Train Your Dog Like a Pro Book

This is a solid manual for pet parents and amateur dog trainers. Jean Donaldson provides information on how to train basic cued behaviors (commonly referred to as "basic manners" or "basic obedience" by most folks). The training plans are laid out for each behavior, so that readers know exactly how to train these specific behaviors in their dogs. Since Donaldson is so detailed, specific, and systematic, it leaves little room for error, especially since she also addresses concerns or issues that may come up during the training and how to remedy them. As a pet parent who is especially interested in animal training and behavior, overall, I enjoyed this book. Previously, I had not followed Donaldson's Push-Drop-Stick (PDS) rules, nor had I created a systematic training plan, so even though my dog already knew quite a few of these cued behaviors, I learned new information and perspectives. Training behaviors utilizing the PDS rule and Donaldson's training plans (of gradual steps) should ensure that the dog will successfully learn these (or any) behaviors. However, I admit that I do worry that some folks - especially those new to dog training or to force-free dog training - may be turned off by, intimidated by, or frustrated by Donaldson's thorough and systematic training plans, and may then even turn to punishment based methods. Even as a person who is passionate about force-free dog training and interested in it, I admit that the prospect of following Donaldson's training plans can seem like somewhat of a chore to even me (and Donaldson does address issues of trainer motivation i her book, along with some solutions!). I'm not at all saying that her training plans are wrong or ineffective or even inefficient (they will train a dog to be thoroughly proficient at the cued behaviors); still, I hope this book isn't a turn-off to newbies or anyone. The accompanying DVD though (if watched) should be helpful, as it demonstrates the training in a group class setting and can be more engaging than reading a book (though of course the book itself - its information and training plans - are important!). When it comes to the training methodology, my only real point of conflict would be the use of a no-reward marker, as described in both the book and used by Donaldson over and over in the DVD. Another point: Donaldson recommends taking the dog to different friends' homes for certain steps of the training, and even though that will certainly be helpful in teaching a dog to generalize cued behaviors to new/different environments, I'm just not sure how many folks would actually do that or how possible that would be for some. Anyways, as I mentioned, I enjoyed this book overall, learned something(s) new, and do believe that Donaldson's training plans, if followed, will achieve wonderful results and a dog that can exhibit "basic manners" (and beyond) in a variety of settings and situations.