Brain and Behaviour

Episode Summary:

Melissa joins Daniel to compare the behavioural challenges of dogs in urban and rural settings. She explains how city dogs are constantly bombarded by sensory overload—sounds, smells, confined spaces, and straight-line encounters on sidewalks—that create frustration, reactivity, and stress. In contrast, rural dogs often face challenges like predation and lack of recall training. Melissa also shares her work in an exciting new research project!

Relevant Links

• ​Book: Considerations for the City Dog: https://considerationsforthecitydog.com
• ​PACT Conference (mentioned): https://www.pact-dogs.com

Want to learn more? Explore science-backed courses, webinars, and resources for dog behaviour professionals at our online platform: ⁠www.brainandbehaviouracademy.co.uk.⁠

Guest Bio

Rowena is the Senior Lecturer in Companion Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science (2020-Present) at the Royal Veterinary College, London. Rowena leads a research group exploring diverse topics in this area, including the impact of chronic and inherited disorders on dog behaviour and welfare, and the impact of owner knowledge, attitudes and behaviour on canine welfare. She has received >£1.9 million of research funding to date, of which ~£820,000 has been held as Principal Investigator. Rowena has co-authored >90 peer reviewed papers and book chapters and co-edited the textbook ‘Health and Welfare of Brachycephalic (Flat-faced) Companion Animals’ (2021). Rowena holds a PhD from the Royal Veterinary College (2013) which explored the impact of extreme conformation on canine health, a 1st Class BSc (Hons) in Animal Behaviour and Welfare from the University of Bristol (2009), and a PGCert in Veterinary Education from the Royal Veterinary College (2021). Rowena is a Coordinating Group Member for the Animal Welfare Research Network, and a founding member of the Brachycephalic Working Group (UK) and the Legal Advisory Group on Extreme Conformation in Dogs.

Episode Summary

In this episode, Rowena Packer and Daniel explore the major welfare challenges facing dogs in the UK and globally. They discuss the ethics and realities of dog breeding, the enforcement gaps in legislation, and the responsibilities of owners versus breeders. Rowena explains how cultural differences and government involvement affect welfare standards across countries, and why meaningful enforcement is just as critical as laws themselves. The conversation also dives into the importance of engaging “the unengaged” dog owners, and how public attitudes, misinformation, and anti-expert culture create barriers to better welfare.

Relevant Links

- Royal Veterinary College

https://www.rvc.ac.uk

- Infographics

https://www.rvc.ac.uk/vetcompass/audio-visual-resources/research-infographics

Want to learn more? Explore science-backed courses, webinars, and resources for dog behaviour professionals at our online platform: ⁠www.brainandbehaviouracademy.co.uk.⁠

Guest Bio:

Else Verbeek is the founder of Amazing Animal Minds and an Associate Professor of Animal Welfare at the Agricultural University in Uppsala (Sweden). At Amazing Animal Minds, I help dogs (and their owners) overcome stress, fear and anxiety. In addition, I provide training and education about dog behaviour, stress and emotion for dog trainers and behaviourists. My research explored the link between cognition, emotion and (stress) physiology with the aim to improve animal welfare.

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Else Verbeek joins Daniel to explore the science of stress, welfare, and emotion. She explains the role of the HPA axis and cortisol in animals, unpacking what stress hormones really tell us—and what they don’t. Else discusses the differences between acute and chronic stress, the challenges of measuring welfare across species, and the parallels (and limits) between animal and human mental health research. The conversation also dives into how environment, enrichment, and even the microbiome shape behaviour, and why focusing on positive welfare—allowing animals to thrive, not just survive—is the next frontier for science and practice.

Want to learn more? Explore science-backed courses, webinars, and resources for dog behaviour professionals at our online platform: ⁠www.brainandbehaviouracademy.co.uk.⁠

Guest Bio:

Kim Brophey, CDBC, CPDT-KA, FDM, is an applied ethologist and accomplished behavior consultant and trainer who has been working with dogs and their families for over 25 years. Kim’s commitment to Family Dog Mediation® has been recognized internationally, awarded the APDT Outstanding Trainer of the Year in 2009 and the Best Dog Trainer of WNC eight years in a row.

She is a member of the International Society for Applied Ethology and the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, and a certified member and past board member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants as well as the Asheville Humane Society. Kim Brophey’s L.E.G.S.® model of integrated canine science has been endorsed by prominent canine scientists such as Raymond Coppinger, and embraced by reputable academics and dog trainers worldwide.

Her market-disrupting L.E.G.S.® Applied Ethology Family Dog Mediation® Course is the flagship of a rapidly growing worldwide initiative that is leading the charge in setting a new direction for the pet industry and culture- a welfare-first understanding of pet dog behavior. From the Family Dog Mediation Education Center ® to the L.E.G.S. in Motion Conference, and her Dog Key® Canine Genetic Heritage Testing Software to the thousands of active FDM student community members collaborating in a functional professional ecosystem, Kim’s work is a meaningful contribution to the advancement of the pet dog industry.

