Shows
Good Dog WorkshopPuppy Biting!All puppies bite. It's how they test things and explore their world. Not because they're aggressive or trying to take over or want to hurt you. Marina & Brian delve deep into this topic to help you navigate your way through one of the most normal things that puppies do.2023-07-0957 min
Good Dog WorkshopDogMatchIn this episode, Marina & Brian discuss 3 new clients for their DogMatch service, where they help match up their clients with a dog that is right for their lifestyle. As Brian says "If you call us to help you find a new dog through DogMatch, you won't be calling us later for training."2023-04-1350 minGood Dog WorkshopRescuing a Dog with HeartwormsIn today's episode, Marina talks with Brian about her recent experience with her German Shepherd LADY who had heartworms when Marina adopted her. It's a common ailment for dogs and it is treatable, but it can be challenging for owners to get their dogs through the heartworm treatment while still fulfilling their dogs' needs.Please consult a veterinarian for proper medical diagnosis and treatment of heartworms.2023-04-0732 minGood Dog WorkshopLearned HelplessnessIn this episode, Marina & Brian discuss the "Learned Helplessness" of two recent clients' dogs. It's a sad thing to see but both dogs showed they can get past it and become happy and balanced. Find out more about this and learn how you can prevent something like this from happening to your dog!2023-02-1142 min
Good Dog WorkshopFoster Dog GEORGEIn this episode, Marina & Brian discuss Marina's new foster dog GEORGE, a hound mix found as a stray in Texas. Learn how we at Good Dog Workshop work with George to help him overcome his anxiety, leash reactivity and resource guarding, and to ultimately help him find his new Forever Home.2023-01-1439 min
Good Dog WorkshopOur Search for A New Dog: Creating A LadyWithin a very short time after meeting German Shepherd MARY, Marina added Mary (now Lady) to her pack and is learning more about her by the hour. In this episode, Marina & Brian discuss the newest addition to the Good Dog Workshop pack: how she fits into her new pack already, what she knows (and doesn't know), and how we'll be able to mold her natural talents to make her into a fine Good Dog Workshop "lady".2022-10-2942 min
Good Dog WorkshopOur Search for A New Dog: Finding MarySometimes you end up being our own client. In this case, Marina's awesome German Shepherd SASHA will be retiring soon, so Marina & Brian are doing their DogMatch service for themselves. In this episode, get a behind-the-curtain peek into the process of finding a new dog as Marina & Brian share their search for a new dog assistant for their Good Dog Workshop pack who is also a new family pet for Marina. Listen to them discuss all the steps they go through when helping a client find the next dog for their family: What breed? What size? Male or female...2022-10-2736 minGood Dog WorkshopReading Between the Lines 3Marina & Brian take another light-hearted look at a sampling of online inquiries from dog owners with 'misbehaving' dogs. Listen and learn as Marina & Brian discuss what they 'read' from what's written (and not written) about the dogs' behavior, the dogs' environment and the people. 2022-08-2442 min
Good Dog WorkshopOff-Leash TrainingMarina & Brian discuss the importance of training your dog to be trustworthy off-leash. Through off-leash training, you can use your voice (at a great distance) to keep your dog safe, under control yet still give your dog the freedom to explore while still being attentive to you & your pack. This is a great skill that further strengthens the bond between you & your dog!2022-08-0728 min
Good Dog WorkshopPuppies! STAR and SUSHIEqual parts fun AND annoying, puppies are not for everyone. In this episode, Marina & Brian share everything they've learned about two new puppies that they've spent a ton of time with. Hear the good, the bad & the ugly about STAR the Lab mix and SUSHI the cattle dog mix! 2022-07-3137 minGood Dog WorkshopElderly Dog Owners Getting Energetic DogsMarina & Brian discuss a seemingly growing trend: Elderly, physically-limited dog owners getting energetic dogs. Sometimes it involves people ending up with a puppy or high-energy dog pushed on them by their adult kids who got a dog for themselves, then move back home and suddenly the elderly parents have to take care of the dog. But more often than not, it involves older people with health issues which severely limit their ability to exercise a dog, but choose a puppy having forgotten how much work and physical activity is required to raise a puppy. And that often leads to...2022-07-1947 minGood Dog WorkshopDogs Are Dogs Regardless of Size — Raise Them the SameEver notice how people with small dogs oftentimes let their dogs get away with behavior that they wouldn't let slide with a big dog? Marina & Brian discuss the problems dog owners have when they raise their small dogs differently than their big dogs. 2022-07-0329 min
