Good Dog Workshop: Recent Episodes
Brian Kerchner
Learn how to solve your dog behavior problems and achieve the best relationship with your dog by understanding how to 'Speak Dog'.
All puppies bite. It's how they test things and explore their world. Not because they're aggressive or trying to take over or want to hurt you. Marina & Brian delve deep into this topic to help you navigate your way through one of the most normal things that puppies do.
In this episode, Marina & Brian discuss 3 new clients for their DogMatch service, where they help match up their clients with a dog that is right for their lifestyle. As Brian says "If you call us to help you find a new dog through DogMatch, you won't be calling us later for training."
In today's episode, Marina talks with Brian about her recent experience with her German Shepherd LADY who had heartworms when Marina adopted her. It's a common ailment for dogs and it is treatable, but it can be challenging for owners to get their dogs through the heartworm treatment while still fulfilling their dogs' needs.
Please consult a veterinarian for proper medical diagnosis and treatment of heartworms.
In this episode, Marina & Brian discuss the "Learned Helplessness" of two recent clients' dogs. It's a sad thing to see but both dogs showed they can get past it and become happy and balanced. Find out more about this and learn how you can prevent something like this from happening to your dog!
In this episode, Marina & Brian discuss Marina's new foster dog GEORGE, a hound mix found as a stray in Texas. Learn how we at Good Dog Workshop work with George to help him overcome his anxiety, leash reactivity and resource guarding, and to ultimately help him find his new Forever Home.
Within a very short time after meeting German Shepherd MARY, Marina added Mary (now Lady) to her pack and is learning more about her by the hour. In this episode, Marina & Brian discuss the newest addition to the Good Dog Workshop pack: how she fits into her new pack already, what she knows (and doesn't know), and how we'll be able to mold her natural talents to make her into a fine Good Dog Workshop "lady".
Sometimes you end up being our own client. In this case, Marina's awesome German Shepherd SASHA will be retiring soon, so Marina & Brian are doing their DogMatch service for themselves. In this episode, get a behind-the-curtain peek into the process of finding a new dog as Marina & Brian share their search for a new dog assistant for their Good Dog Workshop pack who is also a new family pet for Marina. Listen to them discuss all the steps they go through when helping a client find the next dog for their family: What breed? What size? Male or female? How old? What temperament? Why now? and so forth.
In this episode, Marina and our awesome intern Faith discuss dogs, how Faith came to find Good Dog Workshop, some of the training sessions they've done together, what Faith has learned, and what she hopes to do with dogs going forward.
Marina & Brian take another light-hearted look at a sampling of online inquiries from dog owners with 'misbehaving' dogs. Listen and learn as Marina & Brian discuss what they 'read' from what's written (and not written) about the dogs' behavior, the dogs' environment and the people.
Marina & Brian discuss the importance of training your dog to be trustworthy off-leash. Through off-leash training, you can use your voice (at a great distance) to keep your dog safe, under control yet still give your dog the freedom to explore while still being attentive to you & your pack. This is a great skill that further strengthens the bond between you & your dog!
Equal parts fun AND annoying, puppies are not for everyone. In this episode, Marina & Brian share everything they've learned about two new puppies that they've spent a ton of time with. Hear the good, the bad & the ugly about STAR the Lab mix and SUSHI the cattle dog mix!
Marina & Brian discuss a seemingly growing trend: Elderly, physically-limited dog owners getting energetic dogs. Sometimes it involves people ending up with a puppy or high-energy dog pushed on them by their adult kids who got a dog for themselves, then move back home and suddenly the elderly parents have to take care of the dog. But more often than not, it involves older people with health issues which severely limit their ability to exercise a dog, but choose a puppy having forgotten how much work and physical activity is required to raise a puppy. And that often leads to rambunctious & frustrated pups who do whatever they feel they need to to release their energy: destructive chewing, jumping on people and furniture, digging in the yard, incessant barking, and nipping and biting people — a lousy situation for people and for the puppy. There are so many ways to avoid this. Listen to found out how.
Ever notice how people with small dogs oftentimes let their dogs get away with behavior that they wouldn't let slide with a big dog? Marina & Brian discuss the problems dog owners have when they raise their small dogs differently than their big dogs.
After each training session with a client, the Good Dog Workshop staff discuss with each other in great detail what occurred during the training. Get a behind-the-scenes look into the work done AFTER the training session is done.
