The Doodle Pro® Podcast: Unleashing Expert Training, Grooming, & Health Tips for Doodle Dogs & Puppies

Are you curious about Cockapoos and what makes them such lovable and unique companions? 🐾 In this episode of The Doodle Pro® Podcast, we’re diving deep into everything you need to know about raising a happy, healthy Cockapoo. From Cockapoo temperament to training tips, grooming essentials, and addressing behavioral challenges, this episode is your ultimate guide!

Discover the unique traits that Cockapoos inherit from their Cocker Spaniel and Miniature or Toy Poodle parents, including their playful energy, intelligence, and occasional quirks. Learn how to manage common Cockapoo behavioral challenges, like resource guarding, separation anxiety, and barking, using positive reinforcement techniques designed specifically for this breed.

I’ll also explain why red Cockapoos are often more energetic and how to exercise and enrich these lively pups. Plus, we’ll discuss grooming tips for Cockapoos, including how to prevent matting in their coat and the importance of ear cleaning to avoid infections.

If you’re torn between a Cockapoo and a Cavapoo, I’ll briefly highlight the differences in their temperament, energy levels, and grooming needs to help you decide which Doodle mix is the best fit for your lifestyle.

What you’ll learn in this episode:
✅ How the Cockapoo’s parent breeds—Cocker Spaniels and Miniature Poodles—shape their temperament and behavior
✅ Why resource guarding is common in Cockapoos and how to prevent it with positive practices like games of trade and adding to their food dish
✅ Grooming essentials for Cockapoos, including brushing routines and ear cleaning tips
✅ How to handle separation anxiety in Cockapoos and help them feel secure when left alone
✅ Why some Cockapoos, especially red-coated ones, might have higher energy levels
✅ Key differences between Cockapoos and Cavapoos to help you choose the right breed
✅ Enrichment and training tips to channel your Cockapoo’s energy productively

Whether you’re already a proud Cockapoo parent or you’re researching which Doodle is best for your family, this episode is packed with actionable tips and insights to help your dog thrive.

Tune in now to learn everything you need to know about Cockapoo temperament, training, grooming, and more!

Want a detailed comparison of Cockapoos vs Cavapoos? Check out my blog post where I break it all down here. 

Send me a text- Corinne, The Doodle Pro®

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Hi Doodle lovers! I’m Corinne Gearhart, also known as The Doodle Pro™, and in this bonus episode of The Doodle Pro® Podcast, we’re diving deep into the world of Aussiedoodles—also known as Aussie Poos or Aussie Poodles. Whether you already share your home with an Aussiedoodle or you’re thinking about adding one to your family, I’ll be answering your top questions and sharing insights to help you understand this unique mix.

In this episode, I’m exploring everything that makes Aussiedoodles special, from their intelligence and loyalty to their stunning Merle coats and eye colors. We’ll go over how Australian Shepherd and Poodle traits shape their personality, what to expect for their health and grooming needs, and even how they compare to other popular Doodles, like Goldendoodles and Labradoodles. With these tips, you’ll be better prepared to meet your Aussiedoodle’s unique needs and enjoy the fulfilling bond they bring.

What We’ll Cover in This Episode:

   •   Aussiedoodle Temperament and behavior: why they’re so energetic, loyal, and smart

   •   How Poodle and Australian Shepherd Traits influence Aussiedoodles

   •   What you should know about Merle coats and eye colors in Aussiedoodles

   •   Health and Grooming for Aussiedoodles: what’s unique to this breed

   •   Comparison of Aussiedoodles vs. Goldendoodles and Labradoodles: What makes them different?

   •   Are Mini Aussiedoodles right for your family?

If you love learning about these wonderful Doodles or are considering adding an Aussiedoodle to your family, this episode is packed with tips, insights, and all the details you’ll want to know!

Shop My Custom Aussiedoodle Merch

If you’re as crazy about Aussiedoodles as I am, check out my exclusive, custom-designed merch at The Doodle Pro® Shop. I’ve created tees, sweatshirts, and totes with Aussiedoodle faces that look just like your own pup, so you can celebrate your love for your Doodle wherever you go! Each design was created with Aussiedoodle lovers in mind, perfect for treating yourself or as a thoughtful gift for a fellow Doodle parent.

For a limited time... Take 15% off with code: AUSSIEDOODLEPOD

Follow Me on Instagram

For more Doodle tips, adorable photos, and behind-the-scenes looks, follow me on Instagram @thedoodlepro. And if you love the show, please rate and review The Doodle Pro® Podcast—it helps me reach more Doodle parents just like you!

