Gundogs and Guard dogs

In this episode, we sit down with Jacquie Law from Dogs4Wildlife — a woman whose journey into conservation and canine training is nothing short of inspiring.We start with a bit of background on Jacquie and her work alongside partner Darren at Extremus Dog Training, before diving into the incredible world of anti-poaching dogs in Africa — all of which began with just one Belgian Malinois puppy.🐾 From early neurological stimulation to ensure pups are fit for protection and detection work, to the unique role of the native Africanis dog (yes, we had to Google it too!) — this episode explores how the right dogs, in the right hands, are changing the conservation landscape.Jacquie also shares upcoming collaborations in African dog rescue, supporting not only animals but the wider communities where these programs operate.But it’s not all feel-good stories. We confront the brutal reality of poaching — from tragic snare traps to the stark contrast between subsistence survival and the multimillion-pound illegal wildlife trade. As Jacquie puts it: “When you become aware of one issue, a ripple of others follows.”🦏 We touch on the controversial topic of rhino dehorning, the development of female-only ranger teams (and their incredible impact), and how being vegan might be influencing change in unexpected ways.Also featured:A shout-out to Rachel Bean RVN for delivering vital Canine First Aid training in the fieldThe ongoing education of new dog handlers and the art of reading canine body languageA nod to UK Police Dogs and a quick detour into the world of the Bavarian Mountain HoundUltimately, this episode is about collaboration, compassion, and commitment. There’s no room for egos in conservation — only teamwork, education, and action. Funding is always needed, so if you’re moved by this conversation, please consider donating to Dogs4Wildlife and be part of the solution.🎧 Tune in and discover how one puppy helped kickstart a movement that’s saving lives — both human and animal.https://www.dogs4wildlife.org/

ining, and keeping it real.Dog talk without the sugar-coating — Labradors, weird childhoods, flexi-leads, and the truth about training. The Mic Martin Takeover pulls no punches.Laughter, dog hair, and brutal honesty — Mic Martin storms the mic to tackle training myths, canine chaos, and why pink jumpers might be a problem.---- oOo ----

Lez and Ross have both been in the industry professionally for well over 20 years and each has been involved with dogs for over 40 years.

Whilst sensibly they have stayed away from the ‘limelight’ regarding TV offers, they have regularly been on national and local radio, spoken at national events at NDWA, CFBA, and Kennel Club / Crufts events as well as bespoke speaking engagements for the Dog Safety Education Executive (DogSEE).

Ross wrote for Dogs Monthly Magazine for over 12 years and Lez was the first lady feature writer for a national Shooting Magazine (both Sporting Gun and Sporting Shooter).

They were also 'study buddies' and were the first in the UK to achieve a Masters Degree (Professional Practice) in Canine Behaviour and Psychology in 2011.

They work well together and apart, support and work with dog rescue organisations and train professional dog trainers and behaviourists.

Different as chalk and cheese, but maybe not as different as they like to think.

Intrigued? want to know more? then check out our websites...

www.rossmccarthy.com ~ www.lezgraham.com

And if you'd rather watch than listen, you can catch Gundogs and Guard Dogs on Youtube

https://www.youtube.com/@gundogguarddog

This episode is all about the Guard Dogs – with a nod to the Gundogs – and a brief detour into the life of a proud pheasant plucker!

After the obligatory weather chat and a vague mention of upcoming podcasts (as usual, confusion reigns), we try to figure out whether the Beagles were in New Zealand or Hong Kong.

From Borzoi to Landseers doing competitive obedience - we question whether watching Border Collies in dog sport is more exciting than watching paint dry. The jury’s out.

We get serious with a discussion on Osteosarcoma, including an update on little Aiidh the Rottweiler, and all the heartbreak and hard decisions that come with being a responsible dog owner.

Then it's on to Leucillin for tails and fannies – naturally – which leads into another rant about dog owners in public places.

In Dog Law Corner: this week’s top tip – just stay home and don’t let anyone in. Simple.

There’s a Bitework for Behaviourists update too – covering the mysterious and very niche role of the decoy/helper in training.

We chat about security dogs, protection dogs, and IGP – that’s Internationale Gebrauchshund Prüfung if you’re feeling continental.

Want to know how to trigger aggression? Or, more importantly, how not to?

