Heel is a foundational command and when done right teaches your dog much more than to simply stop pulling. This is a command that can truly change your dog. It teaches them to focus, establishes the fact that they need to listen to you when you ask something and is a great calming technique that you can use anytime.
This episode is fully focused on our 3 step process for correcting unwanted behavior and calming a dog down. As you listen to the episode you will notice that this process is extremely simple and can be applied to a huge variety of situations. Drop a comment with any questions!
The hosts spent some time talking about current news stories in the dog world. From dog robots to Korean dog meat farms, they covered a large variety of stories. Tune in and enjoy!
In this episode, the hosts discuss how to manage dogs that are scared of fireworks, especially with the 4th of July approaching.
They cover various strategies including medication, training techniques, and desensitization methods. The hosts emphasize the need for responsible pet ownership and proactive training to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both dogs and their owners during the holiday. Takeaways
In this episode, the hosts discuss the intricacies of e-collar training for dogs, emphasizing the importance of proper introduction and mechanics. They explore the differences between positive punishment and negative reinforcement, and how to effectively use e-collars for commands and behavioral corrections. The conversation also highlights common mistakes trainers make and the significance of client education in ensuring successful training outcomes. We also added a new game where we randomly call one of our trainers live on the show and put them on the spot!
Today on the Balanced Dog Training Show, we’re joined by the incredible Dr. Melanie Uhde for an eye-opening conversation on how hormones and neurotransmitters influence dog behavior—and how that knowledge can transform your training approach.
Dr. Uhde is a renowned expert in canine neurobiology and behavior, and she's leading the charge in bridging the gap between cutting-edge science and everyday dog training. In this episode, we dive deep into the major neurotransmitters and hormones—like dopamine, serotonin, cortisol, and adrenaline—and how each one affects a dog’s emotional state, reactivity, focus, and ability to learn.
We break down how these chemical messengers impact common behavioral issues such as anxiety, aggression, overexcitement, and fear. More importantly, we explore how understanding what’s happening inside a dog’s brain allows trainers and owners to tailor their approach, creating calmer, more confident dogs and more effective training sessions.
Whether you're a professional dog trainer, a passionate dog owner, or just someone curious about the science behind behavior, this episode offers a fascinating look at the biological forces shaping your dog’s actions—and how you can use that knowledge to your advantage.
Guest: Dr. Melanie Uhde
📘 Facebook: Dr. Melanie Uhde
📷 Instagram: @caninedecoded
▶️ YouTube: www.YouTube.com/@dr.melanieuhde
In this episode, the hosts discuss the concept of guard dogs, focusing on how to raise a family-friendly dog that can also exhibit guarding behaviors. They explore the balance between allowing natural guarding instincts and ensuring the dog remains social and manageable.
The conversation delves into the importance of breed selection, personality traits, and the role of training in shaping a dog's behavior. The hosts emphasize that a dog's deterrent effect often relies on its appearance and behavior rather than formal training.
They discuss how daily interactions shape a dog's behavior, the significance of socialization, and the management of barking. The conversation emphasizes the need for consistency in training and the understanding that dogs learn from their environment and the responses of their owners.
In this conversation, the hosts discuss the nuances of energy in dog training, emphasizing its critical role in establishing effective communication and training methods. They explore the differences between using treats and praise, the importance of reading a dog's energy, and how to tailor training approaches to individual dogs' needs. The discussion also touches on the significance of energy levels in creating a strong bond between trainers and dogs, and how understanding these dynamics can lead to more successful training outcomes.
In this episode of Balanced Training with Suburban K9, the hosts engage in a discussion about various dog training topics, including resource guarding, managing skittish behavior, the rules around dogs on furniture, and the importance of socialization. They emphasize the need for dog owners to understand their pets' body language and to intervene when necessary to ensure safe interactions. The conversation also covers practical training tips for puppies, including recall and attention commands, and the significance of establishing clear rules for dog behavior in the home.
In this conversation, the hosts discuss the complexities of separation anxiety in dogs, exploring its symptoms, causes, and effective training techniques. They emphasize the importance of creating a calm environment, using obedience commands, and establishing a positive relationship with the crate. The discussion also highlights the role of daily exercise in managing anxiety and the necessity of correcting unwanted behaviors without punishing the dog's anxiety. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights for dog owners and trainers dealing with separation anxiety.
