The McCann Dogs Podcast

We asked Google what first-time dog owners search for—and the results were… mixed. In this episode of the McCann Dogs Podcast, professional dog trainers Shannon and Swanny react to the internet’s most-Googled puppy training questions. From crate training and housebreaking to leash manners, chewing, barking, and the myth of socialization, we break down what Google gets right—and what it’s completely missing. If you’re raising a new puppy or helping a rescue settle in, this episode is packed with essential advice for setting your dog up for long-term success.

Think you know what makes your dog happy? You might be surprised. In this episode, Shannon and Swanny dive into the real needs of a happy dog—security, consistency, proper exercise, engagement, structure, and more. From nose work to naps and boundaries to bonding, we’re breaking down how to create true happiness in your dog’s life (and yours too). Whether you’re a seasoned dog owner or bringing home your first puppy, this episode will change the way you see your dog’s day-to-day life.

Bringing a new puppy home is exciting, but it also comes with real challenges! In this video, we’re sharing our first week of puppy training—the wins, the struggles, and the strategies that work. Whether you’re dealing with sleepless nights, potty training mishaps, or building engagement, we’ll give you pro tips to set you and your puppy up for success.

Inconsistent training can leave your dog feeling confused and unmotivated, making progress slow and frustrating. In this episode, we break down why consistency is the key to success and how small adjustments in your daily interactions can lead to big improvements in your dog’s behavior.

Struggling with front door chaos every time the doorbell rings? In this episode, we break down the secrets to teaching your dog calm and polite door manners, so you can welcome guests without the stress!

Thinking about getting a puppy? 🐶 In this episode, we break down the 10 biggest reasons you might want to think twice—from sleepless nights to chewed-up shoes—and how to avoid common mistakes so you can set your puppy up for success right from the start! 🎙️✨

Shannon and Swanny chat with Val about the important steps to take when bringing home a rescue dog. From the crucial decompression period to socialization tips, this episode covers what every new rescue owner needs to know!

In this episode, expert dog trainers answer common questions about barking, crate training, socialization, and more, offering practical solutions for dog owners. Whether you’re dealing with a noisy pup or struggling with house training, this episode is packed with tips to help you raise a well-behaved four-legged family member.

Discover the surprising power of play in transforming your dog’s training and behavior. Learn how incorporating fun and engaging playtime can strengthen your bond, boost focus, and make training more enjoyable for both you and your dog!

When Sarah’s dog, Sir, went missing for eight harrowing days, her life turned into every dog owner’s worst nightmare. In this emotional episode, hear her gripping story of determination, community support, and the lengths she went to bring her beloved dog home.

Here is a link to the lost dog emergency kit document: https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0287/4503/9916/files/Emergency_Plan.pdf?v=1680193215

Winter is here, but that doesn’t mean your dog’s training and outdoor activities have to stop. In this episode, we share tips for keeping your dog active, safe, and comfortable in cold weather, including paw care, winter gear, and fun training ideas.

Join Shannon and Swanny as they dive into the world of puppy breeders and what to watch out for. Don't get scammed!

Kick off 2025 with actionable dog training tips and fun anecdotes! Join instructors Shannon and Swanny as they discuss New Year’s resolutions for better teamwork, emotional control, and building stronger bonds with your dog.

In this festive episode of the McCann Dogs Podcast, Shannon and Swanny share essential tips to keep your dog safe, well-behaved, and stress-free during the holiday season. From managing Christmas tree temptations to avoiding food and decoration hazards, they’ll help you ensure a fun and worry-free celebration for the whole family – including your we;;-behaved four-legged family member.

In this episode, Shannon and Swanny dive into real-life dog training scenarios, offering simple, down-to-earth solutions for common puppy problems. From managing whining and accidents to fixing leash pulling and over-stimulation, they provide expert tips to help you navigate the challenges of raising a well-behaved dog.

Learn how to simplify your dog training journey with actionable tips for managing adolescent behavior, improving recall, and addressing common challenges like leash pulling and jumping on guests. Discover why mistakes are valuable learning opportunities and how to turn setbacks into successes for a well-behaved dog.

🐾 Are you negotiating with your dog without realizing it? Our latest podcast episode dives deep into why certain skills—like holding a reliable sit—are non-negotiable and how to insist on them gently but effectively. 🐶 Learn practical tips for maintaining leadership, handling distractions, and building a strong foundation in your dog’s training. 🎧 Listen now!

Happy training! 🐕💪

In this episode, Shannon and Swanny debunk the myth that training a well-behaved dog is as simple as a magic trick, sharing the real keys to success: consistency, patience, and hard work. They dive into the joys and challenges of training, the importance of choosing the right breed, and how social media can create unrealistic expectations for pet owners.