Good Dog WorkshopPupdate! and meet CALLIE!Want to know what's been going on with BAGEL the beagle, SQUIRTY the Corgi, and BEAN the Boxer? Marina & Brian share the latest about a few of the dogs they've recently worked with and fostered. PLUS, meet CALLIE, a super sweet female cattle dog who is the newest member of the Good Dog Workshop pack. 2022-05-1133 minGood Dog WorkshopInterview with Paul Hewitt, U.K. BehavioristBrian interviews fellow dog behaviorist Paul Hewitt, founder of Beard Meets Dog based in Bournemouth, England. Learn about Paul and how he got his start in the dog behavior world, his philosophies on working with dogs, his favorite breeds, and his ultimate goal for the future of Beard Meets Dog.2022-03-2255 min
Good Dog WorkshopMajor Changes to the Good Dog Workshop PackFrom Brian: In November of 2021, my cattle dog RED passed away from a very aggressive inoperable nasal tumor. And just last week at the end of February 2022, my beagle VIVIAN passed away after a long bout with lymphoma. The loss of Red and Vivian has been devastating for me personally and incredibly impactful to Good Dog Workshop and the work am do with my clients. We at Good Dog Workshop know that you—our listeners—grew to know and love Vivian and Red through the podcast and we appreciate your support during our grief.As we all know...2022-03-0840 minGood Dog WorkshopCase Study: Separation AnxietyBrian & Marina discuss a recent training session with a client who said her dog had "severe" separation anxiety...but the reality was much different. It's all too common for so many dog owners to perceive their dogs' behavior as 'separation anxiety' but so often that is not the case.2022-03-0252 min
Good Dog WorkshopNew Foster Dog: BAGELIn this episode, Marina & Brian discuss BAGEL, a young beagle whom Brian is fostering from the Fauquier SPCA. These days, Brian chooses a foster dog not only to help out a dog in need and to make the dog more adoptable, he is also essentially interviewing Bagel as a potential new pack member & assistant for Good Dog Workshop. Learn about Brian's checklist for his next assistant and his routine for bringing a new dog into his home and pack.2022-02-0535 minGood Dog WorkshopRapid Fire Questions!For today's podcast, Brian surprised Marina with a series of questions that she had no previous knowledge of on a wide variety of topics ranging from Easiest Breed, Funniest Dog Names, Emotional Support Dogs, and the Startle Lady at the Dog Park!2022-01-2948 minGood Dog WorkshopMyths #2: Shelter Dogs Are 'Broken'In this second-to-last myth podcast, Marina & Brian discuss the widely-held belief that if a dog has been surrendered by someone, there must be something inherently wrong with the dog. Nothing could be further from the truth. Listen as Brian & Marina talk about the real reasons dogs are surrendered, returned, given up, dumped and how the people contribute to—and in most cases—create the problem behaviors.2022-01-1125 minGood Dog WorkshopKudos to Clients! Lisa & Brian with SADIEBrian & Marina discuss the outstanding work of recent clients with their young pit bull SADIE. Within less than 20 minutes, Brian was able to help these clients transform their anxious, barking 7-month-old into a respectful, calm, happy pup. This was an excellent example of how WE (the humans) are the most important component in our dogs' environment; and if we change, our dogs can change! These clients and their dog were fantastic!2021-12-1640 min
Good Dog WorkshopShould YOU Have A German Shepherd?Marina & Brian give their no-nonsense reasons why German Shepherds are not for everyone. It's been said that "The breed is marked by a willingness to learn and an eagerness to have a purpose". This can be a phenomenal dog with the right leadership and—of course—proper exercise, but without it, this breed often becomes anxious and starts making bad decisions...which often involve using its teeth. Before considering this breed, do your research and do an honest self-evaluation of your available time, lifestyle, and leadership to make sure a German Shepherd is right for you.And p...2021-12-071h 03Good Dog WorkshopCase Study: ANOTHER Pack of 4 Dogs Owned by Self-UNaware FamilyLet's just call this one Whack-A-Mole. In this podcast, Marina & Brian discuss a training session they had with 4 very different dogs, 3 very different humans, an endless