In this episode of the USA Dog Behavior Podcast, we’re calling out some of the most persistent, and damaging, dog training myths made popular by Cesar Millan. From the outdated “alpha dog” theory to the idea that a tired dog is a well-behaved dog, we unpack four harmful misconceptions that continue to mislead dog owners. Backed by modern science and decades of behavioral research, this episode challenges the TV drama of dominance-based training and sheds light on what actually works when it comes to building trust and changing behavior.

Whether you've followed Millan’s advice in the past or you're just starting to dig into dog behavior, this episode offers a judgment-free breakdown of what to avoid and what to do instead. You'll walk away with clear, humane, and science-based strategies for helping your dog thrive, without force, fear, or the myth of guilt. Your dog deserves better, and it's never too late to make a change.

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Disclaimer
This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. If your dog is displaying aggression toward humans, consult an experienced and knowledgeable canine behavior professional who uses humane, non-aversive methods, and always take precautions to keep others safe.

Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not responsible for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of the information shared in this podcast.

In this episode, we uncover the hidden ways you might be punishing your dog without even realizing it. While many associate punishment with physical corrections like shock collars or leash jerks, behaviors like yelling or harsh tones can be just as intimidating—and counterproductive—for your pup. Learn how dogs perceive punishment differently than humans, why fear-based methods often backfire, and how to shift to reward-based training for happier dogs and more effective results.

 Discover a kinder, smarter approach to dog training that focuses on rewarding desired behaviors instead of endlessly correcting unwanted ones. From real-life examples to expert insights, this episode will help you build a stronger bond with your dog through compassion, not intimidation.

Subscribe for more bite-sized episodes and visit USADogBehavior.com for additional resources!

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Disclaimer
This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. If your dog is displaying aggression toward humans, consult an experienced and knowledgeable canine behavior professional who uses humane, non-aversive methods, and always take precautions to keep others safe.

Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not responsible for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of the information shared in this podcast.

In this insightful episode of the USA Dog Behavior Podcast, certified dog behavior consultant and behaviorist Scott Sheaffer delves into the complex topic of canine aggression. He explains that aggression in dogs often stems from fear rather than inherent hostility, serving as a defensive mechanism to create distance from perceived threats. 

Sheaffer distinguishes between reactivity and aggression, highlighting how reactive behaviors like barking or lunging can escalate into aggression, especially when dogs feel cornered or threatened. Key factors contributing to fear-based aggression—such as lack of socialization, past trauma, genetics, and medical issues—are explored, offering listeners a deeper understanding of their dog's behavior.

Sheaffer also shares practical strategies for addressing aggression, including desensitization, counter-conditioning, and professional training. Emphasizing the importance of patience and proper intervention, he reassures owners that many dogs can overcome these challenges with the right approach.

Subscribe for more bite-sized episodes and visit USADogBehavior.com for additional resources!

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Disclaimer
This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. If your dog is displaying aggression toward humans, consult an experienced and knowledgeable canine behavior professional who uses humane, non-aversive methods, and always take precautions to keep others safe.

Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not responsible for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of the information shared in this podcast.

In this heartfelt episode of the USA Dog Behavior podcast, Scott Sheaffer explores the deep emotional impact of losing a beloved dog. Scott shares his personal reflections on the grief that follows such a loss and introduces listeners to the famous poem The Rainbow Bridge, which has brought comfort to countless grieving pet owners for over six decades. Listeners will hear the touching origin story of the poem, written in 1959 by Edna Clyne-Rekhy after the death of her dog Major—an authorship that remained unconfirmed until recently.

Scott reads the original version of the poem aloud, inviting listeners into its message of reunion, healing, and the enduring bond between humans and their dogs. With its vivid imagery and emotional depth, the poem offers solace to anyone mourning a canine companion. Whether your loss is recent or years past, this episode is a tender reminder that love for our dogs doesn't end at goodbye. 

Subscribe for more bite-sized episodes and visit USADogBehavior.com for additional resources!

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Disclaimer
This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. If your dog is displaying aggression toward humans, consult an experienced and knowledgeable canine behavior professional who uses humane, non-aversive methods, and always take precautions to keep others safe.

Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not responsible for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of the information shared in this podcast.

In this episode of the USA Dog Behavior podcast, certified dog behavior consultant and behaviorist Scott Sheaffer addresses the critical issue of unqualified dog trainers handling aggression cases. He highlights the lack of regulation in the dog training industry, where inexperienced individuals often use harmful methods like shock collars or dominance-based techniques, exacerbating aggression rather than resolving it. Sheaffer emphasizes that effective aggression treatment requires proven experience, a deep understanding of behavioral science, and the use of positive reinforcement, desensitization, and counterconditioning. He warns against trainers who promise quick fixes or "cures," stressing that aggression is complex and demands a tailored, science-backed approach.

Sheaffer provides listeners with key red flags to identify unqualified trainers and outlines three signs of a competent professional: prioritizing safety and management, developing customized plans based on thorough assessments, and focusing on behavior modification rather than obedience training. He urges dog owners to ask detailed questions, avoid miracle cures, and seek help promptly, as aggression tends to worsen over time. The episode concludes with a call to action for responsible dog ownership and a reminder of the high stakes involved in choosing the right trainer. Listeners are encouraged to subscribe and follow USA Dog Behavior for more insights.

Subscribe for more bite-sized episodes and visit USADogBehavior.com for additional resources!

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Disclaimer
This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. If your dog is displaying aggression toward humans, consult an experienced and knowledgeable canine behavior professional who uses humane, non-aversive methods, and always take precautions to keep others safe.

Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not responsible for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of the information shared in this podcast.

