Dog Pro Radio

Dog Pro Radio interviews Jamie Penrith, UK-based trainer and owner of Take the Lead Dog Training, who brings over 25 years of experience, including a decade as a police dog handler. The conversation focuses on off-leash reliability and predatory behavior, while also previewing his upcoming talk at the IACP European Summit on the fight against proposed e-collar bans in England and Scotland. Penrith emphasizes the importance of unity within the industry, defines animal welfare as helping dogs safely navigate their environment, and discusses practical training approaches, legal considerations around livestock, and broader concerns shaping modern dog ownership and training.

Dog Pro Radio interviews world-renowned dog trainer Ivan Balabanov, creator of “Training Without Conflict,” two-time world champion, and Malinois breeder, and notes Balabanov will speak at the IACP European Summit in Poland on what drives behavior. Balabanov contrasts sport and pet training as different in goals but rooted in the same learning principles, emphasizing evaluation of genetics, learning limits, emotional/brain state, confidence, and problem “levels” rather than fixating on the surface behavior. He critiques over-attributing issues to fear and argues for building dogs’ ability to overcome fears by changing perception and state, often using play (rather than food) to shift physiology and affect. He distinguishes fear from true predation, stating predation with intent to kill cannot be reliably interrupted by reinforcement and requires properly applied suppression, prioritizing welfare outcomes over momentary appearances. He frames dominance as momentary control of resources, not a personality trait. Discussing puppies, he highlights space, cleanliness, and allowing agency in exploration and socialization. He advises trainers to avoid cases beyond their skills, seek better education, and progress in manageable steps.

Hosts Jason Purgason and Matt Covey interview Ohio police dog handler/trainer and Vaness Canine owner Eric Stanbro about his book, "Ecollar Without Conflict for Pets and Working Dogs," and his seminars focused on fixing deeper handler-dog relationship issues, especially the verbal out. Stanbro explains “tone avoidance,” using an e-collar tone as a silent negative marker replacing verbal corrections (no, leave it, drop it) so the dog associates consequences with its behavior rather than the handler, improving manners and reducing conflict. He details how to introduce tone and stimulation quickly in real home setups, discusses timing, multi-dog households, collar fit, and common mistakes (not backing tone with stimulation). He also describes “tone recall” and “tone move/follow” for loose-leash walking and reactivity, plus limited uses for vibration.

Dog Pro Radio hosts Eve Molzhon of Dog Handler Academy, who also owns dog daycare/boarding/training facilities and runs two nonprofits placing service dogs and rehabilitating shelter dogs. Eve explains how COVID prompted her to create Dog Handler Academy’s online staff-training modules and a handler-to-trainer program, now serving clients in 15 countries. The discussion centers on “holding staff and clients accountable with love,” using empathy, fair standards, and adapting communication to the other person’s needs. Eve applies the five love languages (affirmation, quality time, gifts, acts of service, physical touch/spatial cues) and “mirroring” to build trust, reduce shame, and improve follow-through. Through role-play, they cover homework compliance, creating house rules, motivating busy or affluent clients, using checklists and social accountability (texts/private Facebook groups), and doing regular check-ins to strengthen culture, retention, referrals, and business outcomes.

On this episode of Dog Pro Radio, hosts Matt and Jason interview ethologist Roberto Barata, who shares his path from teenage dog walker to working in a military canine unit, an animal research lab, and now writing in Denmark. He discusses social media polarization and the limitations of scientific studies, noting that research tests hypotheses rather than proving absolute truths. Barata also explains aversives and different types of stress in dogs, emphasizing that context and function matter. He highlights the value of real-world enrichment and the importance of intellectual integrity and responsible communication in the dog training industry.

In this episode, the Matt Covey sit down with Jason Purgason, owner of Highland Canine and president of the IACP, to discuss running a professional dog training school. He shares insight into Highland Canine’s 24-week program, hands-on training opportunities, and the importance of building strong foundations across multiple disciplines.Jason emphasizes that success in dog training goes beyond handling skills, requiring strong communication, client management, and business knowledge. He also shares his perspective on industry regulation, advocating for education and experience over increased licensing.The episode wraps with real-world stories highlighting the impact of training and rehabilitation.

