Life With Your Dog

Dan returns for round two, and this one goes deep.
In this episode, we unpack intrinsic motivation in dogs—from prey drive to play drive—and how those drives differ, overlap, and actually show up in real-world training. Not theory for theory’s sake, but how these concepts matter when you’re working dogs day in, day out. Dan shares lessons learned from years of working dogs, alongside his experience with reactivity in pet dogs. Watching dogs work provides perspective—how dogs think, act, and learn—and that perspective is often missing when people rely solely on what they see online. ...

Most dog owners walk their dogs every day… and still end up with pulling, reactivity, and chaos on the leash. Why is that? In this episode, Panos and Luke break down the 20/20/20 Rule — a simple, repeatable walking structure that balances discipline, freedom, and training. You’ll learn why the walk should be split into three clear phases:
• A structured loose leash walk to set the mental tone
• Free time with purpose — including real-world training
• A structured return to help your dog regulate and settle This episode explains how to stop turning walks into overstimulation sessions and start using them to...

In this episode Panos sits down with Simon, “The Mutt Nut”, a UK-based trainer who’s worked at both extremes of the dog-training world — from sled dogs in Norway, to street dogs across Europe, to guide dogs, pet dogs and heavy-duty aggression cases through rescue organisations. Simon’s known for his no-nonsense motto: “Cut the fluff and focus on what works.”We dive deep into his journey, the lessons he’s collected from wildly different environments, and how those experiences shaped his training philosophy. Simon opens up about industry myths, why trainers conflict, where owners go wrong, and how he blends motivatio...

This episode, we sit down with Calem from K9 Kuriosity for a deep dive into the realities of working with reactive dogs and the owners guiding them. We cover his concept of the sliding scales and how owners can better understand thresholds, triggers, and progression when addressing reactivity. Calem shares his approach to building true confidence and resilience in dogs, what it actually looks like beyond the buzzwords, and how trainers can help dogs develop steadiness in real-world environments. We also talk about the dog-training industry itself: pathways in, what new trainers should expect, and what it really takes to...

In this episode, Panos sits down once again with Samantha Walsh from Man’s Best Friend to discuss a unique case — a rescued dingo pup and the long, delicate process of helping him adapt to suburban life in Sydney. After reaching out to Sam for advice and guidance, Panos shares his client’s story and the challenges of domesticating a dingo in a busy urban environment. Together, they unpack the key elements of this journey — from husbandry, slow socialization, and body language, to feeding routines, management, environmental conditioning, and even what happens to dingos during a full moon. They also dive int...

Panos and Luke break down what truly makes a great puppy class. From choosing an experienced trainer to understanding the importance of environment, structure, and socialisation, they share insights from years of hands-on experience working with puppies and their owners. They discuss how to tailor group sessions to individual dogs, why having a calm adult dog in class can accelerate learning, and how to strike the right balance between free play and focus. Whether you’re a new puppy owner or a trainer wanting to refine your approach, this episode is packed with practical advice to help set young dogs—and...

In today’s Q&A episode, Panos answers a question from Eric, whose dog listens perfectly at home but forgets everything the moment they step outside. We break down why dogs struggle to generalise behaviours, how environmental distractions affect focus, and the step-by-step process of proofing commands so your dog listens anywhere — not just in the living room. Panos shares practical strategies for building engagement, using the right rewards, and creating a training plan that works in the real world. Whether you’re working on recall, leash manners, or calm focus, this episode will help you understand what’s really going on...

Why do dogs bite? The truth is, it rarely happens “out of nowhere.” In this episode, Panos and Luke break down the many reasons dogs resort to biting—from fear aggression and pain to resource guarding, prey drive, rough play, and even social conflict. Exploring real-world situations like strangers entering property, kids running around, or someone touching a dog in public. Also talking about injured or sick dogs, how unmanaged play can lead to accidents, and why some dogs simply push boundaries. You’ll learn the common triggers, how to recognise the warning signs, and—most importantly—what you can do to preven...