The conversation also touches on the role of medication in severe cases of separation anxiety and the importance of setting realistic goals for dog owners. Additionally, they identify specific dog breeds that are more prone to separation anxiety and offer preventative measures for new dog owners to help mitigate these issues.
In this episode of Balanced Training with Suburban K9, the hosts discuss the significance of obedience in dog training, exploring various perspectives on its importance and application. They delve into how obedience commands can serve as tools for managing behavior, building relationships, and addressing issues like food aggression and resource guarding.
The conversation emphasizes the need for tailored approaches based on individual dog temperaments and the role of trainers in guiding clients through effective training methods. In this conversation, the hosts discuss various topics related to dog training, including the importance of obedience commands in addressing issues like resource guarding, the changing role of dogs in modern society, and the significance of shared language between trainers and clients.
Takeaways
In this episode, the hosts discuss various methods for introducing dogs to one another, focusing on different scenarios such as introducing puppies to each other, friendly older dogs, standoffish older dogs, and aggressive dogs.
They emphasize the importance of having a plan, understanding dog behavior, and taking the time necessary for successful introductions. The conversation is filled with humor and personal anecdotes, making it both informative and entertaining for dog owners and trainers alike.
This conversation delves into the complexities of introducing dogs to one another, focusing on various scenarios including puppies to older dogs, older dogs to standoffish dogs, and aggressive dog introductions. The speakers emphasize the importance of understanding dog behavior, body language, and the need for structured introductions to ensure safety and success. They discuss strategies for managing introductions, the significance of trust and resources, and the necessity of muzzle training for aggressive dogs. The conversation concludes with a reminder to take time and be observant during the introduction process.
In this deep-dive episode, Matt Covey, Nelson Medrano, and Matt Wlos tackle one of the most controversial topics in dog training: dominance. Does it actually exist, or is it an outdated myth? What do the latest studies on wolves say, and how do they translate to our understanding of dogs?
First, we all learn that Nelson actually does drink water, and then the trio dives into the heart of the debate, unpacking the historical research on dominance in wolf packs—studies that have shaped (and reshaped) how we think about dog behavior. They explore the work of early researchers like Konrad Lorenz and David Mech, discussing how shifting perspectives on wolf hierarchy have influenced the way trainers approach dog training today.
A key question emerges: Are force-free trainers correct in saying that dominance doesn’t exist at all, or has the term simply been overused and misunderstood? Matt, Nelson, and Matt break it down, challenging the notion that hierarchy is absent in social structures—whether in wolves, humans, or even Pokémon card collectors (yes, that analogy happens).
They also explore the extreme interpretations of dominance theory that have given the term a bad reputation, from outdated dominance-based training methods to bizarre practices like spitting in a dog’s food to "assert leadership." The trainers emphasize that while dominance is real, it doesn’t mean harsh corrections or outdated "alpha" methods are necessary. Instead, they advocate for balanced training—a combination of positive reinforcement and well-timed corrections—to create clear, effective communication with dogs.
The episode also raises an important distinction: If submission exists in dogs, then by definition, so must dominance. But does using the word "dominance" create unnecessary division in the training world? Could reframing the conversation around control, structure, and leadership help bridge the gap between force-free and balanced trainers?
Throughout the discussion, the team highlights common myths, the importance of context in training, and why the ultimate goal is a well-adjusted, confident dog—not a submissive one. They even dive into the ethics of different training approaches, questioning whether some force-free methods (like withholding food to increase motivation) are truly less aversive than a mild correction.
As always, the episode wraps up with an open invitation for force-free trainers to weigh in. If you disagree, they want to hear from you! Drop a comment and join the conversation.
Topics covered in this episode:
✔️ What dominance actually means in dog behavior
✔️ The history of wolf research and how it affects modern training
✔️ The "alpha wolf" myth—what did David Mech really say?
✔️ The difference between dominance-based training and balanced training
✔️ Myths about dominance—like why your dog sitting on the couch isn’t a power play
✔️ The psychology of submission and control in social animals
✔️ Why the debate between force-free and balanced trainers might be more about marketing than methodology
✔️ How misunderstanding dominance leads to flawed training philosophies
Final Takeaway:
Whether you’re a professional trainer or just a dog owner looking to understand your pup better, this episode will challenge your thinking and give you a more nuanced perspective on dominance, leadership, and effective training methods.