Want to know what's been going on with BAGEL the beagle, SQUIRTY the Corgi, and BEAN the Boxer? Marina & Brian share the latest about a few of the dogs they've recently worked with and fostered. PLUS, meet CALLIE, a super sweet female cattle dog who is the newest member of the Good Dog Workshop pack.
One dog is being blamed for the fights but she's not the problem. The fights keep getting worse and worse. Dogs AND people are getting hurt. Something has to give. Find out what happened.
Good Dog Workshop is looking for another dog behaviorist / trainer! Learn what we're looking for in a new hire and why we value HONESTY, INTEGRITY and EMPATHY more than certifications and number of years working with dogs. Contact us if you want to be a part of our team! 703-489-1319
Brian interviews fellow dog behaviorist Paul Hewitt, founder of Beard Meets Dog based in Bournemouth, England. Learn about Paul and how he got his start in the dog behavior world, his philosophies on working with dogs, his favorite breeds, and his ultimate goal for the future of Beard Meets Dog.
From Brian: In November of 2021, my cattle dog RED passed away from a very aggressive inoperable nasal tumor. And just last week at the end of February 2022, my beagle VIVIAN passed away after a long bout with lymphoma. The loss of Red and Vivian has been devastating for me personally and incredibly impactful to Good Dog Workshop and the work am do with my clients. We at Good Dog Workshop know that you—our listeners—grew to know and love Vivian and Red through the podcast and we appreciate your support during our grief.
As we all know, life keeps moving on no matter what happens or how we feel, and we must continue to move as well. So we include in this podcast our thoughts and experiences as we look for two new assistants to add to Brian's pack.
Brian & Marina discuss a recent training session with a client who said her dog had "severe" separation anxiety...but the reality was much different. It's all too common for so many dog owners to perceive their dogs' behavior as 'separation anxiety' but so often that is not the case.
In this episode, Marina & Brian discuss BAGEL, a young beagle whom Brian is fostering from the Fauquier SPCA. These days, Brian chooses a foster dog not only to help out a dog in need and to make the dog more adoptable, he is also essentially interviewing Bagel as a potential new pack member & assistant for Good Dog Workshop. Learn about Brian's checklist for his next assistant and his routine for bringing a new dog into his home and pack.
For today's podcast, Brian surprised Marina with a series of questions that she had no previous knowledge of on a wide variety of topics ranging from Easiest Breed, Funniest Dog Names, Emotional Support Dogs, and the Startle Lady at the Dog Park!
In this second-to-last myth podcast, Marina & Brian discuss the widely-held belief that if a dog has been surrendered by someone, there must be something inherently wrong with the dog. Nothing could be further from the truth. Listen as Brian & Marina talk about the real reasons dogs are surrendered, returned, given up, dumped and how the people contribute to—and in most cases—create the problem behaviors.
Brian & Marina discuss the outstanding work of recent clients with their young pit bull SADIE. Within less than 20 minutes, Brian was able to help these clients transform their anxious, barking 7-month-old into a respectful, calm, happy pup. This was an excellent example of how WE (the humans) are the most important component in our dogs' environment; and if we change, our dogs can change! These clients and their dog were fantastic!
Marina & Brian give their no-nonsense reasons why German Shepherds are not for everyone.
It's been said that "The breed is marked by a willingness to learn and an eagerness to have a purpose". This can be a phenomenal dog with the right leadership and—of course—proper exercise, but without it, this breed often becomes anxious and starts making bad decisions...which often involve using its teeth. Before considering this breed, do your research and do an honest self-evaluation of your available time, lifestyle, and leadership to make sure a German Shepherd is right for you.
And please call or text us directly if you have any questions about getting a German Shepherd or need help with your own: 703-489-1319.
Please don't forget to give us a 5-star review wherever you listen to this podcast. Thank you for your support!
All dog parks are NOT the same! Hear what Marina has to say about some new dog parks she visited with Sailor and Sasha on her recent trip to North Carolina and Tennessee.
Let's just call this one Whack-A-Mole. In this podcast, Marina & Brian discuss a training session they had with 4 very different dogs, 3 very different humans, an endless peppering of conflicting, incomplete and contradictory information, AND a client who repeatedly turned her back in mid-conversation and started talking to one of her dogs. Truth is stranger than fiction. All names of dogs and people were omitted to protect the privacy of these clients.
Marina & Brian discuss some of the common problems which result from a lack of Leadership with a dog. Find out some of the reasons why dogs misbehave and fail to respond to their owners.