peppering of conflicting, incomplete and contradictory information, AND a client who repeatedly turned her back in mid-conversation and started talking to one of her dogs. Truth is stranger than fiction. All names of dogs and people were omitted to protect the privacy of these clients.2021-10-2047 minGood Dog WorkshopLack of LeadershipMarina & Brian discuss some of the common problems which result from a lack of Leadership with a dog. Find out some of the reasons why dogs misbehave and fail to respond to their owners.2021-09-2231 minGood Dog WorkshopTop 10 Myths, #3: "These Things" Cause AggressionMarina & Brian debunk the 5 most common things that dog owners are told cause aggression: Playing Tug, Roughhousing, Staring At, E-Collars, and Other Dogs. Take a listen and found out why these things DO NOT cause aggression, what their actual purpose is, and how to get the most benefit from them.2021-08-2435 minGood Dog WorkshopAdolescent DogsIn this episode, Marina & Brian discuss adolescent dogs (generally between 6-18 months), and some of the typical challenges that come along with dogs at that stage in life, including the particular issues that have arisen with so many "COVID Puppies" who were adopted/bought during the pandemic last year. They go over in great detail 2 adolescent dogs they recently worked with and how the future looks for those 2 dogs.2021-08-2133 min
Good Dog WorkshopTraveling with Your Dog!Marina & Brian discuss the pros and cons of traveling with your dog and how to do it safely and enjoyably!2021-07-2023 minGood Dog WorkshopTop 10 Myths, #4: Tail Wagging = Happy DogIn this episode, Brian & Marina tackle one of the most common myths about dogs: A wagging tail means the dog is happy. Listen to learn the truth behind this snapshot of a dog's body language.2021-07-0816 minGood Dog WorkshopLeadership w/ Special Guest Shari GoodwinBrian discusses Leadership with expert Strategist & Leadership Coach Shari Goodwin, author of best sellers Reinventing Greatness: Leading Yourself & Others Through Change with Confidence & Trust and Take the Reins! 7 Secrets to Inspired Leadership. Whether you're working with people, dogs or even horses (Shari's specialty), Leadership—and the energy and intention you project—is something you need to be aware of to be an effective Leader in your professional AND your personal life.2021-06-2439 min
Good Dog WorkshopFoster Dog: BUCKY the German ShepherdMarina & Brian discuss BUCKY, a big, handsome German Shepherd looking for his "forever home". Learn more about Bucky and help spread the word to find him a family who is perfect for him!2021-06-0935 minGood Dog WorkshopTop 10 Myths, #5: Let the Dogs Figure It OutMarina & Brian explain another myth: When bringing dogs together, you should let THEM sort out any issues. WRONG! We (the people) need to be in charge of our dogs, and that means that we sort things out between dogs, not let them "figure it out" themselves.2021-05-2717 minGood Dog WorkshopReading Between the Lines: Client ConversationsMarina & Brian dive into the sometimes muddy waters of diagnosing dog behavior problems, beginning with our first phone call with the client / dog owner. What we're told about a dog's behavior is often just the tip of the iceberg, and it's our job to figure out what's really going on, and to show our clients how to resolve the problematic behavior.2021-04-1950 minGood Dog WorkshopTop 10 Myths, #6: Positive Reinforcement Training (it's NOT All Positive Reinforcement)The 6th installment of our series on Myths surrounding dog behavior, Marina & Brian discuss how Positive Reinforcement Only is NOT only positive reinforcement. 2021-04-1617 minGood Dog WorkshopHow NOT to Teach: Dog Training, according to "Dog: Impossible" TV showMarina & Brian take a look at Nat Geo's TV show "Dog: Impossible" and analyze the training methods & techniques used to help dog owners with their dogs' unwanted behavior. Watch his show to see what trainer Matt Beisner says and does, and then learn why so much of it is ineffective.2021-03-3155 minGood Dog WorkshopTop 10 Myths, #7: Whoever Is Out Front is the LeaderIn this episode, Marina & Brian discuss a person's (or dog's) physical position in the pack relative to others. Many think if the human is out front, the human must be in charge (or if the dog is out front, the dog must be in charge). Not so. Listen and learn why this is a myth.2021-03-1524 minGood Dog WorkshopTop 10 Myths, #8: Greeting a Dog with Your Hand OutNext in the countdown of Myths, Marina & Brian discuss: Holding your hand out to let a dog sniff you. So many people do it when they're meeting dog for the first time — Find out why it's not the best thing to