Episode 13: Pheromones

Pheromones are often recommended when there are dog and cat behavior problems, however the science is inconclusive on efficacy. Join for information on pheromones, how they work, the different types we use with dogs and cats, and some of the research on their use in...

Episode 12: Clicker Training Science

Clicker training has been used in many different species, and the science of learning theory and the use of clicker training has been around for a long time. However, more recently there has been more applied research looking at the use of clicker training in pet...

Episode 11: Sleep

Sleep is a behavior we often don't think about in dogs, but it's incredibly important. Learn about some of the science behind dog sleep, how much they sleep, the association between sleep and behavior problems, where dogs like to seleep, and the question of whether...

Episode 10: Contrafreeloading

This week we discuss some of the concept of contra freeloading. Learn the science behind the topic, as well as the research that has been done with both dogs and cats. Do they actually like the food puzzles and enrichment we give them? Let’s dig into the science....

Episode 09: Certifications

This week we discuss some of the various certifications in the dog training and behaviour field. These can be helpful to let people know the credibility of professionals they choose to hire. Important aspects and requirements are included, such as education,...

Episode 08: Ethograms

This week we discuss what ethograms are and how they are used in science, but also how we can use them in training and behavior modification. The importance of definitions for behavior is discussed, as well as information about validity and reliability of the...

Episode 07: The science behind tail wagging

This week’s episode looks at the science behind tail wagging in dogs. Tail wagging in dogs is often misinterpreted by the public. While pet professionals know that a wagging tail doesn't necessarily mean a happy dog, there is a lot more information about wagging in...

Episode 06: Why Does My Pet Do This?

This week’s episode looks at four reasons why an animal is performing a behavior, which were first explained by Niko Tinbergen in the 1060s. We’ll dive into those reasons (development, genetics, consequences, and antecedents) and how they affect behavior. There are...

Episode 05: Animal Welfare Science, Part 2

This week’s episode continues to discuss animal welfare science. First a third method of looking at animal welfare, the Five Domains Model, is explained. Methods for actually assessing animal welfare, and how this is done by welfare auditors and can be done by those...

Episode 04: Animal welfare science

This week’s episode discusses the definition of animal welfare and how it comes into play in dog training and behaviour. Two ways of looking at animal welfare are discussed. Resources This episode’s blog post - get all the references for scientific publications...