Marina & Brian debunk the 5 most common things that dog owners are told cause aggression: Playing Tug, Roughhousing, Staring At, E-Collars, and Other Dogs. Take a listen and found out why these things DO NOT cause aggression, what their actual purpose is, and how to get the most benefit from them.
In this episode, Marina & Brian discuss adolescent dogs (generally between 6-18 months), and some of the typical challenges that come along with dogs at that stage in life, including the particular issues that have arisen with so many "COVID Puppies" who were adopted/bought during the pandemic last year. They go over in great detail 2 adolescent dogs they recently worked with and how the future looks for those 2 dogs.
Marina & Brian discuss the pros and cons of traveling with your dog and how to do it safely and enjoyably!
In this episode, Brian & Marina tackle one of the most common myths about dogs: A wagging tail means the dog is happy. Listen to learn the truth behind this snapshot of a dog's body language.
Brian discusses Leadership with expert Strategist & Leadership Coach Shari Goodwin, author of best sellers Reinventing Greatness: Leading Yourself & Others Through Change with Confidence & Trustand Take the Reins! 7 Secrets to Inspired Leadership. Whether you're working with people, dogs or even horses (Shari's specialty), Leadership—and the energy and intention you project—is something you need to be aware of to be an effective Leader in your professional AND your personal life.
Marina & Brian discuss BUCKY, a big, handsome German Shepherd looking for his "forever home". Learn more about Bucky and help spread the word to find him a family who is perfect for him!
Marina & Brian explain another myth: When bringing dogs together, you should let THEM sort out any issues. WRONG! We (the people) need to be in charge of our dogs, and that means that we sort things out between dogs, not let them "figure it out" themselves.
Marina & Brian dive into the sometimes muddy waters of diagnosing dog behavior problems, beginning with our first phone call with the client / dog owner. What we're told about a dog's behavior is often just the tip of the iceberg, and it's our job to figure out what's really going on, and to show our clients how to resolve the problematic behavior.
The 6th installment of our series on Myths surrounding dog behavior, Marina & Brian discuss how Positive Reinforcement Only is NOT only positive reinforcement.
Marina & Brian take a look at Nat Geo's TV show "Dog: Impossible" and analyze the training methods & techniques used to help dog owners with their dogs' unwanted behavior. Watch his show to see what trainer Matt Beisner says and does, and then learn why so much of it is ineffective.
In this episode, Marina & Brian discuss a person's (or dog's) physical position in the pack relative to others. Many think if the human is out front, the human must be in charge (or if the dog is out front, the dog must be in charge). Not so. Listen and learn why this is a myth.
Marina relays her recent experience in which she was bitten by a German Shepherd. An irresponsible client led to a really cool story!
A LEASHED dog does not equate to a CONTROLLED dog. Many counties in the U.S. have leash laws but just because a dog is leashed, doesn't mean the dog's owner has control of him. And for those of us living in counties without a leash law, a dog off-leash does not equate to a dog not in control. Listen and share your comments & questions!
Next in the countdown of Myths, Marina & Brian discuss: Holding your hand out to let a dog sniff you. So many people do it when they're meeting dog for the first time — Find out why it's not the best thing to do!
In this new series, Brian & Marina discuss some common myths about dogs. This episode's topic is: If you ever let your dog jump up on you, he'll jump up on everyone. Listen and find out the truth about this myth.
In this new series, Brian & Marina discuss some common myths about dogs. This first one: Can a dog be too young or too old to train?
In part 2 of this series, Marina & Brian discuss the socialization issues of 3 different dogs: Rose, Buki and Gordita.
Marina & Brian discuss the importance of spending "quality time" with your dog. What does "quality time" mean? What does it look like? Why is it important? And how do my dog & I benefit from it? (Hint: It's the opposite of being lazy with your dog.)
Marina & Brian discuss the importance of socializing your dog, and that it's never too late to get started! How long do YOU go without interacting with another person? Let's be fair to our dogs and provide them the same need and get them socialized every day.
Marina & Brian discuss Marina's new German Shepherd, SASHA, and their evaluations of three other shepherds with very different temperaments.
Marina & Brian have an impromptu discussion about German Shorthaired Pointers, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers and other ultra-high-energy dogs. You'll hear their very frank opinions about these specific dogs and what you can expect if you bring one into your home/life.