Tune in now and let us know—where do you stand on the dominance debate?
What should you do if a dog charges at you? How can you defend yourself from an aggressive dog without making the situation worse? In this episode, expert dog trainers Matt Covey, Nelson Medrano, and Matt Wlos take a deep dive into dog attack survival tactics, breaking down real-life scenarios and debunking some of the worst self-defense advice floating around online.
Using personal experiences, viral attack videos, and proven techniques, they cover everything you need to know about dog attack prevention and defense, including:
✅ How to prevent a dog attack before it happens – Understanding dog body language, recognizing warning signs, and avoiding high-risk situations.
✅ The best techniques for deterring an aggressive dog – When to use intimidation, eye contact, and body posture to stop an attack before it starts.
✅ What to do if a dog bites you – Why staying on your feet is critical, how to defend yourself without escalating the attack, and when to fight back.
✅ How to use everyday objects for protection – Backpacks, bikes, garbage can lids, leashes, and other improvised shields to keep a dog from latching onto you.
✅ Pepper spray, bear spray, and break sticks – Which self-defense tools actually work and when to use them.
✅ Why bad advice could get you killed – A breakdown of viral videos, including a police training clip that gives dangerous recommendations for dog attacks.
✅ What to do if a dog chases you on a bike – Why outrunning the dog isn’t always the best move and how to use your bike as a barrier.
✅ When to call authorities after a dog attack – The legal and ethical considerations, plus what happens if a dangerous dog is reported.
Dog attacks happen more often than most people realize, and knowing how to handle them could save your life or someone else’s. Whether you’re a dog owner, a trainer, or just someone who wants to be prepared, this episode is packed with actionable advice from professionals who have faced these situations firsthand.
📢 Have you ever encountered an aggressive dog? What would you do differently after hearing this discussion? Drop a comment below and let us know!
#DogAttack #DogSelfDefense #SurvivingADogAttack #DogTrainingTips #PersonalSafety #BalancedDogTraining #PepperSprayForDogs #HowToStopADogAttack
In this episode, Matt Covey and Matt Wlos discuss New Jersey's Senate Bill 3814, which proposes a licensing board for dog trainers. They explore the implications of the bill, including the potential criminalization of certain training methods, the authority of the proposed board, and the economic impact on the dog training industry. The conversation highlights public response to the bill, the legal nuances involved, and the broader implications for dog training across the country.
The hosts emphasize the importance of community engagement in legislative processes and the need for ongoing vigilance regarding dog training regulations.
Takeaways
In this episode we dive into the topic of how many dogs a person should have. How many dogs is the ideal number? How do you know how many dogs is too many? Will getting another dog make life easier or harder with your current dog?
Let us know your opinion in the comments!
We get a lot of questions revolving around dogs and wheels. A lot of dogs like to chase bikes, skateboards etc and we see it all!
In this episode we answer a number of questions from our YouTube channel on this topic. Learn how our trainers work to solve wheel related issues with their clients' dogs.
On today's episode we had Cody Will from Rattlesnake Ready, LLC. Cody is a great guy with a crazy job! Tune in to learn how he works with dogs and live rattlesnakes in order to keep dogs safe. Cody is a well known expert in this field and in our opinion is the top trainer in the country when it comes to Rattlesnake avoidance training.
We recommend him to all of our clients who live in snake country and we don’t make recommendations lightly. As we discussed in the show, Cody has people come in from all over the country to work with him in order to keep their pup safe.
If you are looking for training check out Cody's site here:
If you want to learn more about his zoo operations you check out this site:
Dr. Hayley Gammons came on the show to discuss how vaccines can affect a dog's socialization schedule, how spaying and neutering at different ages can affect a dog's health and a variety of other topics.
Dr. Gammons is a veterinarian in Franklin, TN and sees clients from all over the Nashville area.
Let us know what you think of the episode!
We had some of the folks from Dogtra on the show and it was a blast! We spent some time talking about Dogtra's past, present and future as well as the industry as a whole.
We also spent some time talking about the new 280x and the 1900x. Both of these collars are awesome and are a huge improvement over the older models.
E Collars have changed a lot over the years and they will continue to change in the future. Tune in for some insight on what the future will look like and also some tips on how to get the most out of your collar.
As mentioned in the podcast, we will be running a contest and giving away a 280x in the near future. Drop a comment on the podcast if you would like to be entered!
