Don't Shoot the Dog!: The New Art of Teaching and Training by Karen Pryor

Karen Pryor's Don't Shoot the Dog! is a groundbreaking work in the area of animal behavior and learning theory that has been studied and applied in many diverse fields, such as education and psychology. Pryor's book has been an invaluable resource for those seeking to learn ways to modify behavior constructively when it does not conform to the values of an individual or society.

The book is a succinct but comprehensive guide to understanding animal behavior and learning theory, as well as techniques for teaching and training animals. It is organized into sections on classical and operant conditioning, as well as positive and negative reinforcement. Pryor also addresses issues related to reinforcement schedules, as well as other powerful aspects of learning for animals such as motivation and habituation.

One of the core themes of Don't Shoot the Dog! is that harsh physical punishment and repression of behavior is often counterproductive when it comes to training and teaching animals. She emphasizes the use of positive reinforcement, reinforcement schedules, and other such techniques instead. Pryor also stresses the importance of understanding the underlying motives and emotions behind any given behavior, and encourages trainers to adjust their approach accordingly.

Reflecting the trend of a shift from harsh punishment to understanding and empathy in education, Pryor's book is also applicable to teaching and training people. Don't Shoot the Dog! shows readers how to apply its concepts in areas such as classroom management, corporate training, and parenting. She also provides concrete examples of how these same principles can be applied to interpersonal relationships, to help people recognize and modify undesired behavior.

Overall, Don't Shoot the Dog! is an invaluable resource for trainers, teachers and parents alike. Its combination of accessible language, clear scientific principles and applications in a variety of contexts make it an indispensable guide to understanding animal behavior and learning theory. The book is a highly practical guide on how to modify behavior in a more humane, effective and lasting manner.