Marina & Brian discuss a recent client with 4 dogs. Although the client called us for one dog's behavior, one of the other dogs had a much bigger problem AND their new puppy was already picking up bad habits from the older dogs. A whole lot to address here.
Carlos & Brian take a light-hearted look at a sampling of random online statements from dog owners and discuss what they 'read' about the dog behavior, the environment and the people.
Carlos, Marina & Brian discuss the flood of puppies and adult dogs being adopted during the coronavirus pandemic. So many people figure that working from home finally gives them the opportunity to get a new dog! It's not quite that easy...
Brian & Marina discuss the increasingly popular hybrid Doodles. Half Labrador Retriever and half Poodle...or is it? These dogs are generally very family-friendly, great with other dogs and full of energy. Is this the right breed for you?
Pepper, a 9 month old female Australian Cattle dog was chained in a yard at 7 weeks old and it didn't look like her life was going to get any better. After months of hard work the incredible people at the Fauquier SPCA rescued her at the same time Josh was looking for a cattle dog to add to his family. Here, Josh & Brian talk about meeting Pepper and 2 hours later she's heading home with Josh!
Part 2 of our series addressing more bad & ridiculous information about dogs. In this second episode, Brian and Marina debunk more wrong and ridiculous information about dogs and dog training methods spread across the world by the popular Stuff You Should Know podcast episode "How Dog Training Works". Listen to their podcast and then come back to our Good Dog Workshop podcast to find the truth about dogs and dog training from people who actually know the subject matter.
In this episode, Brian and Marina debunk more wrong and ridiculous information about dog training methods spread across the world by the popular Stuff You Should Know podcast episode "How Dog Training Works". Listen to their podcast and then come back to our Good Dog Workshop podcast to find the truth about dogs and dog training from people who actually know the subject matter.
In this episode, Carlos & Brian discuss Hounds — dogs bred to chase/follow/track their quarry and keep it at bay until their humans arrive. Although hounds are almost always very friendly with people and other dogs, hounds are not easy to have as a typical suburban pet because their instinct to track and follow is so strong.
Brian offers the best tips to help you housetrain your dog. Whether you have a young pup or an older dog, this advice will help get you on your way to a mess-free home!
Carlos & Brian analyze a "training" video by Victoria Stilwell. Follow along and watch her video to learn the WRONG way to let a dog greet you, the WRONG way to respond to an excited, disrespectful dog who jumps on you when you enter a house, the WRONG way to "claim" a bone, and the WRONG way to then respond to a dog who snaps at you for being near 'his' bone. Then listen to us and learn the RIGHT way to do these things. We practice these techniques every day with our dogs and our clients' dogs and we get results. We can teach you how to do it, too!
Carlos & Brian discuss the detrimental effects of treating dogs like humans. The second podcast in this series focuses on using TOUCH with dogs. Dogs use touch much more sparingly with one another and do so oftentimes to correct while we MOSTLY use touch to soothe...and actually ends up to soothing or calmin ourselves, not our dogs. Don't fall into the trap of touching your dog (in a way that diminishes your relationship with him, that is) as your main form of communication!
Brian & Marina revisit the topic of choosing the right dog. In just the past week, two separate clients have come to Good Dog Workshop to help them find new families for their dogs, both 3-year-old male German Shepherds coincidentally. Brian & Marina go through the details of each case and stress why it's so important to choose the right dog from the start.
The second in the "Puppies!" series. Brian & Marina discuss puppies — How much work they are, how much fun they are, common behavior challenges, and most importantly: that it's never too early to start training your puppy.
Brian & Marina discuss puppies — How much work they are, how much fun they are, common behavior challenges, and most importantly: that it's never too early to start training your puppy.
Carlos & Brian discuss the detrimental effects of treating dogs like humans. The first podcast in this series focuses on using (actually, OVER-using) human speech when working with dogs. Dogs don't use speech at all to communicate while we MOSTLY use speech in our communication with others. Don't fall into the trap of talking to your dog as your first and main form of communication!
Brian explains the importance of being able to read the visual cues of your dog's body language so you know what he's thinking and then decide if and how you need to address his forthcoming behavior. Ears and tail up? He's probably seen something that interests or excites him. It could be a squirrel in the next yard or it could be your friend walking towards you. Either way, it's a good idea to know what he's thinking so you can predict his behavior. It's not rocket science—just look, and you'll KNOW YOUR DOG!