In this episode, Panos answers some of your most common and practical dog training questions:

"What should I do if an off-leash dog approaches us on a walk?"
We’ll cover how to advocate for your dog, maintain safe space, tools to have on hand like a spare leash, the importance of situational awareness, and even what to do if things escalate into a bite.

"How do you keep your dog healthy and shiny like Chilli?"
We’ll talk about the role of diet quality, supplements such as Canineceuticals, regular exercise, and grooming rout...

Thinking about adding a second dog to your family? Before you bring home that new puppy, it’s crucial to make sure your existing dog is everything you want him to be—obedient, calm in the house, and good with other dogs. Adding another dog won’t solve behavioural issues; it will usually make them worse. In this episode, Panos and Luke break down the step-by-step process for setting your dogs up for success when introducing a new puppy. From preparation and first meetings on neutral ground, to managing at home, to building a healthy long-term relationship, you’ll learn how to c...

We’re excited to welcome back Elijah, founder of Apex Dog Training in Sydney, for his second appearance on the show. Since his first episode, Elijah has continued to build his reputation as a skilled trainer and educator—growing his Apex Dog Training Community, helping countless owners work through challenging behaviours, and further refining his approach to training. In this episode, we catch up with Elijah on what’s changed since we last spoke: the biggest lessons he’s learned, memorable cases that shaped his journey, and how his philosophy has evolved with experience. We dive into the balance of tools, f...

Panos sits down with Jacob Morgan from Yorkshire Canine Academy — a trainer who’s built a strong reputation both on the field and online. We dive into the balance between giving dogs freedom and maintaining structure, and how Jacob tailors his advice to suit different dogs and owners. Jacob shares how he got into dog training and finding his passion in helping dog owners with their dogs. Also how dog sports have accelerated his learning, and the key principles he adapts from competition to help everyday pet owners. We also explore the realities of having a large social media following, from...

In this episode, we tackle one of the most common challenges for dog owners: unwanted barking. We explore the root causes and share practical strategies for reducing noise so you can start making progress today. Whether your dog barks at the door, in the yard, or for no clear reason, you will gain a clearer plan for calmer, quieter days.

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 situations—not just obedience drills—is key to a well-adjusted dog. Plus, we touch on the critical role of management, structure, and environment in achieving long-term success.
Whether you’re a new pa...

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.

Panos shares key principles, real-life examples, and actionable tips to ensure your dog can not only perform, but thrive, in the environments that matter most.

 ...

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 what real, compassionate rescue work looks like on the ground. Sada also opens up about the mindset it takes to keep showing up for dogs in need—and the human transformation that often happens along the way. Whether you're...

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 your dog. It’s an honest, practical, and super relatable convo for anyone trying to raise a well-behaved pup. Find Jacqui at https://www.dogsense.com.au/ Find us o...

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.

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.

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 cons, consider examples from places where such systems exist, and ask what responsible ownership really looks like.

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 dogs, developing a new skill, or striving for personal growth, this episode will remind you that effort, structure, and repetition always win in the long run. Want to learn how to build real-world results with yo...

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, managing an adolescent, or refining an adult dog’s skills, this episode will reshape how you think about training, progress, and what success actually looks like. Daniel has been shado...

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 basic cues or more advanced behaviours, understanding these reinforcement strategies can support more consistent and lasting results. Join us for a thoughtful look at how timing and variability can shape behavior more effectively.

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 media affects expectations of dog training, stories of training for real life breed fulfilment and work. Also how ecollars have the wrong public perspective, difficult clients and much more. Find Josh www.barefootdogtrainer.com Alex www.refineyourcanine.c...

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 dogs. We’ll also discuss common mistakes owners make and how to create a safe, structured environment that helps your pup feel secure.

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.

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/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.com

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 paperback and ebook on Amazon, you can get your copy here: https://amzn.asia/d/f1wzLQK Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www...

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/

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 share it with me. Thank you Spades for teaching me so much. We are honoured to share his story...

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.com/home

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, you may notice new or challenging behaviour in your dog. A dog can be predictable if you can understand their patterns via body language, situational awareness and what motivates the dog...

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.google.com/file/d/1ELNJXEBtzP8LajbY-vsGctmSL5b8zMIE

Ease Your Dog’s Arthritis Pain

Download filled with Physiotherapy principles and strategies 

 https://drive.google.com/file/d...

