At Synapse Canine Learning Center, we are committed to providing our clients with valuable information to help them interpret their dog’s behavior. As part of our comprehensive evaluations, we often recommend resources such as books, podcast episodes and behavioral frameworks that can provide a greater understanding of how – and why – our dogs act in certain ways.
Recently, Stasia posted a video on YouTube to showcase 11 of the books she most frequently recommends to clients. These books cover a wide array of topics, from puppy behavior and enrichment, to detection and search and rescue. Check out the video below, or scroll underneath to learn about each of the recommendations.
1) The Stress Factor in Dogs
Written by Kristina Spaulding, PhD, CAAB
As the title suggests, this book by Kristina Spaulding is ideal for those who own fearful, anxious or simply stressed dogs. The Stress Factor In Dogs takes a look at the physiology of stress; how stress has severe consequences for a dog’s behavior, learning and memory; and guidance to help your dog avoid or cope with stressful situations.
2) Canine Enrichment For The Real World
Written by Allie Bender, CDBC & Emily Strong, CDBC
Canine Enrichment For The Real World analyzes the different elements of enrichment, and provides some excellent examples of how you can implement enrichment in your dog’s daily life.
3) Control Unleashed
Written by Leslie McDevitt, MLA, CDBC, CPDT
This book – one of several by Leslie McDevitt – is a great resource for those with high-drive and high-intensity dogs. Control Unleashed helps dog owners to work with their dogs in demanding environments.
4) The Other End Of The Leash
Written by Patricia B. McConnell, PhD
The Other End Of The Leash focuses on the differences between dogs and humans – and how applying that understanding when we work with our dogs can bring out the best in them.
5) Welcoming Your Puppy From Planet Dog
Written by Kathy Callahan, CPDT-KA
This book by Kathy Callahan is an essential guide to puppy essentials and beyond. With an empathetic tone, Callahan teaches dog owners to shift their mindset and outlines how to build an enduring relationship between a puppy and their family.
6) Walking Together
Written by Simone Mueller
We’ve all seen the high-energy dog who takes their owner for a walk as opposed to the other way around. In Walking Together, Simone Mueller details her approach to loose-leash walking that can result in relaxed and enjoyable outings – for both human and dog alike.
7) Being A Dog
Written by Alexandra Horowitz, PhD
At this point, many people are aware of the power of a dog’s nose. In Being A Dog, author Alexandra Horowitz writes in an engaging manner about how dogs harness their olfactory system to interact with the world around them.
8) Dog Sense
Written by John Bradshaw, PhD
In Dog Sense, John Bradshaw delves deeply into how dogs came to be domesticated and integrated into human society. This book helps owners to understand the science behind canine behavior – and how we can apply it towards our own dogs.
9) Scent And The Scenting Dog
Written by William G. Syrotuck
This valuable guide outlines everything a detection or search dog handler should know about odor theory – specifically, how odor moves in different settings, and how environmental factors can influence the way that odor travels.
10) Ethics And Legal Issues In The Courtroom For Search And Rescue Dog Handlers
Written by Terry Fleck, Ed.D & Christy Judah, Ed.D
This detailed book is essential reading for search and rescue K9 handlers who may have to testify in court. It describes how handlers should prepare for such situations, and prepares them for common lines of attack.
11) Canines: The Original Biosensors
Edited by Lauren E. DeGreeff & Craig A. Schultz
This extremely comprehensive read compiles expertise from a wide array of authors. This book covers the scientific advances in animal behavior over recent decades to help understand how dogs have developed into reliable sensors due to the power of their noses.
