Episode 271: More things dog trainers hate to hear

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After the rousing discussion sparked by our previous episode, “Things Dog Trainers Hate to Hear,” it’s clear that the conversation between pet owners and dog trainers is far more nuanced than can be captured by a list of frustrating phrases. The topic was so well-received that we decided to take it a step further in our newest podcast episode, where we delve into how the dynamic between pet owners and trainers is evolving in contemporary society.

Social media platforms, with their host of cute dog videos and quick ‘tips and tricks,’ can both help and hinder the pet owner-trainer relationship. On the one hand, they serve as platforms for trainers to share valuable insights and for pet owners to learn and share. On the other, they can perpetuate harmful myths and encourage unprofessional training techniques, creating a host of challenges for certified trainers to untangle later on.

As we’ve discussed in our latest podcast episode, the relationship between pet owners and dog trainers is constantly evolving. Through this evolution, it’s important to go beyond debunking frustrating phrases or myths and instead focus on the new ways that training methods and pet owner expectations are adapting to the changing landscape. Through understanding these shifts, we can better facilitate a rewarding experience for both dogs and their humans.

Further details

looking for great dog trainers and supporters of the canine paradigm? Below is a vast array of people and business’s who stand by us, donate to our running costs and do great things for the canine community.

Glenn runs and has almost everything canine related at, Canine Evolution or Pet Resorts Australia

Pat has a full range of coaching and dog training services at Operant Canine

You can support our show and get extra content right here on our Patreon page. Everything goes into keeping the show running and we love all the wonderful people who are part of that community. If you’re not sure how, just ask us.

You can get our full range of our Merch at our Teespring store here

You can help us by spreading the word amongst the canine community or even suggesting a special guest to interview.

If you need to find out how to listen to our podcast, go here

We have a YOUTUBE channel that you can subscribe to now

If you enjoyed the podcast, please review us on Itunes, spotify and any other podcast directory

Details on joining the IACP can be found here. If you’re not in it you should be! Understand?

Check out Dogs Playing for Life! A rescue process changing dogs lives across the USA

For more details on how to help our friends at Peggy’s Promise, you can find all the details on how to do that on their website. They are our rescue charity of choice.

Support our supporters

Narelle Cooke’s raw feeding guide for dogs here. Narelle has her own podcast on all podcast directories called Natural Health for people and pets. Check it out in person.

Looking for the best, human grade supplement range for your dogs? Check out Canine Ceuticals. You can also see her on Pooches at play with Lara Shannon SHOW SPONSOR

Jason Firmin Einzweck Dog quip SHOW SPONSOR

The motorcycle dog kennel by Rowdy Hound SHOW SPONSOR

Professional dog training services DanKroft K9 SHOW SPONSOR

Daycare and training from the heart dog training SHOW SPONSOR

Dog training all styles in Adelaide Dog Club SA SHOW SPONSOR

Our beloved friend and regular contributor, Birdy O’Sheedy can be found at birdyosheedy.com

HUGE thanks to all our contributing artists. Please support their works

Jane Stuart
Avery Keller
Zoie Neidy

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Episode 270: Things dog trainers hate to hear

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A recent Facebook post ignited a fascinating discussion around the relationship between pet owners and dog trainers. The user asked friends to share things that dog trainers hate to hear. Not surprisingly, the thread garnered over 200 comments, full of humour and earnest concerns alike. We found the conversation so compelling that we even discussed it in our most recent podcast episode.

Initially, one phrase that dog trainers often hate to hear is, “I’ve tried everything.” This comment perpetuates a myth that undermines the essence of dog training. Experts in the field hate hearing this because it not only misguides pet owners into believing there’s no answers.

Secondly, a sentiment that dog trainers equally hate is, “Isn’t he too old to be trained?” This notion incorrectly implies that age is an insurmountable barrier to learning new tricks or behaviours. Dog trainers hate this misconception because it leads many pet owners to miss out on an opportunity for improvement, which is often entirely possible regardless of a dog’s age.