Dog Pro Radio features guest Robin MacFarlane! Robin shares her comprehensive journey in dog training, from her early aspirations of becoming a veterinarian to becoming a leading expert in the field. The discussion dives into her methods of using e-collars effectively, emphasizing the importance of individualized training and understanding the dog's behavior and body language. Robin highlights the significance of selecting the right tools and pressures for different dogs, dispelling myths about e-collars, and emphasizing humane and impactful training. She also discusses the challenges and strategies around e-collar bans and the need for unity among dog trainers to tackle broader issues like shelter intake rates. Additionally, Robin offers insights into her online courses and seminars aimed at training both dogs and other dog trainers. The conversation emphasizes the importance of combining technical skill with exceptional teaching ability for the benefit of both dogs and clients.

In the premiere episode of Dog Pro Radio's second season, host Duke Ferguson engages in an insightful and dynamic exchange on his experiences in dog training and personal growth. Duke highlights his career achievements, such as working with gun dogs and police dogs, and shares transformative personal stories, including overcoming health challenges and intense emotional struggles. He emphasizes the importance of personal development, the power of breathwork, and why focusing on client transformation is crucial in dog training. Duke also teases an upcoming breathwork webinar for IACP members, which promises to provide techniques for downregulating the nervous system to improve both personal well-being and professional effectiveness.

In this episode of Dog Pro Radio, Aimee Sadler, the founder of Dogs Playing for Life, discusses her extensive experience with animal training and her organization’s mission to improve the lives of shelter dogs. Aimee shares her journey from training dolphins and sea lions to developing programs for shelter dogs. She emphasizes the importance of playgroups for reducing stress in dogs and improving adoptability. Aimee describes various methods and tools used to facilitate dog interactions and training in shelters, highlighting the balance between risk management and benefiting the dogs' well-being. She also touches on the challenges of shelter environments and the importance of professional dog trainers volunteering to help shelters. The conversation delves into behavioral assessments, effective training practices in stressful environments, and the significant impact of fostering. Aimee underscores the value of addressing behavioral issues realistically and improving shelter conditions to enhance the experiences of both dogs and potential adopters.

In this episode of Dog Pro Radio, Nate Schoemer, a former US Marine and professional dog trainer, shares his extensive knowledge on dog training. Trained under Tom Rose, a legendary figure in dog training, Nate discusses the importance of patience and structured, step-by-step processes in dog training. He emphasizes the necessity of filtering through the overwhelming and often conflicting information available online. Nate elaborates on various training methods, including the significance of understanding operant and classical conditioning. He stresses the importance of initial engagement training, using markers, and creating positive associations for dogs. Nate also provides practical advice on handling command compliance, using different levels of pressure and corrections, and the importance of building a strong relationship with the dog before implementing corrections. He highlights the need for training consistency and environmental adaptability, offering a detailed, methodical approach to effective dog training.

In this episode of Dog Pro Radio, host Matt welcomes guest Bill Church, also known as Bow Wow Bill. Bill shares his journey as a dog trainer, his inspiration behind live streaming conversations with other trainers, and the valuable insights he's gained from these dialogues. The discussion covers various topics including the importance of building a network, ethical considerations in dog training, and the significance of understanding dog body language and principles behind training techniques. Bill also speaks about his personal approach to training and his dedication to helping dogs and their owners. Additionally, he discusses the development of new training tools and his goals for the future, both professionally and personally.

In this episode of Dog Pro Radio, the host interviews Heather Beck, founder of Heather's Heroes and IACP Member Hall of Fame Inductee in 2023. Heather discusses her extensive 30-year career in dog training, which includes founding the K9 Lifeline boarding and training center, starting the 'Heather's Heroes' product line, and her involvement with camels. Key points include her development of the 'Sidekick' head collar, its unique training benefits, and the importance of pressure and release in dog training. Heather also touches on her experiences with animal rescue and fostering, her views on managing and training difficult dogs, and her upcoming educational endeavors. The episode covers training philosophies, the challenges of preconceived notions about training tools, and her transition from running a physical training facility to focusing on education and mentoring through various platforms.

