Best PDog Behaviorist Podcasts (2025)

1
Who makes the best dog owner? 7:34

Play Pause

9d ago7:34

7:34

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 tr…

1
The Hidden Risks of Board & Train Dog Training Schools for Aggression Cases 8:20

24d ago8:20

8:20

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 ro…

1
Decoding Dog Zoomies: The Science Behind Your Pet's Frenzied Energy Bursts 38:14

1M ago38:14

38:14

Text Me Your Questions Support the show If you need professional help please visit my Dog Behaviorist website. Go here for Free Dog Training ArticlesBy Will Bangura, M.S., CAB-ICB, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP is a World Renowned Dog Behaviorist, Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, Certified Professional Dog Trainer, and a Fear Free Certified Professional with over 36 years of experience with the most difficult

1
Cleaning Up Dog Accidents the Right Way: It Matters More Than You Think 6:44

1M ago6:44

6:44

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 …

1
Is Euthanasia Ever Right for Severe Dog Behavior Problems? 5:53

2M ago5:53

5:53

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 …

1
Beyond Threshold: The Science of Effective Counter Conditioning and Keeping Dogs Safe During Fireworks, With Certified Dog Behaviorist, Will Bangura 30:20

3M ago30:20

30:20

Text Me Your Questions In this episode of Dog Training Today, certified canine behaviorist Will Bangura, M.S., CAB-ICB, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP, tackles one of the most common—and consequential—mistakes pet parents make when attempting behavior modification: working with their dog above threshold. Whether you're addressing fear-based reactivity, anx…

1
Cesar Millan’s 4 Biggest Dog Training Myths 6:42

3M ago6:42

6:42

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 an…

1
The Hidden Ways You Might Be Punishing Your Dog Without Knowing It 7:48

3M ago7:48

7:48

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 …

1
Why Are Some Dogs Aggressive? 11:54

4M ago11:54

11:54

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. Sheaffe…

1
Beyond The Biscuit: How to Train Dogs with Food the Right Way Force-Free Positive Reinforcement 30:25

4M ago30:25

30:25

Text Me Your Questions 🎧 Podcast Episode Description (for Spotify, Apple, YouTube, and RSS) In this episode, we debunk the myths and misinformation surrounding the use of food in dog training — including the age-old claim that “dogs trained with treats only work when food is visible.” Will Bangura, M.S., CAB-ICB, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP, internation…

1
Losing a Dog Hurts—Here’s the True Story Behind a Famous Poem That Eases the Pain 5:59

4M ago5:59

5:59

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 deca…

1
The Crisis of Unqualified Dog Trainers Treating Dog Aggression 10:58

5M ago10:58

10:58

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 domin…

1
Can Dogs Be Psychotic? Understanding Bizarre Canine Behavior 9:58

5M ago9:58

9:58

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 …

1
Calm Your Reactive or Aggressive Dog with "Look at That" Training 31:19

5M ago31:19

31:19

Text Me Your Questions Certified canine behaviorist Will Bangura shares a powerful force-free approach to help dogs with reactivity or aggression without using corrections or punishment. • Understanding that reactive behavior stems from anxiety, stress, and fear • Why corrections and punishment only suppress behavior without changing emotional stat…

1
Can Your iPhone Really Identify Dog Breeds? I Put It to the Test 5:00

6M ago5:00

5:00

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 br…

1
10 Critical Mistakes That Sabotage Your Dog Training (And How to Fix Them) 36:04

6M ago36:04

36:04

Text Me Your Questions Support the show If you need professional help please visit my Dog Behaviorist website. Go here for Free Dog Training ArticlesBy Will Bangura, M.S., CAB-ICB, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP is a World Renowned Dog Behaviorist, Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, Certified Professional Dog Trainer, and a Fear Free Certified Professional with over 36 years of experience with the most difficult

1
Why Your Dog Ignores You (and What to Do About It) 9:23

6M ago9:23

9:23

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 co…

1
Stop Dog Jumping: A Positive Approach to Stopping Dog Jumping Without Punishment 22:54

6M ago22:54

22:54

Text Me Your Questions Jumping behavior in dogs is completely manageable through positive reinforcement techniques rather than punishment-based methods that cause fear, pain, or intimidation. Using differential reinforcement, you can teach your dog to sit for greetings instead of jumping, creating a lasting behavior change that preserves your relat…

