Adam’s Task: Calling Animals by Name, by Vickie Hearne

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

Animals Make Us Human: Creating the Best Life for Animals, by Temple Grandin

Bones Would Rain From the Sky: Deepening Our Relationship with Dogs, by Suzanne Clothier  (This was the first book of this genre that I read and I could hardly put it down. I admittedly “dog eared” my borrowed copy. Suzanne writes about the importance of the dog’s connection to the owner: “In each moment that you are with the dog, you must be aware, gently and persistently shifting the balance toward one of mutual agreement and cooperation. This is not easy, and it requires some thought. Most of all, it requires a desire to create – over and over again – the event of quality, which in turn creates a heartfelt commitment to truly being with the dog.” This is such a beautiful book. Time for me to read it again.)

Calming Signals, by Turid Rugaas

Click to Calm, by Emma Parsons

Culture Clash: A Revolutionary New Way to Understanding the Relationship Between Humans and Domestic Dogs, by Jean Donaldson   (This book reads like a good suspense novel and depicts dogs as they really are with their “what’s in it for me” philosophy. Jean Don- aldson champions the dog’s point of view always showing concern for their education and well being. Voted Best Training Book of the Year 1996. I loved this book because it was so cut to the chase. A very important book to read. I like to give this book as a present to my more “Doubting Thomas” friends.)

Dogs are from Neptune: Candid Answers to Urgent Questions, by Jean Donaldson

Don’t Shoot the Dog – The New Art of Teaching and Training, by Karen Pryor   (This delightful, clear, and utterly helpful book is for anyone who wants to understand or change the behavior of dogs. Everyone I have read credits Karen Pryor with influencing their work with dogs. She began her studies in animal behavior when training dolphins. Karen Pryor is one of the pioneers of clicker training and, yes, the “science” behind positive dog training.)

For the Love of a Dog – Understanding Emotion in You and your Best Friend, by Patricia McConnell   (This book presents a compelling combination of stories, science and practical advice to show how understanding emotions in both people and dogs can improve owners’ relationships with their pets. This is more than a simple dog-training book: much of what McConnell discusses concerns how dog owners can learn “the language” of dogs by recognizing important signals and reading them correctly. My advice – read everything Patricia McConnell! Your dog will love you for it.)

Mine, by Jean Donaldson

On Talking Terms with Dogs: Calming Signals, by Turid Rugaas   (Turid Rugaas is a noted expert on canine body language, notably “calming signals” which are signals dogs give to other dogs and humans to denote stress and to attempt to defuse situations that otherwise might result in fights or aggression. In my opinion, this book should be handed out with every new puppy owner on the planet, one of the simplest, most important books available, this is a must read. Turid teaches us to be parents to our dogs and to throw away the dominant model. Turid writes “there is never reason to use force with our dogs.”)

Plenty in Life is Free – Reflections on Dogs, Training and Finding Grace, by Kathy Sdao

Reaching the Animal Mind: Clicker Training and What it Teaches Us About All Animals, by Karen Pryor

Ruff Love, by Susan Garrett

The Encyclopedia of Natural Pet Care, by C.J. Puotinen

The Other End of the Leash, by Patricia McConnell   (This book begins with an eloquently simple premise: “All dogs are brilliant at perceiving the slightest movement that we make, and they as- sume each tiny movement has meaning.” She uses this premise to teach us how to use our body language and that of our dogs to strengthen
our communication and relationship.)

When Pigs Fly! Training Success with Impossible Dogs, by Jane Killion   (Yes, this training manual is written by a Bull Terrier breeder and is jam packed with advice on training the “hard to train” breeds using clicker training and positive reinforcement. Jane talks about using breed tendencies to create behaviors you want rather than always trying to suppress them or replace them with something less comfortable or natural for the dog. This is the training manual for Bull Terriers. Go get your copy today! News Alert: Bull Terriers are very trainable!)

Whole Dog Journal, edited by Nancy Kerns   (“Fostering harmony between the human and non-human animals of our world.” Pat Miller writes for WDJ and has a plethora of articles on fun, creative, positive ways to solve common dog training and basic household challenges with our dogs. Her latest format is the “5 things you can do when…” series and gives 5 things to do for solving basic training challenges such as jumping on people or rushing to the door when the door bell rings. Her action plans incorprate positive reinforcement and clicker training with management tips. Pat Miller encourages her readers to look at these challenges like solving a good puzzle and she never advocates force.)