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!

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/

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 >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.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.

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.mansbestfriendaustralia.com.au/ Thank you for listening! Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.com

This week we break down all the details of what's typically involved with a "first lesson" with a professional dog trainer. What should you expect as a dog owner? Join us as we discuss this in detail.

This week we break down a topic idea from Panos, talking about the concept of "perfect for today". Which essentially means, setting standards for your dog's training based on TODAY - not yesterday, not tomorrow. A little esoteric ... join us! Thank you for listening! Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.com

Panos answers Pei's question about her Cavoodle barking at random objects in the home, main thing she barks at is the ceiling fan! Check out why Panos thinks she is doing this and what he would do to address the issue. Thank you for listening! Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.com

Alex is back for round 3! Panos and Alex going deep and on tangents discussing different topics from conditioning, genetics and anxiety in dogs. Alex spent 3 weeks with Michael Ellis travelling with the master while he did the seminar loop around Australia. Sharing some of what he learnt along the way. Alex is a very knowledgeable and talented dog trainer and to have him back on was a great pleasure! Ps. Apologies for some of the bad internet connection. We tried very hard to fix it, if you can bear with the interruption, you will learn many things. Find Alex at...

(Re-uploaded to fix the audio cutting out at 14mins - sorry guys!) Panos goes into detail on what socialisation and habituation are. Most people understand that socialisation is important for dogs, however overdoing it has is issues that can become significantly worse over time. Over socialisation goes against the nature of appropriate socialisation and it is a common mistake people make with the best intentions. This episode offers tools and tips to help provide the best advice on how to manage this, especially from a young age. For advice on puppy training and development,  search 'Puppies 101' on our podcast s...

A recall is one of the MOST important commands for your dog's safety, and yet can be one of the trickiest to nail down in terms of reliability or being "proofed" We break down all of the various steps required to teach your dog a reliable recall!

Founder and Head Trainer of Clear Canine, Sharonika is a successful IGP trainer and competitor, and canine obedience & behaviour coach/instructor for competition sport dog handlers and pet dog owners.

Panos and Sharonika deep dive into building a relationship with your dog as a key component to success with training any behaviour.

They also discuss what it takes to be successful on the field in dog sports along with other very interesting topics on the specifics of dog training.

Find Sharonika at www.clearcanine.com.au

This week we break down the 3 levels of "space" when it comes to dog training - public space, social space, personal space What are our dogs' critical distances that they need to be away from people or other dogs, in order to set ourselves up for success?

Michael Ellis is a world renowned dog trainer with over 40 years experience as a teacher, mentor, competitor, champion and speaker. It was a great honour to interview Michael as he has been an inspiration to Panos since the beginning of his career. Michael's online courses and content has shaped and influenced so many trainers worldwide for the best. We discussed topics such as behaviour modification, the complexities of behaviour theory and its application in real dog training. We went down some quite a few rabbit holes! Panos and Michael also discussed a foresight into the dog training industry over the...

Tim is an ex-correctional officer, who worked in the canine unit for 13 years working and training dogs for specific tasks from the tactical unit to scent dogs. From dealing with issues that came from the nature of the job and the intense environment, Tim has been on a journey of self development which propelled him to start his own company, Diverse Dogs. Tim joined Panos for a great conversation ranging from technical training, purpose selected dogs, to help fix behavioural issues for everyday dog owners. We also went on a deep dive on breath work and how that has positively...

Beth asked "I’ve just been informed by my neighbours that my dog(s) have been barking all day while we are at work. Do you have any advice on how to stop this behaviour without using an anti bark collar?" Panos covers a few things to consider to address this issue of constant barking affecting the neighbours.

