Podcast Notes: The Dogpoint Podcast Ep #17

Topic: Stop Overcomplicating Dog Training

• Most dog owners just want solutions, not a psychology lecture.
• Focus on training both dogs and owners with simple, clear instructions.
• Over-theorizing intimidates owners and reduces confidence.

Tools & Training Approach

• Not every tool works for every dog; match tools to the dog's needs and temperament.
• For Rottweilers, a prong collar can escalate reactivity; an e-collar might be better.
• Start leash training inside the house before moving outside.

Common Training Mistakes

• Training dogs in a foreign language can lead to confusion, especially if commands are mispronounced.
• Teaching “paw” too early can create unwanted begging or demanding behaviors.
• Puppy classes that allow chaotic play lead to reactivity; socialization should be structured.

Building Good Habits

• Hand-feeding helps build engagement and trust.
• Integrate training into daily life to make it sustainable.
• Use crates to prevent destructive behaviors when dogs aren’t supervised.

Puppy Selection & Breeding

• Choose a breed suited to your lifestyle and goals.
• Work with breeders who do health testing, not just those with pedigrees.
• Test puppies for temperament traits like confidence and recovery from stress.

Responsible Ownership

• Advocate for your dog in public; don’t let other dogs invade their space.
• Spay/neuter decisions should be based on timing and health considerations, not convenience.
• Overpopulation isn’t solved by early spaying/neutering; it’s about responsible ownership and breeding practices.

Key Takeaway: Keep it simple, use common sense, and train with purpose.

Podcast Notes for The Dogpoint Podcast, Episode 16: Small Things Turn Into Big Things

• Opening Acknowledgment I thanked our listeners from all over the world, including Trinidad and Tobago, the USA, Canada, Great Britain, Ireland, Australia, and more. I never imagined this podcast would reach so far!
• Key Theme Small behaviors in dogs that seem harmless or cute can grow into major problems if left unchecked.
• Examples of Small Things Turning Big
  • Demanding Attention: Pawing might seem cute but is actually a demand for attention. If ignored, it can escalate into growling or snapping when denied.
  • Ignoring Commands: Repeating commands like “sit” without enforcing them teaches dogs to ignore you. Say it once and follow through.
  • Furniture Rules: Allowing dogs to jump on the couch without invitation can lead to territorial behavior, such as growling when you want them off.
  • Doorway Behavior: Dogs rushing out of open doors might start small but can lead to dangerous incidents like running into traffic.
• Consistency Matters
  • Inconsistent rules between family members confuse dogs. Everyone in the household needs to enforce the same rules to maintain the dog’s respect and obedience.
  • Feeling tired or sorry for your dog should not lead to letting things slide. This erodes your authority over time.
• Special Note on Rescue Dogs Rescue dogs don’t live in the past; they live in the present. Treat them like any other dog while being mindful of triggers but still hold them accountable.
• Solutions to Avoid Big Problems
  1. Be consistent and always enforce commands.
  2. Get everyone in the household on the same page.
  3. If your dog struggles with a command, evaluate your training method. It’s never the dog’s fault—it’s a training gap.
  4. Train daily, even if it’s just five minutes.
• Final Thought Address small issues early to prevent big problems later. Consistency and daily practice lead to an obedient dog that’s a joy to live with.

Sign-off

No drive... No joy! Have fun with your dog.

• Dog training shouldn’t be overcomplicated.
• Many behaviors stem from genetics or unintentional owner mistakes.
• Most dog owners just want their dog’s issues resolved quickly, without jargon or extended timelines.
• The average dog owner doesn’t care about academic theories like Skinner or training “quadrants.”
• Real, effective training = reward good behaviors, correct the unwanted ones.
• It’s not about asking dogs for “consent” to train; it’s about clear boundaries.
• Dogs need structure and rules for a balanced relationship with us.
• Avoid prolonged stress for dogs in training—it’s unnecessary.
• Not all dogs respond the same; there’s no one-size-fits-all approach.
• “Force-free” isn’t as “free” as people think if we’re still using control tools.
• The right tools in the right hands are effective; cruelty is about the handler, not the tool.
• Owners need practical, realistic solutions to manage their dogs confidently.
• True dog training is about what works, not just what’s marketed.
• Let’s bring common sense back to dog training—effective, timely, and clear.