Send me a text- Corinne, The Doodle Pro®

Test your Doodle Body Language knowledge with our FREE quiz!
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Support The Doodle Pro® Podcast and help me book the most fabulous guests out there by... adding a rating an review for our show in your player! THANK YOU!

In this episode, join me, Corinne Gearhart, for the second half of my interview with the incredible Laura Monaco Torelli, founder and training director who has been transforming the lives of pets and their people in Chicago since 2004. With a background that began in 1991 in the zoo and aquarium world, Laura brings the same science-based, compassionate techniques used to train marine mammals and other exotic animals to pet and companion animal training.

In part one (our most popular episode to date!), Laura and I explored how a foundation of empathy and positive reinforcement can make grooming and handling stress-free. If you missed it, check out Episode 47 for valuable insights.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- How to make grooming enjoyable for your Doodle—yes, your pup can actually get excited to see the brush and clippers!
- Techniques for creating positive associations with grooming tools, like breaking down sessions and offering high-value rewards
- Why choice and consent in training matter, and how they can build trust and reduce anxiety in your Doodle
- Tips for managing grooming timelines to keep your Doodle’s coat healthy before the holidays

Laura’s wealth of experience working with both exotic animals and companion animals offers a unique perspective that’s perfect for Doodle parents looking for practical, humane solutions to grooming challenges. This episode is a must-listen for those wanting to make grooming less stressful and more rewarding for both you and your Doodle.

Ready to Dive Deeper?
If you’re ready to take your Doodle’s behavior to the next level, sign up for my FREE Doodle Parent Motivation Challenge! Learn new, Doodle-specific training techniques to build a calm and motivated Doodle—just in time for the holidays. Last time, over 500 Doodle parents joined, and this round, I've raised the giveaways to over $500! Click here to save your spot!

Links Mentioned:
- Episode 47: First Half of My Interview with Laura Monaco Torelli
- Laura’s Website: https://lauramonacotorelli.com
- Follow Laura on Instagram: @LauraMonacoTorelli

**Keywords:**
Doodle grooming tips, stress-free dog grooming, Doodle behavior training, positive reinforcement for dogs, dog care for Doodles, Doodle coat maintenance, Laura Monaco Torelli, Doodle Pro Podcast

Send me a text- Corinne, The Doodle Pro®

Test your Doodle Body Language knowledge with our FREE quiz!
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Take our fun and free Doodle Personality Quiz!  Do you know YOUR doodle as well as you think you do?

Find it at thedoodlepro.com/personality!

Support The Doodle Pro® Podcast and help me book the most fabulous guests out there by... adding a rating an review for our show in your player! THANK YOU!

Sign up now to access this private episode—a story that’s personal, powerful, and just for you. Download at thedoodlepro.com/private

Where Has The Doodle Pro® Been?

After May 2, 2023, life changed in ways I never expected…

For the first time, I’m ready to open up and share this journey with the Doodle community that’s been by my side. In this exclusive private podcast episode, I’ll take you through the ups and downs of the past year, from heartbreak to personal victories, with my Doodle as my steadfast companion. This story is raw, real, and only for those who truly understand the bond that helps us through life’s toughest times.

Why Download This Private Episode?

🐾 Get the Inside Story: Discover what happened after the last episode and why it took me a year to come back.
❤️ My Untold Journey: Hear firsthand about the most difficult challenges I’ve faced and the resilience that carried me through.
🐶 The Doodle Connection: Feel the power of the Doodle bond as I share how my pup was my rock through it all.

Sign up now to access this private episode—a story that’s personal, powerful, and just for you. Download at thedoodlepro.com/private

Send me a text- Corinne, The Doodle Pro®

Test your Doodle Body Language knowledge with our FREE quiz!
https://thedoodlepro.com/body

Support The Doodle Pro® Podcast and help me book the most fabulous guests out there by... adding a rating an review for our show in your player! THANK YOU!

Join me in the first of my two-part interview with expert animal trainer Laura Monaco Torelli about making veterinary visits and grooming sessions less stressful for your furry friends. Laura and I dive into understanding dog body language, creating positive experiences, and the vital role of communication between pet parents, vets, and groomers.

