Books on dog behavior
“The Other End of the Leash: Why We Do What We Do Around Dogs” by Patricia McConnell (Amazon)
A must read for anyone who interacts with dogs: insights on how “man’s best friend” might interpret our behavior, as well as essential advice on how to interact with our four-legged friends in ways that bring out the best in them.
“The Culture Clash: A Revolutionary New Way to Understanding the Relationship Between Humans and Domestic Dogs” Jean Donaldson (Amazon)
Overview of dog behavior with lots of great examples for working with dogs to reduce “problem” behavior
Also has books on training methods “Oh Behave!” and resource guarding - “Mine!”
Book on positive reinforcement principles
“Don't Shoot the Dog: The Art of Teaching and Training” by Karen Pryor (Amazon)
This book is an excellent overview of the principles behind positive reinforcement training. This book is engaging and informative and can be applied to learners of all species, not just dogs.
Training Books
“Control Unleashed: Creating a Focused and Confident Dog” (Amazon) or “Control Unleashed: Reactive to Relaxed” (Amazon) by Leslie McDevitt
These books are full of training techniques to help your dog learn how to relax, focus, and work off-leash reliably in either stimulating or stressful situations
“Zak George's Dog Training Revolution: The Complete Guide to Raising the Perfect Pet with Love” by Zak George (Amazon)
Overview of the basics of dog ownership from selecting the right dog to training basics.
Medical
“Dog Owners Home Vet Handbook” (Amazon) 4th ed by Eldridge, Carlson, Carlson and Griffin
Focused training books
“Cooperative Care: Seven Steps to Stress-Free Husbandry” Deborah Jones (Amazon)
A great manual to help your dog become more comfortable with grooming and vet care.
“Mine! A Practical Guide to Resource Guarding in Dogs” Jean Donaldson (Amazon)
Great resource for addressing resource guarding
“Fight!: A Practical Guide to the Treatment of Dog-Dog Aggression” By Jean Donaldson (Amazon)
Great resource, the title says it all
Patricia McConnell - puppy training - “Puppy Primer” (Amazon), Separation Anxiety - “I’ll be home soon” (Amazon), Leash aggression - “Feisty Fido” (Amazon), shy dogs - “The Cautious Canine” (Amazon) and multi dog homes - “Feeling Outnumbered” (Amazon)
Equipment
6 foot leash - ones like this with 2 handles are nice.
Flat collar with tag
Martingale flat collar or harness - I recommend the Blue-9 brand harness or Pet Safe “3 in 1” (look for ones with a chest leash attachment and that DON’T cut in behind your dog’s front legs)
Treat pouch - You want to be able to quickly and easily grab a treat while keeping your hands free. I recommend a pouch with a nice large opening and a belt to clip around your waist. Example
Clicker (can use a marker word instead but it is worth trying to build your clicker skills)
Long line leash 20-40 ft (for practicing recall or going on hikes). This one is currently my favorite.
Treats
String cheese - dogs love it and it is easy to bring along and rip into small bits
Baked chicken - cut it into very small pieces
Freeze Dried lung or liver
Toys/Enrichment
Puzzle toys, Kongs - you can use these to add entertainment to meal time. A frozen Kong can be a great distraction when your dog or puppy needs to spend time on their own. Some dogs are able to destroy Kongs, so as with any toy, use caution if you are leaving your dog with it unattended.
Cardboard box with treats inside, tape closed, some dogs love destroying the box to get the treats
Woof Pupsicles - a little pricey but I save these for special occasions when I need a lasting distraction. Freeze the inserts and they last even longer.
Licky Mats - smear these with soft foods and freeze, these are great when you need something to occupy your pup and help them settle down.
Slow feeders - if your dog wolfs down their food this can be a great option. Slow feeds also provide mental stimulation and make the meal last longer.
Chuck-it ultra balls - these seem to hold up the longest for us. Make sure you get the right size for your dog.
Fluff and Tuff brand stuffed animals - no stuffed toy will last for ever but these toys have the longest lifespan with our dog. Make sure you clip off the tag/loop - these are weaknesses your dog might exploit
I don't get paid for recommending these products. They are all products that I have used and loved with my own dog.