We’ve got you.Plus:

• Why we can happily watch 12 serial murders before bed but can’t cope when the dog dies in a film.

• The return of the kitchen window vest, a squinty dummy, and a rebrand that may or may not be going to plan

• And a typically unfiltered look at the state of the UK… dog-wise, mostly.

Finally… it’s all about the breed specifics! -

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Lez and Ross have both been in the industry professionally for well over 20 years and each has been involved with dogs for over 40 years.

Whilst sensibly they have stayed away from the ‘limelight’ regarding TV offers, they have regularly been on national and local radio, spoken at national events at NDWA, CFBA, and Kennel Club / Crufts events as well as bespoke speaking engagements for the Dog Safety Education Executive (DogSEE).

Ross wrote for Dogs Monthly Magazine for over 12 years and Lez was the first lady feature writer for a national Shooting Magazine (both Sporting Gun and Sporting Shooter).

They were also 'study buddies' and were the first in the UK to achieve a Masters Degree (Professional Practice) in Canine Behaviour and Psychology in 2011. They work well together and apart, support and work with dog rescue organisations and train professional dog trainers and behaviourists.

Different as chalk and cheese, but maybe not as different as they like to think.Intrigued? want to know more? then check out our websites...

www.rossmccarthy.com ~ www.lezgraham.com

And if you'd rather listen than watch, you can catch Gundogs and Guard Dogs on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@gundogguarddog

From Labrador love stories to kennel grit — Mic Martin crashes in for a wild, honest ride through the world of dogs, training, and keeping it real.Dog talk without the sugar-coating — Labradors, weird childhoods, flexi-leads, and the truth about training. The Mic Martin Takeover pulls no punches.Laughter, dog hair, and brutal honesty — Mic Martin storms the mic to tackle training myths, canine chaos, and why pink jumpers might be a problem.---- oOo ----

Lez and Ross have both been in the industry professionally for well over 20 years and each has been involved with dogs for over 40 years.

Whilst sensibly they have stayed away from the ‘limelight’ regarding TV offers, they have regularly been on national and local radio, spoken at national events at NDWA, CFBA, and Kennel Club / Crufts events as well as bespoke speaking engagements for the Dog Safety Education Executive (DogSEE).

Ross wrote for Dogs Monthly Magazine for over 12 years and Lez was the first lady feature writer for a national Shooting Magazine (both Sporting Gun and Sporting Shooter).

They were also 'study buddies' and were the first in the UK to achieve a Masters Degree (Professional Practice) in Canine Behaviour and Psychology in 2011.

They work well together and apart, support and work with dog rescue organisations and train professional dog trainers and behaviourists.

Different as chalk and cheese, but maybe not as different as they like to think.

Intrigued? want to know more? then check out our websites...

www.rossmccarthy.com ~ www.lezgraham.com

And if you'd rather watch than listen, you can catch Gundogs and Guard Dogs on Youtube

https://www.youtube.com/@gundogguarddog

It’s a latte, darling…

It’s humid.

It’s hot.

And the language barrier is still going strong.

From the manor born to the downstairs toilet – it’s another chaotic episode reminding us how the other half live, why you should never eat with clients, and why breaking your own rules is always a terrible idea.

A “sensible” chat (sort of) about dog safety, just to remind you to keep your wits about you – UK dog law is still dreadful, and honestly, just give kids a wide berth.

We ask the big questions:

Who’s to blame when demerara hits you in the head?

And does it matter if you’re an oldie?

We attempt a review of Seasons 4 and 5, though it gets a bit messy (thanks to the Scottish contingent, obviously). Plus, a look back at some amazing guests we’ve had, a tease of those coming up, and a few standout episodes you absolutely shouldn’t miss.

Lez brings up the CLA Game Fair – again – and no, she’s still not being paid for all this free marketing.

There’s also some confusion about how many sides a coin has, a metaphorical carrot and stick moment, and thankfully, the Londoner manages to drag us out of the mess.

We’ve covered everything from stem cell therapy and arthritis management to dog breeding, rescue, and much more – with loads more to come next season.

Enjoy your summer break – and the Gundogs & Guard Dogs team will see you (and bore you) again in September!

