USA Dog Behavior Podcast

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USA Dog Behavior Podcast

Scott Sheaffer, CBCC-KA, CDBC, CPDT-KA

69 episodes

3 days ago

Think using the "buzzer-only" mode on an electronic collar is a safe and humane training method? We're breaking down the science and psychology behind why this common belief is a myth. In this episode, we explore how a buzzer becomes a "conditioned aversive stimulus"—a predictor of pain that can cause fear, anxiety, and stress in your dog, even long after the shock function is disabled. Join us as we delve into the hidden emotional weight of the buzzer and champion a better way. We'll discuss...

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Think using the "buzzer-only" mode on an electronic collar is a safe and humane training method? We're breaking down the science and psychology behind why this common belief is a myth. In this episode, we explore how a buzzer becomes a "conditioned aversive stimulus"—a predictor of pain that can cause fear, anxiety, and stress in your dog, even long after the shock function is disabled. Join us as we delve into the hidden emotional weight of the buzzer and champion a better way. We'll discuss...

Show more...

Episodes (20/69)

USA Dog Behavior Podcast

The Buzzer Deception: Why Even 'Vibration-Only' Collars Are Harmful

Think using the "buzzer-only" mode on an electronic collar is a safe and humane training method? We're breaking down the science and psychology behind why this common belief is a myth. In this episode, we explore how a buzzer becomes a "conditioned aversive stimulus"—a predictor of pain that can cause fear, anxiety, and stress in your dog, even long after the shock function is disabled. Join us as we delve into the hidden emotional weight of the buzzer and champion a better way. We'll discuss...

3 days ago

8 minutes

USA Dog Behavior Podcast

8 Ways to Stop Your Dog from Barking in the Backyard

In this episode of the USA Dog Behavior Podcast, Scott dives into one of the most common canine behavior complaints—excessive backyard barking. He explains why barking can become self-reinforcing for dogs and walks listeners through eight practical strategies to reduce it, from better exercise and mental enrichment to smart training techniques. Listeners will learn how to identify what triggers their dog’s barking, how to respond the right way (and when not to respond), and how to teach their...

1 week ago

9 minutes

USA Dog Behavior Podcast

Zoomies: Why Every Dog Gets Them

That frantic, hilarious burst of energy where your dog becomes a blur of fur is one of the most universal—and puzzling—dog behaviors out there. But what are the zoomies, really? In this episode, we crack the code on Frenetic Random Activity Periods (FRAP), exploring the surprising science and common triggers behind this canine phenomenon. We’ll reassure you that this behavior is usually a completely normal and healthy part of dog life, explaining why from the tiniest Chihuahua to the gentlest...

3 weeks ago

11 minutes

USA Dog Behavior Podcast

The 5 Biggest Myths About Aggressive Dogs (and What’s Really Going On)

Aggression in dogs can feel scary, frustrating, and hopeless—but much of what we think we know about it simply isn’t true. In this episode, Scott breaks down the five biggest myths about aggressive dogs, from the idea that they’re “just mean” to the belief that certain breeds are destined to be dangerous or that some are never aggressive. Along the way, he shares real-world case stories from his work with dogs and their families, showing how myths can create more problems—and how understandin...

1 month ago

11 minutes

USA Dog Behavior Podcast

The One Behavior Change Every Dog Owner Should Notice

In this episode, we dive into the single most important thing every dog owner should watch for in their dog’s behavior: change. Dogs thrive on routine, and even small shifts in how they eat, sleep, play, or interact can signal stress, anxiety, pain, or other underlying issues. Scott breaks down why noticing these subtle changes early can make a huge difference in keeping your dog healthy and happy. Scott also shares practical steps for observing, tracking, and interpreting behavior changes, a...

1 month ago

8 minutes

USA Dog Behavior Podcast

Who makes the best dog owner?

