Episodes

In the latest episode of the Canine Paradigm, hosts Pat Stuart and Glenn Cooke dive into the nuanced and often controversial topic of how pharmaceuticals could be affecting the dog training industry. On a on-line discussion with Bill Church, also known as Bow Wow Bill, they discussed the increasing prevalence of medications prescribed to dogs and the implications for trainers and pet owners alike. Glenn shares insights from his personal experiences, reflecting on advice from colleagues about th...

Putting the dog back on lead is a fundamental skill that can significantly enhance training and repair various behavioural issues. Experts in the field emphasise the importance of this practice for both novice and experienced dog owners. They believe that putting the dog back on lead helps reinforce obedience, control, and trust between the handler and the dog. This practice can correct behaviours such as pulling, lunging, and ignoring commands. When a dog is back on lead, it must focus on the ...

In our latest podcast episode, we dive into the exhilarating world of dog sports, focusing specifically on PSA (Protection Sports Association). The PSA dog sports have captivated enthusiasts across Australia, thanks to the relentless efforts of many dedicated individuals. This episode shines a spotlight on the history of PSA’s origin within Australia and the remarkable people who have contributed to its growth and success. Jerry Bradshaw, a key figure in the PSA community, alongside Shawn and J...

we were thrilled to welcome Caisey Cainan, a friend of the show and one of the world’s most renowned big cat trainers. Caisey’s journey into the fascinating world of big cats began in his childhood when he ran away to join a circus. It was there that he met his first mentor, a pivotal figure in his life who tragically lost his life to a tiger. This harrowing incident deeply impacted Caisey and set him on the path to becoming a big cat trainer, driven by a desire to honor his mentor’s legacy and ...

The past couple of weeks in Sydney have been nothing short of amazing. We were thrilled to welcome our American family, Shawn and Janet Edwards, along with their colleagues Zack Burke and Travis Lloyd. Their expertise and passion for training were invaluable as they joined us for PSA trial judging, decoy certification, Deadpool decoy school, and Janet’s seminar. Training is at the heart of everything we do, and having these experts with us elevated our sessions to new heights. The PSA trial jud...

In this episode of our podcast, we tackle the often misunderstood topic of punishment in dog training. There’s been a lot of misinformation circulating, including the outrageous claim that balanced trainers hold positive punishment seminars. We want to set the record straight and explain how punishment, when used correctly, plays a vital role in teaching dogs to eliminate or reduce unwanted behaviors. Punishment, in the context of dog training, is not about abuse or harsh methods. It’s about pr...

We are thrilled to celebrate our 300th episode, joined by many special individuals from our greater canine community. We posed a unique question to our guests: If you could travel through time to any point in your training career, where would you go, and what would be your objective? The responses were inspiring, reflecting the passion and dedication that define our community. This milestone is a testament to the incredible journey we’ve shared with people worldwide, all committed to enhancing ...

In our latest podcast episode, we tackle a critical topic: the peril of false knowledge. While ignorance poses risks, misinformation masquerading as truth can be far more dangerous. Recently, a comment on social media claimed that men are more likely to attend positive punishment seminars than women. This statement is not only unfounded but also misleading. Throughout our extensive careers in the dog training industry, we have never encountered anyone running or hosting such seminars. Positive ...

In our latest podcast episode, we eagerly addressed key questions from our listeners about training dogs, particularly focusing on the importance of ‘warming’ when transitioning from indoor to outdoor environments. Our listeners are curious about how to maintain a strong connection with their dogs amidst a swag of new outdoor stimuli, and we were excited to delve into these challenges. Firstly, warming your dog for a training session isn’t just about tiring them out; it’s about mentally prepari...

We delved into the fascinating world of dog training, focusing on the suppression of behaviours, the concept of dogs “guessing” behaviours, and the powerful dynamics of perception between teacher and student. This discussion sheds light on how understanding and managing these elements can significantly enhance the training process and the relationship between dogs and their trainers. Suppression of unwanted behaviours is a critical aspect of dog training. It involves identifying behaviours that...

In our newest podcast episode, we explore the integration of working dogs into households and address the misleading advice suggesting that these dogs disrupt home dynamics. Despite these myths, working dogs can enhance home life, especially when combined with the right remote training techniques. These methods, often misunderstood, can actually strengthen your bond with your working dog rather than hinder it.. A significant portion of our discussion also focuses on the controversial use of ele...

In our latest podcast episode, we dove into the fascinating world of canine behaviour, focusing on the concept of ‘play’ and its multifaceted role in the lives of our dog. Addressing two insightful listener requests, we explored the intricacies of reward placement and the nuanced differences between direct and indirect rewards, shedding light on how these elements can enhance the play experience and training efficacy for both working dogs and pets. Further, we delved into the vital importance o...

