Let's Talk Sit!

Modern science in dog training tends to focus more on comparative psychology - aka, comparing animals behavior in a lab/study environment vs the natural environment. Additionally, dog trainers compare dog training to the training of exotic animals. In this episode, we cover: What comparative psychology and ethology means The experiments conducted and how they work The reality behind the science in dog training The difference between exotics and dogs - namely, in cooperative care Looking at the dog in the natural habitat, not in a laboratory setting. Join our FACEBOOK GROUP to discuss dog training, dog behavior, pretty much anything DOG related Dog enthusiasts only! http://www.facebook.com/groups/1502263980187838 http://www.letstalksit.com Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!   https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios   Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

Another big controversial topic in the pet care industry is Alpha or Dominance Theory. There are a lot of people who, like everything else, take this to the extreme. In this episode, we cover: What alpha means Leadership The false assumption that “alpha theory has been debunked” Hierarchy between dogs Mech's study Join our FACEBOOK GROUP to discuss dog training, dog behavior, pretty much anything DOG related Dog enthusiasts only! http://www.facebook.com/groups/1502263980187838 http://www.letstalksit.com Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!   https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios   Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

We all either have experienced or will experience the loss of a pet. We have gone through this ourselves recently and want to share how we handle grieving our fluffy loved ones. In this episode, we cover: Coping with the loss of a dog The guilt of the decision to euthanize Coming to those decisions - and some of the decisions you'll have to make The importance of supporting yourself Get professional support/therapy if you need it: https://petlosspartners.org/ In Home Euthanasia, quality of life assessment, more helpful resources: https://www.lapoflove.com Join our FACEBOOK GROUP to discuss dog training, dog behavior, pretty much anything DOG related Dog enthusiasts only! http://www.facebook.com/groups/1502263980187838 http://www.letstalksit.com Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!   https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios   Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

We are constantly seeing more and more red flags and abuse cases in dog trainers - most commonly, in board and trains. We want to explain some of the ways we recommend and use to actually find good dog trainers to ensure the safety of your pets. In this episode, we cover: What to look for when looking for a dog trainer Red flags abusive trainers show The bad side of what can happen during training - namely, board and trains How we handle board and trains to make sure owners feel safe The importance of speaking up and asking questions Join our FACEBOOK GROUP to discuss dog training, dog behavior, pretty much anything DOG related Dog enthusiasts only! http://www.facebook.com/groups/1502263980187838 http://www.letstalksit.com Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!   https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios   Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

A year after our first 2 parts on the trainer wars, they have blown up yet again. There is even more drama and arguments between dog trainers. The Real Facts About Science Based Dog Training - by Ivan Balabanov from Training Without Conflict In this episode, we discuss: Ivan Balabanov's presentation about science based dog training Zak George and Susan Garrett's recent interactions with Ivan The more recent explosion between dog trainer “sides” Proof in how these discussions are causing more harm than help Alice raging on about “punishment based” training Join our FACEBOOK GROUP to discuss dog training, dog behavior, pretty much anything DOG related Dog enthusiasts only! http://www.facebook.com/groups/1502263980187838 http://www.letstalksit.com Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!   https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios   Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

A continuation of the previous episode where we discussed why you should use play in dog training, in this episode we explain some ways you can use play in your training! Part 2 is the “how two” portion in the power of play in dogs. In this episode, we cover: How you can use play when training dogs Some of the rules we use when playing Even more benefits of using play in dog training Different games you can play! Definitely check out our previous episode on how to build toy drive too! Join our FACEBOOK GROUP to discuss dog training, dog behavior, pretty much anything DOG related Dog enthusiasts only! http://www.facebook.com/groups/1502263980187838 http://www.letstalksit.com Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!   https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios   Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

Food is one of the more popular motivators in dog training, however, play is one of the most powerful tools when training a dog - if not the most powerful! This is part 1 of a 2 part series on using play in dog training. In this episode, we cover: What the benefits are of using play in dog training Why we recommend using play to train What training with play even means Join our FACEBOOK GROUP to discuss dog training, dog behavior, pretty much anything DOG related Dog enthusiasts only! http://www.facebook.com/groups/1502263980187838 http://www.letstalksit.com Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!   https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios   Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

