Your Questions About Dog Training Books

What is the best dog training book you would recommend?!?

Dog Problems (Howell Reference Books) (Paperback)
by Carol Lea Benjamin

The Perfect Puppy (How to Choose Your Dog By Its Behavior) by Benjamin and Lynette Hart

Second-Hand Dog: How to Turn Yours into a First-Rate Pet (Howell Reference Books) by Carol Lea Benjamin

Any of the Dog Training for Dummies books!

How to deal with an aggressive dog?

I rescued a large-breed dog a few months ago. He exhibited the usual signs of anxiety and disobedience as expected but nothing that raised red flags for me. He quickly learned new commands and adapted to his new home. Later on, his previous family let it slip that he was attacked by their dogs on several occasions and gotten in a fight with one of the dogs. Of course, what I thought were mere signs of disobedience (lunging at other dogs during walks, barking, etc) now started to look more like signs of aggression. Although I’ve worked with aggressive dogs before, I never dealt with dogs who’ve actually were in dog fights.

I enrolled the help of an animal behavioralist. After spending way too much money, she told me that my dog is fine and simply needs some positive reinforcement.

I continuously worked with my dog…utilizing any reasonable disciplinary measures I could find in dog training books, articles ,etc. I hired a knowledgeable individual to work with my dog when I’m away. Basically, I can honestly say that I’ve tried everything by now but my dog‘s aggression has not changed even at the slightest.

We are no longer welcome at our local dog park because my dog tried to attack a boxer without a reason. I have to be extra cautious when I take my dog on walks because he tries to lunge at any other dog we encounter.

It’s gotten to the point where I’m not sure if I can rehabilitate this dog. I’ve considered putting him to sleep because I’m not sure what else I can do.

Anyone with the same experience? Anyone with success stories or pointers or advice?

Thank you in advance.
At this point, I do walk him on a short leash and sternly say “No”. When he sees another dog, it’s like he’s in a trance. You could probably put a bone in his face and he’ll just continue lunging and barking. I tried positive reinforcement (treats when he follows commands) and that only works when no one else is around. I’ve tried spritzing him with water per the behaviorist’s suggestion. Doesn’t work either. I’ve never had that problem before and I’ve worked with some very bratty dogs.

As far as giving him back is concerned, the family refuses to take him back. Besides, he was very neglected when I got him. I wouldn’t be able to live with myself if I returned him to a household where the dogs constantly fight.

John Miller dog trainer book and recipes: are you familiar with them?

Got an email about recipes and a dog training book by John Miller. Can’t find the material on Amazon, so as there were no excerpts, etc. was wondering if any of you were familiar with either his 245 dog food recipes or training tips and how you evaluated them. Yes, has a money back guarantee, but too often those are hard to get folks to follow through on. Simpler to look for folks who’ve used the material and can give some decent evaluation of the work.