In the latest episode, we delve into the fascinating world of dog training, emphasising the pivotal role of understanding and harnessing different drives. Training dogs, whether for sporting events, police work, or simply as pets, requires a nuanced approach that recognises and adapts to the diverse motivations that drive canine behaviour. Drives in dogs refer to innate impulses that guide their actions; these can include prey drive, play drive, defensive drive, and pack drive, among others. Re...

In our recent podcast, we explored the challenging situation encountered by LickiMat, a small, pet-friendly business, embroiled in a digital controversy. This enterprise, renowned for its pet care innovations, unexpectedly became the target of online backlash due to its collaboration with a balanced dog trainer at the prestigious Crufts event. This incident highlights the volatile nature of online communities and the swift impact of digital activism on businesses, particularly those in the pet i...

In an engaging segment of our podcast, Pat and Glenn delved into a thought-provoking topic prompted by a simple yet profound question from Pat’s son, Rip. Rip had observed Remi, their family dog, being prepared for a dog trial and pondered, “If Remi is already trained, why does he still need training?” This query sparked an insightful discussion about the ongoing nature of canine training, highlighting the distinction between a dog “in training” and a “trained dog.” Pat began by clarifying that...

In the ever-evolving realm of dog training, the significance of a Training Director is magnified by their ability to foster meaningful conversations. These dialogues are not just exchanges of words but are the bedrock of a thriving learning environment where dog trainers and handlers can flourish. By engaging in insightful conversations, a Training Director bridges the gap between theory and practice, making the learning journey both enriching and practical. Conversations led by a Training Dire...

In our latest podcast episode, an off-the-cuff remark during the closing segment sparked an unexpected yet profound discussion. The phrase, casually mentioned, was not the main focus of our conversation but we find way to make interesting headings. l A blog by Larry Krohn a week back led us to explore the contrasting approaches between sport dog trainers and pet owners when faced with challenges. This casual comment prompted us to delve into how individuals find motivation and resilience in th...

Being bitten by a dog can be an unexpectedly traumatic experience, leaving both physical and emotional scars. In workplaces, hobbies, and professions where interaction with dogs is common, understanding the risks and preventive measures is crucial. The trauma of a dog bite extends beyond the immediate physical injury. Victims often experience heightened anxiety, fear of dogs, and even PTSD, affecting their ability to work or engage in activities they once enjoyed. The psychological impact can b...

We’re thrilled to welcome back Birdy O’Sheedy to our show after a much-anticipated hiatus. Birdy, a cherished regular and a beacon of insight in the realms of psychology and trauma healing, returns with a heart-warming twist to her expertise—integrating the holistic magic of dogs into her therapeutic practices. Birdy’s journey into the mystical bond between humans and dogs illuminates a path of awe and wonder, shedding light on how these loyal companions weave a tapestry of emotional support an...

In a recent episode of The Canine Paradigm, we were thrilled to have Tracy Racich join us for an enlightening discussion. This episode, intriguingly titled “Better at Polishing a Turd,” stems from a candid comment made by Tracy. The conversation was sparked by a post Tracy shared about a month ago, which caught our attention and led us to delve deeper into the subject on our show. The focus of our discussion with Tracy was on the current state of dog training, highlighting both the commendable ...

In a recent episode, we were joined Matthias Lenz, a distinguished source in the dog training community. His evolution from a simple dog walker to a training director for puppies aiding the visually impaired is remarkably inspiring. Matthias joined us to address a critical issue within the dog training community: the division between the +R (positive reinforcement) and balanced training methodologies. His unique viewpoint highlights the urgent need for unity and understanding in this specialized...

In a thought-provoking discussion within our Ethics in Dog Training group, Tracy Racich brought forward an essential topic: the ethical landscape in dog training. Tracy’s insights delve into the varying skill levels of trainers and the ethical responsibilities that accompany them. Tracy raises a critical point about the ethical dilemmas faced by trainers who overestimate their skills. The issue, as noted, isn’t with less experienced trainers working in the field. Instead, it’s when these indivi...

In our latest episode, we had the enlightening opportunity to converse with Dr. Melanie Uhde from Canine Decoded, delving into the intricate world of canine behaviour and the pivotal role of the brain in maintaining homeostasis. Dr. Uhde illuminated the often misunderstood realm of punishment and rewards in training, emphasising the brain’s fundamental need for balance and stability. Homeostasis, the brain’s method of maintaining a stable internal environment, is crucial for the overall health ...

In our latest episode, “Training Dogs in the Land of the Long White Cloud,” we ventured into New Zealand to meet Gabby Mansbridge, a remarkable figure in the realm of dog sports. As we navigated the cloud-covered landscapes to reach our appointment for a PSA trial, the anticipation was as thick as the fog in the valleys. Gabby didn’t just meet expectations; she soared above them, clinching most of the awards and achieving her first leg of a PSA1, a first in New Zealand’s PSA dog sports. Gabby’s...