What are the best books for training dogs to stop being overly submissive to other dogs?

Training a dog to stop being overly submissive to other dogs requires a combination of understanding canine behavior, building confidence, and using positive reinforcement techniques. Several books provide excellent guidance on this topic, written by experts in dog behavior and training. Below is a detailed list of recommended books, along with explanations of why they are helpful and how they can be applied to address submissive behavior in dogs.

1. The Culture Clash by Jean Donaldson
This book is a classic in dog training literature and provides a deep understanding of dog behavior from a scientific perspective. Jean Donaldson explains how dogs perceive the world and why they exhibit certain behaviors, including submissiveness. The book emphasizes positive reinforcement and offers practical advice on how to build a dog's confidence. It is particularly useful for understanding the root causes of submissive behavior and how to address them through training.

2. Control Unleashed by Leslie McDevitt
Control Unleashed is an excellent resource for dogs that are overly submissive or reactive. The book focuses on building confidence and focus in dogs through games and exercises. Leslie McDevitt provides step-by-step instructions for helping dogs feel more secure in social situations, which is crucial for reducing submissive behavior. The techniques in this book are especially helpful for dogs that struggle with anxiety or fear around other dogs.

3. Decoding Your Dog by the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists
This book is written by a team of veterinary behaviorists and offers a comprehensive look at dog behavior and training. It includes chapters on social behavior, fear, and anxiety, which are directly relevant to addressing submissiveness. The book provides evidence-based advice on how to help dogs feel more confident and secure, using positive reinforcement and desensitization techniques. It also explains when to seek professional help for more severe cases of submissive behavior.

4. The Power of Positive Dog Training by Pat Miller
Pat Miller's book is a practical guide to positive reinforcement training, which is essential for building a dog's confidence. The book includes detailed instructions on how to train basic obedience commands, as well as more advanced techniques for addressing behavioral issues. Miller emphasizes the importance of creating a positive and supportive environment for dogs, which can help reduce submissive tendencies. The book also includes tips for managing interactions with other dogs in a way that promotes confidence.

5. Behavior Adjustment Training 2.0 by Grisha Stewart
This book focuses on helping dogs with fear, anxiety, and reactivity, which are often underlying causes of submissive behavior. Grisha Stewart's BAT (Behavior Adjustment Training) method uses positive reinforcement to help dogs feel more comfortable in challenging situations. The book provides clear, step-by-step instructions for implementing BAT, making it a valuable resource for owners of overly submissive dogs. It also includes advice on how to manage interactions with other dogs to prevent reinforcing submissive behavior.

Practical Tips and Recommendations:
- Start with basic obedience training to build your dog's confidence and establish a strong bond. Commands like sit, stay, and come can help your dog feel more secure in social situations.
- Use positive reinforcement to reward confident behavior. For example, if your dog approaches another dog without showing submissive behavior, reward them with treats or praise.
- Gradually expose your dog to other dogs in controlled environments. Start with calm, well-behaved dogs and gradually increase the level of interaction as your dog becomes more confident.
- Avoid punishing or scolding your dog for submissive behavior, as this can increase anxiety and make the problem worse.
- Consider enrolling your dog in a group training class or working with a professional trainer who specializes in behavior modification.

Potential Risks and Concerns:
- Overly submissive behavior can sometimes be a sign of underlying anxiety or fear. If your dog's submissiveness is accompanied by other signs of anxiety, such as trembling, panting, or avoidance, it may be necessary to consult a veterinary behaviorist.
- Pushing your dog too quickly into social situations can backfire and increase their anxiety. Always proceed at a pace that is comfortable for your dog.

When to Seek Professional Help:
If your dog's submissive behavior is severe or does not improve with training, it may be necessary to seek help from a professional. A certified dog trainer or veterinary behaviorist can provide personalized guidance and develop a behavior modification plan tailored to your dog's needs.

In conclusion, addressing overly submissive behavior in dogs requires patience, understanding, and consistent training. The books listed above provide valuable insights and practical techniques for helping your dog build confidence and feel more secure in social situations. By using positive reinforcement and gradually exposing your dog to other dogs, you can help them overcome submissive tendencies and develop a more balanced and confident demeanor.