do!2021-02-1617 minGood Dog WorkshopTop 10 Myths, #9: Allowing Your Dog to Jump on YouIn this new series, Brian & Marina discuss some common myths about dogs. This episode's topic is: If you ever let your dog jump up on you, he'll jump up on everyone. Listen and find out the truth about this myth.2021-01-1422 minGood Dog WorkshopTop 10 Myths, #10: Can a Dog Be Too Old (or Too Young) to Train?In this new series, Brian & Marina discuss some common myths about dogs. This first one: Can a dog be too young or too old to train?2020-12-2912 minGood Dog WorkshopIt's Never Too Late to Socialize Your Dog! part 2In part 2 of this series, Marina & Brian discuss the socialization issues of 3 different dogs: Rose, Buki and Gordita. 2020-12-2849 minGood Dog WorkshopSpending QUALITY TIME with Your DogMarina & Brian discuss the importance of spending "quality time" with your dog. What does "quality time" mean? What does it look like? Why is it important? And how do my dog & I benefit from it? (Hint: It's the opposite of being lazy with your dog.)2020-12-1235 minGood Dog WorkshopIt's Never Too Late to Socialize Your Dog! part 1Marina & Brian discuss the importance of socializing your dog, and that it's never too late to get started! How long do YOU go without interacting with another person? Let's be fair to our dogs and provide them the same need and get them socialized every day.2020-12-0129 min
Good Dog WorkshopNew GDW Pack Member SASHA & Shepherd EvaluationsMarina & Brian discuss Marina's new German Shepherd, SASHA, and their evaluations of three other shepherds with very different temperaments.2020-10-2332 minGood Dog WorkshopBoard & Train Services: Be CarefulMarina & Brian discuss the good, bad and ugly of "board & train" services.2020-10-0838 minGood Dog WorkshopGSPs & other Ultra-High Energy Dogs!!!Marina & Brian have an impromptu discussion about German Shorthaired Pointers, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers and other ultra-high-energy dogs. You'll hear their very frank opinions about these specific dogs and what you can expect if you bring one into your home/life.2020-09-1259 minGood Dog WorkshopCase Study: 4 Dogs Owned by Self-UNaware FamilyMarina & Brian discuss a recent client with 4 dogs. Although the client called us for one dog's behavior, one of the other dogs had a much bigger problem AND their new puppy was already picking up bad habits from the older dogs. A whole lot to address here.2020-08-1836 minGood Dog WorkshopReading Between the Lines: Diagnosing Behavior through WritingCarlos & Brian take a light-hearted look at a sampling of random online statements from dog owners and discuss what they 'read' about the dog behavior, the environment and the people. 2020-08-1136 min
Good Dog WorkshopCOVID-19 Puppy DelugeCarlos, Marina & Brian discuss the flood of puppies and adult dogs being adopted during the coronavirus pandemic. So many people figure that working from home finally gives them the opportunity to get a new dog! It's not quite that easy...2020-07-2139 min
Good Dog WorkshopDoodlesBrian & Marina discuss the increasingly popular hybrid Doodles. Half Labrador Retriever and half Poodle...or is it? These dogs are generally very family-friendly, great with other dogs and full of energy. Is this the right breed for you?2020-06-2444 min
Good Dog WorkshopAdopting PepperPepper, a 9 month old female Australian Cattle dog was chained in a yard at 7 weeks old and it didn't look like her life was going to get any better. After months of hard work the incredible people at the Fauquier SPCA rescued her at the same time Josh was looking for a cattle dog to add to his family. Here, Josh & Brian talk about meeting Pepper and 2 hours later she's heading home with Josh!2020-04-3048 min
Good Dog WorkshopHow NOT to Teach: Dog Training pt. 2, according to "Stuff You Should Know" podcastPart 2 of our series addressing more bad & ridiculous information about dogs. In this second episode, Brian and Marina debunk more wrong and ridiculous information about dogs and dog training methods spread across the world by the popular Stuff You Should Know podcast episode "How Dog Training Works". Listen to their podcast and then come back to our Good Dog Workshop podcast to find the truth about dogs and dog training from people who actually know the subject matter.2020-04-1851 min
Good Dog WorkshopHow NOT to Teach: Dog Training, according to "Stuff You Should Know" podcastIn this episode, Brian and Marina debunk more wrong and ridiculous information about dog training methods spread across the world by the popular Stuff You Should Know podcast episode "How Dog Training Works". Listen to their podcast and then come back to our Good Dog Workshop podcast to find the truth about dogs and dog training from people who actually know the subject matter.2020-04-0850 min