Stephanie Vichinsky, founder of Method K9, discusses her journey and experiences in the dog training industry. She elaborates on her humble beginnings, the multifaceted approaches of her business including board and trains, private training seminars, and dog trainer certification programs. Stephanie dives into the significant role of coexisting and behavioral training, especially introducing dogs to children and the importance of rest in their routines. Emphasizing her commitment to practical learning, she encourages young trainers to handle as many dogs as possible to gain experience. Presently, she is focusing on giving back to shelters and rescues and running the Method K9 Institute to help train new dog trainers. Stephanie highlights the importance of balancing confidence and humility, effective communication, and the crucial role of trial and error in becoming a proficient dog trainer.

This episode of Dog Pro Radio features Antonio Diaz from Leader of the Pack Canine Training. Antonio discusses his journey into dog training, his methods, and philosophies. Antonio shares his experiences with balancing positive reinforcement and corrections, the challenges of leash reactivity, the importance of tailoring training to each dog, and the value of understanding dog body language. He also talks about his involvement with the IACP, his recent participation in their conference, and his new role as the Director of Education for IACP. Additionally, Antonio outlines his future plans, including new online courses and mentorship programs.

Dog Pro Radio hosts Jason Purgason, Matt Covey, and Fabian Romo reunite for episode #20. They share updates on personal challenges and projects before recapping highlights from the recent IACP conference, including speakers, workshops, and membership initiatives. They reflect on past podcast episodes, memorable live interviews, and build excitement for the next conference in Newport Beach, CA, while inviting listener feedback for future content. 

Dog Pro Radio Episode #19 features Dee Hoult, a professional dog trainer who runs a prison dog training program in Miami, Florida. Dee explains her method of choosing dogs from shelters, the training regimen within the prison, and how the inmates are trained using positive reinforcement and various enrichment activities. She also touches on safety, the selection process for inmates, and the positive outcomes for both the dogs and the participating inmates. Additionally, Dee encourages those interested in starting similar programs to use her as a resource and offers an open invitation for speakers to visit and share knowledge with her inmates.

In this episode of Dog Pro Radio, our hosts interview Joel Silverman, a notable figure in dog training who has also trained marine mammals, including killer whales, and other animals for Hollywood productions. Joel shares his journey from growing up in Southern California to working at SeaWorld and training animals for movies. He emphasizes building a strong bond and relationship with dogs, understanding the importance of rewards, and the significance of varied reinforcement schedules in training. Additionally, he discusses his transition to training and certifying new dog trainers and introduces his new dog training franchise, Trusted Paw. Joel also shares tips for new trainers, highlighting the importance of maintaining trust and keeping training sessions short and enjoyable for the dogs.

Join us for an in-depth discussion with Athena Haus on Dog Pro Radio. Athena, with over two decades of experience in training and working with search and rescue dogs, shares her journey and insights. From her beginnings as a firefighter to her involvement with FEMA and various task forces, Athena talks about the intricacies of working with dogs in highly challenging environments. Learn about the impact of choosing the right dog and the role of drones and AI in modern search and rescue operations. Don't miss out on exclusive tips and expert advice in this engaging episode.

In this episode of Dog Pro Radio, hosts Jason Purgason and Matt Covey engage in an in-depth conversation with Jay Jack, former MMA fighter and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, who shares his journey into the world of dog training. Discussion topics include the founding of GRC Dog Sports, the value of play and drive in training, and innovative training methods focusing on balance between control and expression. Jay also delves into the concept of 'windows' for dogs, highlighting the importance of dogs being able to read and respond to different modes of operation. Listeners are treated to insights on the complexities of training pit bulls, the connection between Jiu-Jitsu and dog training, and much more. Don't miss this informative and eye-opening episode!

This episode of Dog Pro Radio features an in-depth discussion with Tyler Muto, a well-known figure in the dog training industry and past president of the IACP. Tyler insights on various topics such as effective strategies for both new and experienced trainers, the importance of lesson planning tailored to specific client goals, and the challenges posed by the evolving economic landscape. He emphasizes the significance of customizing training programs to focus on key problem behaviors rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, and discusses the balance between client satisfaction and realistic training outcomes. Additionally, Tyler talks about his upcoming event, The Art of Teaching 2.0, targeted at improving trainers' teaching skills and the overall client experience. The conversation touches on business aspects, highlighting the importance of a solid online presence and adapting strategies to current economic conditions to ensure financial stability and growth in the dog training industry.