Lynne and Kim have been in the dog training industry for over 30 years each, and a lot has changed in dogs themselves since then, both physically and behaviorally. Along with that, things have changed drastically in the industry over time, such as the big jump in rescuing instead of breeding. In this episode, we cover: Shelter/rescue dogs vs well bred dogs Changes in some of the more popular breeds, such as labs and German Shepherds In what ways dogs have changed Why dogs have changed The echo chamber in the industry Join our FACEBOOK GROUP to discuss dog training, dog behavior, pretty much anything DOG related Dog enthusiasts only! http://www.facebook.com/groups/1502263980187838 http://www.letstalksit.com Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!   https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios   Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

Finally - Kim's favorite topic! Alice and Lynne were sick of hearing Kim go on about responsibility in dog ownership, so we gave her a whole 30 minutes for the topic. Just kidding, we love Kim, and responsibility IS important and often overlooked! This will probably be multiple parts and added to over time. In this episode, we cover: The introduction of responsibility of pet ownership The overall wellbeing of the dog A quick recap of spaying/neutering - Check out our other episodes on the topic: Part 1 and Part 2 Dog's weight and “chonky” culture A super small overview of food and feeding Join our FACEBOOK GROUP to discuss dog training, dog behavior, pretty much anything DOG related Dog enthusiasts only! http://www.facebook.com/groups/1502263980187838 http://www.letstalksit.com Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

Every dog wears a collar, so they must be the safest thing… right? WRONG! Dog collars are tools and safety must always be taken into consideration. In this episode, we cover: The dangers of collars How to prevent accidents with collars Daycare, kennel, or other dog/dog interaction safety Emergency tools to have on hand We also mentioned a few links: https://www.rydersafefoundation.com/ https://nakeddogproject.com/ https://theanimalfilespodcast.podbean.com/e/taf-interview-series-lynette-smith-of-ryder-safe-foundation/ Join our FACEBOOK GROUP to discuss dog training, dog behavior, pretty much anything DOG related Dog enthusiasts only! http://www.facebook.com/groups/1502263980187838 http://www.letstalksit.com Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

A dog is a dog is a dog. Many people nowadays will claim that dogs don't necessarily have innate traits and you shouldn't “judge” a dog based on their breed. Other common sayings is “it's all in how you raise them!” We wanted to address that and discuss how damaging that actually is to dogs and people. In this episode, we cover: What is nature vs nurture? How early the nurture aspect kicks in How genetics vs behavior mod influences behavior The impact of stress on a dog Join our FACEBOOK GROUP to discuss dog training, dog behavior, pretty much anything DOG related Dog enthusiasts only! http://www.facebook.com/groups/1502263980187838 http://www.letstalksit.com Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

Newbie dog trainers often have the same complaint: how do you get the owner to do the work? In this episode, we go over some of our tips and what we do when the owner is more difficult than the dog. In this episode, we cover: Figuring out what's going on and why the owner isn't doing what you said Different approaches to owners who won't do the work A few ideas on what to say Being realistic with your own expectations Join our FACEBOOK GROUP to discuss dog training, dog behavior, pretty much anything DOG related Dog enthusiasts only! http://www.facebook.com/groups/1502263980187838 http://www.letstalksit.com Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

When people hear socialization, there are a couple things that come to mind. Either those checklists of things to get your puppy comfortable with, or throwing them in a room full of dogs/people and letting them fend for themselves. Neither of those are proper socialization. In this episode, we cover: What socialization actually is How different trainers approach puppy socialization Better use of those checklists Different dogs and their socialization needs Kim being edgy and controversial as always Join our FACEBOOK GROUP to discuss dog training, dog behavior, pretty much anything DOG related Dog enthusiasts only! http://www.facebook.com/groups/1502263980187838 http://www.letstalksit.com Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

We're in another wave of “crate training is cruel” online, so of course we had to talk about it. Most dog trainers do recommend crates - we certainly do! And in this episode, we tell you exactly why. In this episode, we cover: The proper usage of crates Why all dogs should be crate trained The arguments against crate training Types of crates Crate safety Susan Garrett's Crate Games: https://dogsthat.com/crate-games-2/ Join our FACEBOOK GROUP to discuss dog training, dog behavior, pretty much anything DOG related (Dog enthusiasts only!) http://www.facebook.com/groups/1502263980187838 http://www.letstalksit.com Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

