In this episode, we shift the lens away from outcomes and titles and look at what often gets overlooked, the dog’s experience during training. Is the dog learning with clarity, or simply complying under pressure? Are we building understanding or just building behaviour?

We explore how training isn’t just about what a dog does at the end of a program, but how they felt throughout the journey. Confidence, confusion, fear, motivation, these internal states shape the long-term success of training more than most realise.

Whether you’re a trainer, a handler, or a dog owner, this conversation will get you thinking deeply about what it feels like to be on the other end of the lead. Because the best training doesn’t just teach skills, it builds trust, optimism, and resilience.

Further Details

Are you in search of top-tier dog trainers and steadfast supporters of the Canine Paradigm? Below is a comprehensive list of individuals and businesses that stand by our mission, contribute to our operational costs, and make significant contributions to the canine community.

Glenn Cooke oversees a wide range of canine-related services at Canine Evolutio n and Pe t Resorts Australia.
Pat Stuart offers a full suite of coaching and dog training services through Serious dog business

We invite you to support our show and access exclusive content on our P atreon page. Your contributions directly support the show’s ongoing production, and we deeply appreciate the wonderful community that has formed around it. If you’re unsure how to contribute, feel free to reach out to us for assistance.

Explore our complete range of merchandise at our Te espring store.

You can also help by spreading the word within the canine community or suggesting special guests for future interviews.

For information on how to listen to our podcast, please visit this link.

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for video content and updates.

If you enjoyed the podcast, we would greatly appreciate your reviews on iTunes, Spotify, and other podcast directories.

Details on joining the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP) can be found here. We highly recommend membership for anyone serious about advancing in the canine industry.

We also encourage you to check out D ogs Playing for Life, a transformational rescue process making a positive impact on dogs across the USA.

Support Our Supporters

Narelle Cooke hosts her own podcast, Natural Health for People and Pets, available on all major podcast platforms. Be sure to listen in.
For the finest human-grade supplements for your dogs, visit Canine Ceuticals. Now available in the USA. SHOW SPONSOR
Jason Firmin of E inzweck Dog Quip is another proud SHOW SPONSOR.
The innovative motorcycle dog kennel can be found at Rowdy Hound. SHOW SPONSOR
For daycare and heartfelt training services, check out From the Heart Dog Training. SHOW SPONSOR
Our dear friend and frequent contributor, Birdy O’Sheedy, can be found at The magic in dogs

Special Thanks

A huge thanks to all our contributing artists. Please take a moment to support their amazing work:

Jane Stuart
Avery Keller
Zoie Neidy

Episode 350: The experience of the dog in training