1
When Your Dog Acts Out: How to Handle Aggression Toward Dogs and People 6:29

6M ago6:29

6:29

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 …

1
Puppy Training, Socialization, Critical Stages of Development: Everything You Need to Know 2:40:44

7M ago2:40:44

2:40:44

Text Me Your Questions Raising a puppy successfully relies heavily on early training and socialization, with the first year of a dog’s life setting the stage for their future behavior. The episode highlights the critical developmental stages of puppies, key socialization methods, the benefits of cooperative care training, and the importance of mode…

1
Dog Bite Liability: What Owners Need to Know (Including Texas-Specific Laws in the USA) 10:16

7M ago10:16

10:16

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…

1
Navigating Behavioral Euthanasia for Dogs: Compassion, Choices, and Coping 21:00

8M ago21:00

21:00

Text Me Your Questions Are you struggling with the heart-wrenching decision of behavioral euthanasia for your beloved dog? Join us as we navigate this emotionally charged topic with empathy and understanding. Discover how recognizing early warning signs of severe aggression or extreme anxiety can be crucial in managing your pet's behavior. We'll sh…

1
Two Signs You’ve Found an Effective Dog Trainer 8:50

8M ago8:50

8:50

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, l…

1
Unveiling the Digital Struggle: Why Certified and Positive Reinforcement Dog Trainers Are Lost in Search Rankings 11:06

8M ago11:06

11:06

Text Me Your Questions Can Google really sniff out the best dog trainers or is something amiss in the search landscape? Uncover the shocking reality behind the digital dominance of outdated dog training methods over certified, humane practices. We promise to unravel how the algorithms meant to serve us might actually be hindering top-notch trainers…

1
15 Truths That Thousands of Dogs and Their Owners Have Taught Me about Dogs 12:02

8M ago12:02

12:02

What can thousands of dogs and their owners teach us about behavior? In this insightful episode, Scott Sheaffer, certified dog behavior consultant and behaviorist, shares 15 foundational truths he’s learned from years of hands-on experience. Covering common misconceptions—from barking and leash pulling to food guarding and misunderstood dominance. …

1
Should You Avoid Dog Parks Before Your Puppy is Fully Vaccinated? 7:17

8M ago7:17

7:17

In this episode, we tackle a question every new puppy owner faces: should you take your puppy to public spaces like dog parks before they’re fully vaccinated? We’ll explore the risks and benefits from both a health and behavioral perspective, share safe alternatives for early socialization, and discuss how to strike the right balance for your pup. …

1
Stop ANY Dog Behavior Immediately and Easily 20:45

9M ago20:45

20:45

Text Me Your Questions This podcast episode emphasizes the importance of using a leash effectively to manage unwanted dog behaviors in the home, providing practical strategies to address issues like jumping, counter-surfing, and anxiety. By implementing leash techniques consistently, listeners can transform their dog's manners and ensure a calmer e…

1
Do Dogs Get the Winter Blues? 8:21

9M ago8:21

8:21

Does your dog seem a little less energetic during the colder months? In this episode, we explore whether dogs can experience the winter blues and how seasonal changes might affect their mood. Learn the signs to watch for, how your own behavior plays a role, and practical tips to keep your furry friend happy and healthy all winter long. Don’t let th…

1
The Power of Nose Work: Transforming Anxious Dogs into Calm Companions 18:31

9M ago18:31

18:31

Text Me Your Questions Discover the secret to transforming a hyperactive or anxious dog into a calm and content companion through the power of nose work. Join me, Will Bangura, as we delve into how engaging a dog's remarkable sense of smell can be more invigorating than a sprint or an agility course. This episode uncovers the fascinating science be…

1
The Problem with Shock Collars in Dog Training 7:11

9M ago7:11

7:11

Why are so many dog trainers still using shock collars despite decades of research showing their harmful effects? In this episode, we explore how shock collars suppress unwanted behaviors like barking and aggression but fail to address the underlying causes such as fear and anxiety. Learn why humane, science-based dog training methods provide lasti…