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Lez and Ross have both been in the industry professionally for well over 20 years and each has been involved with dogs for over 40 years.

Whilst sensibly they have stayed away from the ‘limelight’ regarding TV offers, they have regularly been on national and local radio, spoken at national events at NDWA, CFBA, and Kennel Club / Crufts events as well as bespoke speaking engagements for the Dog Safety Education Executive (DogSEE).

Ross wrote for Dogs Monthly Magazine for over 12 years and Lez was the first lady feature writer for a national Shooting Magazine (both Sporting Gun and Sporting Shooter).

They were also 'study buddies' and were the first in the UK to achieve a Masters Degree (Professional Practice) in Canine Behaviour and Psychology in 2011.

They work well together and apart, support and work with dog rescue organisations and train professional dog trainers and behaviourists.

Different as chalk and cheese, but maybe not as different as they like to think.

Intrigued? want to know more? then check out our websites...

www.rossmccarthy.com ~ www.lezgraham.com

And if you'd rather watch than listen, you can catch Gundogs and Guard Dogs on Youtube

https://www.youtube.com/@gundogguarddog

Joint Rot - What’s in a name?

Disappointing Conversations…Is human behavioural change even possible.

Ball thrower Bollocks

You are not stopping… you are changing. Not the end of the road, just a change of direction.

After a giggly start at our guest’s expense, we dive into an overview of Hannah’s veterinary career – a path that led her to specialise in chronic pain management for our companion animals and to the subsequent development of Canine Arthritis Management (CAM).

Her solo journey, alongside her dog, quickly evolved into something much bigger – now involving a growing team and a wide support network.

An interest in complementary therapies and how they can work alongside veterinary medicine spurred Hannah on to ensure that veterinary professionals do better when it comes to managing chronic pain in dogs.

Hannah very much lives in the real world and recognises that people may have a budget… or, in some cases, no budget at all. With this in mind, she brings different perspectives and aims to raise awareness of osteoarthritis through education – ultimately to reduce suffering in dogs.

We explore the difficulty of spotting subtle signs of pain, and the challenges in reaching a diagnosis. We also ask why arthritis isn’t always taken as seriously as other long-term conditions. When poorly managed, this can be a terminal disease – perhaps ‘joint rot’ is a more appropriate name?

So, what is arthritis? What causes it, what makes it worse, and what can we do to manage it?

Ethical and welfare considerations are, of course, always at the forefront of decision-making. As we often do, we wander into a discussion about what people should be doing better when it comes to breeding or selecting dogs – stopping physiological suffering at the source.

Perhaps it all comes down to where people want to invest their time and energy?

We even dared to mention joint care supplements – which led to a fascinating discussion. Maybe your money is better spent on a rug for the laminate floor?!

There are some brilliant resources on the CAM website – especially tips on how to refer clients to the vet with observations from a trained eye – so get involved and support the movement.

https://caninearthritis.co.uk/

https://www.facebook.com/CAMarthritis

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

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Lez and Ross have both been in the industry professionally for well over 20 years and each has been involved with dogs for over 40 years.

Whilst sensibly they have stayed away from the ‘limelight’ regarding TV offers, they have regularly been on national and local radio, spoken at national events at NDWA, CFBA, and Kennel Club / Crufts events as well as bespoke speaking engagements for the Dog Safety Education Executive (DogSEE).

Ross wrote for Dogs Monthly Magazine for over 12 years and Lez was the first lady feature writer for a national Shooting Magazine (both Sporting Gun and Sporting Shooter).

They were also 'study buddies' and were the first in the UK to achieve a Masters Degree (Professional Practice) in Canine Behaviour and Psychology in 2011.

They work well together and apart, support and work with dog rescue organisations and train professional dog trainers and behaviourists.

Different as chalk and cheese, but maybe not as different as they like to think.

Intrigued? want to know more? then check out our websites...

www.rossmccarthy.com ~ www.lezgraham.com

And if you'd rather watch than listen, you can catch Gundogs and Guard Dogs on Youtube

https://www.youtube.com/@gundogguarddog

Killing them with kindness

Got any tips?

In this episode, things kick off the usual way: a bit of a ramble, no real structure, and plenty of honest chat, laced with sarcasm (Scottish) and snark (London).