Episode 14 Notes and Summary:

• Information Overload in Dog Training:
  • Excessive information confuses new dog owners and trainers.
  • Some believe they've reinvented dog training and dismiss others.
  • I address them: "Grasshopper, you have much to learn."
• Experience vs. Certification:
  • Many have only a few years' experience with online certifications.
  • They think they know everything but lack depth.
  • They take years to fix problems seasoned trainers resolve quickly.
• Continuous Learning Among Professionals:
  • Top trainers learn from each other to gain new insights.
  • We seek that extra 5% of knowledge to improve.
  • Open-mindedness and love for dogs drive us.
• Critique of Exclusive Mentality:
  • Some attack others and control narratives on social media.
  • Their focus is on engagement for financial gain, not on dogs.
• Limitations of Positive-Only Training:
  • Some positive-only trainers recognize limitations.
  • They often work in sports not requiring behavior correction.
  • Training high-drive dogs without corrections is challenging.
• Hidden Practices and Tool Bans:
  • In areas with tool bans, trainers may work secretly or abroad.
  • Purely positive training in such places is misleading.
  • Owners face conflicting messages and hidden practices.
• Common Sense in Dog Training:
  • Let common sense guide you in training and choosing a trainer.
  • Tools aren't the issue; misuse by handlers is.
  • Banning tools isn't the solution; proper education is.
• Misuse of "Gentle" Tools:
  • Halties and front-pull harnesses can harm dogs if misused.
  • Dogs often dislike these tools.
  • Properly trained dogs with prong or e-collars enjoy training.
• Real-World Consequences:
  • Farmers may have to shoot dogs due to bans on effective tools.
  • Momentary discomfort from a tool is better than tragic outcomes.
  • Owners should choose the best method for their dogs.
• Simplifying Dog Training:
  • Correct unwanted behaviors; reinforce desired ones.
  • Corrections are less than 5% of training; the rest is positive.
  • Ignoring this balance misleads owners.
• Addressing Extremes:
  • Ideas like obtaining a dog's consent before training are impractical.
  • Dogs need to function in a human world.
  • While we love them like family, they aren't humans in training contexts.
• Final Advice:
  • Trust your instincts when choosing a trainer.
  • Honest trainers focus on dogs, not social media validation.
  • Know what you want, and you'll find the right professional.
• Our Approach at Dogpoint:
  • We offer virtual sessions to build your relationship with your dog.
  • Skills are directly transferable to you.
  • If methods can't be easily passed on, something is wrong.

Thank you for listening. Remember, let common sense be your guide.

-Marc Windgassen No Drive... No Joy

Episode Title: A Day in the Life of a Dog Trainer

• Introduction
  • I (Marc) discuss the daily challenges and rewards of being a dog trainer.
  • My son, Michael Windgassen, joins me to share insights from our experiences with high-drive dogs.
• Ninja, the German Shepherd
  • Ninja could sense when we were waking up by our heartbeat and would be ready to work before we were even fully conscious.
  • His drive was constant—always ready to work, no matter the time of day or how tired we were.
  • Living with Ninja was intense, as he was always focused on his "job," which sometimes made day-to-day living exhausting.
  • He had an incredible balance—able to switch between relaxation and immediate action when needed.
  • Ninja excelled at obedience, protection, and narcotics detection, and could be switched on and off like a remote.
• Elena, the Rottweiler
  • Elena is described as a Malinois in a Rottweiler’s body, with an extreme drive that is unmatched.
  • She works relentlessly, to the point of exhaustion, often needing to be crated to calm down.
  • Elena’s drive makes her the embodiment of a working dog, always needing mental and physical stimulation.
• Managing High-Drive Dogs
  • High-drive dogs require constant engagement, and their energy levels are difficult to manage for average dog owners.
  • These dogs will demand attention, often interrupting attempts to relax or rest.
  • Owning a working dog requires full dedication, as these dogs won’t allow downtime without work or play.
• Force, the Rottweiler
  • Force has a distinct off-switch, which allows him to calm down when needed, unlike Elena.
  • He’s still incredibly driven during work sessions but is more manageable at home.
• Challenges of Owning a Working Dog
  • Many clients get overwhelmed after adopting a working-line breed without understanding their needs.
  • These dogs will create their own tasks if not given proper mental and physical outlets, often leading to destructive behaviors.
  • Owning a working dog is not for everyone—it requires a strong commitment to constantly work with the dog to avoid issues.
• The Bond with High-Drive Dogs
  • The bond between a trainer and a high-drive dog is incomparable to that with a pet dog.
  • Working with these dogs creates a deeper, more rewarding connection because of the constant interaction and shared purpose.
  • Once you experience the drive and bond of a working dog, it’s hard to go back to owning low-drive dogs.
• Final Thoughts
  • Working dogs, while extremely rewarding, are not suited for every household.
  • They require someone who understands their needs and is prepared to manage their high-energy, driven nature.
  • The joy of seeing a high-drive dog perform and excel at their tasks is unmatched, but it comes with significant challenges.