It was a great pleasure and honour to welcome Larry Krohn to our show, who is one of the dog training industry's most longstanding and respected names. We chatted about many topics such as behaviours, play, obedience, the dog training industry, and what dogs mean to us. Thank you Larry! Find his services at https://pakmasters.com/ https://www.instagram.com/larrykrohn/?hl=en https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCortXxJdZYbHCrOa3nddr6g

Max is the founding owner and head trainer at Down Under Dog Trainer.
Having grown up around dogs and always being able to easily connect with, and understand them, he was sure he wanted to work with dogs from a young age. Max says that he finds it the most rewarding thing of all to be working with a dog whose owners thought they were a lost cause, and changing their lives. Find Max at https://downunderdogtrainer.com/

Panos describing the lessons learnt walking neighbour's dog, Molly. The return on investment on proper and adequate application of dog training is massive! Being able to spend the present moment and appreciate the beauty of nature with a dog is priceless. The effort you put into your training and communication style with your dog, you will get back so much more in relationship, experience and love. Thank you for listening! Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.com

Samantha King is a Psychologist and clinic director at Psychology & Animal Assisted Wellbeing, a clinic where therapists work with a therapy dog providing animal-assisted interventions. She works with her dogs (Sonny, Oliver & Nala) to provide  Animal Assisted Therapy for children, adolescents & adults (primarily Neurodivergent populations).   

Samantha has experience working with therapy dogs across various settings, including schools, community mental health and private practice since 2013.   She has spoken as several conferences on AAT topics, including the 50th Australian Psychological Conference in October 2015 and the Australia & New Zealand Psychiatrists Conference in Hobart in 2016. She is a...

Our longtime listener and friend Roger wrote to us, asking for our opinions on whether dogs and the associated costs of owning them are becoming "luxury items" as we see the cost of living increase all over the world. Join us as we break this topic down for you guys Also, we discuss the South Australian government's plans to ban IGP dog sports!

Today's short episode is a reminder that you may be reinforcing unwanted behaviours that you actually don't like. Being mindful of this is the initial step to making positive changes in your training.

A great conversation with Adam about raw feeding and all its benefits. Healthy nutrition for dogs is important for a happy, healthy and strong dog, mind and body. Raw & Fresh Pet Food supplies fresh pet meals made with only the freshest raw ingredients without any chemicals, preservatives or fillers. Their goal is to create a healthy balanced diet for dogs and cats which came with affordability, convenience and great customer service. They saw more and more pet owners looking for a healthier alternative to traditional pet foods and thats when Raw & Fresh was created. You can find them at https...

Dog fights are an inevitable part of nature.  How can we best prepare for, prevent, and if necessary, intervene when they do  happen?

Food as a reinforcer is important in the learning and training phases. However it gets to a point that you must wean them off appropriately. Don't rely on food when it comes to lifestyle skills, as food doesn't proof behaviours.

What is "prey drive" in a dog, and why is it relevant to how we train them? This week we break down the SIX distinct stages of prey and what this means for you and your dog!

Panos answers a question from Pamela about her 1.5yr old English Staffy, Luna. Pamela has listened to the episode about jumping and had a question about keeping Luna on the bed while visitors come over. She also asked about tethering in the home. Tune in to hear about addressing jumping on visitors and how to train the BED command for functional use in the home.

In dog training, there is something known as a "trial" - which typically involves some sort of test or exhibition in any given dog sport. Owners may spend many months preparing for these trials, training all kinds of behaviours with their dogs.  How can we apply these concepts for the "every day" dog owner? Join us as we break this down for you guys...

Your responsibility is to show up for your dog and your duty is to train and look after them We teach dogs to live in our society, dogs teach us to live in the NOW What is your dog teaching you?

This week we unpack a question from our listener, Angie, who's asking about mindset & high-drive working dogs. How can we best meet the mental and physical needs of these higher-maintenance dogs?

This week we break down the importance of confidence in dog training and how to best implement it to deepen your relationship with your dog.

Panos answers Amy's question on do some dogs respond to verbal commands and other non-verbal?It isn't about breed or specidic dog, it is about the way you train. Hope you enjoy today's Q&A!

This week we're joined by Boyd Hooper, who has over 35 years international experience and has trained thousands of dogs for a multitude of applications. In addition, he has been the chief instructor on dozens of dog trainer courses and trained / certified many hundreds of handlers and trainers. Thanks for coming on Boyd, we appreciate your wealth of knowledge in the dog training industry The code NOOCHS10 will give you a 10% discount off the Tier 4 courses in the CERT Academy! Anyone that signs up for any of the tier 4 courses currently gets the tier 3 Applied Canine Behaviour & Learning 3 course for free...