Her groundbreaking, awarded, sold-out first edition book – MEET YOUR DOG, TED talk, Beyond The Operant (BTO) collaborative, The Dog’s Truth documentary, numerous public speaking venues at institutions & conferences around the world, references in various publications, and countless radio and podcast features have made profound waves throughout the dog behavior world as well as the general public. Kim continues to endeavor to build bridges and invite others to contribute to a new conversation about dogs – one that challenges us to redefine how we perceive, talk about, provide for, and live with our canine companions as a society.

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Kim Brophey joins Daniel to discuss why the way we think about pet dogs needs to change. She argues that dogs are captive animals, subject to the same welfare challenges seen in zoos and farms, and that behaviour problems often stem from unmet welfare needs rather than training failures. The conversation explores the limitations of management-heavy approaches, the role of evolution and artificial selection in shaping behaviour, and how the LEGS model integrates genetics, learning, environment, and self to provide a holistic framework. Kim also introduces concepts like purpose, resilience, and third way evolutionary theory, inviting us to rethink welfare beyond the absence of distress and towards helping dogs live meaningful lives.

Want to learn more? Explore science-backed courses, webinars, and resources for dog behaviour professionals at our online platform: www.brainandbehaviouracademy.co.uk.

In this episode of Canine Arthritis Matters, Hannah Capon speaks with João Alves MRCVS, a veterinary surgeon with a special interest in chronic pain and osteoarthritis. Together they discuss why spotting pain early is vital, how misinterpreting behaviour can delay care, and why arthritis should be considered long before obvious lameness develops.

João shares practical advice for general practitioners on integrating chronic pain assessment into everyday consults, from history-taking to subtle movement observation. He and Hannah also explore the importance of teamwork with owners, how simple validated tools can improve accuracy, and why communication and empathy are often as powerful as prescriptions in managing canine OA.

Guest Bio:

João Alves MRCVS is a veterinary surgeon based in the UK with a strong focus on chronic pain management and welfare. He has built his clinical practice around improving outcomes for dogs living with osteoarthritis and other long-term pain conditions, ensuring that both vets and owners have the knowledge and tools to intervene earlier. João is passionate about bridging the gap between research and everyday practice, making pain management more accessible and effective for all.

Key Takeaways:

1. Chronic pain is often under-recognised. Behavioural changes such as reluctance to jump, subtle stiffness, or reduced play may be early red flags.

2. Owners are key partners. Teaching them to recognise and record changes helps provide better evidence for diagnosis and management.

3. Validated assessment tools reduce subjectivity and help track progress more reliably than owner memory alone.

4. Pain management should begin early—waiting for overt lameness means lost time and welfare compromise.

5. Empathy, continuity, and communication are central. Building trust leads to more accurate reporting and better adherence to management plans.

Relevant Links:

Join the CAM Member Zone

Access webinars, guides, case studies, and a supportive community of professionals and pet owners working to improve canine arthritis care.

Join here: https://www.caninearthritis.co.uk/member-zone/

Use the Suspicion of Chronic Pain Form

Help identify dogs that may be living with hidden pain. This validated form supports early recognition and structured conversations with owners.

Download here: https://caninearthritis.co.uk/suspicion-of-chronic-pain/

Learn more about CAM:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAMarthritis

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canine_arthritis

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CanineArthritisManagement

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/canine-arthritis-management-ltd

Have questions send them to: [email protected]

Stay tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.

Guest Bio:

Dr. Grace Cook is a recent graduate of the Royal Veterinary College, earning her degree as a veterinary surgeon in July 2024. With a deep-rooted passion for canine care, she has dedicated over a decade to working with rescue dogs, having personally cared for around 30 foster dogs, kittens and other animals. Her extensive experience with dogs spans from rescue and rehabilitation to professional dog walking, sitting, training, and behavioural management.

During her time at university, Dr. Cook led the Royal Dog Society, where she organised educational talks, hands-on training sessions with professionals, social events, and dog sports, fostering a community passionate about canine welfare. Her journey with dogs extends beyond professional practice, having adopted and rehabilitated three rescue dogs, each presenting unique behavioural and medical challenges.

Dr. Cook's interest in the connection between pain and behaviour was further cultivated through shadowing veterinary behaviourists, physiotherapists, and observing the Queen Mother Hospital's pain clinic. These experiences have profoundly shaped her approach to veterinary medicine, particularly in understanding and addressing the complex interplay between physical pain and behavioural issues in dogs.

