Positively Dog Training - The Official Victoria Stilwell Podcast

In this episode, host Victoria talks with seasoned dog trainer Julie Schmitt about the evolution of dog training methods from traditional compulsion-based techniques to modern positive reinforcement approaches. Julie shares her transformative journey, starting over 25 years ago with Guide Dogs for the Blind, where food rewards were initially discouraged. She reveals how the field has since shifted to embrace compassionate and scientifically backed training methods that prioritize a dog's mental and emotional well-being.

Julie discusses the importance of empathy and agency in the trainer-dog relationship, likening it to respectful parenting rather than authoritarian control. By highlighting her own growth and ongoing learning, she encourages both new trainers and dog owners to stay curious and open to change. This conversation provides a heartfelt, insightful perspective on the evolving world of dog training and the power of compassion and science to create happier, healthier dogs and trainers alike.

To learn more about Julie, visit https://outnaboutdogtraining.com/.

In this impactful episode, Victoria sits down with Kat Kekel, a seasoned dog trainer and rescue worker, to explore the intense realities of puppy mill rescues, cruelty cases, and the transition of dogs from shelters to homes. Kat shares stories from her years in the field, from managing large-scale rescues to preparing dogs for adoption, offering invaluable insights into the process of rehabilitation and the emotional complexities involved.

Listeners will hear about the challenges of caring for traumatized animals, the importance of understanding a dog's past, and Kat’s advice for creating a bond with rescue dogs. Victoria and Kat discuss how each dog’s unique background influences their needs, behaviors, and potential. This episode is filled with practical tips for pet owners looking to foster, adopt, or understand dogs who’ve experienced trauma.

Click here to learn more about Kat. 

In this episode, Victoria and the Positively Team discuss how dogs perceive the world around them, exploring topics such as sensory awareness, contrasts, and how dogs navigate change. With holidays approaching, the group also delves into the effects of holiday activities on dogs, from fireworks to increased guest presence, and offers practical tips to help pet owners prepare their dogs for these changes. They emphasize empathy and proactive steps to create safe, comfortable environments tailored to each dog’s unique needs, ensuring a peaceful season for both pets and owners.

Listeners will gain insight into the importance of understanding how dogs experience the world differently through senses like smell and hearing, and why seemingly small changes can have big impacts on their well-being. Whether it’s planning for holiday gatherings or adjusting daily routines, this episode offers a wealth of advice to help dogs thrive.

In this episode, Victoria sits down with Yaz Porritt, founder of Yorkshire Pooches Therapies, to discuss the complexities of canine pain management. With extensive experience in canine massage therapy and natural pain management, Yaz shares her insights into recognizing pain in dogs, the role of behavior as an indicator, and how the bond between dogs and their guardians can affect both wellness and recovery. She discusses her published book, "Your Dog's Pain Diary, A Blueprint for Monitoring a Pain Trial," which helps pet owners track pain symptoms, providing valuable data for effective vet consultations.

Yaz and Victoria delve into the often overlooked signs of discomfort in dogs and the powerful connection between physical pain and behavioral changes. They also explore the heated debates around species-appropriate nutrition and the role of empathy in animal welfare. Packed with practical advice and insights, this episode is a must for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of dog behavior and health.

In this Roundtable Discussion, Victoria Stilwell and the Positively Team explore the evolving landscape of dog training. Together, they address recent controversies in the industry, including a flawed study promoting the use of shock collars, and emphasize the need to move beyond outdated methods like punishment and reward-based systems. The trainers advocate for a shift toward relationship-centered training, where the focus is on enhancing the well-being and cooperation between dogs and humans.

Through real-life stories, analogies, and insights from the panel, listeners are encouraged to think critically about their own approach to dog training. The conversation touches on the importance of trust, empathy, and collaboration, not just between trainers and dogs, but within the professional community. This episode provides a hopeful vision for the future, where welfare and kindness are at the heart of every training decision.

In this episode, Victoria Stilwell speaks with Paul Owens, widely known as the original Dog Whisperer. Paul reflects on his remarkable 50-year career as a professional dog trainer, transitioning from traditional punitive methods to pioneering force-free, positive reinforcement techniques. They discuss Paul's journey, including the pivotal moment when he embraced a more compassionate approach to dog training and the evolution of his teaching. Paul shares the importance of blending science and heart in training, ensuring a relationship of trust and kindness with our canine companions. Listeners will be inspired by his stories and wisdom about how positive reinforcement impacts not just dogs, but the people who love them.