The Dogpoint Podcast Episode #12: "Where Has Common Sense Gone?"

In this episode, I, Marc Windgassen, cover:

• Importance of responsible dog ownership and training
  • Providing structure, boundaries, and appropriate stimulation for pets
  • Necessity of crate training and addressing misconceptions about its cruelty
• Choosing the right breed
  • Fit the breed to one's lifestyle and skill set
  • Acquiring necessary skills to handle the chosen breed
• Consistent training to avoid behavioral problems like separation anxiety
  • Implementing changes in owner behavior to improve pet behavior
  • Emphasizing the importance of the place command
• Managing unwanted behaviors
  • Techniques for impulse control and recall training
  • Addressing entitlement and unrealistic expectations at dog parks
• Balanced training methods
  • Combining positive reinforcement and necessary corrections
  • Debunking the myth that all stress is harmful
• Bonding with your dog
  • Playing and having fun to ensure a happy, well-adjusted pet

In this episode, Marc Windgassen welcomes Nicola Ferguson, a renowned dog trainer from the UK and author of "The Force Free Dilemma." Nicola discusses her journey in dog training, particularly with high-drive breeds like Rottweilers, and the motivations behind her insightful book.

Key topics covered include:

• The Force-Free Ideology: Nicola explores the rise of force-free training methods and their limitations, especially for managing high-drive and aggressive dogs.
• Balanced Training Approaches: The discussion highlights the importance of using a combination of positive reinforcement and appropriate corrections. Nicola shares examples demonstrating the effectiveness of balanced training.
• Real-World Consequences: Nicola shares stories of dogs saved from euthanasia through balanced training, contrasting this with the potential risks of strict force-free methods.
• Challenges with Inexperienced Trainers: Nicola emphasizes the influx of trainers lacking hands-on experience, often resulting in ineffective training methods.
• Ethical Use of Training Tools: Nicola defends tools like pinch collars and e-collars when used correctly, sharing success stories and the importance of these tools for safety and guidance.
• Impact on Working Dogs: The conversation addresses the potential loss of high-drive working dogs crucial for roles in search and rescue, police work, and detection if extreme force-free ideologies prevail.

Nicola's insights provide a nuanced understanding of dog behavior and the need for a balanced approach to training. Her experiences and anecdotes offer valuable lessons for both dog trainers and owners.

Tune in to learn more about the complexities of dog training and the critical role of balanced methods in ensuring the well-being of both dogs and their handlers.

Episode #10 Summary - The Dogpoint Podcast

Host: Marc Windgassen

Guest: Jeremy Tai Chew, Hakwai K9

In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Jeremy Tai Chew from Hakwai K9 in Toronto, Canada. We dived into some really important topics in dog training and responsible pet ownership that I think every dog owner should hear about.

Key Points We Discussed:

1. Training Philosophies:
   • We discussed the differences between 'force-free' training and 'balanced' training. Jeremy shared his views on the limitations of strictly using force-free methods, especially when they might not hold up in more challenging real-life scenarios. We talked about the need for a balanced approach that adapts to the specific needs of the dog and situation.

2. Legislation and Breed-Specific Policies:
   • Jeremy brought up the issue of breed-specific legislation, like the pit bull bans in some places, which he believes aren’t effective and unfairly target specific breeds without making communities safer. I added my thoughts on how places like Calgary have more effective approaches by focusing on the responsibility of the dog owners rather than the dogs themselves.

3. Challenges in Dog Training:
   • We touched on the confusion that dog owners often face with the flood of conflicting advice available online. Jeremy emphasized the importance of choosing knowledgeable trainers and being critical of the sources of training advice. I discussed the impact of misinformation and the importance of vetting the information thoroughly.

4. Importance of Crate Training:
   • Jeremy highlighted how essential crate training is for managing dogs effectively in various situations, like at the vet or when traveling. I shared how crate training is useful not only for those reasons but also for house training and preventing unwanted behaviors when dogs are left alone.