Furthermore, on the lighter side of things, a phrase that dog trainers also hate but find amusing is, “My dog doesn’t need training; he’s just ‘free-spirited’.” While this comment elicits chuckles, dog trainers hate that it minimizes the value of their work. A ‘free-spirited’ dog might seem cute, but lack of training can compromise both the dog’s and owner’s well-being.

In conclusion, the thread wasn’t just a source of entertainment; it was a treasure trove of insights into the myths and stereotypes that dog trainers hate encountering. These professionals aren’t merely ‘canine whisperers’; they serve as vital educators who strive to improve the relationship between humans and their pets.

Further details

looking for great dog trainers and supporters of the canine paradigm? Below is a vast array of people and business’s who stand by us, donate to our running costs and do great things for the canine community.

Glenn runs and has almost everything canine related at, Canine Evolution or Pet Resorts Australia

Pat has a full range of coaching and dog training services at Operant Canine

You can support our show and get extra content right here on our Patreon page. Everything goes into keeping the show running and we love all the wonderful people who are part of that community. If you’re not sure how, just ask us.

You can get our full range of our Merch at our Teespring store here

You can help us by spreading the word amongst the canine community or even suggesting a special guest to interview.

If you need to find out how to listen to our podcast, go here

We have a YOUTUBE channel that you can subscribe to now

If you enjoyed the podcast, please review us on Itunes, spotify and any other podcast directory

Details on joining the IACP can be found here. If you’re not in it you should be! Understand?

Check out Dogs Playing for Life! A rescue process changing dogs lives across the USA

For more details on how to help our friends at Peggy’s Promise, you can find all the details on how to do that on their website. They are our rescue charity of choice.

Support our supporters

Narelle Cooke’s raw feeding guide for dogs here. Narelle has her own podcast on all podcast directories called Natural Health for people and pets. Check it out in person.

Looking for the best, human grade supplement range for your dogs? Check out Canine Ceuticals. You can also see her on Pooches at play with Lara Shannon SHOW SPONSOR

Jason Firmin Einzweck Dog quip SHOW SPONSOR

The motorcycle dog kennel by Rowdy Hound SHOW SPONSOR

Professional dog training services DanKroft K9 SHOW SPONSOR

Daycare and training from the heart dog training SHOW SPONSOR

Dog training all styles in Adelaide Dog Club SA SHOW SPONSOR

Our beloved friend and regular contributor, Birdy O’Sheedy can be found at birdyosheedy.com

HUGE thanks to all our contributing artists. Please support their works

Jane Stuart
Avery Keller
Zoie Neidy

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Episode 269: Being in the moment

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Undoubtedly, the very essence of dog training is encapsulated in a single, albeit often elusive, concept: the moment. Interestingly, this pivotal lesson came into sharp focus for many of us while sharing space with the incomparable Michael Ellis. A master in his field, Michael exemplifies the art of being fully “in the moment.”

When you find yourself fortunate enough to be immersed in his dynamic presence, you can’t help but feel the magnetic allure of present awareness. Importantly, this is not merely a tactical approach, but rather, it evolves into a deeply-lived philosophy.

Further emphasising this, being fully present transcends being just a training technique; it emerges as a transformative dogma that enriches the lives of dogs, trainers, and clients alike.

During training sessions with Michael, you quickly observes a crucial distinction: he’s not simply instructing the human or the dog. Instead, he is communicating, connecting, and deeply understanding on an impressively intuitive level.

This potent engagement with the present moment empowers him to discern even the most subtle cues in a dog’s behaviour.

Having the week with Michael and our good friend Alex Edwards has been an incredible moment which way beyond us has been grateful for.

Further details

looking for great dog trainers and supporters of the canine paradigm? Below is a vast array of people and business’s who stand by us, donate to our running costs and do great things for the canine community.

Glenn runs and has almost everything canine related at, Canine Evolution or Pet Resorts Australia

Pat has a full range of coaching and dog training services at Operant Canine

You can support our show and get extra content right here on our Patreon page. Everything goes into keeping the show running and we love all the wonderful people who are part of that community. If you’re not sure how, just ask us.