Curious about what really makes a great dog owner? In this episode, Scott Sheaffer of USA Dog Behavior breaks down the four key traits every successful dog owner needs: patience, commitment, realistic expectations, and belief. Using real-life examples from his work with dogs struggling with aggression and anxiety, Scott shows how these qualities transform dogs’ behavior and strengthen the bond between dog and owner. Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or a seasoned pro, this episode is pack...

2 months ago

7 minutes

USA Dog Behavior Podcast

The Hidden Risks of Board & Train Dog Training Schools for Aggression Cases

In this episode of the USA Dog Behavior podcast, Scott Sheaffer, a certified dog behavior consultant and behaviorist, dives into the complexities of board-and-train programs for dogs with aggression issues. While these programs may seem appealing for their promise of quick fixes, Scott explains why they often fall short—especially for aggression rooted in fear or insecurity. He highlights the dangers of suppressing symptoms like growling or barking without addressing the underlying emotions, ...

2 months ago

8 minutes

USA Dog Behavior Podcast

Cleaning Up Dog Accidents the Right Way: It Matters More Than You Think

In this episode of the USA Dog Behavior podcast, certified dog behavior consultant Scott Sheaffer dives into the often-overlooked but crucial topic of properly cleaning up dog accidents. He explains why scent matters more than the visible mess, comparing it to a "text message" for dogs that can lead to repeat accidents if not fully erased. Whether dealing with housetraining mishaps or territorial marking, Scott emphasizes that standard cleaners like vinegar or soap aren’t enough—enzymatic cle...

3 months ago

6 minutes

USA Dog Behavior Podcast

Is Euthanasia Ever Right for Severe Dog Behavior Problems?

Deciding whether euthanasia is appropriate for a dog with severe behavior issues is one of the most heartbreaking choices a dog owner can face. In this episode, we explore when behavioral euthanasia may be the most compassionate option—such as when a dog poses an unmanageable safety risk, suffers from poor quality of life due to extreme anxiety or aggression, or has exhausted all training and medical interventions. We’ll discuss the ethical considerations, how to assess a dog’s well-being obj...

3 months ago

5 minutes

USA Dog Behavior Podcast

Cesar Millan’s 4 Biggest Dog Training Myths

In this episode of the USA Dog Behavior Podcast, we’re calling out some of the most persistent, and damaging, dog training myths made popular by Cesar Millan. From the outdated “alpha dog” theory to the idea that a tired dog is a well-behaved dog, we unpack four harmful misconceptions that continue to mislead dog owners. Backed by modern science and decades of behavioral research, this episode challenges the TV drama of dominance-based training and sheds light on what actually works when it c...

4 months ago

6 minutes

USA Dog Behavior Podcast

The Hidden Ways You Might Be Punishing Your Dog Without Knowing It

In this episode, we uncover the hidden ways you might be punishing your dog without even realizing it. While many associate punishment with physical corrections like shock collars or leash jerks, behaviors like yelling or harsh tones can be just as intimidating—and counterproductive—for your pup. Learn how dogs perceive punishment differently than humans, why fear-based methods often backfire, and how to shift to reward-based training for happier dogs and more effective results. Discove...

5 months ago

7 minutes

USA Dog Behavior Podcast

Why Are Some Dogs Aggressive?

In this insightful episode of the USA Dog Behavior Podcast, certified dog behavior consultant and behaviorist Scott Sheaffer delves into the complex topic of canine aggression. He explains that aggression in dogs often stems from fear rather than inherent hostility, serving as a defensive mechanism to create distance from perceived threats. Sheaffer distinguishes between reactivity and aggression, highlighting how reactive behaviors like barking or lunging can escalate into aggression, ...

5 months ago

11 minutes

USA Dog Behavior Podcast

Losing a Dog Hurts—Here’s the True Story Behind a Famous Poem That Eases the Pain

In this heartfelt episode of the USA Dog Behavior podcast, Scott Sheaffer explores the deep emotional impact of losing a beloved dog. Scott shares his personal reflections on the grief that follows such a loss and introduces listeners to the famous poem The Rainbow Bridge, which has brought comfort to countless grieving pet owners for over six decades. Listeners will hear the touching origin story of the poem, written in 1959 by Edna Clyne-Rekhy after the death of her dog Major—an authorship ...