Jennifer Carter, a dog trainer and certified canine nutritionist, discusses the intersection of nutrition and dog behavior. She emphasizes the importance of adaptable nutrition for rehabilitation, covering topics such as fresh food diets, supplements, and specific tests to ensure dogs' health. Jennifer also reveals her upcoming book on rehabilitating a dog through conservative management and the sport of Canicross, which involves cross-country running with dogs. She will be speaking and holding activities at the IACP conference, including a meet and greet where she plans to release her book.

In this episode of Dog Pro Radio, they welcome guest Pat Stuart, a distinguished dog trainer, and educator. Pat shares his journey from serving in Australia's Special Forces to becoming a professional dog trainer in 2015, and offers insights into the importance of practical experience and continuous learning in the field. The conversation covers the internal challenges within the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP), the influence of social media on dog training, and the potential threats from zealot groups seeking to ban training tools. Pat emphasizes the need for balanced trainers to maintain competence, uphold ethical standards, and unite against external adversaries. He also discusses his latest projects, including an upcoming online dog training course aimed at helping trainers achieve excellence without compromising their principles.

This episode of Dog Pro Radio features Laura DeMaio Roy, an experienced service dog trainer. Laura shares insights on choosing the right breed and individual dogs for service work, emphasizing the significance of genetics and early socialization. The conversation also covers public access training, the importance of flexibility, and handling stressful environments. Laura stresses the importance of letting puppies develop naturally without imposing adult responsibilities too soon. The episode highlights the rewarding yet demanding nature of training service dogs and the importance of education, community engagement, and realistic expectations for both trainers and handlers.

In this episode of Dog Pro Radio, Michael Shikashio, renowned dog trainer specializing in aggression cases, discusses the complexities and nuances of handling aggression in dogs. He explores the importance of understanding the root causes of aggressive behavior, such as pain, environmental factors, and the relationship between dog and owner. The discussion also covers effective management strategies, including the use of muzzles and understanding breed-specific traits, and emphasizes the need for empathy and proper diagnosis in addressing aggression. Additionally, they talk about the upcoming IACP conference, where Michael will present on intra-household dog aggression.

In this episode of Dog Pro Radio, Nelson Hodges, a renowned dog trainer and founder of the Canine Human Relationship Institute, discusses his unique approach to dog training, focusing on understanding the canine mind and building harmonious relationships between dogs and their owners. He shares experiences with various dog breeds, emphasizes the importance of mutual understanding, and talks about the complexities of breeding. Nelson also highlights the need for better public education on dog ownership and dives into his methods for training trainers, aiming to elevate the understanding and practices in dog training.

In this episode of Dog Pro Radio, renowned dog trainer Larry Krohn discusses his journey from federal agent to dog trainer, emphasizing the importance of compassionate training, proper use of e-collars, and building genuine connections with dogs. Larry shares insights on dog behavior, the role of obedience, and the future of dog training, stressing the need for showing authentic work and personalized training approaches. The conversation explores various training philosophies, challenges faced by trainers, and the importance of adapting methods to benefit both dogs and their owners.

In this episode of Dog Pro Radio, hosts Jason and Matt dive into an engaging conversation with Kim Brophey, an applied ethologist, certified dog behavior consultant, and author of 'Meet Your Dog.' They explore the evolution of dogs, their roles in human history, and the differences between village dogs and modern breeds. Kim discusses the impact of selective breeding and the potential future of dogs in an increasingly urban and sedentary society. The episode also touches on the importance of mental stimulation for dogs and upcoming projects, including a new total welfare model and an app to objectively measure dog welfare. The conversation is enriched with insights into how humans and dogs can better adapt to modern living conditions while ensuring the well-being of both species.

In this episode, we are thrilled to have Cyndy Douan, an experienced Border Collie breeder and past president of the IACP. Cyndy shares the history of IACP, insights into her journey, and the realities of dog training and behavior. We delve into her multifaceted career involving various dog sports, including agility, Frisbee disc, and sheep herding, and discuss the importance of maintaining professional standards in the dog training industry. Cyndy's passion for dogs, training, and learning is truly inspiring, as she emphasizes the significance of building meaningful connections and understanding energy in dog training. Don't miss her engaging stories, profound insights, and updates on the upcoming IACP conference.

