A New Dog Owner's Survival Guide

Bringing a new dog into your home is one of life’s great joys. Whether you’ve adopted an adult rescue or are wrestling a gremlin-sized puppy who thinks your hands are chew toys, you’re starting a relationship that’s part love story, part learning curve.

But let’s be real: the internet is a mess. You’ll find a thousand opinions on how to stop a dog from jumping, barking, biting, pulling - and half of them contradict the other half. That’s why it helps to build your knowledge from trusted sources - people who know dogs, understand behaviour, and aren’t just shouting into the algorithm for clicks.

So here’s your starter pack: five great books, five YouTube channels, and five podcasts that will help you train smarter, understand more, and (hopefully) yell less.

Will everyone agree with these picks? Absolutely not. But this isn’t about promoting a single ideology - it’s about giving you a balanced foundation and a chance to discover what works for you and your dog.

AI-generated image of a dog reading a book

Five Foundational Books for Every New Dog Owner

Books might feel a bit retro in the age of reels and short-form tips, but the truth is: a solid book can explain the why behind the how, and that makes all the difference when you’re up at 2 AM Googling “how to stop puppy biting.”

Here are five to start with:

1. The Puppy Primer

By Patricia B. McConnell, Ph.D.

This is the one you want by your side when you’re sleep-deprived, covered in fur, and wondering what you’ve done. It’s a week-by-week roadmap for raising a puppy, using positive methods that make sense even when your brain doesn’t.

Why it’s useful: It’s clear, it’s kind, and it gives you structure during the most chaotic stage of dog ownership. Even adult dog adopters will benefit from the routines and handling advice.

2. Dog Sense: How the New Science of Dog Behaviour Can Make You a Better Friend to Your Pet

By John Bradshaw

Forget alpha theory and dominance talk. Bradshaw, a canine scientist, lays out what we actually know about dogs, and why so much of the popular advice out there needs a serious rethink.

Why it’s useful: It helps you understand your dog’s brain and behaviour on a scientific level, but without the science degree. Great for unlearning myths and starting fresh with the truth.

3. The Power of Positive Dog Training

By Pat Miller

This is your practical guide. It walks you through basic training using reward-based methods - think treats, toys, praise, and structure. It also covers how to troubleshoot common issues, from jumping up to pulling on the lead.

Why it’s useful: It gives you a proper foundation in how to train. Not just what to do, but when and why — and that’s what most new owners actually need.

4. Don’t Shoot the Dog!

By Karen Pryor

This is the OG book on behaviour. It explains reinforcement, timing, shaping, and learning theory in a way that actually makes sense. It’s not just for dog training - it’s for life.

Why it’s useful: If you want to know how to teach anything, this book delivers. It helps you think like a trainer, not just follow instructions, and it will sharpen your instincts more than any TikTok tip ever could.

5. What Your Dog Is Thinking

By Dr. Sabrina Cohen-Hatton & Danny Wells

This one’s for the empathy lovers. It blends psychology, neuroscience, and behaviour into something totally readable — and reminds us that dogs aren’t just learning machines, they’re feeling ones too.

Why it’s useful: You’ll come away with a deeper understanding of how dogs process the world. Less “how do I fix this?” and more “what’s driving this behaviour?” A total mindset shift — in the best way.

AI-generated image of a dog watching YouTube

Five YouTube Channels Worth Subscribing To

Sometimes you need to see what someone’s talking about — especially if your dog is currently hanging off your sleeve. These YouTube channels are trustworthy, practical, and cover a wide range of real-world problems.

1. McCann Dog Training

Clear, family-friendly, and packed with actionable videos on everything from crate training to leash manners. Ideal for beginners who want structure.

Why it’s great: Their tutorials are step-by-step and easy to follow. It’s like having a trainer in your living room, minus the awkward small talk.

2. Kikopup (Emily Larlham)

One of the leading voices in reward-based training, Kikopup is a masterclass in clear mechanics, kind teaching, and real skill.

Why it’s great: If you want to teach your dog using games, shaping, and great timing - this is your blueprint. Plus, her voice is genuinely soothing in a sea of shouty content.

3. Robert Cabral – Canine Conversations

Thoughtful, structured, and balanced. Robert brings years of experience (including work with shelter dogs) and delivers with calm authority.

Why it’s great: He focuses on the relationship first. If you want to understand your dog’s instincts and why things are going wrong, he’s your guy.

4. Tom Davis – No Bad Dogs

Loud? Yes. Helpful? Also yes. Tom is a problem-solver for real-world challenges like leash reactivity, anxiety, and overwhelmed owners.

Why it’s great: He’s motivating, clear, and doesn’t sugarcoat things. Perfect if you’re struggling with confidence or don’t know where to start.

5. Susan Garrett – Dogs That

World champion trainer meets everyday dog owner. Susan teaches focus, fun, and responsiveness using games and smart strategies.

Why it’s great: Her videos turn training into a game — and your dog will thank you. A great fit for owners who want to build connection and skills.

AI-generated image of a dog listen to headphones while out for a walk

Five Podcasts to Learn From While You Walk (or Hide in the Bathroom)

Whether you’re driving, dog-walking, or pretending to fold laundry, podcasts are a brilliant way to level up your understanding without staring at a screen. Here are five that deliver brains and banter in equal measure.

1. No Bad Dogs Podcast

With Tom Davis

Q&A, interviews, and straight-talking training talk. Tom covers common issues and speaks directly to overwhelmed owners trying to do right by their dogs.

Why it’s great: It feels like a conversation with a trainer who actually gets it. Bonus: his guests add even more perspective.

2. The Canine Paradigm

With Pat Stuart & Glenn Cooke

Two Aussie trainers diving deep into theory, ethics, and real-world training. Not fluff — just serious dog talk with the occasional swear.

Why it’s great: It’s honest, nerdy, and challenges lazy thinking. Best listened to with a cuppa and a notepad.

3. Shaped by Dog

With Susan Garrett

Short, snappy episodes packed with insight. Susan is enthusiastic, skilled, and incredibly clear.

Why it’s great: It’s like a mini masterclass every week. Great for owners who want to understand how to teach and why it works.

4. Training Without Conflict

With Ivan Balabanov

Ivan’s a heavyweight in the world of competitive dog training. He doesn’t dumb anything down — and that’s exactly why it’s worth your time.

Why it’s great: It’s more advanced, but deeply thoughtful. Perfect for owners who want to challenge their assumptions and think bigger.

5. The Puppy Training Podcast

With Amy Jensen (Baxter & Bella)

Quick, clear episodes focused entirely on raising a well-rounded puppy.

Why it’s great: Great pacing, real advice, and ideal for sleep-deprived puppy parents who need help now.

Final Thoughts

Bringing a dog home is exciting — and sometimes overwhelming. But here’s the good news: you don’t need to know everything right away. What matters is that you stay curious, stay kind, and build a relationship that works for both of you.

This list isn’t the only set of resources out there, and you definitely don’t need to use them all. But if you’re looking for reliable, well-rounded voices to guide you through those first few weeks (and beyond), these picks are a great place to start.

Your dog doesn’t need a perfect owner. They need a present one. Start there.