There’s no guest this time, which means the nonsense levels are dangerously high—but somehow, it works. After book awards, CIDBT Fast-Track students they move on to the kind of conversations the industry usually avoids.

There’s a glimpse into what’s coming next season: proper guests, serious topics…the best season yet!!

But for now, it’s just two behaviour professionals, fed up with the same old patterns. Thirty years on, and still people are getting it wrong. Kindness, it turns out, can be fatal. If the dog ends up worse off or dead, is that kind?

Social media gets a bashing (as it should). So do predictable cases: guarding cockapoos, rehoming that’s barely an option anymore, the legal and moral mess that dogs and their people are left to navigate. And yes, scrotums come up again—don’t ask.

There’s also a strange detour into black-and-white rabies films that traumatised a generation (well, half of them—one was too young to remember, or possibly not even born).

Vaccines, eyebrow ticks, Brucella, and a whole lot of professional firefighting.

One of them’s not quite functioning. The other’s battling an itchy ear. Somehow, they hold it together long enough to call time before it all falls apart.

It’s mostly nonsense, a few proper insights, and more than a few laughs. Next time? A guest to keep things (marginally) on track.

🎧 Shoutout to Paul Quinlan at The Traditional Leather Lead Co—makers of proper kit for dogs… and maybe podcast hosts too.

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Lez and Ross have both been in the industry professionally for well over 20 years and each has been involved with dogs for over 40 years.

Whilst sensibly they have stayed away from the ‘limelight’ regarding TV offers, they have regularly been on national and local radio, spoken at national events at NDWA, CFBA, and Kennel Club / Crufts events as well as bespoke speaking engagements for the Dog Safety Education Executive (DogSEE).

Ross wrote for Dogs Monthly Magazine for over 12 years and Lez was the first lady feature writer for a national Shooting Magazine (both Sporting Gun and Sporting Shooter).

They were also 'study buddies' and were the first in the UK to achieve a Masters Degree (Professional Practice) in Canine Behaviour and Psychology in 2011.

They work well together and apart, support and work with dog rescue organisations and train professional dog trainers and behaviourists.

Different as chalk and cheese, but maybe not as different as they like to think.

Intrigued? want to know more? then check out our websites...

www.rossmccarthy.com ~ www.lezgraham.com

And if you'd rather watch than listen, you can catch Gundogs and Guard Dogs on Youtube

https://www.youtube.com/@gundogguarddog

From a childhood spark to international obedience sport, Anna Herzog shares her journey through Kennel Club and FCI Obedience.

We talk clicker training, competing at Crufts, representing the UK, and the fascinating differences across countries in dog sport.

A must-listen for dog lovers, handlers, and anyone curious about the world of FCI Obedience!

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Lez and Ross have both been in the industry professionally for well over 20 years and each has been involved with dogs for over 40 years.

Whilst sensibly they have stayed away from the ‘limelight’ regarding TV offers, they have regularly been on national and local radio, spoken at national events at NDWA, CFBA, and Kennel Club / Crufts events as well as bespoke speaking engagements for the Dog Safety Education Executive (DogSEE).

Ross wrote for Dogs Monthly Magazine for over 12 years and Lez was the first lady feature writer for a national Shooting Magazine (both Sporting Gun and Sporting Shooter).

They were also 'study buddies' and were the first in the UK to achieve a Masters Degree (Professional Practice) in Canine Behaviour and Psychology in 2011.

They work well together and apart, support and work with dog rescue organisations and train professional dog trainers and behaviourists.

Different as chalk and cheese, but maybe not as different as they like to think.

Intrigued? want to know more? then check out our websites...

www.rossmccarthy.com ~ www.lezgraham.com

And if you'd rather watch than listen, you can catch Gundogs and Guard Dogs on Youtube

https://www.youtube.com/@gundogguarddog

Ever tried bridging the gap between London and Scotland? Spoiler: the language barrier is real — but so is the love for dogs, training, and people. ❤️
We dive deep into:
✨ The real difference between qualifications and certifications
✨ Training dog owners, gundog trainers, and canine pros
✨ Why it’s all about building a family—your tribe of people and pups
✨ How every dog (and human) teaches us something new
✨ Breaking the rules to find what really works
Plus, a minor water spill that somehow becomes the highlight... because that’s just how Lez rolls 😂
Ready to write your own story and ride your own wave? 🌊
Tune in, get inspired, and join the conversation!---- oOo ----

Lez and Ross have both been in the industry professionally for well over 20 years and each has been involved with dogs for over 40 years.

