Scent Work for Dogs: How to Start, Why it Matters & Easy Games to Try with Dianna Santos of Scent Work University
Has your dog played the sniffy game yet today?
Today we’re joined by Dianna Santos, founder of Scent Work University, to explore one of the most powerful — and fun — activities you can do with your dog: scent work. Whether you’ve heard it called nose work or scent work, this enriching game taps into your dog’s natural superpower — their incredible sense of smell.
We’ll dive into why scent work is especially beneficial for reactive and fearful dogs, including how it has helped my own nervous senior guy. Dianna explains how scent work provides the kind of mental stimulation that can actually tire dogs out faster than physical exercise, making it a great option for any lifestyle.
You’ll also learn simple ways to get started at home with easy games, plus tips for introducing scent work to puppies, seniors, and even dogs with special needs.
Whether you’re curious about enriching your dog’s daily life, looking for ways to support a reactive pup, or simply want a fun new activity to strengthen your bond, this episode will show you how scent work can transform your relationship with your dog — and why it’s the most important game you’re not playing yet.
Find links, show notes & your FREE PDF Scent Work Game at:
https://believeindogpodcast.com/episodes-1/episode128
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Checking In on Our 2025 Dog Goals
Did you set goals for you & your dog this year?
Back in February, I shared the goals I set for myself & my dogs in 2025 — and now that we’re a little more than halfway through the year, it’s time for a check-in!
I’m sharing our progress (and setbacks!) not just to update you, but for my own accountability.
In this solo episode, you’ll hear:
· Where we’re at with each of the goals I set at the start of the year;
· The big thing we accomplished that wasn’t on the list;
· What I’ve taken off our 2025 Goals list — and why; and
· The updated plan for the rest of the year.
Whether your dog goals involve training, sports, adventures, or simply enjoying more time together, I hope this inspires you to pause, reflect, and celebrate your progress — even if your year looks different than you planned.
Find links and show notes at:
https://believeindogpodcast.com/episodes-1/episode127
Did you get the Pet Parent "Gut Check" yet? Get your Free Checklist: 12 Changes in Your Dog to Never Ignore (even if they seem small)
Support this podcast with a review: on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser.
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Old Dog, New Dog: When’s the right time for your next family member? with Kathy Callahan and Helen St. Pierre
If you have a senior dog in your home, when’s the right time to bring a new dog into the mix? For longtime dog trainers Kathy Callahan and Helen St. Pierre, the answer isn’t simple – it depends – on your dog, your household and your bandwidth.
Kathy & Helen share with us what inspired their collaboration on their new book Old Dog, New Dog: Supporting Your Aging Best Friend and Welcoming a New One and open up about the deep emotions that come with caring for senior dogs – including that fear of finding yourself in a “zero dog house.”
We’ll speak candidly about how to be honest with ourselves about the emotional toll of aging pets, and how to prepare realistically if you're considering adding a puppy (or another adult dog) to your home.
Kathy & Helen weigh in on setting appropriate expectations, building a support system, and what to watch for when it comes to changes in your senior dog’s health and behavior. We’ll also learn the best practices for introductions that will give both your old and new dog the best chance at a harmonious relationship.
Whether you're currently living with a beloved old dog, recently said goodbye, or are contemplating what comes next, Kathy & Helen offer guidance, perspective and compassion for wherever you are on the journey.
Find links and show notes at:
https://believeindogpodcast.com/episodes-1/episode126
Get your free checklist: Join Erin the Dog Mom's email list to receive the 12 Changes in Your Dog to Never Ignore checklist.
Teef: The easiest way to improve your dog’s dental health is with a spoonful of Teef powder in their water. Save 20% on your Teef orders when you use the code: ADM.
Support this podcast with a review: on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser.
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REPLAY: How to do Sport Search & Rescue with Your Dog with Melissa Stagnaro
REPLAY:
If you can name a Dog Sport, Melissa Stagnaro has most likely tried it at some point over the past 20 years. And today we’re so fortunate to have Melissa sharing tips and insight from her years of experience. I loved her canine enrichment idea for dogs recovering from an injury!
But did you know that you can learn the sport of Search & Rescue? If you’ve ever wanted your dog to learn how to find someone in the woods or track a scent trail, there’s a sport for that!
Commonly referred to as “RH,” the dog sport of Search & Rescue is open to dogs of all ages, breeds and backgrounds.
Melissa shares with us all about RH and how to get your dog started. I’m always curious about how to start teaching your dog the more advanced skills and Melissa gives us a great breakdown of how to approach training sessions.
Plus, I got to meet Melissa and many other Search & Rescue competitors at a recent Mock Trial and I’m sharing everything I learned at the event.
Find Links & Show Notes at:
https://believeindogpodcast.com/episodes-1/episode48
Teef: The easiest way to improve your dog’s dental health is with a spoonful of Teef powder in their water. Save 20% on your Teef orders when you use the code: ADM
Support this podcast, subscribe on your favorite app and leave a rating or review.
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REPLAY: Can Dogs Be Neurodiverse? How Sharon Vincuilla Helps Dogs Who Experience the World Differently
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Have you ever been around a dog who doesn’t “dog” like other dogs? Maybe you’ve experienced a dog who is reactive or has separation anxiety or a noise-phobia?
Sharon Vincuilla and I explore how dogs (and people!) can experience the world differently and how neurodiversity shows up in a dog’s behavior. And Sharon has experienced this first-hand with her dog, Muggins!
Sharon found that life with Muggins was even triggering her own trauma. Seemingly ordinary life events like walking the dog or having a friend stop by her house would turn into stressful ordeals with Muggins.
Leaning on her work as both a dog trainer and an Occupational Therapist, Sharon shares with us the strategies she developed that allow both her and Muggins to thrive. And she teaches us strategies we can incorporate into our lives with our dogs who might “dog” a little differently.
Find Links & Show Notes at:
https://believeindogpodcast.com/episodes-1/episode80
Teef: The easiest way to improve your dog’s dental health is with a spoonful of Teef powder in their water. Save 20% on your Teef orders when you use the code: ADM
Support this podcast, subscribe on your favorite app and leave a rating or review.
Are you looking for deep dive conversations into topics like dog training & behavior issues, the best health & nutrition options for your dog or an honest look at rescues, shelters & the animal welfare world?
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