Show Notes:

1. In this episode, I'm thrilled to introduce you to Laura Monaco Torelli, an expert animal trainer, who shares her wisdom on understanding your Doodle's needs and stress signals.
2. We discuss how to help your Doodle enjoy a positive experience at the vet by observing their body language and using positive reinforcement techniques.
3. Laura emphasizes the importance of trust between pet owners, veterinarians, and groomers to ensure successful and stress-free visits.
4. We talk about not rushing through the process and staying mindful of your Doodle's stress levels during grooming or vet visits.
5. Laura shares insights on identifying potential stressors for your Doodle and implementing strategies to address them.
6. We highlight the value of visual illustrations and handouts in educating pet owners about their Doodle's body language and stress signals.
7. Laura and I explore the concept of "get it done" and how to balance the needs and wants of your Doodle during grooming or vet visits.
8. We discuss the importance of collaborating with your Doodle's groomer and vet to create a plan that supports your dog's wellbeing and reduces stress.
9. Lastly, we delve into alternative approaches, such as requesting outdoor exams or video snippets, to minimize stress for both you and your Doodle.

Catch part two of our conversation on episode #48.

Learn more from Laura at https://www.lauramonacotorelli.com/

Send me a text- Corinne, The Doodle Pro®

Test your Doodle Body Language knowledge with our FREE quiz!
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Take our fun and free Doodle Personality Quiz!  Do you know YOUR doodle as well as you think you do?

Find it at thedoodlepro.com/personality!

Support The Doodle Pro® Podcast and help me book the most fabulous guests out there by... adding a rating an review for our show in your player! THANK YOU!

In this episode of the Doodle Pro Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Tonya Lim, the Doggy Doula™ at Family Pupz. Tonya specializes in helping families prepare their dogs for the arrival of a new baby. Here are some of the highlights from our conversation:

During the first trimester of pregnancy, Tonya suggests starting to think about what changes may need to be made to your dog's routine and behavior in order to prepare them for the new addition to the family. This could include introducing new commands or behaviors, such as teaching your dog to stay off of furniture or creating a designated space for them in the home.

In the second trimester, Tonya recommends focusing on helping your dog adjust to new equipment or changes in the home, such as baby gates or swings. It's important to anticipate potential behaviors that may be triggered by these changes, such as a dog becoming fixated on a moving swing, and work on training them to engage in alternate behaviors instead.

As the due date approaches, Tonya emphasizes the importance of creating a plan for the dog's care during labor and delivery, as well as for the first few weeks after the baby arrives. This could include having a friend or family member available to care for the dog, or arranging for them to stay at a boarding facility.

When it comes to introducing the dog to the new baby, Tonya suggests starting slowly and keeping the baby elevated and away from the dog's reach. It's important to closely monitor the dog's behavior and provide positive reinforcement for good behavior.

Throughout the entire process, Tonya emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the dog's emotional well-being and being aware of any signs of stress or anxiety. By planning ahead and taking steps to prepare your dog for the new addition to the family, you can help ensure a smooth transition for everyone involved.

If you're expecting a baby and need help preparing your dog, Tonya offers virtual doggy doula services through Family Pupz. Listeners of the Doodle Pro Podcast can receive a discount on consultations with the promo code THEDOODLEPRO.

Thanks for listening to this episode of the Doodle Pro Podcast! Don't forget to rate and review us wherever you listen to podcasts, and follow me on Instagram at @thedoodlepro for more cute doodle content.

Send me a text- Corinne, The Doodle Pro®

Test your Doodle Body Language knowledge with our FREE quiz!
https://thedoodlepro.com/body

Take our fun and free Doodle Personality Quiz!  Do you know YOUR doodle as well as you think you do?

Find it at thedoodlepro.com/personality!

Support The Doodle Pro® Podcast and help me book the most fabulous guests out there by... adding a rating an review for our show in your player! THANK YOU!

Did you know that dog bites are amongst the most common form of injuries among children in the United States? As a dog trainer, I've seen firsthand how this can happen even in households with loving and well-behaved pets and children. That's why it's important for parents to be aware of the risks and take steps to keep their children safe.

During this episode, I was joined by Tanya Lim, a Doggy Doula at Family Pupz who specializes in working with expecting families and new parents to help prepare their dogs for the arrival of a new baby. Together, we discussed the importance of recognizing dog body language and understanding the potential risks associated with young children and dogs interacting.

One of the key takeaways from our discussion was that many dog bites actually occur in the home, and often involve a family pet that is familiar to the child. This can happen when children engage in behaviors that make the dog uncomfortable or when the dog is feeling stressed or overwhelmed. As parents, it's our responsibility to teach our children how to interact with dogs in a safe and respectful way.

Tanya and I also discussed the myth that certain breeds are more likely to bite than others. The truth is, any dog can bite under the right circumstances. That's why it's important to focus on individual dogs and their behavior, rather than making assumptions based on breed.