Brian and special guest Marina Finelli discuss their second day working with the Wheaton Terriers seized from their neglectful/abusive owners by the Fauquier Animal Control. These dogs range in ages from a few weeks old to senior dogs. Most are in bad shape physically and almost all are very psychologically traumatized by their mistreatment and horrible living conditions. This is second in a series of podcasts sharing the details of the challenging work that Brian, Josh, Michael and Marina are doing to help rehabilitate these dogs to bring them back to normalcy where they can trust humans and live happy, healthy lives.
Brian and special guest Michael Lamper discuss their first day working with the Wheaton Terriers taken from their neglectful/abusive owners by the Fauquier Animal Control. These dogs range in ages from a few weeks old to senior dogs. Most are in bad shape physically and almost all are very traumatized by their mistreatment and horrible living conditions. This is first in a series of podcasts sharing the details of the challenging work Michael and Brian are doing to help rehabilitate these dogs and bring them back to normalcy where they can trust humans.
The 2nd part of a 2-part series in which Carlos & Brian discuss the various types of dog training and dog trainers. Whether it's big, international companies, sole proprietorships, "militaristic" trainers, positive reinforcement only training, highly "educated" trainers or just someone who loves dogs, we discuss it all. Find out what type/style of training/trainer might be right for you and your dog.
Carlos & Brian discuss the various types of dog training and dog trainers. Whether it's big, international companies, sole proprietorships, "militaristic" trainers, positive reinforcement only training, highly "educated" trainers or just someone who loves dogs, we discuss it all. Find out what type/style of training/trainer might be right for you and your dog.
Carlos & Brian discuss the pros and cons of using various training tools, and how a person's perception of the tool can actually interfere with the effectiveness of your training with your dog.
In this episode, Brian & Marina discuss our entire training session with a client couple and their new dog, all the way from leash manners to off-leash play in the Vint Hill Dog Park. There's so much to learn here!
In Part 2, Carlos & Brian discuss PREVENTING a dog fight from happening. Reading the dogs' body language, paying attention (being alert) to the environment, and knowing what YOU yourself may be contributing to the situation are all elements to be aware of in preventing a dog fight from occurring in the first place.
Carlos & I discuss the techniques WE use to break up a dog fight.
DISCLAIMER: Dog fights are not all the same. Dogs fighting can be fighting for different reasons. Dogs fighting are usually not evenly matched. Breaking up dog fights is a skill that can be learned but it is risky and it is definitely not for most people to attempt. It requires confidence, timing, quickness, agility, and strength. Breaking up a dog fight can be very dangerous both to the people trying to intervene as well as the dogs in the fight. Do not try these techniques on your own at home without consulting a professional.
The video we mention is on YouTube and entitled "How to handle a Dog fight - Cesar Millan" posted by Peter F. Zorko. There's a very good comment left by "stuart" from 4 years ago that appears at the top of the list of comments below the video.
Carlos & Brian discuss the simple act of decision making. Every one of us makes 100s of decisions each and every day. Some decisions affect us right away, some affect us in the future, and many affect our relationships with our dogs. Join us to hear just a few of the ways our decision-making process can play a huge role in our lives with our dogs.
This podcast is all about BUDDY, a young male Australian Cattle Dog who I'm fostering for the Fauquier SPCA. One of the best dogs I've ever fostered, BUDDY is quiet, easy, fun, playful, affectionate, and gets along great with dogs and people! Is BUDDY the right dog for you? Listen and find out more!
Originally developed in the 1870s as a guard dog for tax collector Louis Dobermann, the Doberman Pinscher (German for "terrier") has had its ups and downs over the decades. Not as popular as they used to be, but still much-loved and instantly recognizable—the Doberman Pinscher.
This is our 3rd installment about Pit Bulls in our series on Dog Breeds. It's a controversial topic because it seems like people either love this breed or are afraid of it. There are a lot of statistics on this breed and a lot of stories, both good and bad. We've worked with some great Pit Bulls and some hard-core ones as well. We feel this is definitely not a breed most people should consider as these dogs tend to be high energy, tenacious, muscular, and tough. There are absolutely some great ones out there—they can make for lovable, kid-friendly pets—but we strongly urge...more than any other breed: Do your research if you're considering adding a Pit Bull to your family.
In this installment of Dog Breeds, special guest Alex & I discuss Pit Bulls. We talk about the good, the bad and the ugly about this breed. (I had technical issues so this one so this is part 2 of a 28 min episode.)