You can get our full range of our Merch at our Teespring store here

You can help us by spreading the word amongst the canine community or even suggesting a special guest to interview.

If you need to find out how to listen to our podcast, go here

We have a YOUTUBE channel that you can subscribe to now

If you enjoyed the podcast, please review us on Itunes, spotify and any other podcast directory

Details on joining the IACP can be found here. If you’re not in it you should be! Understand?

Check out Dogs Playing for Life! A rescue process changing dogs lives across the USA

For more details on how to help our friends at Peggy’s Promise, you can find all the details on how to do that on their website. They are our rescue charity of choice.

Support our supporters

Narelle Cooke’s raw feeding guide for dogs here. Narelle has her own podcast on all podcast directories called Natural Health for people and pets. Check it out in person.

Looking for the best, human grade supplement range for your dogs? Check out Canine Ceuticals. You can also see her on Pooches at play with Lara Shannon SHOW SPONSOR

Jason Firmin Einzweck Dog quip SHOW SPONSOR

The motorcycle dog kennel by Rowdy Hound SHOW SPONSOR

Professional dog training services DanKroft K9 SHOW SPONSOR

Daycare and training from the heart dog training SHOW SPONSOR

Dog training all styles in Adelaide Dog Club SA SHOW SPONSOR

Our beloved friend and regular contributor, Birdy O’Sheedy can be found at birdyosheedy.com

HUGE thanks to all our contributing artists. Please support their works

Jane Stuart
Avery Keller
Zoie Neidy

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Episode 268: The when, why and how of sorting life out

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Sorting through life’s chaos is akin to training an unpredictable dog; both require mastery over the when, why, and how.

When: Just as we sort our life decisions at opportune moments, we must also discern when to guide our dogs. Proper timing in both ensures success.

Why: Understanding our motivations and those of our dogs is key. Is your dog’s barking due to anxiety, boredom, or health? Similarly, sorting the reasons behind our feelings adds depth to our growth.

How: Our strategies in life, like in dog training, need personalisation. A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t always work.

In essence, sorting our way through life and dog training is more than exerting control. It’s about mutual growth, understanding, and patience. Our dogs serve not just as pets but as teachers, urging us to be present, adaptable, and curious.

Check out this episode where we asked, ‘Where are we going‘?

Further details

looking for great dog trainers and supporters of the canine paradigm? Below is a vast array of people and business’s who stand by us, donate to our running costs and do great things for the canine community.

Glenn runs and has almost everything canine related at, Canine Evolution or Pet Resorts Australia

Pat has a full range of coaching and dog training services at Operant Canine

You can support our show and get extra content right here on our Patreon page. Everything goes into keeping the show running and we love all the wonderful people who are part of that community. If you’re not sure how, just ask us.

You can get our full range of our Merch at our Teespring store here

You can help us by spreading the word amongst the canine community or even suggesting a special guest to interview.

If you need to find out how to listen to our podcast, go here

We have a YOUTUBE channel that you can subscribe to now

If you enjoyed the podcast, please review us on Itunes, spotify and any other podcast directory

Details on joining the IACP can be found here. If you’re not in it you should be! Understand?

Check out Dogs Playing for Life! A rescue process changing dogs lives across the USA

For more details on how to help our friends at Peggy’s Promise, you can find all the details on how to do that on their website. They are our rescue charity of choice.

Support our supporters

Narelle Cooke’s raw feeding guide for dogs here. Narelle has her own podcast on all podcast directories called Natural Health for people and pets. Check it out in person.

