10 Best Puppy Training Books 2025 in the United States

The Cesar Milan 3 Books Collection offers a solid choice for puppy owners seeking guidance from a well-known dog behaviorist. Cesar Milan’s expertise in dog psychology is clear throughout the set, making the training methods straightforward and practical for many common puppy challenges. The books cover a broad range of topics, from basic training to managing problem behaviors and establishing leadership in a friendly way.

They are written in an accessible style that most readers will find easy to follow, with plenty of real-world examples that help illustrate the points. Some readers might find the approach somewhat focused on older dogs rather than very young puppies, and the pack leader concept doesn’t resonate with everyone. While this collection is quite comprehensive, it may not include every puppy training style, especially those preferring reward-based or exclusively gentle training methods.

Reviews tend to be positive, praising Cesar’s clear advice and practical tips, although a few note that some advice may feel a bit rigid or outdated compared to modern training philosophies. This set is well suited for puppy owners looking for confident and experienced guidance who appreciate a structured approach to training.

The 'Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training, Vol. 1: Adaptation and Learning' is a comprehensive guide suitable for those deeply interested in the science behind dog behavior and training. Written by Steven R. Lindsay, who is well-regarded in the field, the book offers a deep dive into the theories of adaptation and learning, making it a valuable resource for trainers and behaviorists.

One of its significant strengths is the thoroughness of the content, covering various training methods grounded in scientific principles. This makes it highly informative for readers who want to understand not just the 'how' but the 'why' behind training techniques. However, this depth can also be a drawback for casual readers or new puppy owners who might find the material dense and challenging to digest.

The book's academic tone and extensive detail might be overwhelming without prior knowledge in dog behavior or training. Additionally, it could benefit from more real-life examples and case studies to illustrate the concepts in a practical context, making it easier for readers to apply the information to everyday puppy training. Given its publication date in 2000, some of the content may also be a bit dated compared to newer resources in the field. Ideal readers are those looking for an in-depth, scholarly resource rather than a quick, easy-to-read manual.

'Dog Training for Kids: Fun and Easy Ways to Care for Your Furry Friend' is a book specifically tailored towards young readers, particularly in the age range of 5 to 10 years. The author has crafted the book to be both engaging and informative, using simple language that children can easily understand. This makes it an excellent resource for young dog owners who want to learn how to train and care for their pets effectively.

The book's structure is quite comprehensive, covering various aspects of dog training and care, which helps ensure that readers get a well-rounded education on the topic. The inclusion of fun and easy training methods makes it appealing to children, encouraging them to actively participate in the training process. Additionally, real-life examples and case studies are included to provide practical insights and help children relate the content to their own experiences with their pets.

The book's dimensions and weight make it easy for kids to handle. However, one potential drawback is that the book might be too simplistic for older children or those who already have some experience in dog training. Moreover, since it is designed for a younger audience, it may not delve deeply into more advanced training techniques that some parents or guardians might be looking for. In summary, 'Dog Training for Kids' is a valuable tool for young, novice dog owners looking for an accessible and enjoyable introduction to dog training and care.