1
Three Things to Understand about Reactivity and Dog Aggression 13:52

9M ago13:52

13:52

Text Me Your Questions Discover the secrets behind transforming your reactive dog into a calm and happy companion. Join me, Will Bangura, a certified canine behaviorist, as we unravel the complexities of canine aggression and fear-based behaviors. In this eye-opening discussion, you'll learn why punishment-based methods like prong collars and shock…

1
Are You Correcting Aggression or Punishing Fear: Insights from Canine Behaviorist Will Bangura 3:39

10M ago3:39

3:39

Text Me Your Questions Unlock the secrets to transforming your dog's behavior with insights from Will Bangura, a certified canine behaviorist and owner of Phoenix Dog Training. Learn how fear, anxiety, and stress are often the hidden drivers behind severe fears, phobias, aggression, and reactivity in dogs. Will explains why addressing these underly…

1
Decoding Fear in Dogs: How Territory and Triggers Shape Their Behavior 6:43

10M ago6:43

6:43

In this episode, we dive into the two biggest factors behind fear-based behavior in dogs: their territory and their fear triggers. Learn why dogs often react more strongly to strangers at home, what they find scary, and how you can help them feel safer. Whether it’s unfamiliar people, other dogs, or sudden noises, this episode provides practical ti…

1
Dog House-Training 101: Potty Training Unleashed 1:09:47

10M ago1:09:47

1:09:47

Text Me Your Questions Unlock the secrets to successful potty training for your furry friends with pet behavior expert Will Bangura. Do you find yourself frustrated with a rambunctious new puppy or an older dog that just can't seem to get it right? You're in the right place. This episode promises to equip you with the tools and insights from Will's…

1
Can Your Anxiety Fuel Your Dog's Fear? Uncovering How Our Stress Impacts Our Dogs 6:15

10M ago6:15

6:15

In this episode, we dive into the question: Does a dog owner's anxiety make their dog more anxious? We’ll explore how dogs pick up on their owner's stress and how that tension can create a feedback loop of anxiety. Tune in to learn practical tips for calming yourself and your dog, and discover how a relaxed approach can help build confidence and tr…

1
Why Punishing Dog Aggression Backfires in the Long-Term 6:15

10M ago6:15

6:15

In this episode, Scott explores why punishing a dog for aggressive behavior often backfires, leading to increased aggression and long-term behavior issues. He explains the science behind why punishment doesn’t work and offers effective, humane strategies for addressing aggression in dogs that focus on building trust and communication. Perfect for d…

1
Transforming Dog Training: The Power of Positive Reinforcement Over Punishment 22:21

10M ago22:21

22:21

Text Me Your Questions Experience a transformative shift in dog training methods by abandoning outdated punishment-based techniques and embracing the power of positive reinforcement. Discover how scientific research has debunked the effectiveness of shock collars, prong collars, and choke chains, revealing their long-term harm. Join me, Will Bangur…

1
Transforming Dog Behavior: The Power of Environmental Management 15:50

11M ago15:50

15:50

Text Me Your Questions Unlock the secrets of effective dog behavior modification with our latest episode featuring your host, Will Bangura. Ever wonder why your attempts to correct your dog's behavior aren't yielding results? It might just be the environment you're overlooking. Join us as we unravel the critical role of environmental management in …

1
Should You Send You Reactive or Aggressive Dog to a Board and Train Program? 12:14

11M ago12:14

12:14

Text Me Your Questions Discover how to transform your reactive or aggressive dog with insights that could make a life-altering difference. Join me, Will Bangura, Arizona's only certified canine behaviorist, as I share the critical truths about why traditional board and train programs might be failing you and your furry friend. We'll unravel the mis…

1
Do Behavior Medications Work for Fearful and Aggressive Dogs? 11:10

1y ago11:10

11:10

What if you could significantly reduce your dog's anxiety and aggression with just a little help from science? Find out how behavior medications, particularly anxiolytics, can be the game-changer you've been searching for. In today's episode of the Grumpy Dogs podcast, I dive into the nuances of how these medications work, why they aren't a one-siz…

1
#162 Choosing the Best Training Option for Your Dog: Private Lessons, Group Classes, and Board & Train Programs: Dog Training Today will Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP 13:03

