddenly need to know!
If you're like me, you may want to read a couple of really good books, (and keep them handy for those inevitable 'I need to look THAT up' moments.
There are literally hundreds of dog books on the market today, some are excellent, others are mediocre at best. As a life-long dog lover and avid reader, I've bought, read (and occasionally discarded) many, many books over the years.
So you won't have to waste TOO much of your valuable time (and those hard-earned $$$'s) we've put together a list of some of the very best dog books available.
You'll find reviews and comments for each individual book and a link that will allow you to purchase the book/s of your choice (from a safe, secure site) right away.
There are dog books, puppy books, dog breed books, books on dog behavior, dog agility training, dog obedience and more. Even dog clothes pattern books, top rated books on dog nutrition, books on dog diseases, dog books for kids...
...we could go on and on, but why not just check out the books for yourself!
Here's a few of the very best puppy care books to get you started. Happy reading!
The Art Of Raising A Puppy
This book, written by the Monks of New Skete, is one of the first dog books I bought when I got my very first dog. I've gone back to it many times over the years, and always re-read the sections on 'Basic Care' and 'General Training' sections whenever a new puppy joins our family.
Following a litter of German Shepherd puppies from birth to about 12 weeks of age, this very practical, in-depth and well-written book covers everything from early temperament testing, choosing the right puppy, basic puppy care and obedience all the way through to how to handle behavior problems in adolescent/adult dogs.
The monk's deep love and understanding of their dogs shines through, and their gentle, sensitive approach is both reassuring and encouraging for new dog owners.
Altogether a really good book that I highly recommend to new puppy owners who truly want to understand their pup and build a strong owner-dog relationship based on communication and compassion.
Puppies For Dummies
I love the whole range of '...For Dummies' dog books! I usually don't consider myself a dummy, but the fun, informative and humorous style of these books always makes for an enjoyable read.
This fun, friendly guide covers all the basics (including housebreaking, feeding and training) and then some. Other topics covered include designer breeds, traveling with a puppy in tow and a section on kids and dogs.
This is a good, basic dog book that new puppy owners will find easy to follow, and will refer to over and over again.
Before & After Getting Your Puppy
If you're still at the "should I get a dog?" stage, this is the perfect book for you! Written by a veterinarian, this step-by-step guide takes you through all the pre-puppy questions, and helps you to understand what's involved in owning a dog.
With his straightforward approach to puppy training and discipline, Dr. Dunbar gives you firm guidelines and a recognizable framework which helps you raise a happy, well-behaved pup. Easy to follow
Valuable nuggets such as the pre-puppy shopping list, and the directory of dog training books and videos are an added bonus.
Altogether a practical, compassionate and common sense book which is perfect for prospective puppy owners and new puppy parents alike.
My Smart Puppy - Book & DVD
This easy to read book, claims to offer 'Fun, effective and easy puppy training', and it actually delivers!
Written in a clear, straightforward way it is very readable, and explains clearly the steps you need to take in order to raise and train a happy, well adjusted pup.
Puppy training doesn't have to be a challenge! In fact, if done correctly it can be a lot of fun for both you and your puppy. To make it even easier for new puppy parents, the DVD that comes with this book is the icing on the cake. It demonstrates simple, effective training exercises are very helpful, especially if you're a total 'newbie' when it comes to puppy training :)
It really pays off if you have kids that want to be involved as well. They can watch the DVD and then practice the training techniques they've learned.
An all-around great book to get you started on your own personal puppy training adventure.
The Original Dog Bible
If you want it all in one book, and it's detail you're after...this is the only dog book you need!
A fairly recent addition to my own personal library, I wish I'd found this years ago! It has all the information and answers any puppy parent, dog owner or dog lover could ever need.
When it comes to dog books, this is THE most comprehensive guide to everything canine you're going to find! Starting with the history of the domestic dog and moving on give details on over 200 different dog breeds, it provides advice and information on subjects such as feeding, grooming, health, training, activities, equipment and much, much more.
Despite it's tremendous amount of information, this book is an easy, enjoyable read. The color photos, tables, charts and tid-bits of information scattered throughout the book are wonderful additions to the valuable text.
A VERY complete glossary of canine terms and a huge section on dog-related resources (books, magazines, websites, organizations etc.) round out this amazing dog book.
Without taking another page to waffle about this book I can't do it justice...there's just too much to say! Highly recommended reading for any dog enthusiast!!
Housetraining For Dummies
Another one of those '...For Dummies' dog books, this time it's dedicated to that, often dreaded, topic of house training a puppy!
Topics covered include :
Your dog's instincts and learning style
Taking the right approach to housetraining
Equipment you'll need (such as crate, cleaning supplies etc.)
Indoor and outdoor training options
This is a light hearted but very practical and informative book that will guide you through the 'potty training' jungle. Packed with helpful tips, reminders and information, this humorous book will help you housetrain your puppy easily and quickly...without tears.
If you have a puppy, you need this book!
Looking for books to help with Puppy/Dog Training?
If you are looking for a kid-friendly dog to add to your family, check out my Best Dog Breeds for Children page and then see the great selection of helpful books in my 'Kids and Dogs Bookstore'.....
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