The Everyday Trainer Podcast

Curious about the world of dog training from an international perspective? Discover the unique insights of Alessandro, our skilled guest from Spain, as he shares his transformative journey from BMX riding to becoming a passionate dog trainer. Learn about the cultural nuances in dog training across borders, particularly in Spain, where certain tools and approaches are viewed differently. Alessandro’s personal story of adopting a Malinois with challenging behaviors serves as a gateway to exploring the broader responsibilities and expectations of dog ownership.

From understanding the complexities of high-drive dogs to addressing common misconceptions in dog training culture, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Explore the challenges faced by urban pet owners and the importance of committing to a dog's needs, particularly in environments that might not be optimal for energetic breeds. Whether you're navigating the world of pet ownership or seeking to deepen your understanding of canine behavior, Alessandro's experiences and expertise offer a compelling perspective on building meaningful relationships with our dogs.

Grab yourselves a tasty drink and enjoy.

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Trigger warning: This is a heavy episode that features topics such as behavioral euthanasia.

As the door to another adventure in dog rescue swings open, we find ourselves in a chaotic whirlwind of emotions, underscored by River's tale, a Malinois narrowly rescued from euthanasia. Imagine the rollercoaster of emotions as we grapple with nurturing him back to health amidst the clamor of living out of vans with 7 personal dogs. Yet, woven through this chaos is a testament to the power of community and the unseen heroes like Zara, who make such rescues possible. Join us as we unravel the delicate balance of responsibility and joy, even amidst the chaos of family visits and dog-filled living vans.

Tackling the thorny issues of rehoming and responsible dog ownership, we delve into the responsibilities that owners and trainers face when managing canine behavioral challenges. From confronting the stark realities of behavioral euthanasia to exploring River's potential new roles, we emphasize the need for education and commitment in preventing abandonment.

To watch River's training journey, join our community and get access to exclusive training videos and guides.

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We asked, you delivered. This week, we're diving into listener responses to our question "What do you want all dog owners to know?". Everything from proper dog "socialization" to what types of dog friendly places to avoid, our listeners fill you in on everything you need to know to be a well-educated dog parent and live the most fulfilling life with your dog. I'm once again joined by my lovely partner Thoma, so enjoy our hot takes on all of your responses. Don't forget to grab your tasty drink, and enjoy.

Imagine sending your beloved dog to daycare, only to find the experience leaves them more anxious and misbehaving than before. This episode pulls back the curtain on the unsettling reality behind many doggy daycare facilities, with stories that might make you reconsider where to leave your furry friend. I’m Meg, a seasoned dog trainer, and joining me is my partner Thoma. Together, we expose some eye-opening tales of chaos and mismanagement that dogs encounter in these supposed havens.

Our conversation spans from chaotic thunderstorms causing pandemonium in understaffed facilities to heartbreaking tales of dogs regressing after violent encounters. We don't shy away from the emotional toll these experiences take on both pets and their owners. We stress the importance of honesty and proper training in pet care services, and how misleading marketing and inadequate staffing lead to unsafe environments. Thoma and I dig deep into the industry's flaws, questioning if every dog is truly suited for daycare or if some might be better off in the comfort of their homes.

From the chaotic warehouses packed with unruly dogs to the few facilities that manage to get it right, we explore the vast disparities in the dog daycare industry. By sharing firsthand experiences, cautionary tales, and industry anecdotes, we aim to arm you with the insights needed to make informed decisions for your pet's care. Join us as we navigate these troubling yet enlightening stories, urging for better management practices and highlighting the need for structured downtime in dog care environments.

This week we're joined by more than just yours truly. We sat down with the girls from our leadership retreat in Joshua Tree to chat about our favorite and most controversial dog training topics. From understanding the importance in neutrality training, to shelter problems, and off-leash etiquette, the girls had the opportunity to sit down and discuss these topics amongst each other and discover what it's like to run a podcast. This episode is broken down into "mini episodes" with each girl discussing something new.

You know the drill, grab a tasty drink and enjoy.