Want to learn more? Explore science-backed courses, webinars, and resources for dog behaviour professionals at our new online platform: ⁠www.brainandbehaviouracademy.co.uk⁠

Guest Bio

Jessica Perry Hekman, DVM, PhD, is a behavioral geneticist. She is one of the founders of the Functional Dog Collaborative (functionalbreeding.org), a non-profit which seeks to change the conversation around dog breeding in the dog loving community. She also teaches behavioral biology at the Virginia Tech online Masters program for Applied Animal Behavior and Welfare, and offers webinars online and consults with breeders about genetic testing and breeding choices. Perry lives in Raymond, NH with her husband and two dogs.

Episode Summary

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Perry Hekman unpacks the science behind puppy development, behaviour, and socialisation. She discusses why the first 12 weeks of a dog’s life are so crucial, how genetics interact with experience, and what we know (and don’t know) about creating stable, resilient adult dogs. Jessica and Daniel talk about how breeders, shelters, and puppy buyers can all play a role in shaping behavioural outcomes—and why there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. They also dive into the mission behind the Functional Dog Collaborative and how a more inclusive, science-informed breeding culture can benefit dogs and humans alike.

Want to learn more? Explore science-backed courses, webinars, and resources for dog behaviour professionals at our new online platform: ⁠www.brainandbehaviouracademy.co.uk⁠

Guest Bio

Jessica Wheatcraft, CDBC is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant and professional dog trainer who has worked with thousands of dogs for over 17 years. She works with dog professionals virtually all over the world via her Leash Reactivity Mentorship for Professionals and online community, in addition to in-person seminars for trainers, behavior consultants and shelter staff. She specializes in leash reactivity cases, with an emphasis on understanding each dog as an individual and thinking outside of the box to implement the most effective, humane training solutions. She shares her life with her two dogs, Scout and Finn, mustang horse, Waylon and cat, Reeves.

Episode Summary

In this episode, Jessica Wheatcraft dives into the complex topic of canine reactivity, challenging the often rigid labels and protocols that dominate the conversation. She explains how many dogs who are labelled “reactive” are actually overwhelmed or underprepared for real-world environments. Jessica encourages trainers and guardians to zoom out, take stock of the whole picture, and ask better questions. Through real examples and compassionate insights, she shares how to approach reactivity not as a checklist of triggers to desensitize—but as a relationship to rebuild.

Want to learn more? Check out our new online platform:

https://www.brainandbehaviouracademy.co.uk/

Guest Bio

Andre Yeu is a highly successful dog trainer and entrepreneur. As the founder of When Hounds Fly Dog Training, he's grown his business to over seven figures in annual revenue with five locations and a team of over 20. His expertise has also led him to become a Karen Pryor Academy faculty member, where he shares his knowledge with aspiring trainers. Yeu is a sought-after speaker, delivering keynotes and talks at prominent industry conferences such as APDT, IAABC Foundation, and ClickerExpo. His passion for positive reinforcement training and dedication to building a thriving dog training business make him a respected figure in the dog training world.

Episode Summary

In this business-focused episode, Andre Yeu joins Daniel to explore the current challenges facing dog trainers in a declining market. He discusses why many professionals are struggling to attract and retain clients—and how shifting our communication, marketing, and mindset can help. Andre explains the “curse of knowledge,” the power of storytelling, and the importance of simplifying language to connect with clients more effectively. He also shares practical tips on balancing ethics and effectiveness in messaging, crafting impactful social media content, and using SEO and local marketing strategies to build credibility and visibility.

Guest Bio:

It all started as a kid working border collies on a sheep farm in northern England, Sally knew from a young age that animals, and dogs in particular, would be an enduring feature of her life.Now based out of northern Virginia, Sally recently completed 20 years of service as a firefighter / paramedic and technical rescue specialist, concurrent with training and working Search and Rescue dogs for local, national and international agencies. Perfecting the incredible work of today’s handler and preparing the work of tomorrow’s handler is a priority for Sally, who specializes in teaching SAR canine programs, combining operational experience and the evidence based training.The science of animal behavior and the wellbeing of working dogs is a passion for Sally. She is a graduate of the KPA Professional Dog Trainer program, University of Tennessee Certified Canine Fitness Trainer, and the University of Washington Animal Behavior program and is now continuing her formal education as a PhD candidate in Applied Animal Behavior focusing her research on working dogs and how physical conditioning affects field ability at Virginia Tech.

Summary:

Sally shares her journey from sheep farms to search and rescue, and how her experiences led her to pursue a PhD. The episode explores the impact of stress on working dogs and how physical and emotional conditioning influence performance and welfare. Sally offers a rare dual perspective: operational and scientific.

The paper Sally discusses in this podcast has also recently been published - check it out here - Here is the link - https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/veterinary-science/articles/10.3389/fvets.2025.1546412/full

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