Suggested ReadingControl Unleashed - Creating a Focused and Confident Dog by Leslie McDevitt
Learn how to turn stress to confidence and distraction to focus using methods that are 110% positive. Leslie McDevitt's versatile Control Unleashed program is designed to help "dogs with issues" learn how to relax, focus, and work off-leash reliably in either stimulating or stressful situations.
The Power of Positive Dog Training by Pat Miller
Demonstrates how you can train your dog, have fun, and build a lasting relationship at the same time. Learn how you can reward your dog to obtain and reinforce the behaviors you want. When you apply the training methods in this book and follow the unique six-week training program, your dog will learn to think and to choose proper behavior.
The Culture Clash by Jean Donaldson
A revolutionary way of understanding the relationship between humans and domestic dogs. The author's work with her own dogs and those of her clients and her studies with other behaviorists has led her to the realization that dogs probably learn exclusively through conditioning of various types.
On Talking Terms with Dogs: Calming Signals by Turid Rugaas
This little book by Norwegian trainer and behaviorist Turid Rugaas provides a dog-to-human dictionary of canine body language. Through years of observation, Rugaas has identified gestures and movements that dogs use to signal to other dogs-- and humans –that they have peaceful intentions. Easy to read, and filled with clear photographs and interesting case histories, this is a book that will benefit every dog lover.
The Other End of the Leash by Dr. Patricia McConnell PH. D
This is a wonderful book aimed at showing us how our natural behaviors (as primates) and our dogs' natural behviors (as canines) sometimes lead to miscommunication and confusion. Dr. McConnell writes in a light mood and with humor but backs up her information with years of scientific study and applied theories.
Don't Shoot the Dog: The New Art of Teaching and Training by Karen Pryor
Karen Pryor is a powerful proponent of the principles and practical uses of positive reinforcement in teaching new behaviors. Here are the secrets of changing behavior in pets, kids -- even yourself -- without yelling, threats, force, punishement, guilt trips...orshooting the dogs.
Dog Behavior: An Owner's Guide to a Happy Healthy Pet by Dr. Ian Dunbar
Explains how a dog's perceptions and desires result in its conduct. By understanding what makes your dog tick, you'll learn how to socialize and train your dog to be the companion you want. Modifying a dog's behavior isn't hard; it's simply a question of reinforcing the behavior that you desire. By using the proven techniques described in this book, you can teach your dog to be the model companion. The better you understand your dog, the better your relationship will be.
Quick Clicks: 40 Fast and Fun Behaviors to Train with a Clicker by Mandy Book and Cheryl Smith
A clicker training primer that includes both fun and useful behaviors, teaches the technique without technical terms, creates a dog who wants to learn, and features step-by-step instructions for beginners. Seasoned clicker trainers will find tons of ideas for fun new behaviors, too.
Dogs Are From Neptune by Jean Donaldson
Candid answers to urgent questions about aggression and other aspects of dog Positive reinforcement methods include clickers, food, and praise.
How to Teach a New Dog Old Tricks by Dr.Ian Dunbar
Dr. Ian Dunbar leads new and experienced owners through a training program to PREVENT problems - "Temperament Training", SOLVE problems - "Behavior Training" and BEHAVE - "Obedience Training". Dunbar's methods are fun and easy to apply for all family members.
Bones Would Rain from the Sky by Suzanne Clothier
From the Publisher: Akin to Monty Roberts's The Man Who Listens to Horses and going light-years beyond The Hidden Life of Dogs or any training manual, Suzanne Clothier takes a radical new direction in understanding our life with dogs...and our mutual love. Drawing on a lifetime of experience with dogs, this nationally renowned dog trainer brings us astonishing new lessons about our animals -- and ourselves. Gently, with intelligence, humor, and unfailing patience, Suzanne Clothier guides us to truly comprehend another creature's mind and heart. You will discover how our dogs see the world from their uniquely canine perspective, how we can meet their deep need for leadership without using force or coercion, and how the "laws" of canine culture often put our dogs at odds with us and our very human world. Clothier's unparalleled insights into aggression in dogs can help prevent a tragedy, including the unnecessary destruction of a pet.
Agility Links:
USDAA (United States Dog Agility Association)Flyball:
NADAC (North American Dog Agility Council )
Clean Run Productions
AKC (American Kennel Club)
UKC (United Kennel Club)
CPE (Canine Performance Events)
NAFA (North American Flyball Association)Breeder Referral:
AKC
Breed Information:
AKCHumane & Rescue Organizations:
UKC
Central Pennsylvania Animal AlliancesMiscellaneous Links:
HOPE - Hounds of Prison Education
ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals)
HSUS (Humane Society of the United States)
APDT (Association of Pet Dog Trainers)
PFDC (PA Federation of Dog Clubs- PA dog-related legislation)
PA Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement
Carl Photography - family/pet portraits
Dog Scouts of America
Susan Clothier's Articles
Fearful Dogs - Help for You and Your Dog
Control Unleashed - Leslie McDevitt's Web Page