They also delve into the misconceptions around positive reinforcement, especially its effectiveness with high-drive or aggressive dogs. Through his gentle yet powerful approach, Paul continues to show that kindness is not only effective but essential. With stories about his after-school program, "Paws for Peace," and insights from his latest book, "Training for the Joy of Dogs," Paul offers invaluable guidance for trainers and pet owners alike.

In this episode, host Victoria Stilwell chats with Julia Robertson, founder of Galen Myotherapy and author, to explore how her techniques have transformed the lives of thousands of dogs. Julia explains how muscular compensation and adaptive changes in dogs can lead to behavioral issues, often mistaken for aggression or anxiety, when they are actually rooted in pain. Her work emphasizes the importance of recognizing physical discomfort and offering choice-based treatments that empower dogs during therapy.

Victoria and Julia also discuss the critical role of guardian empowerment, drawing parallels between canine Myotherapy and progressive dog training approaches. The episode highlights how owners can foster healthier relationships with their dogs by prioritizing comfort and wellness. Listeners will gain insights into the power of understanding canine body language and the preventative measures that can be taken in early puppyhood to ensure long-term health.

In this episode, Victoria and the Positively team dive into the use of food, toys, and other reinforcers in dog training. They explore the misconceptions surrounding the use of food in training, including the myths of food being a bribe and concerns about overfeeding. They also discuss the nuances of reinforcement, how to balance toys, and how to understand your dog’s preferences to create positive learning experiences. Through various examples, the team emphasizes the importance of matching the reinforcement to the dog’s behavior and environment, as well as recognizing the power of life rewards and attention.

Listeners will gain insights into how different reinforcers like food, toys, praise, and life rewards can be effectively used in dog training. From learning how to transition from food to toys, to understanding the role of dopamine in reinforcing behavior, this episode covers a wealth of knowledge for dog trainers and guardians alike. Whether you're working with a food-motivated dog or trying to teach your dog to enjoy toys, we’ve got you covered with practical tips and thoughtful discussion.

DISCLAIMER: Before we begin, please be aware that this episode contains discussions of sensitive topics that may not be suitable for all audiences. Listener discretion is advised.

In this insightful episode, Victoria Stilwell sits down with Claudine Wilkins, a pioneering attorney and animal law expert, to discuss the intersection of law, animal protection, and advocacy. Claudine shares her journey from a prosecutor to the founder of the Animal Law Source and the creator of the Animal Protection Expo, which has trained over 11,000 professionals in animal law. Claudine recounts her work on high-profile cases, including puppy mill rescues and dog bite prevention advocacy, shedding light on the complex and evolving landscape of animal cruelty legislation. Their conversation explores the vital role of law enforcement, the legal system, and professionals in combating animal abuse, promoting public safety, and ensuring justice for the most vulnerable.

Listeners will gain a deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs involved in prosecuting animal cruelty cases, how laws differ across states, and the importance of education in advancing animal protection. Claudine’s passion for advocacy and hands-on rescue efforts illustrate the importance of community collaboration, responsible dog ownership, and fighting against puppy mills and the exotic pet trade. This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in animal care, law enforcement, or simply passionate about protecting animals.

In this episode, Victoria Stilwell interviews Zak George, a prominent voice in the dog training community, about the importance of ethical dog training methods rooted in science. Zak discusses his journey in dog training, the rise of YouTube in shaping public perception, and the critical need for the industry to embrace non-aversive methods. He highlights the updated 2021 statement from the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior, stressing that pain and fear are unnecessary and counterproductive in behavior modification. Zak also delves into the ongoing challenges with misinformation and the push for legislation to regulate dog training.

They explore the false dichotomy that aversive methods yield faster results, debunking myths around the effectiveness of pain-based corrections. Zak emphasizes the importance of building trust between trainer and dog and the long-term benefits of positive reinforcement over suppression. This episode offers an in-depth look at the future of dog training and the advocacy needed to protect both dogs and their owners.

To learn more about Zak, visit https://linktr.ee/zakgeorge.