Looking for the best, human grade supplement range for your dogs? Check out Canine Ceuticals. You can also see her on Pooches at play with Lara Shannon SHOW SPONSOR

Jason Firmin Einzweck Dog quip SHOW SPONSOR

The motorcycle dog kennel by Rowdy Hound SHOW SPONSOR

Professional dog training services DanKroft K9 SHOW SPONSOR

Daycare and training from the heart dog training SHOW SPONSOR

Dog training all styles in Adelaide Dog Club SA SHOW SPONSOR

Our beloved friend and regular contributor, Birdy O’Sheedy can be found at birdyosheedy.com

HUGE thanks to all our contributing artists. Please support their works

Jane Stuart
Avery Keller
Zoie Neidy

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Episode 267: The downfall of the rigid system

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Glenn, Pat, and Cameron Ford came together to take a hard look at the existing ‘system’ that governs many dog training practices. This meeting ignited an important discussion, probing into long-standing practices that have become ubiquitous within the industry. We raised concerns over the rigid thinking that is prevalent in the field. This often manifests as a cult-like dedication to a single methodology, stunting the growth of new ideas and innovation.

Our conversation highlighted how this narrow-minded approach creates an environment where trainers aggressively defend their chosen ‘system’, often to the detriment of their professional development. In an act akin to religious fervour, these individuals quickly reject or even openly attack novel ideas and methodologies. Such behaviour creates an unfriendly atmosphere that prevents the adoption of emerging research and innovative techniques that could potentially revolutionize dog training practices.

Against this backdrop, we proposed a solution rooted in openness and flexibility. Rather than clinging tightly to one specific approach, we suggest trainers should continually seek knowledge from a wide array of methods. By promoting a culture of open dialogue and intellectual curiosity, we believe an efficient, multifaceted ‘system’ could emerge in dog training.

Furthermore, we emphasised the need to challenge and reassess the industry’s deeply entrenched beliefs. They argued that a ‘system’ should be adaptable and dynamic, capable of evolving with new discoveries in animal behaviour and learning. For the field to truly progress, we all stressed the importance of breaking free from the rigid constraints of some existing methods to embrace a more holistic understanding of dog training.

Have a listen to another episode we did discussing the best way to train a dog

Further details

looking for great dog trainers and supporters of the canine paradigm? Below is a vast array of people and business’s who stand by us, donate to our running costs and do great things for the canine community.

Glenn runs and has almost everything canine related at, Canine Evolution or Pet Resorts Australia

Pat has a full range of coaching and dog training services at Operant Canine

You can support our show and get extra content right here on our Patreon page. Everything goes into keeping the show running and we love all the wonderful people who are part of that community. If you’re not sure how, just ask us.

You can get our full range of our Merch at our Teespring store here

You can help us by spreading the word amongst the canine community or even suggesting a special guest to interview.

If you need to find out how to listen to our podcast, go here

We have a YOUTUBE channel that you can subscribe to now

If you enjoyed the podcast, please review us on Itunes, spotify and any other podcast directory

Details on joining the IACP can be found here. If you’re not in it you should be! Understand?

Check out Dogs Playing for Life! A rescue process changing dogs lives across the USA

For more details on how to help our friends at Peggy’s Promise, you can find all the details on how to do that on their website. They are our rescue charity of choice.

Support our supporters

Narelle Cooke’s raw feeding guide for dogs here. Narelle has her own podcast on all podcast directories called Natural Health for people and pets. Check it out in person.

Looking for the best, human grade supplement range for your dogs? Check out Canine Ceuticals. You can also see her on Pooches at play with Lara Shannon SHOW SPONSOR

Jason Firmin Einzweck Dog quip SHOW SPONSOR

The motorcycle dog kennel by Rowdy Hound SHOW SPONSOR

Professional dog training services DanKroft K9 SHOW SPONSOR

Daycare and training from the heart dog training SHOW SPONSOR

Dog training all styles in Adelaide Dog Club SA SHOW SPONSOR

Our beloved friend and regular contributor, Birdy O’Sheedy can be found at birdyosheedy.com

HUGE thanks to all our contributing artists. Please support their works

Jane Stuart
Avery Keller
Zoie Neidy

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Episode 266: Pressure motivates release educates

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Dog training is a blend of art and science, utilising various techniques to shape desired behaviours. One such method is negative reinforcement, encapsulated nicely in the phrase, “pressure motivates, release educates.”