In this episode, we dive into the essentials of raising a well-behaved puppy, from setting up effective routines to debunking common training myths. Learn how to build a strong foundation, address breed-specific needs, and embrace each stage of your dog’s growth to create a lifelong bond.

In this episode, we debunk the common mistake of treating dogs like humans and explore how it affects training success. Learn key tips and techniques to effectively communicate with your dog, correct behavior issues, and build a stronger bond.

Get your dog ready for Halloween with Shannon and Swanny as they share tips on keeping your dog safe and calm during the spooky season. From managing decorations to handling trick-or-treaters, this episode is packed with practical advice for a stress-free Halloween with your four-legged family member.

In this episode, Shannon and Swanny tackle common dog myths, from biting to spaying, and share real, science-based advice for better dog training and care. They break down misconceptions that often confuse pet owners and offer tips to help you strengthen your bond with your pup. Whether you’re new to dog ownership or have years of experience, this episode will guide you toward a happier relationship with your four-legged family member.

Do you know the difference between reactive and proactive dog training? If you don't, that's okay! Shannon and Swanny dive into this topic in today's episode.

In this action-packed episode, we dive into pro tips on how to master puppy socialization without bad leash habits and keep your dog calm around distractions! Plus, we tackle common training challenges like nipping and herding behaviors, and share must-know advice for keeping your pup cool and safe in hot weather!

Shannon and Swanny sit down with the lovely Nell in today's episode. Nell talks about her European adventures with her dogs: Shenzi and Edna and how relationship can transform your dog training.

Have a hyper puppy who won't calm down? It'll take more than just exercise to tire them out!

When you're training your dog, you'll need some tools to help you out. In this episode, Shannon and Swan dive into the topic of training equipment and how useful they are.

Sit down with Shannon and Swanny as they go over the most commonly asked questions in dog training.

Potty training in an apartment? Dealing with a tiny puppy and mobility issues? What is it about peanut butter that has the dog world divided? All of this and more!

If you want to get a good night sleep with your puppy, you need to have a great pre-sleep routine. Instructors Shannon and Swanny cover the best tips to sleep through the night on this episode.

With so many options out there, how do you optimize your toy purchases for your puppy? You want to make sure they are safe AND you want to make sure it benefits your dog training! Find out in this episode.

Do you thinking walking with your dog off-leash is a pipe dream? It isn't! You can work with your dog so you have confidence wherever you go!

Do you find it a struggle to get your pup to calm down when they are excited? Instructors Shannon and Swanny get into the various skills you can teach your dog in order to get calm on command.

Finding your dog's prey drive challenging to deal with? Got a small dog that doesn't seem to fit the training tools? Frustrated by your dog ignoring you? This episode is for YOU!

We hear so many common things from our students that they don't know is actually hindering their progress in dog training. Find out how to shift your mindset on this episode of the McCann Dogs Podcast so you and your pup can find success.

Living with a new puppy doesn't have to be frustrating. Instructors Shannon and Swanny discuss just that in this episode of the McCann Dogs Podcast. Listen now!

The weather is warming up! Are you and your dog ready? Instructors Shannon and Swanny discuss possible hiccups in dog training with the change of season and how to tackle it!

Considering getting a new puppy? Worried about that first week home? Instructors Shannon and Swanny discuss what it's like and how to make the best of it.

Knowing which commands to use at what time in dog training can be confusing for you and your dog. In this episode, Instructors Shannon and Swanny break down some of the most commonly confused commands and how to get better results with clarity.

Has your dog training suddenly stalled in progress? Is your dog listening less and needing correction more? You may be in the adolescent stage! On this episode we talk with Instructor Rob about Pontiac Bandit and how he is managing the adolescent stage of dog training.

Not sure why you should train your dog? Join Instructors Shannon and Swanny as they discuss this very thing with two of our amazing McCann Students.

...or is it? Meet Instructor Meg as she discusses specific differences and techniques for training a small breed dog.

We've taken your questions and answered them here! If you have questions about dog training, please leave them in the comments. We will do our best to answer them.

Does it feel like everyone else's dog has great listening skills but your dog consistently forgets to put their listening ears on? In this episode, Instructors Shannon and Swanny get to the bottom of common issues with listening.

You don't need to take your dog for a walk to tire them out. In fact, if you take the time to exercise your dog indoors, you will not only tire them out more completely, but you'll also have amazing success when you go out!

Instructors Shannon and Swanny are answering your questions again. Everything from picking up your new puppy to training in apartments and high distractions zones.

Does your dog get distracted easily? In this episode, Instructors Shannon and Swanny discuss how to get the focus back on your regardless of where they are.

Training video: https://youtu.be/FKYXOsBhKUM