In this episode of Dog Pro Radio, the hosts sit down with Robert Cabral, a prominent dog trainer and behavior expert. Robert shares insights on the challenges and nuances of dog training, the importance of tailoring training methods to individual dogs, and the ethical considerations involved, particularly in shelter environments. He emphasizes the significance of understanding dog behavior through hands-on experience, such as working in shelters, and the dangers of social media misinformation in the training community. The discussion also touches on the broader implications of training philosophies, the importance of continued education for trainers, and the role of organizations like IACP in supporting trainers. Throughout, Robert stresses the need for honesty and compassion in dog training.

Dog Pro Radio hosts interview Dr. Melanie Uhde, discussing various aspects of canine behavior and training. They dive into the importance of exercise and nutrition for promoting good behavior in dogs, touching on the distinction between natural and forced activities like trotting and fetch. Dr. Uhde explains the concept of stress management in dogs, emphasizing the role of consistent and thoughtful exposure to stressors to build resilience. Discussions also cover socialization, the proper balance of exposure for puppies, and debunking myths around dominance and dog behavior. The conversation concludes with insights into Dr. Uhde's upcoming conference talk focused on why calmness isn't always the best metric for assessing a dog's well-being and resilience.  

Join Fabian Romo and Jason Ferguson from Dog Pro Radio as they welcome Dr. Melanie, a canine behavior expert and founder of Canine Decoded. Dr. Melanie delves into her unique approach of combining neuroscience and behavioral science to improve dog training and understanding. The episode explores a wide range of topics including the role of exercise in managing canine anxiety, the impact of stress on dogs, the debated issue of early neutering, and the crucial differences between trainers and behaviorists. Dr. Melanie shares insights from her extensive research background and personal anecdotes, making this a must-watch for anyone interested in dog behavior and training. Tune in to learn how scientific insights can help decode your dog’s mind for better training and a happier life.

In Episode 3 of Dog Pro Radio, hosts Jason Purgason and Matt Covey sit down with renowned dog trainer and author Mark Goldberg. Goldberg shares his journey of co-authoring books with the Monks of New Skete and dives deep into his core dog training philosophies. The conversation covers the humane and effective use of tools like e-collars and prong collars, highlighting their role in responsible training when used correctly. Goldberg also stresses the value of building meaningful relationships with dogs, the importance of open-mindedness in the dog training community, and how to navigate trainer biases. The episode wraps up with practical advice for aspiring trainers and where to find Goldberg’s books and online resources.

In this episode of Dog Pro Radio, hosts Fabian, Jason, and Matt are joined by the renowned dog trainer Tom Davis, owner of Upstate Canine Academy and the No Bad Dogs brand. The discussion begins with updates from Fabian and Jason about their busy schedules, including a canine cognition workshop and various training programs. Tom Davis shares his journey into dog training, emphasizing his passion for helping dogs and their owners. The conversation covers various topics such as leash reactivity, the difference between reactivity and aggression, effective correction methods, and the importance of teaching dogs alternative behaviors. Tom provides valuable insights and practical tips for dog trainers and owners alike, stressing the importance of continuous learning and proper communication with dogs. Listeners also get a sneak peek into Tom's upcoming projects, including a world tour and new content creation initiatives. Tune in for a deep dive into the world of dog training and behavior with one of the industry's leading experts.

In the inaugural episode of Dog Pro Radio, hosts Jason Purgason, Fabian, and Matt Covey introduce themselves and discuss their diverse backgrounds in dog training. They explain the purpose of the podcast, which aims to cover all aspects of dog training and industry topics, provide education, and build community among professionals and enthusiasts. They touch upon their specialties in different types of dog training, from military and service dogs to behavior modification. The team highlights the importance of the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP) in terms of ethics, certification, and legislation, sharing their passion for representing balanced training and combating ambiguous legislative measures. The discussion also covers the upcoming IACP conference, the organization's goals, and their excitement about the future episodes featuring industry experts. The core message centers on education, reducing polarization within the dog training community, and providing valuable insights for both professionals and dog owners.