Recommended Reading
Applied Dog Training and Behavior
Volumes 1-3
Simply put: this is the holy grail of dog training
This three volume series is the most complete curriculum of canine-specific and scientifically-supported training philosophies that we have ever come across.
Be prepared to spend $350+ to obtain the complete series.
This three volume series is the most complete curriculum of canine-specific and scientifically-supported training philosophies that we have ever come across.
Be prepared to spend $350+ to obtain the complete series.
Small Animal Clinical Nutrition
5th Edition
We recommend this textbook, above all others, to begin your journey into canine nutrition
This is a 1,300 page textbook that dives deep into nutrition-based research and their clinical applications. Though this textbook is geared towards veterinarians, and we do not advocate unlicensed, self-administered health directives, there is still a wealth of practical knowledge that can prepare pet owners for better husbandry of their dogs.
Note, however, that this book was produced because of sponsorship from Hill's Pet Nutrition. Keep in mind that some information directly promotes their products and features their own research philosophies - we do not view this in such simple terms as "good" or "bad", it just means that you should read critically.
The electronic version of this textbook is available for free!!!
Compliments of the Mike Morris Foundation
This is a 1,300 page textbook that dives deep into nutrition-based research and their clinical applications. Though this textbook is geared towards veterinarians, and we do not advocate unlicensed, self-administered health directives, there is still a wealth of practical knowledge that can prepare pet owners for better husbandry of their dogs.
Note, however, that this book was produced because of sponsorship from Hill's Pet Nutrition. Keep in mind that some information directly promotes their products and features their own research philosophies - we do not view this in such simple terms as "good" or "bad", it just means that you should read critically.
The electronic version of this textbook is available for free!!!
Compliments of the Mike Morris Foundation
AAFCO Publication
Revised yearly
If you are serious about what ingredients go into your pet's food, buy this book
AAFCO, the American Association of Feed Control Officials, is an advisory committee for the FDA, USDA, and other government agencies. Their publication acts as an industry guide for lawmakers and many states adopt the material into law, verbatim.
In short: you can't make pet food without following the exact rules and regulations stated in this publication (in most states).
The spectacular thing about this book are the ingredient definitions: clear, articulate, and precise standards for each ingredient. Now you can check what's in your bag of food without misleading, or just plain false, opinions getting in the way.
AAFCO, the American Association of Feed Control Officials, is an advisory committee for the FDA, USDA, and other government agencies. Their publication acts as an industry guide for lawmakers and many states adopt the material into law, verbatim.
In short: you can't make pet food without following the exact rules and regulations stated in this publication (in most states).
The spectacular thing about this book are the ingredient definitions: clear, articulate, and precise standards for each ingredient. Now you can check what's in your bag of food without misleading, or just plain false, opinions getting in the way.
Dogs for Dummies
+ Puppies for Dummies
A surprising amount of good, general knowledge
While these books do not contain the same level of precision and accuracy as the textbooks in this list, they are a wealth of general knowledge for the average dog owner.
We were surprised at the amount of thought that has gone into these books, and appreciate the easy-to-digest reading format.
This is great for any new dog owner. Just remember that there are two books: Puppies for Dummies, and Dogs for Dummies.
While these books do not contain the same level of precision and accuracy as the textbooks in this list, they are a wealth of general knowledge for the average dog owner.
We were surprised at the amount of thought that has gone into these books, and appreciate the easy-to-digest reading format.
This is great for any new dog owner. Just remember that there are two books: Puppies for Dummies, and Dogs for Dummies.
Affective Neuroscience
By Jaak Panksepp
An evidence-based approach to emotions, an insight into neuroscience
The first of it's kind, this book explores the neuroscience behind our emotions - which is a big deal. Being able to reference a part of the brain and say "this is how fear works" is paramount to an evidence-based approach.
Most notably, this book is the origin of the term "rough and tumble" play, which is a staple of Dog Food Academy's philosophies. If nothing else, this book is worth the read just for that chapter alone.
The first of it's kind, this book explores the neuroscience behind our emotions - which is a big deal. Being able to reference a part of the brain and say "this is how fear works" is paramount to an evidence-based approach.
Most notably, this book is the origin of the term "rough and tumble" play, which is a staple of Dog Food Academy's philosophies. If nothing else, this book is worth the read just for that chapter alone.
Animal Behavior
For Shelter Veterinarians and Staff
A wonderful guide on creating environments that heal (mostly applies to professional settings)
Description coming soon!
Description coming soon!