Probably the one thing in the universe the majority of dog trainers can agree on is that markers are extremely helpful in most cases for teaching new behaviors. But did you know there are more markers than just the classic "yes" or click marker - also known as Reward Markers? In this episode, we cover: What is a reward marker? Types of reward markers people use - clicker, verbal “yes!” The difference between markers and praise How to use a marker? Different types of markers Join our FACEBOOK GROUP to discuss dog training, dog behavior, and pretty much anything DOG related Dog enthusiasts only! http://www.facebook.com/groups/1502263980187838 http://www.levelupyourpup.com/ Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

Anyone who's an expert in any industry understands the frustration that comes with working with friends and family - they don't listen! In this episode, we cover: Working with friends and family - or choosing NOT to work with them The frustration of being ignored or dismissed by the people close to you How to get over or move past it Join our FACEBOOK GROUP to discuss dog training, dog behavior, pretty much anything DOG related Dog enthusiasts only! http://www.facebook.com/groups/1502263980187838 http://www.levelupyourpup.com/ Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

It's no secret that small dogs have a bad reputation for being nasty little ankle-biters! Today we talk about small dog syndrome and why it happens. In this episode, we cover: What even is small dog syndrome? How does small dog syndrome appear? Why do some dogs get small dog syndrome? How can you prevent small dog syndrome? How can you fix small dog syndrome? Join our FACEBOOK GROUP to discuss dog training, dog behavior, pretty much anything DOG related. Dog enthusiasts only! https://www.facebook.com/groups/1502263980187838 https://www.levelupyourpup.com/ Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

Dog training is one of the careers where ethics are most important, though it's also the one where they can be a little hard to find. Because there's not a lot of real regulation in the industry. Some of the topics we cover include: How do no harm applies to dog training The ethics of the no reward marker Respecting other trainers Policing others and, more importantly, yourself http://letstalksit.com/ Join our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/1502263980187838 Follow us on social media! https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

In the second and final part of the spay/neuter vs leaving intact debate, we talk about the other side - NOT sterilizing your dog. Choosing to not spay/neuter is a responsibility that requires a little more than choosing to alter your dog. However, there are a lot of health benefits to keeping your dog intact. Our website: http://letstalksit.com/ Join our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/1502263980187838 Follow us on social sedia! https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

Spaying and neutering is one of the most controversial topics in the dog world. Everyone has something to say about it in general - and other people's decisions. In this episode, we discuss spay and neuter and some of the myths around it, along with who should lean towards fixing their pets. Check out our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/1502263980187838 Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

Imposter syndrome impacts dog trainers just as much as it impacts other industries - if not more! As much as you likely experience it, just remember that your mentors have too - and probably still do! Join our Facebook Group! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

Is there a difference between reactivity and aggression in dogs? What do different trainers consider that difference to be? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

If you're considering becoming a dog trainer, you probably are thinking this is the absolute dream job, there's nothing better out there. You can't wait to make this your career so you never burn out from your job again! Unfortunately, we have some news for you. Dog trainers get burnt out. Everyone in the pet industry experiences it, just like everyone else! Today we talk about some of our experiences with burnout, along with our tips for getting through it and learning to love dog training again. CHECK OUT OUR FACEBOOK GROUP FOR DOG TRAINER BURNOUT ANONYMOUS! https://www.facebook.com/groups/1502263980187838 Follow us on Facebook and Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

Have you thought about how you can actually work as a dog trainer? Today, we go over the three main types - self-employed, independent contractor, and employee - and explain some of the pros and cons. Join our BRAND NEW Let's Talk Sit Podcast Facebook Discussion Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1502263980187838 Follow us on Facebook and Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

Today we welcome one of Lynne and Kim's mentees, Luis Rosado. Luis started his journey in the pet world as a vet tech and now has his very own training business. Luis focuses on reactivity and aggression in his training. In this episode, Luis tells us about his experience at the IACP Conference as a relatively new dog trainer and first-time attendee! Check out Luis' website: Harmony K9 Training Join our BRAND NEW Let's Talk Sit Podcast Facebook Discussion Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1502263980187838 Follow us on Facebook and Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

