In this episode, we climb into our crate training skills and answer the most common questions about crate training your dog. We explore the benefits of crate training through every stage of your dog's life and offer practical tips to make the training process enjoyable for everyone—pets and people alike. We cover everything from safety and security to fostering independence and confidence. Tune in for actionable advice and real-life strategies to make the crate a positive place for your entire household.

The dogs are getting in on the Trick or Treat fun ... and we're gathering our favorite Tips, Tricks, and Treats to share with the pack. Dogs - just like humans- need to keep things interesting to stay engaged. Even basic obedience work can become a fun and rewarding game for your pup if you make it that way. Of course, it wouldn't be Halloween without a little something scary ... can I get a knee cap with that thigh bone? And it wouldn't be trick or treat without the treats, so we talk about some of our favorites and how to make them last longer than a fun-sized morsel.

In this episode, we offer insights into one of the most misunderstood dogs around today ... our beloved pit bulls. And come to find out, they're not a single breed, but a group of 5 breeds that have certain characteristics in common. We unravel the complicated background surrounding these beautiful beings, and hopefully provide some truth to counter the myths about these amazingly lovable and incredibly loyal canines.

This is the second in our series on the reactive dog. In this episode, we discuss the various stages of life: puppy, adolescence, and adulthood. We discuss why reactivity might appear and what you can do to help bring your dog back to a calmer state of mind - or better yet, help them not over-react in the first place. As always, the heroes of our podcast are the dogs, and we’ll share stories of our real-life canine caped crusaders. Helping them manage the root causes of the reaction is the basis for a trusting relationship where their super-dog qualities come shining through.

This is the first in our series where we explore the reactive dog. Whether they are frustrated, excited, or unsure, dogs have triggers that launch them into orbit - just like people. Once that trigger is pulled, the fight or flight reflex kicks in - Game On. Unlike people, dogs can't always reason their way past it. Understanding what triggers your dog can help you manage and change those habits. We talk about causes and suggest some "interrupters" that can help recondition how your dog responds, bringing their minds and bodies back down to earth. We are suggesting you LEAN IN instead of pulling away or reacting yourself. You and your dog will both feel so much better!

We are so excited about our collaboration with one of the country's foremost veterinary clinics, The Drake Center, and we're lucky enough to have them right here in Encinitas, CA. Join us for the first in an ongoing series of discussions with Dr. Kristie Leslie. Dr. Leslie is one of the amazing veterinarians at The Drake Center, and she has a special interest in dog behavior. In this episode, we focus on two subjects: Spaying and Neutering, and Vaccinations. We ask Dr. Leslie to clarify what the research says, and help to align on best practices for the individual dog. Because guess what...every dog is different, and the more we know, the more we make good decisions for our family members with fur.

In this episode, we dive into the world of dog fostering and celebrate the super-heroes of the rescue system … the Fosters. If you’ve ever considered joining the ranks of this amazing army of canine champions, we help simplify the complex world of rescues and why things work the way they do. We explore what it takes to be a successful foster and ensure that the experience is rewarding for the human - and the dog is able to blossom into the best version of themselves. After all, we’re in this for the dogs… but the humans matter too.

Today's episode is all about the wags, the wiggles, the winks, and the woofs - basically, those things your dog does that make you ask … are they happy, hungry, or plotting to take over the couch?  We’re here to help you decode those unique non-verbal cues they share with us. That tail wag might be saying “Wheeee! Let's party!” or perhaps it hints at something more mischievous, like, “Let’s take this outside…” Spoiler Alert: it could be a little of both.

Today's episode focuses on the Working Group, the second installment in our series exploring dog breeds and the characteristics common to each AKC group. We'll help you understand why your Mastiff believes it's his responsibility to monitor and protect your home from his favorite front window perch, yet transforms into the ultimate family lapdog once he's assessed the situation. Then, he'll follow Uncle Joe's every move with unwavering vigilance, despite Joe being the gentlest soul you'll ever meet! As we continue this series, we'll examine each of the seven AKC-recognized groups in detail. This is Dog Days, where we dive into what’s really going on beneath your dog’s behavior—and how understanding their needs can unlock real, lasting change. You’ll hear honest stories of transformation, unexpected breakthroughs, and the kind of training wisdom that will help you feel more confident, connected, and calm with your dog. You won't find one-size-fits-all training tips here. Instead, you'll hear from compassionate, often humorous experts who help you build an enduring trust with your dog by shifting how you show up to the party. Whether your pup fits the description or not, there's something here for every dog parent. ✨ Learn more about Woof Academy and explore our programs at woof-academy.com 🐾 Interested in becoming a dog trainer? Visit our training site: theacademy.dog 🎧 Subscribe to Dog Days and rate us on your favorite podcast platform—it helps more dog lovers find us. 📸 Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/woofacademy_enc/

Today's episode is the first in our series on dog breeds. We discuss characteristics that are common to a particular group and can help you understand why your Yorkie may secretly (or not so secretly) rule the world. We focus on the Toy Breeds today, and in subsequent episodes, we'll discuss each of the seven AKC-recognized groups. This is Dog Days, where we dive into what’s really going on beneath your dog’s behavior—and how understanding their needs can unlock real, lasting change. You’ll hear honest stories of transformation, unexpected breakthroughs, and the kind of training wisdom that will help you feel more confident, connected, and calm with your dog. You won't find one-size-fits-all training tips here. Instead, you'll hear from compassionate, often humorous experts who help you build an enduring trust with your dog by shifting how you show up to the party. Whether your pup fits the description or not, there's something here for every dog parent. ✨ Learn more about Woof Academy and explore our programs at woof-academy.com 🐾 Interested in becoming a dog trainer? Visit our training site: theacademy.dog 🎧 Subscribe to Dog Days and rate us on your favorite podcast platform—it helps more dog lovers find us. 📸 Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/woofacademy_enc/

In this second episode of Dog Days, we're talking about understanding and managing the (sometimes too high) energy level of our beloved beasts.

Today’s episode is all about our beloved “naughty” dogs—you know, the ones who leave you wondering if they’re secretly running the household. Psst… they’re not naughty - they’re bored!

Coming soon: the Dog Days podcast from Woof Academy!