Good Dog WorkshopDog Groups: HoundsIn this episode, Carlos & Brian discuss Hounds — dogs bred to chase/follow/track their quarry and keep it at bay until their humans arrive. Although hounds are almost always very friendly with people and other dogs, hounds are not easy to have as a typical suburban pet because their instinct to track and follow is so strong.2020-04-0327 min
Good Dog WorkshopHousetraining Your DogBrian offers the best tips to help you housetrain your dog. Whether you have a young pup or an older dog, this advice will help get you on your way to a mess-free home! 2020-02-2107 min
Good Dog WorkshopHow NOT to Teach: "Surprise Attack" according to Victoria StilwellCarlos & Brian analyze a "training" video by Victoria Stilwell. Follow along and watch her video to learn the WRONG way to let a dog greet you, the WRONG way to respond to an excited, disrespectful dog who jumps on you when you enter a house, the WRONG way to "claim" a bone, and the WRONG way to then respond to a dog who snaps at you for being near 'his' bone. Then listen to us and learn the RIGHT way to do these things. We practice these techniques every day with our dogs and our clients' dogs and we...2020-01-3131 minGood Dog WorkshopKids & DogsCarlos & Brian discuss one of the most prevalent topics from dog owners: Kids & Dogs.2019-12-2629 min
Good Dog WorkshopHumanizing Your Dog, Part 2: TOUCHCarlos & Brian discuss the detrimental effects of treating dogs like humans. The second podcast in this series focuses on using TOUCH with dogs. Dogs use touch much more sparingly with one another and do so oftentimes to correct while we MOSTLY use touch to soothe...and actually ends up to soothing or calmin ourselves, not our dogs. Don't fall into the trap of touching your dog (in a way that diminishes your relationship with him, that is) as your main form of communication!2019-11-1423 min
Good Dog WorkshopChoosing the Right Dog for You and Your Family! REVISITEDBrian & Marina revisit the topic of choosing the right dog. In just the past week, two separate clients have come to Good Dog Workshop to help them find new families for their dogs, both 3-year-old male German Shepherds coincidentally. Brian & Marina go through the details of each case and stress why it's so important to choose the right dog from the start.2019-11-0743 min
Good Dog WorkshopPuppies! part 2The second in the "Puppies!" series. Brian & Marina discuss puppies — How much work they are, how much fun they are, common behavior challenges, and most importantly: that it's never too early to start training your puppy.2019-11-0442 min
Good Dog WorkshopPuppies! part 1Brian & Marina discuss puppies — How much work they are, how much fun they are, common behavior challenges, and most importantly: that it's never too early to start training your puppy.2019-10-3147 min
Good Dog WorkshopHumanizing Your Dog, Part 1: VOICECarlos & Brian discuss the detrimental effects of treating dogs like humans. The first podcast in this series focuses on using (actually, OVER-using) human speech when working with dogs. Dogs don't use speech at all to communicate while we MOSTLY use speech in our communication with others. Don't fall into the trap of talking to your dog as your first and main form of communication!2019-10-2620 min
Good Dog WorkshopKnow Your DogBrian explains the importance of being able to read the visual cues of your dog's body language so you know what he's thinking and then decide if and how you need to address his forthcoming behavior. Ears and tail up? He's probably seen something that interests or excites him. It could be a squirrel in the next yard or it could be your friend walking towards you. Either way, it's a good idea to know what he's thinking so you can predict his behavior. It's not rocket science—just look, and you'll KNOW YOUR DOG!2019-10-2512 min
Good Dog WorkshopWorking with Seized Wheaton Terriers, part 2Brian and special guest Marina Finelli discuss their second day working with the Wheaton Terriers seized from their neglectful/abusive owners by the Fauquier Animal Control. These dogs range in ages from a few weeks old to senior dogs. Most are in bad shape physically and almost all are very psychologically traumatized by their mistreatment and horrible living conditions. This is second in a series of podcasts sharing the details of the challenging work that Brian, Josh, Michael and Marina are doing to help rehabilitate these dogs to bring them back to normalcy where they can trust humans and...2019-10-0537 min
