Nate Schoemer Dog Training Podcast

In this episode, I sit down with Oscar Mora, founder of Elevated Canine Academy, to break down what it really takes to train dogs at a high level—whether you’re working with pet dogs, sport dogs, or protection dogs. Oscar has been training since 2009 and is certified as a Schutzhund helper, French Ring decoy, and Mondio Ring decoy. He’s a three-time Southwest Region IGP Champion and has traveled a...

In this episode, I sit down with world-renowned dog trainer Armin Winkler to break down one of the most misunderstood topics in dog training: aggression. This conversation goes far beyond surface-level explanations and dives into what’s really happening when dogs display aggressive behavior—and why many people, including trainers, misunderstand it. We cover: • The difference between true aggressio...

In this episode, I sit down with world-renowned dog trainer Denise Fenzi to talk about what truly matters in dog training today: education. We break down how better education leads to better decisions, clearer communication, and more effective training outcomes, whether you’re a professional trainer or a dedicated dog owner. We cover: - Why Denise shifted her focus to education - How to structure...

In this episode, Nate Schoemer sits down with Andy Krueger to break down what truly creates reliability in dog training. From understanding genetics and temperament to mastering leash pressure, neutralization, and structured learning, this conversation focuses on the real-world principles that separate guessing from intentional training. Whether you’re working toward advanced protection sports lik...

What separates average dog trainers from elite professionals? In this episode, Nate Schoemer sits down with legendary Hollywood animal trainer Joel Silverman to unpack decades of real-world experience training animals for film, television, marine mammal programs, and advanced performance work. Joel explains the principles that actually create reliable obedience, strong motivation, and lasting comm...

Former Navy search-and-rescue medic and Kennelwood Academy instructor Jeremy Ciepluch joins Nate Schoemer to break down what actually builds long-term success in the dog training industry. Jeremy shares how working alongside military working dog teams shaped his training philosophy, why many trainers struggle after certification, and what skills truly matter if you want a sustainable career workin...

What separates average dog training programs from systems that consistently produce reliable, real-world results? In this episode, Nate Schoemer sits down with Brian Claeys , founder of All Dogs Unleashed , to break down what professional trainers do differently when working with high volumes of real dogs and real owners. This is a behind-the-scenes conversation about structure, clarity, proofing,...

Most dog owners try to teach obedience by jumping straight into commands, structure, and discipline. According to Jamie The Dog Trainer, that approach is backwards. In this episode, Nate Schoemer sits down with Jamie to break down why obedience often feels difficult, and how trick training, play, motivation, and proper foundations can make training easier, faster, and far more effective. They expl...

Aggression cases don’t fail because of dogs, they fail because owners aren’t trained properly. In this episode, professional dog trainer Austin Laramee joins Nate Schoemer to break down how play-based training, leash communication, and owner education create behavior change that actually lasts. Austin shares his journey from adopting a shelter dog with no formal experience to working hundreds of r...

Many dog trainers chase trophies. Nate Czarnota trains to a standard. In this episode, Nate Schoemer sits down with Nate Czarnota of Iron Oak Dog Company to break down what “training to a standard” really means and why it creates more reliable, capable dogs than chasing titles, ribbons, or trends. They dive into gundog training, obedience under pressure, impulse control in high-arousal environment...

The dog training world is deeply divided, force-free vs balanced training. But what happens when avoiding pressure actually creates more fear, anxiety, and instability in dogs? In this episode, Nate Schoemer sits down with Justin Rigney , veteran dog trainer and former law-enforcement K9 handler, for an honest, experience-driven conversation about pressure, fear, genetics, and real behavior change...

Most dog training advice tells owners to keep their dog calm at all costs. Neuroscience suggests that approach often backfires. In this episode, Nate Schoemer sits down with neuroscientist and dog trainer Dr. Melanie Uhde to challenge some of the most common assumptions in modern dog training. Rather than chasing constant calm, this conversation explains why manageable stress, frustration, and cha...

Thinking about leaving your 9–5 to become a professional dog trainer? Natalie Dobkins did exactly that — and in this episode, she breaks down how and why she made the leap , plus what it really takes to build a sustainable dog training business. Natalie (Team K9 Training) joins host Nate Schoemer for an honest, no-fluff conversation about transitioning out of the corporate world and into full-time...