To help prevent dog bites, Tanya shared some of her tips for preparing dogs for the arrival of a new baby. This includes introducing the dog to baby-related sounds and smells, creating a safe space for the dog to retreat to, and setting boundaries for how the dog and child should interact. By taking these steps early on, parents can help ensure a smooth transition for everyone in the household.

Overall, this was an important conversation that I hope will help raise awareness about the risks of dog bites and the steps parents can take to keep their children safe. If you'd like to hear more from Tanya about her step-by-step plan for preparing dogs for a new baby, be sure to tune in to our next episode. And as always, don't forget to rate and review the show on your favorite podcast platform!

Grab Tanya's Free 5-Day Leash Reactivity Email Course 

Send me a text- Corinne, The Doodle Pro®

Test your Doodle Body Language knowledge with our FREE quiz!
https://thedoodlepro.com/body

Take our fun and free Doodle Personality Quiz!  Do you know YOUR doodle as well as you think you do?

Find it at thedoodlepro.com/personality!

Support The Doodle Pro® Podcast and help me book the most fabulous guests out there by... adding a rating an review for our show in your player! THANK YOU!

I recently had the fantastic opportunity to chat with the delightful Dr. Zazie Todd, an expert in dog psychology, canine behavior, and positive reinforcement dog training. Her enthusiasm for strengthening the bond between pets and their humans is genuinely infectious! She shares her wisdom on pet-friendly training methods, dog behavior science, and animal welfare in an engaging, supportive, and non-judgmental manner, truly believing that providing quality information can help people improve their relationships with their dogs and lead to happier lives for all.

Our conversation focused on the importance of acknowledging that dogs and other animals have emotions and are sentient beings. Dr. Todd's insightful book, "Wag: The Science of Making Your Dog Happy," offers practical advice for enhancing your dog's well-being and deepening your bond with them through evidence-based dog training techniques. We chatted about the significance of offering positive experiences for dogs and understanding the science behind their behavior.

We touched on the value of positive reinforcement in dog training, highlighting how it is essential to avoid aversive techniques. Our discussion also covered the development of the five domains model of animal welfare and the heartwarming connection between humans and their canine companions.

Dr. Todd emphasized the importance of using reward-based methods, like treat training, when working with dogs, noting that aversive techniques can have negative effects on a dog's welfare and the relationship between the dog and their guardian.

Throughout our conversation, we covered various topics, including understanding your dog's preferences for treats, addressing dogs with sensitive stomachs, and sharing tips for training outdoors. We also emphasized the significance of consistent practice in helping dogs become fluent in a behavior and the vital role that early socialization plays in a puppy's life.

Dr. Todd underscored the importance of socializing puppies during their sensitive period, even with vaccination concerns in mind. She mentioned that the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior recommends good puppy classes for puppies aged seven to eight weeks. These classes should provide positive experiences with a variety of people, animals, objects, and surfaces, helping puppies grow into friendly, happy, and confident adult dogs while preventing potential behavior issues.

In conclusion, my enlightening conversation with Dr. Zazie Todd shed light on the importance of understanding dog psychology, canine behavior, and adopting positive reinforcement dog training techniques to strengthen the bond between pets and their guardians. By providing positive experiences for dogs, acknowledging their emotions, and using reward-based training methods, we can contribute to their overall well-being and happiness.  Let's embrace Dr. Todd's valuable insights and work together to create a happier, brighter future for our beloved furry companions, fostering a deeper connection and lifelong bond

Send me a text- Corinne, The Doodle Pro®

Test your Doodle Body Language knowledge with our FREE quiz!
https://thedoodlepro.com/body

Take our fun and free Doodle Personality Quiz!  Do you know YOUR doodle as well as you think you do?

Find it at thedoodlepro.com/personality!

Support The Doodle Pro® Podcast and help me book the most fabulous guests out there by... adding a rating an review for our show in your player! THANK YOU!

In this week's episode, my guest Dr. Em from Vet Med Corner, shares doggone great advice on how to keep your Doodle healthy and happy. With science-based tips, including assessing prescription dog food and maintaining a healthy weight, Dr. Em provides long-term solutions to keep even the most finicky eaters on track for optimal health. Host Corinne Gearhart's remaining Top Ten questions about how to nourish our Doodles are answered, providing invaluable insights for keeping your furry friend fit, strong, and most importantly, happy! So, grab your pup, put on your headphones, and tune in to this paw-some episode!