Today we welcome our very first guest to Let's Talk Sit - Lisa Saroyan! Lisa has spent the last 12 years working in the pet industry, including in marketing, sales, and management for pet product distributors. She told us some of the newer going-ons in dog products - including dog toys, dog food, and even some cat stuff - and the main differences she saw every day between independent pet stores vs Big Box. Spoiler alert - independent is the way to go! Join our BRAND NEW Let's Talk Sit Podcast Facebook Discussion Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1502263980187838 Follow us on Facebook and Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

If you've ever heard or said "my dog isn't food motivated" or "well, I can't do that because my dog doesn't like toys" - then this is the episode for you! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

Are you involved - or do you want to be involved - in dog sports? Do you even know that dogs have sports? What is a dog sport? Why do they even matter? Learn the answer to these questions and more in this week's episode! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

Pretty much every pet owner or dog trainer has experienced some type of issue with housetraining. Listen to this week's episode to get our tips on housebreaking your new dog at home. Plus, we share some of our weirdest struggles with housetraining our dogs! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

Would you ever consider hiring a trainer who couldn't take the leash? If you're a trainer considering offering virtual, or a pet owner who is hesitant about hiring a trainer online who can't be hands-on - listen to this episode to learn the pros and cons! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

One of the most important tools to ever exist in dog training - Muzzles! Most people find muzzles scary, but they're essential for safety. We go over: Pros and Cons of using a muzzle The benefits How to teach your dog to wear a muzzle Links: https://dogsinneedofspace.com/ https://muzzleupproject.com/ Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

Kim, Lynne, and Alice go over how to pick a dog breed, and how you should absolutely NOT pick a dog breed. There are so many things to consider when choosing a dog! Check out the links below for a good starting point. Even with those recommendations, DO YOUR RESEARCH! Some of the breed selectors we played with! https://www.akc.org/dog-breed-selector/ https://www.purina.com/dogs/dog-breed-selector https://www.pedigree.com/getting-a-new-dog/breed-match Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

Ever wondered what the difference is between a dog trainer's puppy and your puppy? Learn what Lynne and Kim focus on with their puppies and how that differs from what they teach their clients. Spoiler alert: They actually let their puppies jump and encourage mouthiness! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

Since the 4th of July is coming up next week, we wanted to go over some things to prepare you and your dog. Lots of dogs are terrified of fireworks - and just because your dog was fine last time, doesn't mean they'll be fine this time. Stay safe! Topics we discuss: - How to prep for fireworks - What you can do the night of fireworks -Possible product recommendations for anxiety (always talk to your vet before using any new products!) Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

The APDT put out a new statement about their stance on LIMA and acceptable training methods, so Lynne, Kim, and Alice, of course, had to get into it and bark for a while, along with an almost live reaction to the IACP's response. This is a great example of how certain wording is harmful to the entire pet industry by causing more of a rift between trainers. LIMA Definition per Stephen Lindsay: Correction procedures should not be used lightly or haphazardly. The rule of thumb is to select the least aversive and intrusive procedure that is reasonably expected to succeed. According to the least intrusive and minimally aversive (LIMA) model, aversives are ranked in terms of their relative severity and intrusiveness, requiring that the trainer apply a less aversive technique before advancing to a more aversive one. Adhering to this model and selection process ensures that the least necessary and sufficient aversive procedure is used to produce the intended behavioral objective. In addition to minimizing the potential for producing pain and discomfort, correction procedures should be governed by a principle of minimal intrusiveness. Training procedures should intrude minimally on the human-dog bond and avoid adversely affecting the dog's quality of life. Overly constrictive restraint and confinement techniques should be avoided in favor of techniques that most rapidly and humanely achieve training objectives without causing undue distress or discomfort to the dog. APDT Position Statements: https://apdt.com/about/position-statements/ IACP Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/CanineProfessionals Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

Join dog trainers Kim Toepfer, Lynne Bell, and Alice Teal as they discuss something that really makes them bark about the dog training industry - The Trainer Wars! Learn what exactly the trainer wars are - and why you should even care! Some of the topics we cover are: History of the trainer wars How the language used is harmful to the dog community Why this topic affects dog owners as well as trainers What you can do to end them Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! https://www.facebook.com/talksitpodcast https://www.instagram.com/talksitpodcast/ Music: Good Times - Patrick Patrikios Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM