Top 10 Dog Training Books for Rescue Dogs: Reviews and Recommendations

As a dog lover and advocate for rescue dogs, I understand the unique challenges that come with bringing a rescue dog into your home. These dogs often come from varied backgrounds and may need extra love and care to adjust to their new environment. Proper training is essential for rescue dogs, not only to ensure they become well-behaved and healthy but also to build trust and strengthen the bond between dogs and humans.

One of the best resources for training rescue dogs is dog training books. These books provide valuable information and guidance on how to train your rescue dog effectively. In this blog post, I have reviewed some of the best dog training books for rescue dogs in 2024. Let’s take a closer look at each one and see how they can help with training your rescue dog.

1. Zak George’s Guide to a Well-Behaved Dog – Best Overall
Zak George is a renowned dog trainer who uses positive training tactics to help dogs and their owners build a happy and healthy relationship. His book, “Zak George’s Guide to a Well-Behaved Dog,” is considered the best overall dog training book for rescue dogs. It covers common behavioral issues and provides detailed instructions on how to train dogs out of these issues.

2. Training the Best Dog Ever – Best Value
Written by Dawn Sylvia-Stasiewicz, who trained White House dog Bo Obama, “Training the Best Dog Ever” is a great resource for beginner dog parents. It covers essential training topics and provides step-by-step photographs to guide you through the training process.

3. Canine Good Citizen, The Official AKC Guide – Premium Choice
For those looking to train their rescue dog to become a therapy or service dog, “Canine Good Citizen, The Official AKC Guide” is a valuable resource. It covers basic obedience skills and helps dogs pass the AKC CGC Test.

4. 51 Puppy Tricks: Step-by-Step Activities – Best for Puppies
If you have a rescue puppy, “51 Puppy Tricks” is a great book to start with. It covers the basics of puppy training and provides insight into puppy psychology.

5. Dog Training for Kids
Involving your whole family in the training process can help your rescue dog bond with your family members. “Dog Training for Kids” teaches children how to interact with dogs and provides fun ideas for spending time with them.

6. The Dog Behavior Problem Solver
If your rescue dog is exhibiting behavioral issues, “The Dog Behavior Problem Solver” can help you understand and address these issues using positive training techniques.

7. What’s My Dog Thinking?
“What’s My Dog Thinking?” provides insight into dog behavior and helps humans understand why dogs engage in certain behaviors. It can help develop empathy and understanding for rescue dogs.

8. Train Your Dog Positively
“Train Your Dog Positively” by Victoria Stilwell provides an in-depth explanation of dog behavior and specific methods to address behavioral issues using positive training techniques.

9. The Big Book of Tricks for the Best Dog Ever
“The Big Book of Tricks for the Best Dog Ever” provides step-by-step guides for over 100 tricks, helping keep your rescue dog’s mind stimulated and strengthen the bond between you.

10. The Ultimate Guide to Raising a Puppy
“The Ultimate Guide to Raising a Puppy” covers basic topics specific to puppyhood and helps build a good foundation for new dog owners.

In conclusion, training books are invaluable resources for training rescue dogs and building a strong bond with them. Each of the books mentioned above offers unique insights and guidance on how to train your rescue dog effectively. By using positive reinforcement, keeping training sessions short and simple, and being consistent, you can help your rescue dog adjust to their new home and thrive. Remember, every rescue dog deserves a chance to be loved and trained with patience and understanding.