Training the Hard-to-Train Dog: Effective Training Techniques for Working With Shy, Controlling, and Stubborn Dogs

by Peggy O. Swager

Training the Hard-to-Train Dog takes a practical approach to the subject of dog training with step-by-step "power training" techniques that teach you how to be a firm yet fair leader to your dog. Whether your dog is highly reactive, noncompliant, or simply stubborn, this book teaches you effective techniques—from the basics and beyond—that encourage an obedient and cooperative canine companion.

Genres: Nonfiction, Animals, Dogs

240 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2008

Reviews

[LizG · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an EXCELLENT book for anyone whose dog exhibits challenging behaviours. Everyone expects to have an obedient dog who easily does what's asked, but we are a different species and speak very different languages. When we aren't getting through to our furry friends, WE have the problem and it's best to ask for help. This book is just what you'll need.

Swager cracks open the limited dominant vs. submissive model and breaks canine temperament into more helpful distinctions such as stubborn, independent, dominant, assertive, self-important, high drive, high distractive, reactive/sensitive, low impulse control and shy. When you have a clearer understanding of just where your dog lies on the spectrum, what's motivating his behaviour, you can more effectively address the training issue with practices targeting its underlying source.

This book is far more readable than others I've read about challenging behaviour issues and is also easy to use as a resource. You can read all of it, or look for the sections that relate to your pet and focus there. I do recommend reading the entire section on various temperaments as the distinctions can be subtle. More so if your dog has several challenging traits combined (i.e. dominant/reactive).

Two thumbs up!

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Peggy Swager gives really practical advice about how to deal with specific situations with stubborn or willful dogs. She talks about different ways of dealing with various personalities of dogs and what will work the best, which I imagine is very helpful in figuring out how to work with a particular dog that may not want to do the same thing as you'd like it. One story she relays about obedience vs. affection was that one of her dogs ignored another person in the house until the person started training the dog with positive reinforcement. Affection didn't increase the dog's interest in the person, whereas training did. Dog beatings not recommended.

[Stephen Wallace · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book on techniques for hard to train dogs

[Pamela Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

Informative and helpful tips throughout the book. Peggy is a pro when it comes to dog behaviour.

[Dolly]

This book offers effective step-by-step instructions and techniques to help train "shy, controlling, and stubborn dogs.". The methods encourage a lot of positive reinforcement, occasional corrections, and a lot of patience.

I like that the author has had quite a bit of experience training her own 'hard to train' dogs and encourages owners to be consistent, patient, and positive. I also really liked that the book is filled with big, colorful photographs.

Overall, it's a very informative and helpful book. I am having a lot of success training my own wonderful, but very stubborn dog, even though we've only had her for just over four months.

I am thankful for books like this that really encourage me to continue my efforts. It's worth the time and energy to ensure we have a solid relationship based on kindness and trust.

[Celia · Rating 5 out of 5]

great descriptions of personalities and why they are the way they are; how to deal with frustrating situations effectively. This book is giving me lots of good tips on how to train and motivate my new, very smart but somewhat headstrong puppy.

[Abby · Rating 3 out of 5]

A brief, colorful guide for people who have stubborn, independent, or overly shy dogs. Full review forthcoming at Doggerel.

[Regi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Helped With our Corgi/Jack Russell mix. Great techniques, easy to read. I'll pick it up again.

[Andi Butler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book is excellent! Not just what would be a good idea to implement in training, but also the why. Would have given five stars had it been spiral bound : )

[Alice · Rating 3 out of 5]

used for 2016-2017 Durham NC library Winter Reading Program

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm skimming through this book. Pokey is cute but she sure is a pain sometimes!