Abby is my Dog Trainer
How Theory Guides Positive Dog Training
by John McAlpine

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Prior to the summer of 2011, John had no particular interest in dogs or dog training. But after a dog responded to a friendly wave with a bite to his calf, John’s curiosity was piqued. Why did the dog respond that way? Was there anything he could have done differently? Then, like kismet, came a wonderful opportunity for an education in dog behavior in the form of a beautiful, long-coat German shepherd named Abby. Through Abby came schooling in how dogs’ minds work, what training techniques are effective, and (maybe more importantly) what doesn’t work when training dogs. Abby is my Dog Trainer brings these lessons to you, drawing on John’s time with Abby, his background in psychology and social work, and knowledge gained by reading over 100 books on dog training. Rather than focusing on specific training techniques, this book discusses: • Practical examples of training told in stories of John’s time with Abby, as well as funny and touching tales any pet owner can relate to • An understanding of dog behavior, learning theory, and psychological theory underlying training techniques • The power of positive, non-punitive dog training • And more! Join John as he learns from Abby about the world of dog training, as well as an even more important lesson: how special the bond with a dog can be and how the right approach to training can strengthen that bond.

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John has a BA in psychology and a master’s degree in social work. He and his wife are retired and live in Ottawa, Canada, with their cockapoo, Shadow.

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Contributors

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John McAlpine