The Happy Dog Podcast
As a dog trainer with over 10 years experience, I know that all people want when they bring a dog into their lives is to have a happy dog. This podcast delves deep into how this can be achieved from picking the right puppy, to training it, to helping you understand that sometimes things go wrong and how to help your dog when they aren't so happy.
Episodes
93 episodes
Bribery or Bond? The Truth About Positive Reinforcement in Dog Training
In this episode, Kim and Carla unpack one of the most misunderstood topics in dog training: the difference between positive reinforcement and bribery. They explain how proper use of rewards creates reliable, happy behaviors—without turning your...
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30:11
Beyond the Leash: Building Better Dog Welfare Through Collaboration
In this episode, Kim and Carla dive into the power of multidisciplinary teamwork in dog welfare. From sharing personal challenges with health and exercise to tackling serious issues in training and behavior, they explore how collaboration betwe...
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33:05
Balancing Life & Learning: Dog Training and Well-being
Kim and Vicky dive into the evolution of dog training methods, reflecting on how their approaches have shifted over the past 20 years—from rigid obedience to giving dogs more choice and agency. Alongside their professional ...
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46:26
The Five Freedoms & Foundations of Ethical Dog Training
In this insightful episode, Kim and Carla dive into the heart of ethical dog training through the lens of the Five Freedoms of animal welfare. From freedom from hunger and thirst to the right to express normal behavior, they unpack what these l...
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40:31
Behind the Bark: The Truth About Dog Training Shows
In this episode, Kim and Carla dive into the flashy world of televised dog training and pull back the curtain on what really happens behind the scenes. They critique popular shows, discussing the risks of aversive-based techniques, the unrealis...
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27:13
Rescue Realities: Helping Fearful Dogs Thrive
Join Kim and Jo as they explore the challenges and rewards of rescuing and rehabilitating fearful dogs, particularly those from overseas. From settling rescue dogs into UK homes, building trust, and house training, to understan...
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56:35
Imposter Syndrome & Perfectionism: Owning Your Growth in Competitive Fields
In this candid and thoughtful conversation, Kim and Carla dive deep into the complex world of imposter syndrome, exploring its many forms—from the perfectionist and soloist to the natural genius. Sharing personal stories from their caree...
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38:16
Chinwag: When Dogs Won’t Eat: Understanding Appetite, Stress & Training
Kim and Carla dive into the fascinating world of canine appetite and behavior, exploring why some dogs refuse to eat and how stress, environment, and training methods play a role. They discuss the importance of giving dogs choi...
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37:35
The Dog Trainer’s Guide: Behavior, Training & Real-Life Solutions
Join professional dog trainers Kim and Anna as they dive into the realities of dog training, behavior modification, and client education. They discuss tailoring training plans, handling reactive dogs, and setting realistic expectation...
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52:27
Dog Trainers Unleashed: Work, Life & Balance
Join professional dog trainers Kim and Carla as they navigate the challenges of balancing a busy dog training career with personal life. From handling overwhelming behavior inquiries to setting boundaries and self-discipline, they share ...
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46:45
Chinwag: Mastering Dog Training - Timing, Rewards, and Techniques
Join Kim and Carla as they dive into the fundamentals of timing and rewards in dog training. They discuss common mistakes, the importance of consistency and positive reinforcement, and why quick and clear communication is k...
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35:32
Is Your Dog in Pain? Understanding the Link Between Pain & Behavior
Could your dog’s behavior be a sign of pain? In this insightful episode, veterinarian Grace joins Kim to explore the subtle yet significant ways pain can manifest as behavioral issues in dogs. From stiffness and irritability to changes in postu...
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38:39
Dog Walking Gear: Practical vs. Aesthetic Choices
Are you using the best tools for dog walking and training? In this episode, Kim and Carla break down essential dog walking gear, from leads and harnesses to treat bags and safety accessories. They debate the balance between practical, cost-effe...
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35:45
Chinwag: The Truth About International Dog Adoptions
In this episode, Kim and Carla dive deep into the complexities of international dog rescues, discussing the challenges, misconceptions, and ethical considerations surrounding the adoption of street dogs from abroad. Kim shares her concerns abou...
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40:44
Understanding Sighthounds
In this episode, Kim and Vera dive into the fascinating world of sighthounds! They discuss the unique characteristics, training challenges, and safety considerations that set these graceful breeds apart from others. Drawing from personal experi...
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42:00
Chinwag: Enriching Your Dog’s Life
In this episode, Kim and Carla dive into the world of dog enrichment, exploring how to engage a dog’s natural senses and behaviours to improve their mental and physical well-being. They discuss creative, budget-friendly enrichment ideas using h...
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37:06
Chinwag - Unleashing your dogs potential through dogs sports
Join Kim and Carla as they dive into the world of dog sports and activities! From agility and flyball to lesser-known sports like dog diving and karting, they explore how different activities can enhance a dog’s physical and mental well-being. ...
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43:29
Scent-Tracking Superstars
Kim and Rachel share their adventures in the fascinating world of scent-tracking dogs. Rachel recounts her dog Rico’s impressive skills, from finding missing pets to conservation detection and even tracking a lost capybara! They dive into the p...
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56:11
The Science of Punishment in Dog Training: Myths, Risks & Alternatives
Punishment in dog training is one of the most controversial and misunderstood topics in the field. In this episode, Kim and Carla take a fact-based, scientific approach to breaking down the concept of punishment—what it rea...
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35:57
Settling Rescue Dogs: Tips, Challenges, and Success Stories
In this episode, Kim and Tom dive into the world of rescue dogs, sharing expert tips on easing their transition into new homes. From the “Rule of 3” framework to recognizing subtle stress signals, they explore strategies for building trust and ...
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45:55
Reinforcement in Dog Training: Insights and Practical Tips
Join Kim and Carla as they delve into the science of reinforcement in dog training. Learn how to adapt rewards to suit individual dogs, use environmental reinforcers like sniffing or swimming, and avoid common pitfalls such as over-relying on f...
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46:21
Gundogs, Puppies, and Raising for Success
Dive into the world of gundog breeds, responsible breeding, and early puppy development with Kim and Tash. From raising Stabyhoun puppies to preventing behavior problems, they discuss early socialization, diet, and the importance of setting pup...
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1:20:13
Social media's impact on dog training...
Join Kim and Carla as they dive into the nuances of dog training and client engagement. They explore building strong relationships with clients, overcoming challenges with difficult or disengaged individuals, and the impact of social media on t...
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43:39
Chinwag Episode 2 - New years... intentions?
In this week's chat Carla and I discuss our new years resolutions, why they fail and how to succeed. We both know January brings a lot of new clients who have vowed to help their dogs in the new year so hopefully this episode will help you to s...
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Season 1
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Episode 2
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39:57
Running, Dogs, and Ultra Adventures: Tips, Gear, and Balancing Life on the Move
Join Kim and Charlie as they share their passion for running, from ultra marathons to parkruns and canni cross. They discuss running with dogs, covering essential gear, safety tips, and breed-specific considerations for building endurance. The ...
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1:06:21