Good Dog WorkshopWorking with Seized Wheaton Terriers, part 1Brian and special guest Michael Lamper discuss their first day working with the Wheaton Terriers taken from their neglectful/abusive owners by the Fauquier Animal Control. These dogs range in ages from a few weeks old to senior dogs. Most are in bad shape physically and almost all are very traumatized by their mistreatment and horrible living conditions. This is first in a series of podcasts sharing the details of the challenging work Michael and Brian are doing to help rehabilitate these dogs and bring them back to normalcy where they can trust humans.2019-10-0541 minGood Dog WorkshopDog Training Styles, part 2The 2nd part of a 2-part series in which Carlos & Brian discuss the various types of dog training and dog trainers. Whether it's big, international companies, sole proprietorships, "militaristic" trainers, positive reinforcement only training, highly "educated" trainers or just someone who loves dogs, we discuss it all. Find out what type/style of training/trainer might be right for you and your dog.2019-09-1937 min
Good Dog WorkshopDog Training Styles, part 1Carlos & Brian discuss the various types of dog training and dog trainers. Whether it's big, international companies, sole proprietorships, "militaristic" trainers, positive reinforcement only training, highly "educated" trainers or just someone who loves dogs, we discuss it all. Find out what type/style of training/trainer might be right for you and your dog.2019-09-1637 minGood Dog WorkshopTraining Tools for Your Dog — CORRECTED FILE UPLOADCarlos & Brian discuss the pros and cons of using various training tools, and how a person's perception of the tool can actually interfere with the effectiveness of your training with your dog.2019-09-1138 min
Good Dog WorkshopTaking a Client to the Dog Park w/ Special Guest Marina FinelliIn this episode, Brian & Marina discuss our entire training session with a client couple and their new dog, all the way from leash manners to off-leash play in the Vint Hill Dog Park. There's so much to learn here!2019-09-0839 minGood Dog WorkshopBreaking Up a Dog Fight, part 2In Part 2, Carlos & Brian discuss PREVENTING a dog fight from happening. Reading the dogs' body language, paying attention (being alert) to the environment, and knowing what YOU yourself may be contributing to the situation are all elements to be aware of in preventing a dog fight from occurring in the first place.2019-09-0737 min
Good Dog WorkshopBreaking Up a Dog Fight, part 1Carlos & I discuss the techniques WE use to break up a dog fight. DISCLAIMER: Dog fights are not all the same. Dogs fighting can be fighting for different reasons. Dogs fighting are usually not evenly matched. Breaking up dog fights is a skill that can be learned but it is risky and it is definitely not for most people to attempt. It requires confidence, timing, quickness, agility, and strength. Breaking up a dog fight can be very dangerous both to the people trying to intervene as well as the dogs in the fight. Do not try these t...2019-09-0532 minGood Dog WorkshopDecision Making to Help Your Dog & YourselfCarlos & Brian discuss the simple act of decision making. Every one of us makes 100s of decisions each and every day. Some decisions affect us right away, some affect us in the future, and many affect our relationships with our dogs. Join us to hear just a few of the ways our decision-making process can play a huge role in our lives with our dogs.2019-08-2234 min
Good Dog WorkshopFoster Dog BUDDY: Looking for his "Forever Home"This podcast is all about BUDDY, a young male Australian Cattle Dog who I'm fostering for the Fauquier SPCA. One of the best dogs I've ever fostered, BUDDY is quiet, easy, fun, playful, affectionate, and gets along great with dogs and people! Is BUDDY the right dog for you? Listen and find out more!2019-08-1916 minGood Dog WorkshopDog Breeds: Doberman PinscherOriginally developed in the 1870s as a guard dog for tax collector Louis Dobermann, the Doberman Pinscher (German for "terrier") has had its ups and downs over the decades. Not as popular as they used to be, but still much-loved and instantly recognizable—the Doberman Pinscher.2019-08-0824 min
Good Dog WorkshopDog Breeds: Pit Bull part 3This is our 3rd installment about Pit Bulls in our series on Dog Breeds. It's a controversial topic because it seems like people either love this breed or are afraid of it. There are a lot of statistics on this breed and a lot of stories, both good and bad. We've worked with some great Pit Bulls and some hard-core ones as well. We feel this is definitely not a breed most people should consider as these dogs tend to be high energy, tenacious, muscular, and tough. There are absolutely some great ones out there—they can make for lo...2019-07-2824 min
