From Training to Welfare: A Shift in Thinking with Kim Brophey
What if many dog behavior problems aren't actually problems at all, but symptoms of unmet welfare needs? In this thought-provoking conversation with applied ethologist Kim Brophey, we explore how the LEGS model (Learning, Environment, Genetics, Self) has evolved to reshape our understanding of canine behavior and welfare in modern environments.Kim explains why behavioral diversity serves as both a critical welfare need and a powerful measurement tool. When dogs can express a wide range of natural behaviors, from foraging and exploration to appropriate hazard management...with agency and autonomy, they thrive. Yet in today's captive environments, many dogs lack these opportunities, leading to what we label as "problem behaviors."The discussion takes us deep into the five domains model of animal welfare and how it applies to our companion dogs. While we've generally excelled at meeting biological needs like nutrition and health, we've significantly neglected the fourth domain of behavioral interactions and the natural living needs that are fundamental to a dog's wellbeing. This creates a mismatch between a dog's genetic design and the environment they actually live in.Family Dog Mediation:https://familydogmediation.com/The Aggression in Dogs Master Course and Expert Webinar Bundle Offer! Only 50 bundles will be available. Offer expires October 31st, 2025! https://aggressivedog.thinkific.com/bundles/the-aggression-in-dogs-master-course-and-expert-webinar-bundle-2025 Learn more about options for help for dogs with aggression here:AggressiveDog.comLearn more about our annual Aggression in Dogs Conference here:The Aggression in Dogs ConferenceSubscribe to the bonus episodes available here:The Bitey End of the Dog Bonus EpisodesCheck out all of our webinars, courses, and educational content here:Webinars, courses, and more!
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Beyond Training: The Medical Side of Aggression with Dr. Maggie O'Brian
In this fascinating conversation with Dr. Maggie O'Brian, one of North Carolina's few board-certified veterinary behaviorists, we have an enlightening discussion about the clinical side of animal behavior.Dr. O'Brian takes us through the reality of treating complex behavior cases, where the line between medical and behavioral issues often blurs. She shares surprising insights about pain as an underlying factor in aggression, including the eye-opening statistic that 25% of dogs under four already have arthritis, and how addressing physical discomfort can sometimes completely transform a dog's behavior. One memorable case involved a Golden Retriever whose severe resource guarding disappeared entirely after pain treatment, leading the owners to exclaim, "We didn't know she had a personality!"Whether you're a pet professional or simply trying to understand your own dog's puzzling behavior, this episode offers a compelling look at the intersection of medicine, behavior, and the powerful human-animal bond. Check out Dr. O'Brian's practice at Southeast Animal Behavior and Training, or explore their virtual options for nationwide consultation.https://www.southeastanimalbehavior.vet/meet-the-teamThe Aggression in Dogs Master Course and Expert Webinar Bundle Offer! Only 50 bundles will be available. Offer expires October 31st, 2025! https://aggressivedog.thinkific.com/bundles/the-aggression-in-dogs-master-course-and-expert-webinar-bundle-2025 Learn more about options for help for dogs with aggression here:AggressiveDog.comLearn more about our annual Aggression in Dogs Conference here:The Aggression in Dogs ConferenceSubscribe to the bonus episodes available here:The Bitey End of the Dog Bonus EpisodesCheck out all of our webinars, courses, and educational content here:Webinars, courses, and more!
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Crossing the Line: Thresholds and Leash Reactivity with Jessica Wheatcraft
Ever wondered why some dogs transform from perfect companions at home to reactive dynamos the moment a leash gets clipped on? Jessica Wheatcraft returns to discuss the complex world of leash reactivity with clarity and compassion that both dog guardians and professionals will appreciate.This conversation goes beyond simplistic solutions by exploring the subtle body language cues that signal stress long before barking begins. Jessica expertly differentiates leash reactivity from aggression, explaining how a dog's motivation on leash often stems from frustration rather than intimidation. "The dog's behavior on a leash can be very different than their behavior off of a leash to the same exact stimulus," she notes, highlighting how context dramatically changes a dog's responses.What makes this episode particularly valuable is the practical framework Jessica provides for understanding thresholds. Rather than viewing them as single breaking points, she describes thresholds as doorways or transitions where behavior changes in observable ways. Learn to recognize when your dog crosses these thresholds through subtle signs like increased respiration, closed mouth, facial tension, or raised tail carriage. This awareness allows handlers to intervene effectively before reactions escalate!About Jessica:https://www.jessicawheatcraft.com/about/The Aggression in Dogs Master Course and Expert Webinar Bundle Offer! Only 50 bundles will be available. Offer expires October 31st, 2025! https://aggressivedog.thinkific.com/bundles/the-aggression-in-dogs-master-course-and-expert-webinar-bundle-2025 Learn more about options for help for dogs with aggression here:AggressiveDog.comLearn more about our annual Aggression in Dogs Conference here:The Aggression in Dogs ConferenceSubscribe to the bonus episodes available here:The Bitey End of the Dog Bonus EpisodesCheck out all of our webinars, courses, and educational content here:Webinars, courses, and more!