This week we delve into the concept of "simple versus easy" when it comes to training our dogs. You might be thinking, are they the same thing? Well, possibly ... possibly not ...  Listen in to find out! Thank you for listening! Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.com

Panos gives insight and advice on what a Demo dog is and how to go about finding and developing them to be a good helper for your job as a trainer. Courtney sent in a question relating to Chilli's (Panos' dog) and how she can implement some skills with her demo dog. Questions covered:
-What is a demo dog?
-What qualities to look for?
-How lifestyle skills where taught?
-How to have the right expectations of your dog? As always, any questions can be sent in through our instagram account or email lifewithyourdogpodcast(at)gmail.com <...

It can be quiet stressful living with a reactive dog. This episode shares some insight and advice on where to get started with the behaviour modification process. The foundations and fundamentals are often over looked. Clarity in communication, use of appropriate tools and a mindset if a leader are some necessary pieces to the puzzle. Enjoy our 200th episode! Thank you for listening! Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.com

Happy new year to all our loyal listeners! We look forward to more discussions in 2024 about how to live our best lives with our dogs... on that note, on to this week's episode: In life we are involved with many 'games'. Some games go forever, yet have many short term games within them. The goal of marriage is to stay married. Goal of health is to stay healthy. Well the goal of dog training as an infinite game has many finite games that need to be addressed and won for success and progression. Panos explores these ideas and hopes it...

Tune in this week as we unpack a bit of a deeper, more metaphorical episode ... what does it mean to truly BE a leader for your dog, rather than just ACTING like you are?

It can be hard to find good quality products for large strong dogs. Leanne asked Panos a question regarding what is a good long lead and interactive toys to purchase to improve her training. Panos discusses 3 items in today's podcast: 10m long lead Tug Ball on a rope Thank you for listening! Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.com

Brent recently shared a poignant "letter to a new dog trainer" on his Facebook page, and this just happened to coincide with us inviting him back for another episode with us! We had to hear what his thought process and intentions behind writing this, for which he's had a lot of positive feedback and commentary from the dog community. We always love having Brent on the show for a little wisdom from our Kiwi brother from another mother. Find Brent's dog training services at http://www.thek9company.com.au/ Thank you for listening! Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining...

We break down the topic of "good" obedience - what is this, how do we define it, how can it be achieved? Ultimately, if you're putting effort into developing a relationship with your dog through obedience training, that is the main thing! Keep going!

Dogs mourn the loss of a significant other just like people. It can be a hard time for both us as owners and of course, our other dogs. Panos offers some advice on what to do to help with your grieving dog as he just received news of a client's beloved dog Thor suddenly passed away and their other dog Daisy has not been herself. The advice shared by Panos can be also applied proactively to minimise issues that may arise in the future. Dogs don't live long enough, take a minute to remember the ones that have left us...

Glenn graced us with his 3rd appearance on the show in as many years ... this time we talked all about Rottweilers, with Glenn giving us somewhat of a masterclass on the topic ...  We discussed, among other things: Breed history Purpose Dog sports Ideal (and not ideal) homes for this breed Training requirements and suggestions And more!

If you and your dog live in a house with a backyard, it can sometimes feel like a part time job looking after the space! It's hard having young dogs and nice things, but taking care of your yard can be a great opportunity to practice mindfulness. Panos discusses a few things to keep in mind for yard maintenance: Poo patrol Grass care Flies General cleanliness and maintenance Thank you for listening! Find us online >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.com Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >>

This week we had the pleasure of having Tyler Muto on the show. We have been following his journey over the years, learnt plenty of worthy techniques & principles that are applicable to practical dog training. Tyler Muto, a Rochester, NY native, is an internationally renowned dog trainer, entrepreneur, and advisor, who has had a life long passion for training dogs.  Tyler’s passion for training, along with his ability to help families and dogs achieve harmony, is unparalleled, and has earned him recognition as not only one of the best in Western New York, but one of the most sought-after tra...