Good Dog WorkshopDog Breeds: Labrador RetrieverThe second installment in our new series, Carlos & Brian discuss the Labrador Retriever and the Golden Retriever — happy and easy-going. The American Kennel Club describes the Lab as "friendly, active and outgoing" and the Golden as "friendly, intelligent and devoted". Both the Lab and the Golden are two of the easiest breeds to own; that's why they are always at the top of the list of Most Popular in the United States. If you're a first-time dog owner, either of these is a great choice!2019-06-2723 min
Good Dog WorkshopDog Breeds: German ShepherdThe first in our new series, Carlos & Brian discuss the German Shepherd—handsome, noble and not for everyone.2019-06-2628 minGood Dog WorkshopSelf-Awareness Part 4: Do you know yourself and how you affect your dog?The 4th in a series about Self-Awareness. In this one, Carlos & Brian discuss a recent client who completely surprised us by being very self aware. She knew of her own insecurities and her own emotional state and that they were a problem with her relationships with her dogs; she just didn't know how to prevent her issues from getting in the way of her success with her three terrific dogs. A very positive and inspirational episode about Self-Awareness!2019-06-1921 minGood Dog WorkshopSelf-Awareness Part 3: Do you know yourself and how you affect your dog?Carlos & Brian discuss the incredible difference you can make with your dog when you know yourself, your capabilities and how you affect the dogs around you.2019-06-1642 minGood Dog WorkshopSelf-Awareness Part 2: Do you know yourself and how you affect your dog?Carlos & Brian discuss self-awareness regarding another recent client who essentially got a dog that was not a good match for her. This is our second in a series of podcasts on Self-Awareness.2019-06-0418 minGood Dog WorkshopSelf-Awareness Part 1: Do you know yourself and how you affect your dog?Carlos & Brian discuss Self-Awareness and the role it plays in our relationships with our dogs. This is the first in a series of podcasts on Self-Awareness — a topic which is immensely important in establishing and maintaining our connection to our dogs, yet is a topic that most people—oddly enough—are not aware of.2019-06-0129 minGood Dog WorkshopCan Dogs & Cats Get Along?Carlos & Brian discuss important steps to get dogs and cats to co-exist in the same household...or if it's a good idea in the first place.2019-05-1525 minGood Dog WorkshopEvaluating a DogCarlos & Brian critique the standard methods of evaluating a dog.2019-05-0238 minGood Dog WorkshopOur Relationships with DogsJosh & Brian discuss their relationships with dogs: What they each look for when considering a new dog for their homes, what they like best about their own dogs, and what they look for when evaluating a client's dog or a dog at the SPCA.2019-04-2635 minGood Dog WorkshopDog Evaluation: Roxy the German ShepherdJosh & Brian discuss their experience evaluating a German Shepherd at the Fauquier SPCA. Hear how to properly assess a dog's temperament, what to look for, and the importance of using your own pack to help in the evaluation.2019-04-1933 minGood Dog WorkshopTV Show Analysis: Dog Whisperer—Cesar Millan & Jillian MichaelsCarlos and Brian discuss a quick clip about Richard, a Chihuahua who doesn't like to be handled by strangers. This clip is from Cesar Millan's "Dog Whisperer" TV show and the dog is owned by celebrity trainer Jillian Michaels. Listen in as we break down how to work a dog through this serious issue and quickly resolve it. 2019-04-1922 minGood Dog WorkshopChoosing the Right Trainer for You & Your DogBrian tells you what to look for when trying to find a trainer to help you with your dog's behavior issues. Learn what a trainer ISN'T telling you by watching their YouTube videos, reading their Facebook posts, and listening to them on the phone.2019-04-1417 minGood Dog WorkshopUnclear & Incomplete Info: "Doggie Language" illustrationsCarlos & Brian discuss a poster of dog body language illustrations which has been widely circulated on social media: "Doggie Language" by Lili Chin. No doubt intended to help people better understand the body language of dogs, we feel the captions/labels on this very nicely illustrated poster actually create more confusion than understanding. Check out the image online and follow along in this episode.2019-04-1324 minGood Dog WorkshopVolunteeringJosh & Brian discuss how you can help dogs and your community by volunteering at your local shelter.2019-04-0220 minGood Dog WorkshopThe Truth About "Positive Reinforcement