6 months ago

5 minutes

USA Dog Behavior Podcast

The Crisis of Unqualified Dog Trainers Treating Dog Aggression

In this episode of the USA Dog Behavior podcast, certified dog behavior consultant and behaviorist Scott Sheaffer addresses the critical issue of unqualified dog trainers handling aggression cases. He highlights the lack of regulation in the dog training industry, where inexperienced individuals often use harmful methods like shock collars or dominance-based techniques, exacerbating aggression rather than resolving it. Sheaffer emphasizes that effective aggression treatment requires proven ex...

6 months ago

10 minutes

USA Dog Behavior Podcast

Can Dogs Be Psychotic? Understanding Bizarre Canine Behavior

In this episode of the USA Dog Behavior Podcast, certified dog behavior consultant and behaviorist Scott Sheaffer explores the question: Can dogs be psychotic? While dogs may exhibit behaviors that resemble human psychosis—such as staring at "nothing" or sudden aggression—these actions are typically linked to medical or environmental causes rather than clinical psychosis. Sheaffer breaks down potential triggers, including neurological issues, toxins, anxiety, or past trauma, and emphasizes th...

6 months ago

9 minutes

USA Dog Behavior Podcast

Can Your iPhone Really Identify Dog Breeds? I Put It to the Test

Can your iPhone really identify dog breeds? In this episode, I'm going to put it to the test. In this episode of the USA Dog Behavior Podcast, certified dog behavior consultant Scott Sheaffer puts Apple’s dog breed identification feature to the test! If you have an iPhone running iOS 15 or later, your Photos app can automatically detect 350+ dog breeds—but how accurate is it? Scott shares his hands-on experience testing this tool revealing how well it works for purebred and mixed-breed dogs. ...

7 months ago

5 minutes

USA Dog Behavior Podcast

Why Your Dog Ignores You (and What to Do About It)

Does your dog ignore you when you call their name or give a command? It’s not stubbornness—there’s always a reason behind it! In this episode of the USA Dog Behavior Podcast, certified dog behavior consultant Scott Sheaffer breaks down the most common reasons dogs “tune out” their owners and what you can do to fix it. From poor generalization of commands to overwhelming distractions, we’ll cover practical training techniques to make communication with your dog clearer and more effective. Lear...

7 months ago

9 minutes

USA Dog Behavior Podcast

When Your Dog Acts Out: How to Handle Aggression Toward Dogs and People

What do you do when your dog suddenly acts out, showing aggression toward other dogs or even people? It’s a stressful and often confusing situation for any dog owner, but the good news is that there are steps you can take to manage and address this behavior. In this episode of the USA Dog Behavior Podcast, we’ll walk you through exactly what to do in the moment—from staying calm to safely removing your dog from the situation—and how to prevent future outbursts. Whether your dog is grow...

8 months ago

6 minutes

USA Dog Behavior Podcast

Dog Bite Liability: What Owners Need to Know (Including Texas-Specific Laws in the USA)

In this episode of the USA Dog Behavior Podcast, Scott Sheaffer explores the legal responsibilities of dog owners when their pets bite someone, with a focus on dog bite liability laws in Texas and beyond. He breaks down key legal principles, including strict liability, the "One Bite Rule," and negligence-based liability, providing insights into how different jurisdictions handle dog bite cases. Listeners will learn about Texas-specific laws, including Lillian's Law, which imposes severe penal...

9 months ago

10 minutes

USA Dog Behavior Podcast

Two Signs You’ve Found an Effective Dog Trainer

This podcast episode explores two critical signs of an effective dog trainer or behaviorist. First, it emphasizes the importance of positive, reward-based training techniques, especially for addressing challenging issues like aggression or separation anxiety. Positive reinforcement, supported by modern behavioral science, fosters faster learning, longer retention, and fewer behavioral problems compared to aversive methods. Trainers relying on punishment may achieve short-term gains but risk l...

9 months ago

8 minutes