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
105 episodes
Our (Very Different) Paths to Becoming Dog Trainers
In this honest and often funny episode, Kim and Carla open up about how two very different lives led to the same destination — working with dogs. From Kim’s winding road through psychology, charity work, and soul-sucking sales jobs, to Carla’s ...
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30:35
It’s Not Just the Dog: The Emotional Side of Behaviour Work
In this powerful and compassionate episode, Kim is joined by Dr. Holly, a clinical psychologist and dog behaviourist who bridges the worlds of human therapy and canine behaviour. Together, they explore the deep emotional impact of living with a...
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39:24
Doggy Language Decoded: What Your Dog’s Really Trying to Tell You
In this episode, Kim and Carla dive deep into the misunderstood world of dog-human communication. From calming signals to awkward greetings and the “don’t put your hand in their face!” rule, they explore how many of our interactions with dogs a...
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37:13
The Rise of Online Dog Training – Help or Hype?
In this episode, Kim and Carla dive into the booming world of online dog training. From initial scepticism to global reach, they explore how virtual consults and courses have changed the game—especially for behaviours like separation anxiety, r...
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28:12
Collies, Livestock & Learning: A Global Perspective on Dog Training with Martina
In this episode, Kim chats with Martina, a dog trainer from Italy, about the complex relationship between dogs—especially Border Collies—and livestock. From early training and predatory instincts to international standards in dog training, they...
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52:55
Chinwag: Is Your Dog Stubborn… or Just Misunderstood?
In this episode, Kim and Carla unpack one of the most misunderstood labels in the dog world: stubborn. Are dogs really being defiant, or are we missing the real reasons behind their behaviour? From breed traits and unclear communicatio...
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22:29
Inspirational ideas for your dog walks - part 2
Hope you enjoyed part one of this two part series on ideas for your dog walks - hopefully while the weather has been nice you have been able to try things out and see what works for you and your dog.
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21:35
Inspirational ideas for your dog walks - Part 1
In this weeks episode Carla and Kim discuss ways in which you can make your dog walk more interesting, not just for your dog but for you as well. Often we get stuck in the rut of walking with our dogs day in and day out without putting much tho...
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18:47
Proof It or Lose It: Generalising Dog Training in the Real World
In this episode, Kim and Carla unpack one of the biggest challenges in dog training: proofing behaviours across different environments. Just because your dog can sit in the kitchen doesn’t mean they’ll sit in the park! Learn why dogs s...
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35:02
Muzzle Training Myths, Movement & Making Dogs Safer with Clara from The Muzzle Movement
Muzzles aren’t just for ‘dangerous’ dogs—and in this episode, Kim is joined by Clara, founder of The Muzzle Movement, to bust the biggest myths about muzzle use in modern dog training. From the emotional and legal realities of the XL Bully ban ...
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54:51
Beyond the Bark: Understanding the Root Causes of Dog Behaviour
In this episode, Kim and Carla dive deep into the why behind common dog behaviour challenges. From barking and loose lead walking to displacement behaviours and anxiety, they explore how symptoms often mask deeper issues like stress, d...
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31:00
Beyond Treats: Podcasting, Community & Real Talk from the Dog Training World
In this episode, Kim sits down with fellow dog behaviourist Catherine to dive into the messy, rewarding, and often misunderstood world of dog training—and how building a community can help bridge the gap between professionals and pet owners. Th...
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59:38
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
