Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training, Vol. 1: Adaptation and Learning

Lindsay puts the entire science of dog training and behavior into perspective, with astonishing completeness, brilliant organization, and elegant writing. He sorts through the history of our knowledge of dogs, discriminating between that which is good science and that which is not-so-good science. He compares and contrasts the theories and experiments of every person who has had anything to say that's relevant to what we know about dogs, including those from the fields of human and other species learning.

I especially appreciated the outlines at the beginning of every chapter, and the bibliographies at the end of every chapter (as well as at the end of the book). Some of the content is of special interest to me, and he makes it easy for me to go straight to the original sources.

His discussion of aversive training is outstanding, clarifying what has been a much misunderstood area in the last few years. And in spite of the scientific approach ("what do we really know"), Lindsay is able to discuss the softer issues of animal awareness and mysticism with touching grace.

The sheer quantity of literature that Lindsay has read and digested - and summarized for our benefit - is absolutely mindboggling. This book is a must-read for anyone who has a serious interest in dogs.


Highly recommended   October 12, 2000
61 out of 62 found this review helpful

The author succesfully tries to offer a thorough and detailed view of what is known and what isn't known about dog behavior and learning. His approach is above all scientific, which doesn't mean he avoids phenomena like ESP etc., nor does he simply give a description of the autorities' viewpoints. Lindsay also carefully analyses everything commonly accepted by laymen and experts, without resorting to emotional arguments. His systematic and straightforward 'nothing to hide' approach as well as his concern to include all practices and opinions certainly makes this book an authoritative study which counterbalances a lot of 'extreme' books on dog training (like Jean Donaldsons controversial book 'the culture clash' or the Koehler books).

For everything said in the book, scientific research and logical reasoning serves as basis, and sentimentality doesn't get a chance. Lindsay clearly stresses the reasons behind behavioral tactics and leaves the choice to the reader, providing all scientific facts necessary to support your decision. His view on the use of aversives is the most enlightening and waterproof explication I've read on why, how and when to use it -- or not...

Lindsay concentrates a lot on theoretical models to understand all kinds of phenomena. He never annoyed by giving too much information. Monuments of psychology like Skinner and Thorndike are equally critically analyzed as less famous men and at all time Lindsay remains consistent in his application of a thorough scientific approach to clearify and explain.

It isn't a cheap book, but it certainly lived up to my (high) expectations. The reference section at the end of each chapter provides a good means of exploring more studies and Lindsay doesn't hesitate to give suggestion for further reading. He acknowledges without hesitation the accomplishments of other people without idealizing them (he criticizes Skinners and Thorndikes view on punishment etc.).

I think it will take a long time before a more open and thorough book on dog behavior will appear. Therefore, if you want a book that gives a complete and detailed account of what is known on dog behavior and that provides a solid basis to expand your knowledge (even very rare phenomena are treated in detail), I would certainly recommend this book. The only negative thing about it I could think of, is the price -- and even then...


Immense knowledgebase of info on K9 behavior   September 18, 2003
Rick Van Hazel (Phoenix, AZ)
33 out of 35 found this review helpful

I got a new puppy about 6 months ago. This was just about a 2 year process that involved searching out a specific breed that fit my personality and lifestyle and reading piles (Probably $500 worth) of books about raising puppies, training, specific breed books, etc. Mainly because I have always been deathly afraid of owning that unruly dog would be a nightmare to have around the house.

Of the 20 books that I have, this book is by far the most in depth and well researched of all. Most books on the subject of dogs in general are short overviews that should take care of some specific needs, such as potty training, obedience, tricks, etc. This book has a culmination of 100+ years of scientific research and other case studies of not only dogs but of the behavior mentally and physically of other creatures and how they apply to dogs. There is so much information to soak in, its incredible. I read through it occasionally had to sit back in awe thinking about what i've just read and how many things make sense now.

I seriously think that most books will get 90% of dog owners by without a problem. This book is for those 10%, or breeders, trainers who need to have that extra level of knowledge. I'd compare it to needing a cupfull of knowledge and receiving 5 gallons instead.


An Incredible Resource for Trainers & Others   April 9, 2007
Nicole Wilde (California)
11 out of 11 found this review helpful

The first thing to know about this book is that it is not an "easy read," but more of a textbook. That said, it is invaluable reading for professional trainers--in fact, I am on the faculty and advisory board of the Companion Animal Sciences Institute and Lindsay's books are required reading in many of our courses. The Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training should appeal to canine professionals as well as anyone looking for an in-depth analysis of canine origins, neurobiology and behavior. This is the first of Lindsay's comprehensive three-volume set. It begins with the origins of dogs, covers the neurobiology of behavior and learning, and sensory abilities of dogs. The behavior section goes to great lengths describing classical and operant conditioning, the effect of aversives on behavior, and much more. A multitude of fascinating studies are referenced throughout the book. Again, although this book is more technical and dense than most on the subject, it is an invaluable resource that you will find yourself referring back to again and again.
- Nicole Wilde, author So You Want to be a Dog Trainer (2nd edition) and Help for Your Fearful Dog: A Step-by-Step Guide to Helping Your Dog Conquer His Fears


A must for those who value science-based research!   August 23, 2008
carol (Wisconsin)
6 out of 6 found this review helpful

I'm not a professional trainer, just a lifelong owner of multiple dogs. I also volunteer at a humane society, so I interact with a wide range of dogs on a non-professional level. Material in this book helps provide the foundation for understanding what trainers are doing and why it may work--or not! If you plan to be a professional, this book is a must.

The only downside to this book for some people will be that it is written at the collegiate level. It reminds me of any number of psychology and biology textbooks in college courses--the comprehensive ones that cover the genre from start to end! I end up taking notes while I'm reading, because there is so much there that I want to integrate into my approach. He presents information, shows how it can be applied to practice and proves his points with studies. Actually, sections are eerily applicable to human interaction. I'm a firm believer in using evidenced-based science guide practice, and Lindsay is exacting and detailed. He doesn't preach as much as present research and draw conclusions.

I only regret the generations of wolves and dogs that had to suffer to gain this knowledge. Read it and apply it, because some of the studies done to gain this knowledge could never be ethically replicated again (such as over-reactivity in sensory-stimulus deprived environments).

Contents include:
Origins and Domestication (of dogs)
Development of Behavior (in puppies)
Neurobiology of Behavior and Learning, which includes sections on motivation, fear, aggression, attachment and compulsive behaviors (see how interesting all this is!)
Sensory Abilities--knowing the dog's abilities helps target learning
Biological and Dispositional Constraints in Learning--has interesting sections on genetic strains with breeds and within breeds such as the 'nervous pointers'
Classical Conditioning
Instrumental Learning
Aversive Control of Behavior, including avoidence learning and punishment
Learning and Behavioral Disturbances
Human-Dog Companionship--the signficance of the relationship between people and dogs, and when it breaks down.