Negative reinforcement is often misunderstood. It doesn’t involve harm or punishment but utilises slight discomfort to stimulate behaviour change. In dog training, ‘pressure’ refers to the minimal discomfort that motivates the dog to behave differently. This could be a firm tug on the lead or a stern voice command, encouraging the dog to respond to a certain cue.

The ‘release’ part, equally crucial, involves removing the ‘pressure’ as soon as the dog exhibits the desired behaviour. The release is where the true learning occurs. It’s the dog’s ‘Aha!’ moment, realising that complying with the command will eliminate the discomfort. This ebb and flow of pressure and release helps form associations and adjust behaviours, proving to be a powerful tool in any dog trainer’s arsenal.

In essence, the ‘pressure motivates, release educates’ mantra underscores the art of teaching dogs using negative reinforcement. It’s about fostering a learning environment that drives behavioural change, proving that even pressure, when properly applied, can result in a well-trained, happier dog.

check out another episode we did on incompatible behaviour and positive punishment

Further details

looking for great dog trainers and supporters of the canine paradigm? Below is a vast array of people and business’s who stand by us, donate to our running costs and do great things for the canine community.

Glenn runs and has almost everything canine related at, Canine Evolution or Pet Resorts Australia

Pat has a full range of coaching and dog training services at Operant Canine

You can support our show and get extra content right here on our Patreon page. Everything goes into keeping the show running and we love all the wonderful people who are part of that community. If you’re not sure how, just ask us.

You can get our full range of our Merch at our Teespring store here

You can help us by spreading the word amongst the canine community or even suggesting a special guest to interview.

If you need to find out how to listen to our podcast, go here

We have a YOUTUBE channel that you can subscribe to now

If you enjoyed the podcast, please review us on Itunes, spotify and any other podcast directory

Details on joining the IACP can be found here. If you’re not in it you should be! Understand?

Check out Dogs Playing for Life! A rescue process changing dogs lives across the USA

For more details on how to help our friends at Peggy’s Promise, you can find all the details on how to do that on their website. They are our rescue charity of choice.

Support our supporters

Narelle Cooke’s raw feeding guide for dogs here. Narelle has her own podcast on all podcast directories called Natural Health for people and pets. Check it out in person.

Looking for the best, human grade supplement range for your dogs? Check out Canine Ceuticals. You can also see her on Pooches at play with Lara Shannon SHOW SPONSOR

Jason Firmin Einzweck Dog quip SHOW SPONSOR

The motorcycle dog kennel by Rowdy Hound SHOW SPONSOR

Professional dog training services DanKroft K9 SHOW SPONSOR

Daycare and training from the heart dog training SHOW SPONSOR

Dog training all styles in Adelaide Dog Club SA SHOW SPONSOR

Our beloved friend and regular contributor, Birdy O’Sheedy can be found at birdyosheedy.com and you can see her baby puppy on her instagram

HUGE thanks to all our contributing artists. Please support their works

Jane Stuart
Avery Keller
Zoie Neidy

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Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | TuneIn | RSS | More

Episode 265: The making of a new decoy

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Nothing beats a hearty chat with Jason Firmin, the main man at Eizweck Dogquip, and his son Ryan, especially after their whirlwind European tour. Now, this wasn’t your typical sightseeing trip. Nope, the Firmins had a mission – to immerse Ryan into the exciting world of dog sports decoy.

Europe’s got some seriously talented decoys, and it was in this lively backdrop that Ryan received his crash course. Jason couldn’t stop beaming as he spoke of his son’s meteoric rise in the decoy scene.

Ryan was all grins, too, as he regaled us with tales of training alongside Europe’s decoy cream of the crop. His eyes sparkled as he recounted his ‘unparalleled’ experience, a real game-changer for his decoy journey.

Now, we’re a cheeky lot, so the chat wasn’t all shop talk. We found time for a bit of a laugh, ribbing each other and adding a dash of fun to our dog sports discourse. Let’s just say, we know how to balance the serious with the downright silly!

