As a book lover and lifelong learner, I’ve curated a list of 12 books that I highly recommend for anyone passionate about animal training. Each of these books has shaped my training; I hope they inspire you, too!

Don't Shoot the Dog: The New Art of Teaching and Training by Karen Pryor

This classic by Karen Pryor was my first formal introduction to positive reinforcement. While newer, more up-to-date books exist, Pryor’s insights remain as powerful today as when I first read them.

The New Click to Calm: Solutions for All Dogs in a Challenging World by Emma Parsons

Emma Parsons’ update of her bestselling first book harnesses her 15 years of experience using the protocol to expand the scope beyond aggression. This new version of the book is a comprehensive guide for anyone managing various animal behavioral challenges.

Agility Right from the Start: The Ultimate Training Guide to America’s Fastest Growing Sport by Eva Bertilsson and Emelie Johnson Vegh

While I’m not an agility competitor, I do enjoy watching agility and I have tried my hand at teaching many of the exercises described in this book. I wrote in the foreword to Eva’s and Emelie’s book because I love the way they approach the subject of agility. They always ask three questions: What does the behavior look like? How do you train it? What could go wrong? This book is a practical guide to using positive reinforcement in the best possible way for agility, and is useful for anyone training dogs—no matter the sport.

Awesome Obedience: A Positive Training Plan for Competition Success by Hannah Branigan 

Obedience is another sport that I know little about, but I do know good training when I see it. I have watched Hannah train and teach for several years now and she takes a fresh approach to an old sport. Obedience may be the sport’s name because of its roots in traditional training, but Hannah transforms traditional obedience into a game of fun and cooperation. Many of her practical tips are useful across all areas of training.

Reaching the Animal Mind: Clicker Training and What It Teaches Us about All Animals by Karen Pryor  

This is yet another gem from Karen Pryor. It is a captivating read, offering valuable lessons for training any species.

On My Mind: Reflections on Animal Behavior and Learning by Karen Pryor

Karen’s Pryor’s final book features a collection of her essays covering a wide range of fascinating topics related to animal behavior and learning.

Manage it! Hacks for Improving Your Dog’s Behavior by Juliana DeWillems

While trainers teach people about the importance of managing the environments of their learners, I have never seen a book devoted to the subject.  This book is essential for dog guardians and trainers looking for a better understanding of how to manage behavior.

Modern Horse Training: A Constructional Training Guide to Becoming Your Horse’s Best Friend by Alexandra Kurland

Alex Kurland’s latest work builds on her earlier publications, reflecting a deep evolution in her positive reinforcement approach to horse training. If I were to purchase just one book about horse training, this would be it!

Puppy Start Right: Foundation Training for the Companion Dog by Kenneth Martin, DVM, and Debbie Martin, RVT, VTS 

This is my favorite book on puppies. Co-authored by an animal behaviorist and veterinarian, it provides clear, positive reinforcement-based strategies for raising a well-adjusted dog. This book is a must-read for anyone raising a puppy!

Click for Joy: Questions and Answers from Clicker Trainers and their Dogs by Melissa Alexander

This book appeals to me because it takes common questions, concerns, and misconceptions about clicker training and positive reinforcement training and gives clear answers and explanations. There may not be new information here for the experienced trainer, but it is a great resource for new trainers. I often point clients and students to Melissa’s answers.  

Canine Enrichment for the Real World: Making it a Part of Your Dog’s Daily Life by Allie Bender and Emily Strong

I cannot give this book enough high praise. Not only is it the rare book that focuses on canine enrichment, but it does so in a very holistic and practical way. The book is full of great information about giving animals choice, assessing an animal’s needs, and evaluating effectiveness, and it provides practical tips for implementing enrichment. This book combines science and practice beautifully. 

Lads Before the Wind: Diary of a Dolphin Trainer by Karen Pryor

This book was my first introduction to Karen Pryor. I was a young dolphin trainer and here was someone who had entered the field with little experience working with marine mammals, a background I could relate to. The book is funny, informative, and inspirational. It holds a sentimental place in my heart.

This list of 12 books is just a small selection from my library, but each of these books has special value. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the world of training, I hope you find something here to spark your interest and expand your knowledge. You can find all of these books here.

Happy Training (and Reading)!

About Ken Ramirez

Ken Ramirez is the Executive Vice-President (EVP) and Chief Training Officer of Karen Pryor Clicker Training (KPCT). There he helps to oversee the vision, development, and implementation of training education programs for the organization. A 50+-year veteran of animal care and training, Ken is a biologist and animal behaviorist who has overseen or consulted on training projects for many zoological organizations throughout the world. He began his training career working with guide dogs for the visually impaired and continues to work with organizations training dogs for service work, search-and-rescue, bomb detection, and narcotic detection. Ken has also maintained a close affiliation with pet training throughout his career.