Since adopting a dog, I’ve become increasingly interested in dog training and behavior. Luckily, there are lots of great books out there to help a dog guardian better understand and care for their furry friends. We also offer a twice-yearly Dog Training Information Series at the University Heights Branch, which is a great way to learn new information from a certified positive reinforcement trainer. Visit https://events.heightslibrary.org to see when our next program is!
Happy Dog: 101 Easy Enrichment Activities for a Healthy, Happy, Well-Behaved Pup by Chelsea Barstow
Enrichment is the practice of providing activities and environments that improve a dog’s quality of life by stimulating their mind, body, and senses. Enrichment can help dogs: Reduce boredom, build confidence, learn new skills, engage in natural behaviors, relax, reduce stress and anxiety, improve resilience, strengthen bonds with their people, and prevent and treat undesirable behaviors. In Happy Dog, Chelsea Barstow provides simple ways to stimulate your dog’s mind and keep them occupied whenever they need. From rolling treats in a towel, to playing the “Find It game,” a variety of lick mats, creating obstacles your dog must navigate, going on an adventure walk, and canine puzzles, there are tons of ways to help keep your dog mentally (and physically) happy and healthy. Enrichment doesn’t have to be flashy or cost a lot of money, and the book has a lot of DIY options as well!
Wag: The Science of Making Your Dog Happy by Zazie Todd
Whether you are training a new puppy, considering adopting a dog, researching dog breeds, or simply curious about your own dog’s happiness and behavior, Wag will help you find the answers to all of your questions. Respected dog trainer and social psychologist, Zazie Todd, demystifies the inner life of canines and shares recommendations from leading veterinarians, researchers, and trainers to help you cultivate a rewarding and respectful relationship with your dog-which offers many benefits for you, your family, and your four-legged friend. Todd also has a new book coming out soon called Bark!: The Science of Helping Your Anxious, Fearful, or Reactive Dog, so keep an eye on our shelves for that if your dog is struggling on walks when passing other dogs, people, or cars.
The Stress Factor in Dogs: Unlocking Resiliency and Enhancing Well-Being by Kristina Spaulding
The Stress Factor in Dogs delves deeper than the average book on dog behavior, providing an analysis on the science behind stress, as well as helping you identify stress in your own dog. Spaulding provides detailed insight on how stress affects the health and well-being of our dogs at all stages of development and also makes connections between stress and problem behaviors, such as aggression and reactivity. Spaulding also provides techniques and tips for reducing stress and increasing resiliency in dogs (hint: enrichment is key!). If you have a dog that is anxious and easily stressed, Spaulding’s book is a must-read to help you better understand the reasons why your dog is having those responses as well as give you the tools to help your dog overcome their stress and fears.