Their European sojourn has undoubtedly injected a fresh dose of enthusiasm for dog sports and decoy in particular. The Firmins’ story is a delightful reminder of how a spirited approach to learning (and a pinch of mischief) can create unforgettable experiences. Here’s to more decoy escapades with Ryan on the frontline!

we’ve had other episode about decoys here in Episode 197

Further details

looking for great dog trainers and supporters of the canine paradigm? Below is a vast array of people and business’s who stand by us, donate to our running costs and do great things for the canine community.

Glenn runs and has almost everything canine related at, Canine Evolution or Pet Resorts Australia

Pat has a full range of coaching and dog training services at Operant Canine

You can support our show and get extra content right here on our Patreon page. Everything goes into keeping the show running and we love all the wonderful people who are part of that community. If you’re not sure how, just ask us.

You can get our full range of our Merch at our Teespring store here

You can help us by spreading the word amongst the canine community or even suggesting a special guest to interview.

If you need to find out how to listen to our podcast, go here

We have a YOUTUBE channel that you can subscribe to now

If you enjoyed the podcast, please review us on Itunes, spotify and any other podcast directory

Details on joining the IACP can be found here. If you’re not in it you should be! Understand?

Check out Dogs Playing for Life! A rescue process changing dogs lives across the USA

For more details on how to help our friends at Peggy’s Promise, you can find all the details on how to do that on their website. They are our rescue charity of choice.

Support our supporters

Narelle Cooke’s raw feeding guide for dogs here. Narelle has her own podcast on all podcast directories called Natural Health for people and pets. Check it out in person.

Looking for the best, human grade supplement range for your dogs? Check out Canine Ceuticals. You can also see her on Pooches at play with Lara Shannon SHOW SPONSOR

Jason Firmin Einzweck Dog quip SHOW SPONSOR

The motorcycle dog kennel by Rowdy Hound SHOW SPONSOR

Professional dog training services DanKroft K9 SHOW SPONSOR

Daycare and training from the heart dog training SHOW SPONSOR

Dog training all styles in Adelaide Dog Club SA SHOW SPONSOR

Our beloved friend and regular contributor, Birdy O’Sheedy can be found at birdyosheedy.com and you can see her baby puppy on her instagram

HUGE thanks to all our contributing artists. Please support their works

Jane Stuart
Avery Keller
Zoie Neidy

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Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | TuneIn | RSS | More

Episode 264: The magic of a dog at a work site

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In Australia, introducing a four-legged friend to the work site has unlocked a unique charm and improved productivity. In an environment often characterized by stress and deadlines, a tail-wagging canine offers a magical and unanticipated boost.

The presence of a dog at a work site serves as a powerful stress reliever. Their capacity to provide unconditional love, coupled with their humorous antics, tends to lighten the work atmosphere, fostering a more relaxed, happier, and ultimately more productive workforce.

Not just confined to offices, dogs are becoming common in construction sites, mines, and farms across Australia. Despite the challenging conditions, these loyal companions display remarkable adaptability. Their presence creates an emotional anchor, promoting camaraderie and a sense of team cohesion, essential in such settings.

Interestingly, dogs also contribute to safety. They’re highly perceptive, often alerting their human colleagues to dangers unseen or unheard. This remarkable canine trait adds an unexpected layer of protection in these environments.

Incorporating dogs into work sites across Australia is undeniably magical. It breaks down barriers, fosters emotional well-being, and enhances productivity. And at the end of the day, who doesn’t enjoy a friendly bark or a wagging tail to lighten up their day?

What do you want to do with your dog?

Further details

looking for great dog trainers and supporters of the canine paradigm? Below is a vast array of people and business’s who stand by us, donate to our running costs and do great things for the canine community.

Glenn runs and has almost everything canine related at, Canine Evolution or Pet Resorts Australia

Pat has a full range of coaching and dog training services at Operant Canine

You can support our show and get extra content right here on our Patreon page. Everything goes into keeping the show running and we love all the wonderful people who are part of that community. If you’re not sure how, just ask us.

