How to train your dog

UK-based dog trainer Spivey (How To Raise the Perfect Dog) offers training techniques for adult dogs and puppies, focused on correcting problem behaviors inside and outside the home. Building his training regimen on three core principles--good diet, adequate exercise, and the ability to relax--Spivey emphasizes the importance of owners establishing themselves as the center of their dog's attention, requiring eye contact for all commands and rewards. Spivey guides readers through teaching essential commands like "sit," "down," and "leave it," as well as crate training, and offers terrific advice for training dogs to behave properly when the doorbell rings or visitors enter the home. Spivey also gives valuable guidance on socializing dogs and how to protect your pet from the out-of-control pups of irresponsible owners. A few of Spivey's recommendations, such as muzzle training and reserving toys for play and training sessions, may not sit well with all readers, but he shares his reasoning for each method with practical examples and provides QR codes leading to video examples for certain techniques. VERDICT Spivey's blunt style may not suit all readers, but his book offers plenty of solid advice and compassion for both dogs and their owners.--Sara Shreve

UK-based dog trainer Spivey (How To Raise the Perfect Dog) offers training techniques for adult dogs and puppies, focused on correcting problem behaviors inside and outside the home. Building his training regimen on three core principles—good diet, adequate exercise, and the ability to relax—Spivey emphasizes the importance of owners establishing themselves as the center of their dog's attention, requiring eye contact for all commands and rewards. Spivey guides readers through teaching essential commands like "sit," "down," and "leave it," as well as crate training, and offers terrific advice for training dogs to behave properly when the doorbell rings or visitors enter the home. Spivey also gives valuable guidance on socializing dogs and how to protect your pet from the out-of-control pups of irresponsible owners. A few of Spivey's recommendations, such as muzzle training and reserving toys for play and training sessions, may not sit well with all readers, but he shares his reasoning for each method with practical examples and provides QR codes leading to video examples for certain techniques. VERDICT Spivey's blunt style may not suit all readers, but his book offers plenty of solid advice and compassion for both dogs and their owners.—Sara Shreve