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Emotional Regulation: The Missing Piece in Dog Training
Ever wondered why your perfectly planned training techniques sometimes fall flat, despite your best efforts? The missing piece might not be in your training toolkit at all. It could be your emotional state.Max Seifert, certified dog behavior consultant and creator of the Connection Over Control approach, takes us deep into the fascinating world of emotional regulation in dog training. While traditional approaches focus heavily on operant conditioning and behavior modification, Max reveals how our nervous systems directly impact our dogs' ability to learn and respond. Drawing from attachment theory, affective neuroscience, and his own extensive case experience, Max demonstrates why the emotional connection between handler and dog often determines training success.About Max:https://www.shoprosiestailtraining.com/blank-1The Aggression in Dogs Master Course and Expert Webinar Bundle Offer! Only 50 bundles will be available. Offer expires October 31st, 2025! https://aggressivedog.thinkific.com/bundles/the-aggression-in-dogs-master-course-and-expert-webinar-bundle-2025 Learn more about options for help for dogs with aggression here:AggressiveDog.comLearn more about our annual Aggression in Dogs Conference here:The Aggression in Dogs ConferenceSubscribe to the bonus episodes available here:The Bitey End of the Dog Bonus EpisodesCheck out all of our webinars, courses, and educational content here:Webinars, courses, and more!
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Laughter, Lessons, and Legends. A special episode with Patricia McConnell and Karen London
When two legends of dog behavior sit down to share their wisdom, you listen. In this special mid-season bonus episode, I'm joined by Dr. Patricia McConnell and Dr. Karen London, two pioneers whose books, research, and teaching have shaped modern dog training for decades.What makes someone successful in the challenging field of professional dog training? As we discover through candid stories and genuine reflection, it's not about perfection but rather creativity, adaptability, and a healthy dose of humor. From Karen's emergency "tissue treat" that became an unexpected jackpot reward to Patricia's memorable response when her demo dog peed on a client's pants: "And you too can have a dog who's as well-trained as mine!"Beyond the laughs, we explore the profound reality of working with aggression cases. Patricia shares her experience with nightmares featuring dogs' teeth that counterintuitively helped desensitize her to fear, while Karen reflects on sitting in on severe cases during her training. Their insights reveal the complex psychological aspects of this work rarely discussed in training circles, and highlight what every dog trainer needs to know. Pre-Order Away to Me:Amazon:https://amzn.to/3HUyIdrBarnes and Noble:https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/away-to-me-patricia-b-mcconnell/1147476852?ean=9781496757111Bookshop:https://bookshop.org/p/books/away-to-me-patricia-b-mcconnell/22714340?ean=9781496757111&next=tAbout Dr. Patricia McConnell:https://www.patriciamcconnell.com/about-patricia/Dr. Karen London's books:https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0045AV5G4?ccs_id=4c59d237-8569-47af-aa48-6a2441fda383The Aggression in Dogs Master Course and Expert Webinar Bundle Offer! Only 50 bundles will be available. Offer expires October 31st, 2025! https://aggressivedog.thinkific.com/bundles/the-aggression-in-dogs-master-course-and-expert-webinar-bundle-2025 Learn more about options for help for dogs with aggression here:AggressiveDog.comLearn more about our annual Aggression in Dogs Conference here:The Aggression in Dogs ConferenceSubscribe to the bonus episodes available here:The Bitey End of the Dog Bonus EpisodesCheck out all of our webinars, courses, and educational content here:Webinars, courses, and more!
A podcast dedicated to helping dogs with aggression issues. Michael Shikashio CDBC chats with experts from around the world on the topic of aggression in dogs!
New Zealand