You can get our full range of our Merch at our Teespring store here

You can help us by spreading the word amongst the canine community or even suggesting a special guest to interview.

If you need to find out how to listen to our podcast, go here

We have a YOUTUBE channel that you can subscribe to now

If you enjoyed the podcast, please review us on Itunes, spotify and any other podcast directory

Details on joining the IACP can be found here. If you’re not in it you should be! Understand?

Check out Dogs Playing for Life! A rescue process changing dogs lives across the USA

For more details on how to help our friends at Peggy’s Promise, you can find all the details on how to do that on their website. They are our rescue charity of choice.

Support our supporters

Narelle Cooke’s raw feeding guide for dogs here. Narelle has her own podcast on all podcast directories called Natural Health for people and pets. Check it out in person.

Looking for the best, human grade supplement range for your dogs? Check out Canine Ceuticals. You can also see her on Pooches at play with Lara Shannon SHOW SPONSOR

Jason Firmin Einzweck Dog quip SHOW SPONSOR

The motorcycle dog kennel by Rowdy Hound SHOW SPONSOR

Professional dog training services DanKroft K9 SHOW SPONSOR

Daycare and training from the heart dog training SHOW SPONSOR

Dog training all styles in Adelaide Dog Club SA SHOW SPONSOR

Our beloved friend and regular contributor, Birdy O’Sheedy can be found at birdyosheedy.com and you can see her baby puppy on her instagram

HUGE thanks to all our contributing artists. Please support their works

Jane Stuart
Avery Keller
Zoie Neidy

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Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | TuneIn | RSS | More

Episode 263: Intrinsic and extrinsic reinforcer’s in dog training

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“Punished by Rewards” by Alfie Kohn delves into the concept of intrinsic motivation, suggesting that rewards can actually be counter-productive, undermining our inherent drive to learn and explore. While primarily focused on humans, this compelling theory has implications for dog training.

Traditionally, reward-based training has been a staple in teaching our canine companions. But should we be wary of over-relying on treats and praise? This question leads us back to the concept of intrinsic motivation. It’s undeniable that dogs possess inherent drives, such as the drive to explore their environment or to play. These intrinsic drives can and should be harnessed in training.

Shifting our focus to nurturing these natural instincts, rather than overwhelming our dogs with extrinsic rewards, could result in a more engaging and satisfying learning experience. This approach encourages dogs to participate not just for the promise of a treat but due to an intrinsic desire to engage, learn, and please.

“Punished by Rewards” nudges us to reconsider the balance between extrinsic rewards and intrinsic motivation in dog training. By placing emphasis on the latter, we can tap into our dogs’ natural instincts, leading to more effective and enriching training outcomes.

Check out an older episode we did called, Asked to leave a dog club

Further details

looking for great dog trainers and supporters of the canine paradigm? Below is a vast array of people and business’s who stand by us, donate to our running costs and do great things for the canine community.

Glenn runs and has almost everything canine related at, Canine Evolution or Pet Resorts Australia

Pat has a full range of coaching and dog training services at Operant Canine

You can support our show and get extra content right here on our Patreon page. Everything goes into keeping the show running and we love all the wonderful people who are part of that community. If you’re not sure how, just ask us.

You can get our full range of our Merch at our Teespring store here

You can help us by spreading the word amongst the canine community or even suggesting a special guest to interview.

If you need to find out how to listen to our podcast, go here

We have a YOUTUBE channel that you can subscribe to now

If you enjoyed the podcast, please review us on Itunes, spotify and any other podcast directory

Details on joining the IACP can be found here. If you’re not in it you should be! Understand?

Check out Dogs Playing for Life! A rescue process changing dogs lives across the USA

For more details on how to help our friends at Peggy’s Promise, you can find all the details on how to do that on their website. They are our rescue charity of choice.

Support our supporters

Narelle Cooke’s raw feeding guide for dogs here. Narelle has her own podcast on all podcast directories called Natural Health for people and pets. Check it out in person.