Alex Edwards returned to talk to us all about his favourite breeds - the husky, and the impossible to pronounce "sarplaninec" ...! Alex is super passionate about both of these breeds and he helped us understand why people should and should NOT get either of these beautiful dog varieties. You can find Alex and his services at https://www.refineyourcanine.com.au/ Thank you for listening! Find us online >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.com Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >>

Dr Rassool joined us for a second time on the show to discuss a dark and not so favourable topic of behavioural euthanasia. It is a very tough and challenging topic as it brings on many questions and feelings that may be challenging. We dove deep on why and when euthanasia is an option for certain behavioural issues. Discussing how to go about it, things to consider and if it's a necessary bridge to cross. Dealing with grief, loss and guilt is common either being an owner or a professional working in the industry, and Dr Rassool offers some sage...

Instead of thinking your dog needs to be trained to learn how to behave appropriately, which is true, however your dog should be tired enough that he needs to rest. Physical exercise is important for active dogs, your job is to ensure your dog has the appropriate output during their day so that when it's time to rest, they rest. Being bored is a good thing for a dog to learn to experience. To wait and relax, ready for another day of activity.

This week Dave Mckelson joined us from Melbourne to talk about his passion for training animals, which began with almost two decades of working with elephants at a Melbourne zoo.

Much of the experience he gained working with elephants, and other animals, crosses over into his work with dogs. Developing training programs that focus on building meaningful relationships built on trust and understanding, and high standards of animal training that ultimately create freedom and opportunity, are key areas that can build an extremely rewarding life experience for a dog and their family.

Developing a well-trained d...

Dan from Hooked On Hounds joined Panos this week for a great chat about sheep herding, helping the young people at RuffTrack & behaviour modification of aggressive & reactive dogs. He is also the co-host of the podcast Dog Torque which focuses on ensuring that knowledge and experience shared within the agricultural/working dog community is not lost, can be made easily accessible to all and is retained for future generations.  Dan's passion for dogs started early when teaching his grandfather's Rottweilers all the naughty tricks. After sticking with breeds like Rottweilers and French Bordeaux for Obedience Training he then got hooked o...

Many dog owners struggle with their dog's behaviour in the car. Behaviours manifesting either from excitement, anxiety or fear. Panos covers remedies and protocols to follow to ensure your dog is safe, quiet and relaxed in the car.

We decided to redo our old Puppies 101 episode from way back in 2019! Some of the topics covered this time around: Crate training Toilet training Socialisation, generalisation & habituation Obedience training And more ... bring a notepad and pen as we unpack this for you.

Janelle asks and Panos answers: "I have a question about our (maybe) Terrier Cross  'Frankie' approx 5 years old adopted from Sutherland Shire Animal Shelter 4 years ago. He HATES strangers, which is OK, but now that my kids are teens (11 and 13) they're wanting to have their friends sleepover at our house and it isn't going well. I have muzzle trained him for everyone's safety, I keep him when muzzled when kids friends are around. But once he sees the "stranger" in our house he bolts towards the growling/barking and sometimes snaps at them. I have tried greeting kids friends on m...

RuffTRACK is a Riverstone-based charity, helping vulnerable young people in western Sydney between the ages of 12 and 17 who have disengaged with their school or communities.

The program pairs young people with dogs and teaches them to train them, alongside helping with other skills such as communicating effectively and building relationships. 

It aims to get the teenagers either back to school or ready for work.  

This week we break down the ABC Australia show, Muster Dogs, which follows 5 pups from a single kelpie litter, sent to different farmer-trainers across Australia. Panos and Luke discuss just how much we enjoyed this amazing show. How cool it is to see dogs doing the jobs they were bred for!

Panos offers a few different perspectives of how to pick your battles when training & living with your dog. Topics include: What will today's session cover? How to handle certain aggressive behaviours? Is this particular adversive situation necessary for my dog to experience? How should you deal with a conflict with a client? Some battles are worth fighting, others aren't. Don't bite off more than you can chew!