In this episode of the USA Dog Behavior Podcast, certified dog behavior consultant and behaviorist Scott Sheaffer explores the question: Can dogs be psychotic? While dogs may exhibit behaviors that resemble human psychosis—such as staring at "nothing" or sudden aggression—these actions are typically linked to medical or environmental causes rather than clinical psychosis. Sheaffer breaks down potential triggers, including neurological issues, toxins, anxiety, or past trauma, and emphasizes the importance of ruling out underlying health problems with a veterinarian when needed.

This episode highlights key warning signs that demand professional attention, such as unexplained aggression, disorientation, or compulsive behaviors. Sheaffer provides actionable steps for pet owners, urging them to consult a behaviorist or vet rather than dismissing odd behaviors as quirks. The takeaway? Early intervention is crucial for helping dogs lead calmer, happier lives. Tune in for expert insights and practical advice on understanding and addressing bizarre canine behavior.

Subscribe for more bite-sized episodes and visit USADogBehavior.com for additional resources!

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Disclaimer
This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. If your dog is displaying aggression toward humans, consult an experienced and knowledgeable canine behavior professional who uses humane, non-aversive methods, and always take precautions to keep others safe.

Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not responsible for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of the information shared in this podcast.

Can your iPhone really identify dog breeds? In this episode, I'm going to put it to the test.

In this episode of the USA Dog Behavior Podcast, certified dog behavior consultant Scott Sheaffer puts Apple’s dog breed identification feature to the test! If you have an iPhone running iOS 15 or later, your Photos app can automatically detect 350+ dog breeds—but how accurate is it? Scott shares his hands-on experience testing this tool revealing how well it works for purebred and mixed-breed dogs. Plus, he breaks down the simple steps to try it yourself, along with tips for troubleshooting when the feature doesn’t cooperate. Whether you're a dog lover, trainer, or behavior professional, this tech trick could be useful.

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and even follow us on Facebook for more dog behavior insights, training tips, and canine tech hacks.

Episode Links:

How to Deal with Visual Look Up Not Working

Can Your iPhone Really Identify Dog Breeds? I Put It to the Test

Tune in and remember to subscribe for more quick and insightful dog behavior tips!

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Disclaimer
This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. If your dog is displaying aggression toward humans, consult an experienced and knowledgeable canine behavior professional who uses humane, non-aversive methods, and always take precautions to keep others safe.

Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not responsible for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of the information shared in this podcast.

Does your dog ignore you when you call their name or give a command? It’s not stubbornness—there’s always a reason behind it! In this episode of the USA Dog Behavior Podcast, certified dog behavior consultant Scott Sheaffer breaks down the most common reasons dogs “tune out” their owners and what you can do to fix it. From poor generalization of commands to overwhelming distractions, we’ll cover practical training techniques to make communication with your dog clearer and more effective.

Learn how to build better engagement with your dog using positive reinforcement, environmental control, and strategic training methods. Scott shares simple solutions to help your dog become a better listener, making training sessions more fun and rewarding for both of you. Tune in now to strengthen the bond with your dog and create a training routine that works!

Tune in and remember to subscribe for more quick and insightful dog behavior tips!

Find us at USADogBehavior.com.
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Disclaimer
This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. If your dog is displaying aggression toward humans, consult an experienced and knowledgeable canine behavior professional who uses humane, non-aversive methods, and always take precautions to keep others safe.

Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not responsible for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of the information shared in this podcast.

What do you do when your dog suddenly acts out, showing aggression toward other dogs or even people? It’s a stressful and often confusing situation for any dog owner, but the good news is that there are steps you can take to manage and address this behavior. In this episode of the USA Dog Behavior Podcast, we’ll walk you through exactly what to do in the moment—from staying calm to safely removing your dog from the situation—and how to prevent future outbursts.  

Whether your dog is growling, lunging, or snapping, we’ve got practical tips to help you navigate these challenging moments with confidence. We’ll also dive into the why behind your dog’s aggression. Is it fear, frustration, or overexcitement? Understanding the root cause is key to creating a long-term solution. Plus, we’ll discuss when it’s time to call in a professional and how tools like positive reinforcement and desensitization can make a world of difference. Tune in to learn how you can manage your dog who is overreactive around others.

Tune in and remember to subscribe for more quick and insightful dog behavior tips!

Find us at USADogBehavior.com.
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Disclaimer
This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. If your dog is displaying aggression toward humans, consult an experienced and knowledgeable canine behavior professional who uses humane, non-aversive methods, and always take precautions to keep others safe.

Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not responsible for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of the information shared in this podcast.

In this episode of the USA Dog Behavior Podcast, Scott Sheaffer explores the legal responsibilities of dog owners when their pets bite someone, with a focus on dog bite liability laws in Texas and beyond. He breaks down key legal principles, including strict liability, the "One Bite Rule," and negligence-based liability, providing insights into how different jurisdictions handle dog bite cases. Listeners will learn about Texas-specific laws, including Lillian's Law, which imposes severe penalties for owners of dangerous dogs.

Scott also shares practical steps dog owners should take if their pet bites someone, from ensuring medical care to documenting the incident and understanding legal defenses like provocation, trespassing, and assumption of risk. He emphasizes responsible ownership, training, and insurance coverage to mitigate risks. Whether you're in Texas or elsewhere, this episode is packed with crucial information to help dog owners navigate their legal obligations.

Looking for specialized training for your team? Explore our workshops at USADogBehavior.com, where some organizations qualify for free seminars. Tune in and remember to subscribe for more quick and insightful dog behavior tips!

Find us at USADogBehavior.com.
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Disclaimer
This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. If your dog is displaying aggression toward humans, consult an experienced and knowledgeable canine behavior professional who uses humane, non-aversive methods, and always take precautions to keep others safe.

Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not responsible for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of the information shared in this podcast.