• Question #5: Where Should We Go for Reputable, Reliable Advice?
• Question #6: What are some of the highlights from WSAVA.org’s guidelines?
• Question #7: Is “Human-Grade” Dogfood Special?
• Question #8: How Can I Get My Doodle to Eat the Right Food?
• Question #9: Is It Okay to Use Meal “Toppers”?
• Challenge #10: How Do I Figure Out Exactly How Much I Should Feed My Doodle?

QUOTABLE:

• “The majority of experts will agree on the majority of things. If you find a lone voice going against the majority of experts, the likelihood of them being correct is incredibly low.” (Dr. Em)
• “What you see in a (dog food) ingredient list doesn’t necessarily equate to what’s being absorbed ...” (Corinne)
• “The ingredient list really has very little correlation to the quality of pet food … What really matters is the bioavailability and your pet’s ability to absorb into their bodies the nutrients that those ingredients are made up of.” (Dr. Em)
• “We practice positive reinforcement and force-free training methods. I’m not hearing not to use food in training, but I’m going to be planning … and using that kibble purposefully throughout the day, raising the value of nutritious food and mixing it in.” (Corinne)
• “The prescription weight loss formulas help to maintain muscle mass while helping (dogs) lose fat.” (Dr. Em)

RELEVANT LINKS/RESOURCES:

• Pt 1 of our interview on Ep #42
• More of Dr. Em’s thought leadership and link available here.
• Read Petfoodology, the comprehensive pet nutrition blog published by Tufts University’s Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine.
• Learn about the World Small Animal Veterinary Association.
• Calorie Calculator

Send me a text- Corinne, The Doodle Pro®

Test your Doodle Body Language knowledge with our FREE quiz!
https://thedoodlepro.com/body

Take our fun and free Doodle Personality Quiz!  Do you know YOUR doodle as well as you think you do?

Find it at thedoodlepro.com/personality!

Support The Doodle Pro® Podcast and help me book the most fabulous guests out there by... adding a rating an review for our show in your player! THANK YOU!

Answers are coming fast and furious on part one of Corinne's interview with Dr. Em of Vet Med Corner, known for her popular – and trustworthy – weekly YouTube advice program. The Canadian veterinarian is answering Host Corinne Gearhart’s Top Ten questions about how to nourish our Doodles in the perennial quest to keep them fit, strong and – most of all – happy!

• “People can call themselves dog nutritionists, pet nutritionists – anything – and none of those titles are protected at all. Any person can slap that label on themselves and run.” (Dr. Em)

You’ll learn how to assess prescription dog food, whether it’s worth the expense, and why consulting reputable sources is so important. Dr. Em also shares her thoughts on how to help our pets maintain a healthy weight; highlights helpful tools and resources; and offers science-based tips that will keep even the most finicky eaters on track for long-term vibrancy and great health!

KEY TOPICS:

• Word to the Wise: Check the credentials on your “pet nutritionist.” Anyone can claim that label without having to meet any regulatory requirements. Look for an international diplomate or PhD training.
• Question #1: Is It True that Vets Only Get One Hour of Nutrition Training?
• Question #2: What’s the Deal with Prescription Dog Food?
• Question #3: Are Veterinary Foods Superior?
• Question #4: Is There Really a Difference Between Puppy and Adult Dog Foods?

Tune in for part two next week to learn answers to questions like:

• Where Should We Go for Reputable, Reliable Advice?
• Is "Human-Grade" dogfood special?
• How can I get my Doodle to eat the right food?
• Is it okay to use "toppers" to dress up a meal?
• How do I figure out exactly how much to feed my Doodle? 

QUOTABLE:

• “I do not have time, funding or the knowledge to make medications myself, to make foods myself or make machines that read bloodwork. I need products in order to support my patients.” (Dr. Em)
• “We use our education and our reading and consulting with experts in order to formulate the best treatment plans we can.” (Dr. Em)
• “(Look) for people with actual expertise and be really critical about where information is coming from.” (Dr. Em)
• “The majority of experts will agree on the majority of things. If you find a lone voice going against the majority of experts, the likelihood of them being correct is incredibly low.” (Dr. Em)

RELEVANT LINKS/RESOURCES:

• More of Dr. Em’s thought leadership and link available here.
• Read Petfoodology, the comprehensive pet nutrition blog published by Tufts University’s Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine.
•  Learn about the World Small Animal Veterinary Association. 

Send me a text- Corinne, The Doodle Pro®

Test your Doodle Body Language knowledge with our FREE quiz!
https://thedoodlepro.com/body

Support The Doodle Pro® Podcast and help me book the most fabulous guests out there by... adding a rating an review for our show in your player! THANK YOU!