1y ago13:03

13:03

Text Me Your Questions Why struggle with training your dog when you could have the ultimate guide to success? In today's episode of Dog Training Today, I, Will Bangura, break down the best dog training options for your furry friend. We weigh the advantages and disadvantages of private lessons, group classes, and board and train programs, making sur…

1
#161 Preventing Canine Separation Anxiety and Fostering Independence, Effective Training and Enrichment Tips: Dog Training Today will Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP 1:00:13

1y ago1:00:13

1:00:13

Text Me Your Questions Can letting your dog follow you around all day actually contribute to separation anxiety? Let's explore this common concern and find the right balance between bonding and fostering independence in your canine companion. Join me, Will Bangura, as we debunk the myth that comforting a fearful dog reinforces its fear and discover…

1
Why Your Dog is Aggressive to Dogs When On-Leash, but Not Off-Leash 12:17

1y ago12:17

12:17

Does your dog seem to turn into a barking, lunging maniac the moment you clip on the leash and they see another dog? This episode uncovers the mystery behind leash reactivity. We break down how fear often lies at the root of this frustrating behavior. You'll learn the science behind why dogs feel threatened when they can't establish their own safe …

1
#160 The Biggest Lie in Dog Training: Dog Training Today will Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP 1:03:47

1y ago1:03:47

1:03:47

Text Me Your Questions Ever wondered if positive reinforcement can truly transform your high-prey drive dog? Join us as we challenge the age-old myth that positive training methods fall short in tough situations. Pet behavior experts Will Bangura and Jordan Marsteller open up about their journey from compulsion-based training to embracing science-b…

1
#159 Dog Daddy Training Failure: Dog Training Today will Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP 20:35

1y ago20:35

20:35

Text Me Your Questions Are forceful dog training techniques really effective, or do they simply instill fear? In this episode, we scrutinize the controversial methods of Dog Daddy Augusto de Oliveira through the lens of an eye-opening article by Angel Willis. After spending $1,500 on a 90-minute session, Angel initially saw improvements in her pit …

1
#158 Keeping Your Dog Safe and Happy: Summer Heat, Heat Stroke, and Behavioral Challenges: Dog Training Today will Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP 1:09:50

1y ago1:09:50

1:09:50

Text Me Your Questions How can you ensure your furry friend stays safe when temperatures soar? Tune in as we share essential tips and critical insights to keep your dogs comfortable and protected throughout the summer months. Learn the simple back-of-the-hand test to check if the ground is too hot for your dog’s paws, and get detailed comparisons o…

1
#157 Transforming Leash Reactivity: Dog Training Today will Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP Transforming Leash Reactivity: Positive Training Strategies for Calmer Walks with Your Dog 37:33

1y ago37:33

37:33

Text Me Your Questions Leash reactivity in dogs is a common yet stressful challenge for many pet owners. Imagine transforming your daily walks from chaotic to calm. Join me, Will Bangura, on Dog Training Today as we uncover the nuances of leash reactivity and how it differs from genuine aggression. You'll gain insights into the root causes like fea…

1
Are Dogs Remorseful After Biting People? 11:09

1y ago11:09

11:09

Can dogs truly feel remorse after they bite someone, or is it just our interpretation of their behavior? Uncover the reality behind canine emotions as I address common myths about dogs and their reactions to biting incidents. I'll dive into the instinctual behaviors of dogs, shedding light on how they respond to stress and fear. Join us for an eye-…

1
#156 Strangers at the Door & Mastering Calmness : Effective Training Tips for Multiple Dogs: Dog Training Today will Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP 26:38

1y ago26:38

26:38

Text Me Your Questions Want your dogs to remain calm and composed when the doorbell rings or guests arrive? Discover proven strategies in our latest episode that will transform chaotic greetings into peaceful welcomes. We'll break down the essential steps of one-on-one training, revealing how to effectively use leashes, maintain consistent manageme…

1
#155 Managing Fireworks Anxiety This 4th of July: Dog Training Today will Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP 23:53

1y ago23:53

23:53

Text Me Your Questions Want to ensure a stress-free and calm 4th of July for your furry friend? Join me, Will Bangura, as I share effective and compassionate strategies to help your dog manage fireworks anxiety. Discover the signs of severe anxiety, like trembling and drooling, and learn how to create a safe haven for your pet using simple yet powe…