Join hosts Nicole and Michelle Forto as they dive into the unique qualities that define an exceptional service dog trainer, particularly in the challenging environment of Alaska. Discover the importance of understanding the bond between handler and dog, and learn about the specialized training programs at Alaska Dog Works.

Key Points:

The significance of deep experience and specialization in service dog training. The owner-trainer model that emphasizes active participation. Structured training plans with specific trials and evaluations. Individualized planning and rigorous dog selection criteria. The importance of local Alaskan knowledge and adaptation.

Hosts: Nicole and Michelle Forto

Sponsor: Alaska Dog Works

Call to Action: Visit alaskadogworks.com and use promo code DOGWORKS to save 20% on your training program.

Join hosts Robert and Michelle Forto as they dive into the unexpected star of the new Superman movie—Krypto, Superman's dog. Discover how this superhero flick got dog behavior right and what it can teach us about training our own pups. From enthusiastic greetings to understanding behavioral issues, this episode is packed with insights for dog lovers and trainers alike.

Key Takeaways

Crypto's behavior as a reflection of real-life dog training challenges. The importance of empathy and compassion in building strong dog-owner relationships. How the movie has influenced a surge in dog adoptions and the potential pitfalls of impulse rescues.

Sponsors

Alaska Dog Works: Professional canine training center in Anchorage, Alaska.

Call to Action: Visit alaskadogworks.com for more insights and training resources. Share your thoughts on the movie and Crypto's role on our social media

In this episode of Dog Works Radio, hosts Robert and Michele Forto explore why hiring a professional dog trainer is more effective than relying solely on TV shows and YouTube videos. They discuss the personalized approach, real-time feedback, and the importance of building a strong bond with your dog through professional training

Join Nicole Forto for a One Minute Dog Training Tip: Coming When Called on Dog Works Radio 

• YouTube has transformed the landscape of dog training.
• Popular trainers engage audiences with relatable content.
• YouTube allows for on-demand access to training techniques.
• Community engagement is a key feature of YouTube training.
• Ethical considerations are increasingly important in dog training.
• Positive reinforcement is becoming the standard in training methods.
• YouTube democratizes access to dog training information.
• Television trainers have a more limited scope due to format constraints.
• The shift towards humane training methods is evident across platforms.
• Dog owners now have diverse resources for training their pets.

Join Nicole Forto for a One Minute Dog Training Tip: Stop Pulling the Leash on Dog Works Radio 

• Television has made dog training more accessible than ever.
• Cesar Millan and Victoria Stilwell emphasize understanding canine behavior.
• The glamorization of dog training has changed how owners approach training.
• Television trainers have normalized conversations about dog ownership challenges.
• Their legacy rests in the broader societal shift toward understanding dogs.
• Dog training is often a gradual process that requires patience.
• Trainers encourage owners to proactively engage with their dogs.
• The influence of television trainers extends beyond the viewing audience.
• Television trainers have helped redefine the owner-dog relationship.
• The popularity of reward-based training has surged.

• Automation can save dog trainers significant time.
• Building trust with clients is crucial for success.
• Understanding client needs leads to better service.
• Marketing strategies have evolved from traditional to digital.
• Automation tools can enhance client experience.
• Time management is essential for dog trainers.
• Misconceptions about dog training can hinder client relationships.
• Technology is shaping the future of dog training.
• Having a mentor can guide new dog trainers.
• Follow-up is key to closing sales in dog training.

• Dog training has evolved significantly over the past few decades.
• Many trainers are now using positive, reward-based techniques.
• The mantra 'from cruelty to kindness' reflects a major shift in training philosophy.
• Clever Hans's story highlighted the need for empirical study in animal behavior.
• Pavlov's classical conditioning laid the groundwork for understanding behavior.
• Thorndyke's law of effect explains how behaviors are reinforced.
• B.F. Skinner's work advanced the principles of learning in dog training.
• The rise of humane training methods began after World War II.
• Karen Pryor's book popularized clicker training and the use of positive reinforcement.
• Today's training methods are rooted in kindness and compassion.

In this episode of Dog Works Radio, hosts Michele and Robert Forto explore the therapeutic benefits of music for dogs, particularly focusing on how it can help alleviate separation anxiety in puppies and the importance of building strong relationships between dogs and their owners. The episode also delves into practical techniques for calming anxious puppies and highlights upcoming events in the dog training community.