Whilst sensibly they have stayed away from the ‘limelight’ regarding TV offers, they have regularly been on national and local radio, spoken at national events at NDWA, CFBA, and Kennel Club / Crufts events as well as bespoke speaking engagements for the Dog Safety Education Executive (DogSEE).

Ross wrote for Dogs Monthly Magazine for over 12 years and Lez was the first lady feature writer for a national Shooting Magazine (both Sporting Gun and Sporting Shooter).

They were also 'study buddies' and were the first in the UK to achieve a Masters Degree (Professional Practice) in Canine Behaviour and Psychology in 2011.

They work well together and apart, support and work with dog rescue organisations and train professional dog trainers and behaviourists.

Different as chalk and cheese, but maybe not as different as they like to think.

Intrigued? want to know more? then check out our websites...

www.rossmccarthy.com ~ www.lezgraham.com

And if you'd rather watch than listen, you can catch Gundogs and Guard Dogs on Youtube

https://www.youtube.com/@gundogguarddog

Another Gundogger, joins the podcast, making the Guard Dog contingent a bit redundant as the lovely Rebecca Walters from PupStarts breeders joins us to talk about responsible dog breeding.

A history in dog rescue lead her to a unique journey to provide formal qualifications in breeding dogs.

Is she promoting breeding dogs? ABSOLUTELY NOT!

If you are going to breed dogs…do it properly! She’s on the same page as all of us regarding ‘adopt or shop responsibly’.

Common sense in abundance…highlighting the differences between dog professionals choosing a puppy and supplying puppies to the general public... and the ages of socialisation and optimal times for homing are discussed.

Reflecting on our conversations with Julie Shelton from #appledownrescue - there is a huge divide between responsible dog breeders, puppy farmers and the ‘middle ground of well-meaning people’ with little knowledge or just simply selfish!

It’s all about genetics, ethics and loving dogs

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Lez and Ross have both been in the industry professionally for well over 20 years and each has been involved with dogs for over 40 years.

Whilst sensibly they have stayed away from the ‘limelight’ regarding TV offers, they have regularly been on national and local radio, spoken at national events at NDWA, CFBA, and Kennel Club / Crufts events as well as bespoke speaking engagements for the Dog Safety Education Executive (DogSEE).

Ross wrote for Dogs Monthly Magazine for over 12 years and Lez was the first lady feature writer for a national Shooting Magazine (both Sporting Gun and Sporting Shooter).

They were also 'study buddies' and were the first in the UK to achieve a Masters Degree (Professional Practice) in Canine Behaviour and Psychology in 2011.

They work well together and apart, support and work with dog rescue organisations and train professional dog trainers and behaviourists.

Different as chalk and cheese, but maybe not as different as they like to think.

Intrigued? want to know more? then check out our websites...

www.rossmccarthy.com ~ www.lezgraham.com

And if you'd rather watch than listen, you can catch Gundogs and Guard Dogs on Youtube

https://www.youtube.com/@gundogguarddog

🐾 NEW EPISODE: Never the Same Love Twice 🐶

What do Bullmastiffs, Vizslas, Rottweilers, Cockers and Chihuahuas have in common? One woman: Clare Drew, Chairwoman of the Guild of Dog Trainers.

This week, Clare brings big Essex energy to our Scottish-London mix — and she’s bringing a lifetime of dogs with her. From personal stories to professional insight, we talk:

✨ What different breeds really bring to the table

💬 Why the bond you form with each dog is never the same

🐕 Clare’s top breeds (spoiler: guard dogs take the crown)

🚨 The exciting new chapter for the Guild of Dog Trainers

🎉 Young Trainer Ambassadors & building a future for better dog training

This episode is full of laughs, loyalty, and love — not just for dogs, but for the community behind them.

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you tune in.

#DogTraining #DogPodcast #GuildOfDogTrainers #ClareDrew #WorkingDogs #PodcastLife #DogLovers #RottweilerLove #GermanShepherdNation #NeverTheSameLoveTwice