5. Progressive Practices in Dog Management:
   • We praised the progressive management practices that target owner responsibility, discussing the success these have in improving both dog behavior and owner accountability.

6. Breeding and Health Considerations:
   • We talked about the need for responsible breeding practices. Jeremy explained why it’s crucial to consider the genetic health and living environment suitability when choosing to breed or buy a dog. I pointed out how important it is to match a dog’s breed to an owner's lifestyle to ensure the well-being of the pet.

7. Closing Thoughts:
   • We wrapped up with a call to dog owners to educate themselves on dog behavior and training, to challenge misinformation, and to adopt training methods that suit their individual needs and circumstances.

It was a great conversation filled with insights that are valuable for anyone interested in dog training or thinking about getting a dog. Tune in to hear all about our discussion and get some practical advice on managing your furry friends responsibly.

Welcome to Episode 9 of The Dogpoint Podcast! In this episode, we dive deep into the essentials of communicating with your dog trainer to ensure you and your pup achieve the best possible results.

🐾 Key Points Discussed:

1. Be Specific with Your Requests: Understanding the importance of being specific when asking for training. Whether it's obedience, behavior correction, or training for a specific purpose, clarity helps us tailor the right plan for your dog.

1. Understanding Training Costs and Commitments: We explore the factors that influence the cost and duration of training, including your dog’s learning pace and the specific problems you're facing.

1. The Role of Practice in Training: Emphasizing the significant role that your daily practice with your dog plays in the speed and effectiveness of the training process.

1. Types of Training Explained: From basic obedience to specialized tasks like personal protection or service roles, we cover what different types of training entail and how to prepare for them.

1. Realistic Expectations and Responsibilities: Highlighting the commitment required when you decide to train your dog, especially for advanced roles like personal protection, which involves extensive work and costs.

🎧 Listen to This Episode If You Want to Learn:

• How to effectively communicate your needs and goals to a dog trainer.
• The importance of detailing your dog's issues and training objectives.
• What to expect in terms of time, effort, and financial commitment when you opt for specialized training.

👋 Engage with Us: Got a question or a story about your dog’s training journey? Send us a message or leave a comment on our platform. Your insights could be featured in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for tuning in, and make sure to practice those tips with your furry friend. Catch you in the next episode where we'll tackle more about the world of dog training!

In this episode, I discuss the crucial role of commitment, both in time and money, when it comes to training dogs, especially for protection roles. I highlight the misconceptions around the natural protective instincts of dogs and emphasize the ongoing necessity of professional training.

Key Points Discussed:

1. Commitment to Training:
   • Training a dog for protection requires more than just owning a powerful breed.
   • Dogs do not inherently know who to protect or attack; they must be taught specific behaviors and contexts.
   • The importance of continuous training through a dog’s various life stages to avoid behavioral problems.
2. Financial Investment in Training:
   • The misconception that the initial purchase of the dog is the largest expense.
   • The ongoing cost of professional training is essential and should not be seen as an optional or minor part of owning a dog.
3. Owner Responsibility:
   • Owners must be active participants in the training process.
   • The role of the dog trainer is more about coaching the owner than directly training the dog.
   • Common challenges trainers face with dog owners who resist change and do not follow through with recommended practices.
4. The Individuality of Dogs:
   • Every dog is different, and previous experiences with other dogs may not apply.
   • The dangers of comparing dogs and expecting similar outcomes without considering individual traits and needs.
5. Realities of Professional Dog Training:
   • Professional dog training is a skilled and experienced profession, not a side hustle.
   • Trainers bring decades of experience and lessons learned which justify the costs of their services.

Conclusion: I conclude the episode by urging dog owners to respect the professionalism of trainers and to engage fully with the training process to ensure their dogs can effectively serve in their roles as protectors.

Next Steps for Listeners:

• Evaluate your commitment to both the training time and financial aspects before getting a dog for protection.
• Engage actively with your trainer and follow their guidance to build a successful relationship with your dog.

Episode Timestamps:

• [00:00] Introduction to the topic
• [01:00] Importance of commitment in training
• [05:00] Financial aspects of dog ownership
• [10:00] Challenges with dog owner attitudes
• [15:00] Individuality of dogs
• [20:00] Professionalism in dog training

Additional Resources:

• Recommended reading on dog training techniques

Closing Thoughts: I emphasize the lifelong impact and benefits of properly training and investing in your dog, not only for protection but for a harmonious relationship. I call for a mindset shift among dog owners to achieve these goals.