The Canine Paradigm

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...

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...

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 pract...

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....

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, affect...

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 illumi...

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...

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 methodolog...

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 is...

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. Homeost...

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,...

As the year draws to a close, we’re excited to present our end-of-year podcast, “The Rising Tide Lifts All the Boats.” This episode is not just a reflection on the past year but a heartfelt message of gratitude and inspiration. We’ve seen that when we focus on self-improvement and foster kindness, just like boats in a rising tide, we all lift together. Throughout this year,...

The story of Jay, the founder of GRC Dog Sports, is a compelling narrative of resilience, happiness, and a deep-rooted passion for Jiu-Jitsu. Recently, Jay faced a life-altering challenge, surviving a severe car accident that left him with serious injuries and the heart-wrenching loss of his new puppy. Despite these overwhelming setbacks, Jay’s journey towards recovery is a remarkable testam...

Embarking on the journey to become a dog trainer is both exhilarating and demanding. It’s a path that requires dedication, patience, and a deep understanding of canine behaviour. For those starting from scratch, the road to becoming a proficient trainer and eventually leading seminars and teaching solo is filled with learning and growth. Initially, the focus should be on foundational knowled...

Decoys, in particular, are the unsung heroes in sports like, PSA, Schutzhund, French Ring, or Mondioring, where they engage dogs in exercises that could potentially lead to injury. These skilled individuals don’t just wear a bite suit and endure the physicality of a dog’s engagement; they are artists of canine communication, understanding the subtle language of dogs to a degree that al...

In the heart of our communities, dogs hold a special place, not just as pets but as embodiments of love and connection. This was profoundly evident in the story of Kim Grace, owner of Grey Gums Cafe on Putty Road, and her beloved rescue dog, Shilo. Shilo was more than a pet to Kim; he was a symbol of enduring love and companionship. After the passing of her husband, John, Shilo came into Kim&#8217...

This year’s PSA (Protection Sports Association) Nationals in Texas saw an exciting addition to its roster of talented competitors: April Hulme, widely known as the “Heeling Queen” among her online followers. April, joined by her friend Jen Wormsly, showcased her exceptional skills in the PSA1 category, competing with her well-trained dog. April’s reputation as the Heeling Q...

Samantha King, a dog trainer and psychologist at Therapy Dogs Australia, challenges industry norms by advocating for a practical, role-specific approach to working dog training, contrasting with the generalised recommendations often made by her industry member organisation. Working dogs play crucial roles, such as in search and rescue, police work, or providing assistance to individuals with disab...

When we think of psychology, often we imagine a traditional therapy session in an office setting. However, Samantha King, a psychologist from Therapy Dogs Australia, is breaking the mold by incorporating canines into her sessions. This innovative approach, known as psychology assisted by canines, utilizes the unique bond between humans and dogs to facilitate healing and growth, especially in young...

Prey locking in dogs is a natural instinct deeply rooted in their ancestral heritage as hunters. When a dog locks onto an object, it means they’ve spotted something of interest, whether it’s a squirrel, a ball, or even a moving vehicle. This behaviour is characterised by intense focus and a stiffened posture. However, it can be a source of frustration for both owners and trainers alike...

Jealousy and envy, often used interchangeably, have distinct meanings. Jealousy is the fear of losing something we possess to someone else, while envy involves desiring something someone else has. Both emotions aren’t limited to just humans. Our canine companions, too, show signs that could be interpreted as jealousy. For humans, jealousy can arise from intricate emotional scenarios, such as...

From the bustling streets of the UK to the vast expanses of Australia, a storm is brewing that threatens to redefine the very core of dog training. XL Bullies, once pridefully paraded across parks in Britain, now face potential bans. Meanwhile, Down Under, Rottweilers, despite their loyal and loving nature, find themselves splashed across headlines, painting them in a less than flattering light. W...

After the rousing discussion sparked by our previous episode, “Things Dog Trainers Hate to Hear,” it’s clear that the conversation between pet owners and dog trainers is far more nuanced than can be captured by a list of frustrating phrases. The topic was so well-received that we decided to take it a step further in our newest podcast episode, where we delve into how the dynamic...

A recent Facebook post ignited a fascinating discussion around the relationship between pet owners and dog trainers. The user asked friends to share things that dog trainers hate to hear. Not surprisingly, the thread garnered over 200 comments, full of humour and earnest concerns alike. We found the conversation so compelling that we even discussed it in our most recent podcast episode. Initially,...

Undoubtedly, the very essence of dog training is encapsulated in a single, albeit often elusive, concept: the moment. Interestingly, this pivotal lesson came into sharp focus for many of us while sharing space with the incomparable Michael Ellis. A master in his field, Michael exemplifies the art of being fully “in the moment.” When you find yourself fortunate enough to be immersed in...