We just wrapped up our first ever dog training leadership retreat and I've got a lot to say about it. From creating a sustainable daily routine to building a family of passionate dog trainers, the retreat genuinely changed my life (as I hope it did our participants too). We went on hikes, had family dinners, and set goals- all things that we can integrate into our lives to help us navigate training our own dogs and becoming better people.

You know the drill, grab a tasty drink and enjoy the episode.

Ever wondered how your mental health can shape your dog's behavior? In this episode, I share my insights on how our state of mind profoundly impacts our pets. Drawing comparisons between the relaxed dogs of Santa Teresa and the more anxious counterparts in the U.S., I uncover the reasons behind these behavioral differences. From cultural interactions to environmental factors, discover how a more balanced and mindful approach can enhance both your life and your dog's well-being.

I chat about Thoma and his reactive Malinois, Hawk, and see how a journey of self-improvement led to remarkable transformations in both their lives. Through Thoma's story, learn the pivotal role of owner confidence and calmness in managing reactive dogs. Insights from Cesar Millan and practical tips on leash handling underscore the importance of a composed and assured demeanor while training. This chapter resonates with every dog owner struggling with similar issues, offering a blueprint for success through improved mental states.

Lastly, I delve into my personal battles with anxiety and how meditation became my anchor amid academic and career pressures. Drawing parallels between mindfulness and dog training, I reveal how practices like meditation and even psychedelics have deepened my understanding and effectiveness as a dog trainer. Tune in for compelling stories, practical advice, and exciting news about upcoming retreats and training opportunities in California. This episode promises to inspire you to foster a harmonious relationship with your furry friend by nurturing your mental well-being.

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What if the key to solving your dog's behavioral issues lies not in strict training regimens but in embracing their natural instincts? This week, I share insights from my trip to Costa Rica, where I observed dogs living their best lives, free from leashes and constraints. We'll explore how the culture of treating dogs is evolving, comparing the regimented routines of passionate trainers with the more relaxed approach of everyday dog owners. I also provide updates on exciting upcoming events, including a transformative retreat in Joshua Tree, California, and a virtual shadow program for aspiring trainers.

Reflecting on the well-being of dogs in a coastal town, we'll delve into how ample exercise and social interactions can lead to happier, healthier pets. I'll share inspiring stories, like that of a local coffee shop worker whose dog roams freely to the beach and back, highlighting the stark contrast with the more restrictive lifestyles many dogs face in the US.

We'll reevaluate traditional dog training methods, advocating for a more holistic approach that prioritizes exposure, exercise, and natural living over mere obedience. From the stress of city living to the vision of going back to pack hikes, I'll share my candid thoughts on professional values and personal mental health. 

You know the drill, grab a tasty drink and enjoy.

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Can your dog training business thrive without you? In this episode of the Everyday Trainer podcast, we unpack the essential strategies for running a sustainable dog training business. We kick off by detailing the structure of our virtual shadow program, where you’ll find video courses, training guides, and live feedback sessions designed to elevate your skills. 

Next, we explore the shifting trends towards in-home dog training and small business setups. Join me as I recount my journey from a dog walker to a successful dog trainer, sharing key lessons learned and the importance of recognizing your strengths to avoid burnout. Discover the benefits of a business model that isn’t overly reliant on one individual, ensuring your business can thrive even when you're not around. We also emphasize the importance of setting clear goals and building a personalized, flexible approach to dog training.

We wrap up with a deep dive into the logistics of scaling your business effectively.  Hear firsthand how hiring administrative help can streamline your operations, allowing you to focus on what you do best. Whether you're curious about establishing an LLC for legal protection or looking for inspiration from our future plans, including exciting seminars and retreats, this episode offers a wealth of tips to help you grow your dog training venture sustainably. Grab yourself a tasty drink and enjoy.

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Ever wondered how your state of mind can transform your dog training outcomes? I recount my personal story of working with anxious and reactive dogs, and how their behavior mirrored the emotions around them. 

Let's dive into the benefits of mindfulness and meditation for managing stress and anxiety, both in humans and dogs. Inspired by Dan Harris' journey, I delve into breath-focused meditation and its impact on mental well-being. Through personal anecdotes, I highlight how maintaining a calm and confident demeanor can help your dog feel more secure. 

You know the drill, grab a tasty drink and enjoy.

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