Looking for the best, human grade supplement range for your dogs? Check out Canine Ceuticals. You can also see her on Pooches at play with Lara Shannon SHOW SPONSOR

Jason Firmin Einzweck Dog quip SHOW SPONSOR

The motorcycle dog kennel by Rowdy Hound SHOW SPONSOR

Professional dog training services DanKroft K9 SHOW SPONSOR

Daycare and training from the heart dog training SHOW SPONSOR

Dog training all styles in Adelaide Dog Club SA SHOW SPONSOR

Our beloved friend and regular contributor, Birdy O’Sheedy can be found at birdyosheedy.com and you can see her baby puppy on her instagram

HUGE thanks to all our contributing artists. Please support their works

Jane Stuart
Avery Keller
Zoie Neidy

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Episode 262: Dog Clubs, Sign Tracking, Teaching And Management

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In this fascinating episode, we delve deeper into the dynamic world of dog clubs, sharing our rich experiences that encompass managing, operating, and engaging with the colourful tapestry of individuals who breathe life into these clubs. We bring to light both the inspiring stories of those who make the journey truly rewarding, as well as the challenging experiences that test our resilience and passion.

As we continue, we explore an intriguing aspect of dog training: sign tracking. This behavioural phenomenon, when understood and leveraged correctly, can significantly enrich your training approach. However, a lack of awareness about sign tracking can inadvertently lead to complications. For instance, dogs might develop an unintended fixation on a bag of treats rather than the commands, causing potential distractions during training sessions. On the flip side, harnessing the power of sign tracking can expedite and solidify the learning process by associating additional cues with rewards, thereby strengthening the dog’s conditioned response.

Lastly, we lighten the mood with an engaging conversation about teaching and learning within the esteemed domain of dog training. Join us as we navigate the captivating landscape of imparting and acquiring knowledge, yet again reaffirming our dedication to the fascinating industry of dog training.

Check out an older episode we did called, Asked to leave a dog club

Further details

looking for great dog trainers and supporters of the canine paradigm? Below is a vast array of people and business’s who stand by us, donate to our running costs and do great things for the canine community.

Glenn runs and has almost everything canine related at, Canine Evolution or Pet Resorts Australia

Pat has a full range of coaching and dog training services at Operant Canine

You can support our show and get extra content right here on our Patreon page. Everything goes into keeping the show running and we love all the wonderful people who are part of that community. If you’re not sure how, just ask us.

You can get our full range of our Merch at our Teespring store here

You can help us by spreading the word amongst the canine community or even suggesting a special guest to interview.

If you need to find out how to listen to our podcast, go here

We have a YOUTUBE channel that you can subscribe to now

If you enjoyed the podcast, please review us on Itunes, spotify and any other podcast directory

Details on joining the IACP can be found here. If you’re not in it you should be! Understand?

Check out Dogs Playing for Life! A rescue process changing dogs lives across the USA

For more details on how to help our friends at Peggy’s Promise, you can find all the details on how to do that on their website. They are our rescue charity of choice.

Support our supporters

Narelle Cooke’s raw feeding guide for dogs here. Narelle has her own podcast on all podcast directories called Natural Health for people and pets. Check it out in person.

Looking for the best, human grade supplement range for your dogs? Check out Canine Ceuticals. You can also see her on Pooches at play with Lara Shannon SHOW SPONSOR

Jason Firmin Einzweck Dog quip SHOW SPONSOR

The motorcycle dog kennel by Rowdy Hound SHOW SPONSOR

Professional dog training services DanKroft K9 SHOW SPONSOR

Daycare and training from the heart dog training SHOW SPONSOR

Dog training all styles in Adelaide Dog Club SA SHOW SPONSOR

Our beloved friend and regular contributor, Birdy O’Sheedy can be found at birdyosheedy.com and you can see her baby puppy on her instagram

HUGE thanks to all our contributing artists. Please support their works

Jane Stuart
Avery Keller
Zoie Neidy

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | TuneIn | RSS | More