Hey fellow dog lovers! š¶ If you’re anything like me, you believe every pup deserves a well-trained, happy lifeāand every human deserves a dog who listens, learns, and loves back with tail-wagging enthusiasm. Iāve made it my mission to master dog training in just four weeks, and guess what? With the right books, itās totally doable.
Whether youāve got a rambunctious retriever, a stubborn terrier, or a shy shelter pup, these books will guide you step-by-step through the essentialsāfrom basic obedience to behavior shaping and even advanced tricks. Letās dive into the ultimate 4-week training plan powered by the best dog training books out there!
Week 1: Build the Bond & Lay the Foundation
Book: The Art of Raising a Puppy by The Monks of New Skete
- Why itās perfect: This book is all heart. It teaches you how to understand your dogās psychology and build trust from day one.
- Focus: Crate training, housebreaking, and creating a calm, respectful relationship.
- Bonus tip: Start using a clicker and treats to reinforce good behavior early!
Week 2: Master Basic Commands
Book: Zak Georgeās Dog Training Revolution by Zak George
- Why itās perfect: Zakās modern, positive-reinforcement approach is a game-changer.
- Focus: Sit, stay, come, leash walking, and dealing with common issues like jumping or barking.
- Bonus tip: Keep training sessions short (5ā10 mins) and super funāyour dog will love it!
Week 3: Solve Behavior Problems
Book: The Power of Positive Dog Training by Pat Miller
- Why itās perfect: This book dives deep into behavior shaping using kindness and consistency.
- Focus: Addressing aggression, anxiety, and impulse control.
- Bonus tip: Journal your dogās progressātracking patterns helps you adjust techniques faster.
Week 4: Level Up with Tricks & Off-Leash Skills
Book: 101 Dog Tricks by Kyra Sundance
- Why itās perfect: Itās like a playground for your dogās brain!
- Focus: Fun tricks like roll over, fetch, and even skateboarding (yes, really).
- Bonus tip: Use tricks to reinforce obedience and boost your dogās confidence.
š Final Tips:
Training your dog isnāt just about commandsāitās about connection. These books helped me transform my chaotic mornings into peaceful walks, my chewed-up shoes into proud paw-shakes, and my dog into the best version of himself.
So grab these books, stock up on treats, and let the tail-wagging transformation begin. Youāve got thisāand your dog is ready to learn!
Want help building a custom training schedule or choosing the right book for your dogās personality? Iād love to help!