From Marine Corps discipline to professional dog training, Steven Hueston’s journey shows how structure, patience, and purpose can transform both people and dogs. In this powerful episode, Nate Schoemer sits down with Steven Hueston —Marine infantry veteran, professional dog trainer, and host of the Dogs of War Podcast —to explore how lessons from military life shaped his approach to balanced dog...

Many dog trainers only focus on obedience… but what if the real solution to your dog’s behavior issues lies somewhere else entirely? In this powerful and eye-opening conversation, Nate Schoemer sits down with Evan Doggett (@doggett.style) to explore how small, often-ignored factors can transform a dog’s behavior from the inside out. From understanding canine communication to rethinking tools like...

Carlos Ramirez of CRK9 is one of the most respected and experienced dog trainers in the country, and in this episode, he breaks down exactly how he gets such reliable, real-world results. From training elite military and police K9s to transforming household pets with serious behavioral issues, Carlos brings a deep, proven approach to canine development. In this interview, you’ll learn: How he went...

In this episode, Robert Cabral shares how his journey from martial arts shaped his dog training philosophy—and how discipline, empathy, and clarity help dogs trust, thrive, and transform. We dive into shelter dog work, communication systems (yes/no, binary), building rapport, and why the “alpha” model is often misunderstood. This interview is for dog owners, trainers, or anyone passionate about an...

In this episode, Nate Schoemer sits down with legendary dog trainer Ivan Balabanov to explore his groundbreaking philosophy, Training Without Conflict . Ivan shares why true success in dog training comes from rapport, trust, motivation, and cooperation —not force or fear. Whether you’re a dog owner, aspiring trainer, or seasoned professional, this conversation will reshape the way you think about...

What happens when one of the world’s most innovative dog trainers takes his famous trick dogs from Hollywood stunts to the art world? In this episode, Nate Schoemer sits down with Omar Von Muller — the legendary trainer behind viral sensations Jumpy and Monkey, and the man who trained the pit bull in Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood . Omar’s story is incredible: from rescuing dogs...

What makes or breaks a great protection dog? According to world-class decoy and trainer Bob Solimini , the answer lies in the person inside the bite suit. In this episode, Nate Schoemer sits down with Bob to reveal the hidden role of decoys in shaping reliable sport, police, and military dogs. From building confidence in young puppies to testing seasoned competition dogs, Bob breaks down what ever...

In this episode, I sit down with Nino from STSK9, one of the most respected and innovative figures in the dog training world. Nino’s journey is extraordinary—he grew up afraid of dogs, yet went on to become a K9 handler, elite trainer, and the creator of the S-Flow system that’s redefining obedience and working dog training. We cover: Nino’s unlikely path from fear to obsession and ultimately to t...

Does your dog lunge, bark, or pull on walks? In this episode, professional dog trainer Stephanie Vichinsky (founder of Method K9 ) explains exactly how to stop leash reactivity and turn stressful walks into calm, enjoyable experiences. 🎧 Exclusive Offer: Use code NATE (all caps) for 50% off Method K9 courses—including all four certification levels, video-only bundles, Puppy Jump Start, Basic &amp...

Michael Ellis on the Most Overlooked Key to Dog Training: Engagement In this wide-ranging conversation, world-renowned dog trainer Michael Ellis shares what he believes is the most overlooked key to successful dog training: engagement . Before you can teach a dog what to learn, you first have to teach them how to learn—and that starts by creating motivation, attention, and buy-in. Whether you’re a...

Thinking about getting a puppy—or struggling with one you already have? In this in-depth conversation, professional dog trainer Nate Schoemer sits down with Maureen Cucinella to debunk common puppy training myths, tackle crate and muzzle training, explain the truth about socialization, and offer real solutions for raising a confident, balanced dog. You’ll learn: • How to spot reliable dog training...

🎙️ What does it really take to raise a reliable service dog? In this episode, Nate Schoemer sits down with professional service dog trainer Heather Lowell to explore the science and strategy behind raising life-changing canine partners. From genetics and early development to advanced training and public access proofing, this episode is packed with honest insights and expert advice. Whether you’re...