In this episode, Victoria Stilwell sits down with Dr. Maggie O’Brian, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist, to uncover the complexities of animal behavior. They dive deep into the critical role veterinary behaviorists play in addressing issues like aggression, compulsive disorders, and cognitive decline, alongside the importance of collaboration with trainers and vets. Dr. O’Brian also busts myths about pet medication and offers practical advice for traveling with anxious pets during the holidays.

Listeners will gain insights into identifying when to refer pets to a veterinary behaviorist, handling resource guarding, and understanding the nuances of canine cognitive dysfunction. Dr. O’Brian emphasizes a team-based approach to care and explains how science-based strategies and medication can lead to happier, safer pets. Whether you’re a trainer, pet owner, or animal enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways!

To learn more about Dr. O'Brian, visit Virtual Veterinary Behavior Medicine or Southeast Animal Behavior and Training.

Join Victoria Stilwell and Holly Firfer as they celebrate 20 years of "It's Me or the Dog." Holly is the VP of programming and Development for ReachTV and Scripps New Anchor. She is a former radio DJ, news correspondent and Victoria's podcast companion for many years. 

Victoria shares her journey from acting to dog training, the creation of her groundbreaking TV show, and the evolution of her mission to educate pet owners and trainers worldwide. The episode highlights memorable moments from the show, the challenges of tackling severe behavioral issues, and the joy of fostering relationships between dogs and their humans.

They also delve into Victoria's educational initiatives, from the Victoria Stilwell Academy to online courses designed for dog enthusiasts and trainers. With stories of success, humor, and heartfelt connections, this episode showcases the enduring impact of positive reinforcement training.

In this insightful episode, Victoria interviews dog behavior expert Bob Ryder on the complexities of canine separation anxiety. Bob shares his own journey from avoiding cases of separation anxiety to becoming a certified expert in it. He discusses how separation anxiety is often misunderstood as misbehavior or stubbornness, instead highlighting it as an involuntary and intense fear response. By likening this anxiety to human phobias, he invites listeners to view affected dogs with compassion and patience.

Bob delves into the latest methods for helping dogs with separation anxiety, from suspension of absences to systematic desensitization. He explains how training should focus on reprogramming a dog's response to alone time through gradual, fear-free exposures. Bob also discusses the importance of supporting families in finding creative solutions to avoid leaving their dogs alone while training, showing that successful outcomes rely on both empathy and a well-planned approach.

To learn more about Bob, visit https://www.pawstrans.com/.

In this episode, Victoria Stilwell hosts Carolyn Menteith, an award-winning trainer and behaviorist, to discuss the UK Dog Behavior and Training Charter. They explore its importance in setting ethical training standards, the advocacy for banning shock collars, and its broader implications for dogs and trainers. Carolyn shares insights into unifying professional organizations under a common mission and highlights her ongoing efforts to promote science-based, positive reinforcement methodologies.

The episode also dives into the transformative power of ethical training on dogs' welfare, the challenges in influencing legislation, and the inspiring collaboration among organizations to create meaningful change. A must-listen for trainers, dog owners, and advocates of compassionate dog care.

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.