That Dog

If you were at the top of your game, winning competitions and receiving approval from those around you, what would it take for you to walk away? For dog and horse specialist Pennie Clayton it was listening to the needs of her dog Flynt. During this episode Pennie shares how her understanding of dog behaviour and communication was shaped by recognising what Flynt truly enjoyed in life. We discuss how ambition and ego can sometimes get in the way of enjoying our lives with our dogs, as well as the ways they benefit when we put these things aside. This is the episode to listen to if you strive to be your dog's best friend.

Horse and Hound School: www.horseandhoundschool.co.uk

The old maxim of 'never work with children and animals' doesn't apply in Mel Ritterman's world. In this 'That Dog' story, we meet the gorgeous Cooper, a golden retriever who helped his human re-evaluate and grow in new directions, from career to parenting. Mel runs a successful business in Melbourne, Australia called Cooper and Kids which specialises in creating safe, happy and positive relationships between babies, kids and dogs. During this episode Mel talks honestly and openly about the mistakes she made with Cooper in the beginning and the crucial role he played in how she now works with and supports dogs and families. We delve into ways parents can foster healthier relationships between dogs and children, as well as the often unfair expectations we place on the 'family pet'. This is a must listen episode not just for parents but for anyone who believes dogs deserve to be understood, loved and respected members of the family.

Nishi is the quintessential 'that dog'. Her story and the ripple effect it had on those around her can teach us so much about resilience, autonomy and staying afloat when everything falls apart. Sindhoor Pangal is a prominent canine behaviour consultant, canine myotherapist, speaker, author and the director of BHARCS, a global educational organisation based in Bangalore. In this episode she shares the heartbreaks and triumphs of a very special dog and the wisdom she gained from living alongside her. This is a conversation far beyond training which delves into what it means to coexist with dogs and face our traumas together.

Anita runs a boutique grooming and pet supplies shop, Woofs to Kittys, which focuses on healthy, natural products and approaches to promote better welfare for dogs. She has lived with many amazing dogs over the years and then...enter Theo. Handsome, determined and a little wild - he threw up a series of challenges that forced Anita to dig deep and support him to become the happy and loving dog he is today. In this episode we talk about perseverance, dealing with frustration, sensory overload and how to stay upright when walking a bucking bronco!

Gandul is a dog who knows his own mind. Jonas Thulin, who aptly identifies as a canine emotional health advisor over 'trainer', has seen many changes within the dog training industry over the years. In this episode he shares how his views and methods have shifted over time and how Gandul forced him to stop and question his assumptions. We delve into a range of different topics, such as learning how to truly listen to our dogs, trusting their decisions and never underestimating how brilliant they are at reading our emotions. This is an episode from the heart you won't want to miss!

jonasthulin.com

In this episode we remember Dennis - a quintessential terrier who was full of zest, attitude and sparkle. London based behaviour consultant Winkie Spiers reflects on her journey from the corporate world to running a successful business and supporting dogs and their humans to live their best lives together. We discuss the ways Dennis shaped Winkie's thinking and how his tenacity inspired her to make big decisions and challenge long held beliefs. If you're after some motivation to kick start your own adventures, this is the episode for you!

Meet BJ. He's handsome, wise and has journeyed from the streets of Moscow to a wonderful life in a small town in Latvia. Dog trainer and behaviour consultant Natasha Bystrova tells the amazing story of how bringing a rescue puppy home one dark and cold evening changed her life forever. We talk about letting go of the 'perfect dog' fantasy, the crucial role of environment and its impact on behaviour, as well how freeing it can be to accept your reality. I fell in love with BJ talking to Natasha and I think you will too.

Meet Reyna. She's a long-limbed beauty with a traumatic past and incredible resilience. In this first ever episode, dog trainer and behaviourist Sam Walker-Arends shares the story of this amazing Galgo Español (Spanish greyhound) and the lessons she's learned from her. She also provides information about introducing a rescue into a multi-dog household and highlights how patient we must be when rehabilitating dogs. Sam is a trustee for the wonderful rescue organisation Project Galgo and we learn more about the work they do and why all Galgos need our support.

Sam the Dog Coach: www.samthedogcoach.co.uk