Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training, Vol. 1: Adaptation and Learning Volume 1 Edition

These are science-based textbooks, not written for the average pet owner or layperson. However, if you're a student of behavior these are an absolutely required series of reference books.

I'm not a professional trainer, just a lifelong owner of multiple dogs. I also volunteer at a humane society, so I interact with a wide range of dogs on a non-professional level. Material in this book helps provide the foundation for understanding what trainers are doing and why it may work--or not! If you plan to be a professional, this book is a must.The only downside to this book for some people will be that it is written at the collegiate level. It reminds me of any number of psychology and biology textbooks in college courses--the comprehensive ones that cover the genre from start to end! I end up taking notes while I'm reading, because there is so much there that I want to integrate into my approach. He presents information, shows how it can be applied to practice and proves his points with studies. Actually, sections are eerily applicable to human interaction. I'm a firm believer in using evidenced-based science guide practice, and Lindsay is exacting and detailed. He doesn't preach as much as present research and draw conclusions.I only regret the generations of wolves and dogs that had to suffer to gain this knowledge. Read it and apply it, because some of the studies done to gain this knowledge could never be ethically replicated again (such as over-reactivity in sensory-stimulus deprived environments).Contents include:Origins and Domestication (of dogs)Development of Behavior (in puppies)Neurobiology of Behavior and Learning, which includes sections on motivation, fear, aggression, attachment and compulsive behaviors (see how interesting all this is!)Sensory Abilities--knowing the dog's abilities helps target learningBiological and Dispositional Constraints in Learning--has interesting sections on genetic strains with breeds and within breeds such as the 'nervous pointers'Classical ConditioningInstrumental LearningAversive Control of Behavior, including avoidence learning and punishmentLearning and Behavioral DisturbancesHuman-Dog Companionship--the signficance of the relationship between people and dogs, and when it breaks down.

I got a new puppy about 6 months ago. This was just about a 2 year process that involved searching out a specific breed that fit my personality and lifestyle and reading piles (Probably $500 worth) of books about raising puppies, training, specific breed books, etc. Mainly because I have always been deathly afraid of owning that unruly dog would be a nightmare to have around the house.Of the 20 books that I have, this book is by far the most in depth and well researched of all. Most books on the subject of dogs in general are short overviews that should take care of some specific needs, such as potty training, obedience, tricks, etc. This book has a culmination of 100+ years of scientific research and other case studies of not only dogs but of the behavior mentally and physically of other creatures and how they apply to dogs. There is so much information to soak in, its incredible. I read through it occasionally had to sit back in awe thinking about what i've just read and how many things make sense now.I seriously think that most books will get 90% of dog owners by without a problem. This book is for those 10%, or breeders, trainers who need to have that extra level of knowledge. I'd compare it to needing a cupfull of knowledge and receiving 5 gallons instead.

The first thing to know about this book is that it is not an "easy read," but more of a textbook. That said, it is invaluable reading for professional trainers--in fact, I am on the faculty and advisory board of the Companion Animal Sciences Institute and Lindsay's books are required reading in many of our courses. The Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training should appeal to canine professionals as well as anyone looking for an in-depth analysis of canine origins, neurobiology and behavior. This is the first of Lindsay's comprehensive three-volume set. It begins with the origins of dogs, covers the neurobiology of behavior and learning, and sensory abilities of dogs. The behavior section goes to great lengths describing classical and operant conditioning, the effect of aversives on behavior, and much more. A multitude of fascinating studies are referenced throughout the book. Again, although this book is more technical and dense than most on the subject, it is an invaluable resource that you will find yourself referring back to again and again.- Nicole Wilde, author So You Want to be a Dog Trainer (2nd edition) and Help for Your Fearful Dog: A Step-by-Step Guide to Helping Your Dog Conquer His Fears

This was a great book. I helped me understand why dogs think the way the do since I work with dogs everyday. Some of the termalogy was diffacult to understand.