What is "intelligence" in dogs? What does this mean in the context of dog training? Also, what is the true power of conditioning? We break down both of these topics this week - for you, our listeners! You're welcome :)

Panos discusses that it is beneficial to give a command a small break from time to time for your dog to process a behaviour. A week off sometimes has great benefits, not an excuse to stop training, exercising or playing with your dog, but a nuanced perspective of what makes a skill develop. Thank you for listening! Find us online >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.com Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >>

The greater the expectation, the greater the disappointment. Panos discusses many different factors relating to expectations and how it influences your training & overall life with your dog. Along with some tips, ideas and life philosophy a few questions for you, the listener to ponder on: What did you think owning your dog will be like? What's the expectations you have that have resulted in both big wins and big losses? What are your expectations of the clients you see (if you're a trainer) or the trainer you want to employ (if you are the dog owner)? Thank you for listening...

This week Dr Michelle Rassool joined us to discuss the behavioural side of veterinary practice. We touched on the medication of dogs for behavioural issues and examples where medicines may or may not be the most appropriate answer. Dr Michelle has always had a strong, practical interest in animal behaviour, spending her early days working and training horses, and later becoming passionate about dog training, before starting her journey to become a vet. She has spent hundreds of hours of training with both her own, and client’s dogs.   As a vet, Michelle aims to bridge the gap between trainers and...

This week's episode was a great discussion about Andrej's involvement in breeding, what is involved and the intention of each litter along with the responsibility that comes with it. Andrej's current GSD litter are specifically bred for working & sporting roles, some may be a pet dog, however adequate screening will determine the best home for a high drive working dog. This brought us to other topics such as what is dog sport training, questioning Adopt Don't Shop mantras, how dogs influence our mental health and more. Find Andrej at https://www.zver.com.au/

Panos shares a story about the advice Margaret, the agility trainer, gave to Panos that has stuck with him over all the years! Being calm and assertive is ok and appropriate at times, however, being animated, girly baby voice is also very handy in other parts of your training. Have fun with your dog and don't let your ego get bruised, if you need to motivate your dog by being animated, let it go and give it a go. While others need to chill a little and take it down a few notches, lol!

This week we pick apart somewhat of a controversial topic in the dog training industry - sedative / anti-depressant medicines and their possible overuse. Unfortunately we have noticed an uptick in clients who have been advised (by some trainers and/or vets) very quickly to medicate their dogs without first trying any behavioural interventions. Why are some trainers and/or vets going about things in this way? And in what scenarios are behavioural medications actually a good decision? Thank you for listening! Find us online >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.com Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke...

This week we invited Fiona onto the show, to talk about her journey from being Panos' client, to now becoming an NDTF qualified dog trainer herself. Fiona has been helping Panos in the background for the last 2-3 years, overhauling his enquiry and admin system, and has been a big help to the business' growth.  Fiona also has a background in training horses and we chatted about, among other things, the similarities and differences between training dogs versus horses. You can follow the adventures of Fiona and her rescue dog Pickle at www.instagram.com/paws_with_pickle Thank you f...

We were lucky enough to join Glenn & Pat from The Canine Paradigm for a second crossover podcast and we had a ton of fun hanging out with them. We discussed a whole bunch of nerdy dog trainer stuff that's probably too hard to summarise here! So listen in to find out what went down... You can find the boys' back catalogue of hundreds of amazing episodes on all streaming platforms under "The Canine Paradigm" or at https://thecanineparadigm.com/ Thank you for listening! Find us online >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.com Panos @ www.npdogtraining...

Panos answers Roger's question, "Do you ever question your metaphors or examples you use after telling clients not to be anthropomorphic?" It was a great question and was relevant to the week and a half that has gone by.

Warning! Frequent Coarse Language :) In this episode it was a great pleasure to have Jay Jack on to have an in-depth, raw and informative discussion about dogs in all ways. It was a really fun and informative discussion. Jay is incredible at explaining and diving deep on dog behaviour and on a practical level. His experience in life and his career working with dogs is priceless, he has a great wealth of knowledge and application of dog training. "One of the reasons dogs are so f**ed these days is because we don't challenge them enough"- Jay Jack Find...