In this installment of Dog Breeds, special guest Alex & I discuss Pit Bulls. We talk about the good, the bad and the ugly about this breed. (I had technical issues so this was cut short and finishes up in part 2.)
Carlos & I talk about the Pug! This friendly, playful, cuddly yet sturdy breed is one of our favorites and an easy breed to own. Find out more about why this smooshed-faced breed is so high on our list...
In our 4th installment in our Dog Breeds podcast series, Carlos & I discuss the Australian Cattle Dog and the Australian Shepherd. The similarities and differences between the breeds, what we like about them, and how well-suited each is for the life in a typical family household.
According to the American Kennel Club, the English Bulldog is the fifth most popular breed in America for 2018. Strong, stubborn and playful, this breed isn't for everyone but can be a great companion for many.
The second installment in our new series, Carlos & Brian discuss the Labrador Retriever and the Golden Retriever — happy and easy-going. The American Kennel Club describes the Lab as "friendly, active and outgoing" and the Golden as "friendly, intelligent and devoted". Both the Lab and the Golden are two of the easiest breeds to own; that's why they are always at the top of the list of Most Popular in the United States. If you're a first-time dog owner, either of these is a great choice!
The first in our new series, Carlos & Brian discuss the German Shepherd—handsome, noble and not for everyone.
Josh & I introduce our Battle Buddies project. Our vision is to help veterans re-focus their sense of purpose and to find peace through the mutual support and companionship that comes from helping homeless dogs. Veterans helping dogs helping veterans!
The 4th in a series about Self-Awareness. In this one, Carlos & Brian discuss a recent client who completely surprised us by being very self aware. She knew of her own insecurities and her own emotional state and that they were a problem with her relationships with her dogs; she just didn't know how to prevent her issues from getting in the way of her success with her three terrific dogs. A very positive and inspirational episode about Self-Awareness!
Carlos & Brian discuss the incredible difference you can make with your dog when you know yourself, your capabilities and how you affect the dogs around you.
Carlos & Brian discuss self-awareness regarding another recent client who essentially got a dog that was not a good match for her. This is our second in a series of podcasts on Self-Awareness.
Carlos & Brian discuss Self-Awareness and the role it plays in our relationships with our dogs. This is the first in a series of podcasts on Self-Awareness — a topic which is immensely important in establishing and maintaining our connection to our dogs, yet is a topic that most people—oddly enough—are not aware of.
Carlos & Brian discuss important steps to get dogs and cats to co-exist in the same household...or if it's a good idea in the first place.
Josh & Brian discuss their relationships with dogs: What they each look for when considering a new dog for their homes, what they like best about their own dogs, and what they look for when evaluating a client's dog or a dog at the SPCA.
Josh & Brian discuss their experience evaluating a German Shepherd at the Fauquier SPCA. Hear how to properly assess a dog's temperament, what to look for, and the importance of using your own pack to help in the evaluation.
Carlos and Brian discuss a quick clip about Richard, a Chihuahua who doesn't like to be handled by strangers. This clip is from Cesar Millan's "Dog Whisperer" TV show and the dog is owned by celebrity trainer Jillian Michaels. Listen in as we break down how to work a dog through this serious issue and quickly resolve it.
Brian tells you what to look for when trying to find a trainer to help you with your dog's behavior issues. Learn what a trainer ISN'T telling you by watching their YouTube videos, reading their Facebook posts, and listening to them on the phone.
Carlos & Brian discuss a poster of dog body language illustrations which has been widely circulated on social media: "Doggie Language" by Lili Chin. No doubt intended to help people better understand the body language of dogs, we feel the captions/labels on this very nicely illustrated poster actually create more confusion than understanding. Check out the image online and follow along in this episode.
Josh & Brian discuss how you can help dogs and your community by volunteering at your local shelter.
Carlos & Brian discuss why "positive reinforcement only" training is unrealistic & unnatural in working with dogs. We'll help you wade throw all the scientific terms so many trainers use so that you can understand what really works with dogs and why. This is a big and much-debated topic so this is the first of multiple podcasts on this subject.
Carlos & Brian delve further into "positive reinforcement only" training with specific examples of why it's an unrealistic and unnatural way to train a dog.