Only" Training, part 2Carlos & Brian delve further into "positive reinforcement only" training with specific examples of why it's an unrealistic and unnatural way to train a dog. 2019-04-0246 minGood Dog WorkshopThe Truth About "Positive Reinforcement Only" Training, part 1Carlos & Brian discuss why "positive reinforcement only" training is unrealistic & unnatural in working with dogs. We'll help you wade throw all the scientific terms so many trainers use so that you can understand what really works with dogs and why. This is a big and much-debated topic so this is the first of multiple podcasts on this subject.2019-04-0240 minGood Dog WorkshopWho's in Charge? You or Your Dog?Carlos & Brian discuss being 'Alpha' to your dog. Not today's emotionally-charged term that implies being aggressive or being a bully, but being in charge of your dog, being able to control him...being a fair and benevolent Leader. Too many 'professionals' in this business either don't understand this or are unable to achieve it. Being in charge of a group is a natural part of both human society and dog society. We break it down for you in this episode.2019-03-2635 minGood Dog WorkshopBringing Home Your New DogBrian talks about the most important things to do with your new dog the moment you pull into your driveway! It all starts with Exercise, Leadership & Structure, of course, but you'll also learn things you probably hadn't thought about before, such as where to put your new dog's bed and what activities to do with him in order to bond with him. Check it out!2019-03-2015 minGood Dog WorkshopIntroductions with A DogCarlos & Brian discuss Introductions: How to meet a new dog and how to allow your dog to meet new people. You may be surprised how so many people aren't doing it the right way!2019-03-1939 minGood Dog WorkshopOwner Liability for a Dog BiteCarlos & Brian discuss owner liability with respect to a dog who bites someone or another dog. We go over the legal definition of a "dangerous dog", what happens after a dog bites someone or another dog, the owner's liability is when it happens. Brian recalls his experiences in court as a Qualified Expert Witness in Dog Behavior to shed light on this issue which most of us have only read about.2019-03-1535 minGood Dog WorkshopHow NOT to Teach: Discipline, according to Victoria StilwellCarlos & Brian discuss the fallacies of this trainer's methods as well as her initial rationale which her methods are based on.2019-03-0626 min
Good Dog WorkshopCan You Overcome the Psychological Trauma of a Dog Bite?Carlos & Brian discuss dog bites, specifically how people deal with the psychological trauma of having been bitten by a dog. We discuss our worst and most traumatic bites and how they changed us.2019-03-0523 min
Good Dog WorkshopDog ParksCarlos & Brian discuss the pros and cons of taking your dog to a dog park. Should you avoid dog parks or should you go? Gain some new perspective on dog parks and find out if they're right for you and your dog!2019-03-0423 minGood Dog WorkshopThe Importance of YOUR Body LanguageCarlos & Brian discuss the body language of humans and how we effect our dogs whether we realize it or not. We go into detail about how dog owners inadvertently give the wrong signals to their dogs which the dogs then interpret as anxiety, insecurity and/or weakness and respond by challenging or ignoring their owners.2019-03-0425 minGood Dog Workshop"Basic" TrainingCarlos & Brian discuss typical "basic" training offered by most dog trainers and commercial pet stores.2019-02-2834 minGood Dog WorkshopHow NOT to Teach: Leash Walking and Meeting Other Dogs featuring clip from Victoria StilwellCarlos & Brian discuss a training video by Victoria Stilwell in which Dillon the Great Dane has (according to his owners) never met another dog. Needless to say, Dillon gets very excited about the prospect of meeting another dog as soon as he sees one. We discuss not only Victoria's methods and why they're ineffective, but we also examine the poor energy of the people and how that negatively affects Dillon in this exercise.2019-02-2229 minGood Dog WorkshopChoosing the Right Dog for You and Your Family!Brian & Carlos share their thoughts and valuable experience when it comes to making this very important decision that could make or break your overall success as a dog owner.2019-02-2233 minGood Dog WorkshopHow NOT to Teach: Dogs Jumping on People, according to Zak GeorgeIn this episode Brian and Carlos discuss a video clip of a dog trainer attempting to teach dog owners about fixing the problem of dog jumping. We break down the effectiveness of the techniques used and explain why they don't work.2019-02-2229 min