Books About Training Animals

The Best Training Animals Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about training animals? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

Rusty
#54 in Series
The New Pony
Series
Pinkalicious and the Pinkadorable Pony
Marley
Series
The Shortlist

Our 9 Favorite Books About Training Animals

John Philip Duck
Sale price
$1899
Picture Book · Ages 6–9 · 2004

John Philip Duck

By Patricia Polacco

A boy must train ducks to secure their place at a grand hotel.

48 pages· 2,485 words· Est. 20 min read-aloud
4.1/5 Goodreads · 582 ratings
$19.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: In Depression-era Memphis, young Edward's beloved duck, John Philip, causes a stir at the Peabody Hotel. To keep his feathered friend, Edward must train a team of ducks to march and swim in the hotel's fountain. Can Edward's creativity and determination turn this challenge into a lifelong tradition? Discover the heartwarming tale of a boy, his duck, and an unexpected opportunity that could change everything.
Pinkerton, Behave!
Sale price
$858
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 1979

Pinkerton, Behave!

By Steven Kellogg

A dog's mischief turns heroic when a burglar strikes.

32 pages· 343 words· Est. 3 min read-aloud
3.9/5 Goodreads · 682 ratings
$8.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Pinkerton, a dog with a knack for misunderstanding commands, turns his chaotic habits into heroics when a burglar invades his home. Can his owners see the value in his quirks?
I Am Ingrid
Sale price
$1797
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2025

I Am Ingrid

By Aria Mia Loberti, Vivienne To (Illustrator)

A puppy dreams of becoming a guide dog, facing challenges and adventures along the way.

48 pages· 1,117 words· Est. 9 min read-aloud
4.4/5 Goodreads · 101 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Ingrid, a spirited puppy with big dreams, embarks on a journey to become a guide dog. From playful beginnings to rigorous training, she learns the discipline needed to assist her human, Aria. As they navigate college, ancient ruins, and movie sets, Ingrid's determination is tested. Will she overcome the challenges to become the best guide dog? Discover the heartwarming tale of teamwork and perseverance, complete with insights into the world of guide dogs and the real-life adventures of Ingrid and Aria.
Problem Pup
Sale price
$2469
Chapter Book · Ages 6–8 · 2014

Problem Pup

By Diana G. Gallagher, Adriana Puglisi (Illustrator) · Pet Friends Forever series

Two boys must tame their unruly dogs before chaos ensues.

88 pages· 6,483 words· Est. 1 hour read
2.7/5 Goodreads · 7 ratings
$25.99Save 5%
Library Binding
Summary: Kyle's dog, Rex, is causing chaos at the vet clinic. Desperate for a solution, Kyle takes Rex to the dog park, where he meets another boy with a mischievous pup. Together, they face the challenge of training their dogs before things spiral out of control. Can they succeed in time?
Albert's Amazing Snail
Sale price
$759
Picture Book · Ages 4–6 · 2012

Albert's Amazing Snail

By Eleanor May, Deborah Melmon (Illustrator) · Mouse Math series

Can Albert's pet snail learn new tricks, or is Flash not as smart as he seems?

32 pages· 657 words· Est. 6 min read-aloud
3.7/5 Goodreads · 25 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Albert, a curious mouse, is thrilled with his new pet snail, Flash. He believes Flash can master any trick, but is the snail truly as clever as Albert hopes? As Albert and his sister Wanda explore the world of numbers and shapes, they also discover the challenges of teaching and learning. With each attempt, Albert's patience and creativity are tested. Will Flash surprise them all, or will Albert learn a different lesson about expectations and friendship? Dive into this charming tale where math meets adventure, and every page brings a new discovery.
Rusty
Sale price
$574
Chapter Book · Ages 7–10 · 2019

Rusty

By Ellen Miles · Book #54 in the The Puppy Place series

Can Lizzie train Rusty, an energetic Irish setter, before camp ends?

96 pages· 11,221 words· Est. 1.5 hour read
4.3/5 Goodreads · 115 ratings
$5.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: At animal camp, Lizzie is thrilled to be assigned Rusty, a lively Irish setter. With just a week to teach him new tricks, Lizzie faces a challenge that tests her patience and skills. Will she succeed in transforming Rusty into a well-behaved pup, or will his boundless energy prove too much? As the days tick by, Lizzie must find creative ways to connect with Rusty and help him shine. Can she rise to the occasion and make Rusty her perfect Pet Pal?
The New Pony
Sale price
$574
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2013

The New Pony

By Catherine Hapka, Anne Kennedy (Illustrator) · Pony Scouts series

A young girl helps train a new pony on her family's farm.

32 pages· 588 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud
4.0/5 Goodreads · 120 ratings
$5.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Jill and the Pony Scouts face an exciting challenge when Taffy, a beautiful but unridden palomino pony, arrives at the farm. With patience and love, can they help Taffy become part of their family? As they work to tame the spirited pony, the Scouts learn valuable lessons about trust and teamwork. Will Taffy find her place among them, or will the task prove too daunting? Join the Pony Scouts on this heartwarming adventure filled with friendship and discovery, perfect for young horse enthusiasts eager to explore the world of riding and caring for ponies.
Pinkalicious and the Pinkadorable Pony
Sale price
$474
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2020

Pinkalicious and the Pinkadorable Pony

By Victoria Kann

A miniature pony escapes. Can she be found?

32 pages· 575 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud
3.6/5 Goodreads · 91 ratings
$4.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: At Pink Pines Ranch, Pinkalicious encounters a charming miniature pony. But when the tiny pony escapes, it's up to Pinkalicious to track her down. Will she succeed in this delightful adventure?
Marley
Sale price
$1248
Chapter Book · 2008

Marley

By John Grogan · Marley series

A mischievous dog turns a family's life upside down. Can he ever behave?

196 pages· 22,034 words
4.3/5 Goodreads · 6,576 ratings
$12.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Meet Marley, the Grogan family's new Labrador retriever, whose boundless energy and mischief know no bounds. From devouring jewelry to flunking obedience school, Marley tests the limits of chaos and love. As his antics escalate, the Grogans must decide if this lovable troublemaker can ever become the well-behaved companion they hoped for. Will Marley find his place in the family, or will his wild spirit prove too much to handle? Discover the heartwarming journey of a dog who teaches his family about patience, love, and the true meaning of home.
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