Carlos & Brian discuss being 'Alpha' to your dog. Not today's emotionally-charged term that implies being aggressive or being a bully, but being in charge of your dog, being able to control him...being a fair and benevolent Leader. Too many 'professionals' in this business either don't understand this or are unable to achieve it. Being in charge of a group is a natural part of both human society and dog society. We break it down for you in this episode.
Brian talks about the most important things to do with your new dog the moment you pull into your driveway! It all starts with Exercise, Leadership & Structure, of course, but you'll also learn things you probably hadn't thought about before, such as where to put your new dog's bed and what activities to do with him in order to bond with him. Check it out!
Carlos & Brian discuss Introductions: How to meet a new dog and how to allow your dog to meet new people. You may be surprised how so many people aren't doing it the right way!
Carlos & I discuss the long-running TV show "Pit Bulls & Parolees". We talk about the cast, the great work they do and we critique some of the methods they use when working with dogs. The people of "Pit Bulls & Parolees" (Villalobos Rescue Center) do AMAZING work. They are selfless, brave and we admire them greatly. We hope this podcast brings more attention to VRC and dog rescue in general and inspires more people to volunteer with a local dog rescue.
Carlos & Brian discuss owner liability with respect to a dog who bites someone or another dog. We go over the legal definition of a "dangerous dog", what happens after a dog bites someone or another dog, the owner's liability is when it happens. Brian recalls his experiences in court as a Qualified Expert Witness in Dog Behavior to shed light on this issue which most of us have only read about.
This is episode #3 in our series about Sakura, the young Border Collie we brought home from the Fauquier SPCA. She was with us for a week, made some progress and already has a family interested in her and experienced with anxious dogs! Stay tuned...
Carlos & I update listeners about Sakura, the young Border Collie we're fostering. Progress is slow but she's definitely coming out of her shell and normalizing.
This is the first in a series of podcasts about Sakura, a 1-year-old Border Collie mix who was shutting down in her kennel. Not drinking or eating much, not comfortable with a leash, sitting at the back of her kennel, she just wanted to be invisible to the world. This is the story of Sakura's journey from fear and uncertainty to stability and contentment. Keep listening for more about Sakura!
Carlos & Brian discuss the fallacies of this trainer's methods as well as her initial rationale which her methods are based on.
Carlos & Brian discuss dog bites, specifically how people deal with the psychological trauma of having been bitten by a dog. We discuss our worst and most traumatic bites and how they changed us.
Carlos & Brian discuss the pros and cons of taking your dog to a dog park. Should you avoid dog parks or should you go? Gain some new perspective on dog parks and find out if they're right for you and your dog!
Carlos & Brian discuss the body language of humans and how we effect our dogs whether we realize it or not. We go into detail about how dog owners inadvertently give the wrong signals to their dogs which the dogs then interpret as anxiety, insecurity and/or weakness and respond by challenging or ignoring their owners.
Carlos & Brian discuss typical "basic" training offered by most dog trainers and commercial pet stores.
Carlos & Brian discuss a training video by Victoria Stilwell in which Dillon the Great Dane has (according to his owners) never met another dog. Needless to say, Dillon gets very excited about the prospect of meeting another dog as soon as he sees one. We discuss not only Victoria's methods and why they're ineffective, but we also examine the poor energy of the people and how that negatively affects Dillon in this exercise.
In this episode we discuss the relevance and importance of physical touch as an integral part of your relationship with your dog. Physical contact for dogs is a natural and necessary form of communication, both with each other and with us. Without understanding how dogs communicate with each other physically and the meanings of different forms of physical touch, you're missing out on fully understanding your dog.
In this episode Brian and Carlos discuss a video clip of a dog trainer attempting to teach dog owners about fixing the problem of dog jumping. We break down the effectiveness of the techniques used and explain why they don't work.
Brian & Carlos share their thoughts and valuable experience when it comes to making this very important decision that could make or break your overall success as a dog owner.
Our first of many podcasts discussing the importance of walking your dog...every day! Letting your dog run around in the backyard or at a dog park or in doggie daycare are all fine ways for your dog to release energy, but without YOU engaging with him in the activity, you're missing out on some tremendous benefits — the most important benefit is continuing to improve your relationship of trust and respect with your dog.
Carlos & I recount one of our most interesting cases! Clients called us to help them with Angus, their adult male English Bulldog. They told us Angus growls at them, goes after other dogs (including the other dog in their house), and they didn't know how to handle him. In a rare case, we took Angus into our care for a couple days and explain everything we did with Angus to work him through his unwanted behavior.