Life With Your Dog

In this episode, we're joined by Carter Wilde from Wilde Acres for a powerful conversation on real-world dog training. We dive into the process of introducing babies to dogs in a way that builds safety, trust, and calm coexistence from day one. We also explore how Carter is redefining the board and train model to improve results that last well beyond the program, and why training for real-life sit...

In this episode, Panos & Daniel dive into what it truly means to train your dog for real life. Obedience in a sterile environment is one thing — but will your dog listen when it actually matters? From navigating crowded streets, cafés, and vet clinics, to staying calm around guests, kids, or other dogs, we talk about how to build reliability, resilience, and responsiveness in the real world. P...

In this episode we welcome back Sada (Saharai Salazar), founder of Wolf Mother K9 Rescue Services. Known for her fearless work with “unadoptable” shelter dogs, Sada shares deeper insight into her approach to rehabilitating fear-based and aggressive behavior in high-risk dogs. We dive into the emotional and behavioral toll of the shelter system, how mislabeling dogs can cost them their lives, and w...

In this episode, Panos and Luke chat with Jacqui Zakar from Dog Sense in Perth — a dog trainer with a background in psychology and a passion for helping owners understand their dogs better. Jacqui opens up about her own struggles with a reactive dog and how it led her down the path of behaviour work. They talk about the real-life challenges of dog ownership, and how to create a stronger bond with...

In this episode, we explore a common myth in the dog world: are dogs inherently "good" or "bad"? Or is it more accurate to understand dog behaviour in terms of what's desirable or undesirable from a human perspective?   We’ll break down how this thinking affects the way we train, live with, and advocate for our dogs.   Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizun...

Planning a road trip with your dog? In this episode of Life With Your Dog, Panos shares everything you need to know to make your trip safe, smooth, and enjoyable — for both you and your dog. From essential travel prep and how to find pet-friendly stops to training plans that help your dog settle into the road trip lifestyle, we’ve got you covered. Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining....

In this episode, we explore the idea of requiring a licence for dog ownership. With growing concerns around public safety, responsible pet care, and the rising number of dog-related incidents, some argue that a licensing system could help ensure owners are properly educated and prepared. Others believe it could create unnecessary barriers and punish responsible dog owners. We weigh the pros and co...

Is it better to be born with talent, or can hard work take you further? In this Q&A episode, Panos answers a great question from listener Elliot and unpacks the difference between natural ability and consistent effort. Drawing from his experience as a dog trainer, business owner, and lifelong learner, Panos explores how real success is built — not just inherited. Whether you're working with do...

Is there ever a moment when your dog is truly done with training? In this episode of Life With Your Dog, Panos invited Daniel on the podcast to dive into the age-old question: When is a dog fully trained? Spoiler—there’s no finish line. We explore what “fully trained” really means, why training is an ongoing lifestyle, and how your dog’s needs change over time. Whether you’re raising a puppy, mana...

In this episode, we discuss intermittent and variable reinforcement in dog training and how these methods can help strengthen and maintain behaviors over time. By varying the timing and frequency of rewards, trainers can keep dogs more engaged and responsive. We explore the science behind why unpredictable reinforcement works, and when to apply it in training routines. Whether you're focusing on b...

In this episode we welcome back Josh & Alex, both top notch dog trainers to discuss valuable topics of the dog world. Both Josh and Alex are joining forces to run seminars in Queensland and Victoria, Australia in June for: Dealing with Difficult Dogs Group Socialisation Masterclass Understanding Electric Collars Some of this was discussed in the episode along with talking about how social medi...

In this episode, we dive into the complex world of fear aggression in dogs—one of the most misunderstood behavioral challenges pet owners face. We’ll break down what fear aggression looks like, what triggers it, and why some dogs react with growling, barking, or even biting when they feel threatened.   Join us as we explore expert-backed techniques for managing and rehabilitating fear-aggressive d...

There are 4 stages of maturity in dogs ranging from puppyhood through adolescence to maturity. In each stage there are different expectations and level of training to work through. Panos and Luke go through these stages and will help you understand what to work on, what to expect and how to navigate your training as your dog matures.   Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >>...

Panos answers Roger's question: "In your time with using Spades and Chili as demo dogs to help out with other dogs' issues have there been instances where it was a bad experience for your dogs? How did you handle it? Did they get over it? How did you get over it?" Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdog...

Panos' book, The Nooch's Pooches Method- A comprehensive guide to training & living with your dog has been released. After years of preparation and writing it is finally available for you to purchase. The book is not just a guide to training, it is a blueprint from the foundations of dog behaviour, definitions, step by step guide to training and applications to everyday life. Available in both...

Dr. Michelle Rassool joins us again on the show, this time to discuss the fascinating topics of genetics and epigenetics in the dog world ... enjoy! Find her work at https://www.drmichellerassool.com/   Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >...

Spades was my beloved dog of 14 years and he has sadly left us. We dedicated this episode to him and talked all about his life, to celebrate the life of the best dog. From being a shelter puppy, to joining my family to then work with me and witness starting my own family, Spades was apart of this era in my life. His passing is the closing of one chapter in my story and I'm so happy he was able to...

Pat joins us again (he was on way back in June 2020!) for the 2nd time. We discussed, among other things, his views on the major differences between sport/working dog trainers and pet dog trainers, and how this impacts the lives of the average pet dog. We also touched on e-collars and some common misconceptions regarding them. Find Pat and his wealth of knowledge at https://www.seriousdogbusiness....

Panos shares a recap of 2024, his favourite episodes of last year and what lessons he's learnt in his dog training experience. This week's topic was all about dog's being creatures of patterns and as a dog owner, the importance of acknowledging patterns in your dog's behaviour. Your patterns of behaviour influence your dog and now that we are back to the beginning of the year, after some time off,...

This week we were joined by Kylie Marks, a physiotherapist who specialises in canine health and rehabilitation. A fascinating conversation around Kylie's expertise in this area which may be helpful for those of you with injured pooches! Find Kylie's work at https://www.instagram.com/strongandsteadycanines/ How to know if your dog is in pain  Download showing different pain behaviours https://drive...

Panos answers Amy's question "How do you talk to your dogs?" There are a few things to consider when you speak to your dog. Does your dog understand you? Are you speaking to them to be understood, or just talking for the sake of it? Is it an issue to "just talk" to your dog? Tune in to find out!   Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >&gt...

Samantha-Jo Walsh joined us this week to talk all about her work in caring for and raising dingoes, which are a native Australian apex predator.  Sam is also the partner of John Ortega from Man's Best Friend Australia - you can find their work at https://www.instagram.com/sammyjowalsh/ or https://www.mansbestfriendaustralia.com.au/   Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> L...

Panos elaborates on a question asked at a recent group class. "When I gave my dog the Middle command, she ignored me. I tried to put her in time out, but wasn't sure what to do. What should I have done?" There are a few ways to answer this as context, level of dog's skillset and management strategies need to be taken in consideration. Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >>...

Our listener Trevor reached out with a question, "My dog is digging dentasticks into my couch, we don't mind now, but we are getting a new couch soon. What should I do?" Panos answers this by offering advice on what types of bones and enrichment are appropriate, along with tips on how to resolve thus issue.   Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.co...

LISTENER DISCRETION ADVISED. Dog fighting is discussed in this episode. You have been warned. John's love for dogs started when he was 5 years old - his brother brought home Luna and Mono at 8 weeks old. Brother and sister American Staffordshire Terriers, it was when he met them that a spark flickered inside him to learn more about "man's best friend". You can find John's services at https://www.m...