Help! My Dog: The Podcast. Dog Behaviour & Training Strategies that Work!

Has your dog’s behaviour suddenly changed for no clear reason? One week they’re doing great, the next week they’re barking, snapping, or refusing walks, and you’re left wondering what happened. In this episode, we break down how to make sense of those “out of nowhere” shifts, making this seemingly complex behaviour struggle make sense. You’ll learn a simple framework the Behavet team uses every day when assessing sudden behaviour changes in dogs, helping you spot what’s really going on beneath the surface. Whether your dog’s been more reactive, anxious, or just “off”, this episode gives you...

Sometimes your dog is the perfect walking buddy, but the moment you sit down at a café or pub, it’s like they forget all their chill. If you’ve ever tried to enjoy a flat white while your dog barks for attention under the table, this episode is for you. We’re diving into what’s really going on when your dog struggles to settle in busy social spaces and how to start changing that picture. You’ll learn simple, practical ways to help them relax without turning it into a battle of wills (or trying to give them endles...

Halloween might be fun for us, but for our dogs, it can be a whole world of weird sights, sounds, and spooky surprises! In this episode, we dive into our top 5 tips to help your dog not just cope, but thrive during this time of year. From handling unexpected changes on your walks to creating calm at home when the doorbell won’t stop ringing, we’ve got you covered. You’ll learn how to turn “Halloween chaos” into an opportunity to grow your dog’s confidence and optimism. Whether your pup is a seasoned pro or a sensitive soul, these...

Fireworks season is here again, and while it’s beautiful for us, it can be a stressful time for our dogs. In this episode, we’re talking about how to help your dog not just cope with fireworks, but actually thrive through the season. Whether your dog is already nervous or usually unbothered, this is your reminder that prevention is everything. You’ll learn simple, practical ways to build confidence, reduce stress, and create a calmer, safer environment for your dog when the bangs begin. You’ll discover several easy routines and strategies you can start right now. Don’t wait unt...

You’ve probably heard the advice: “Just let the other dog tell them off. They’ll learn.” It’s one of the most common tips dog owners get…and one of the worst. In this episode, we unpack why that approach doesn’t work and what’s really going on when your dog rushes up to another dog. You’ll learn what your dog’s behaviour is actually telling you, and why it’s not about dominance or being “naughty.” We’ll dig into the emotions behind those high-energy greetings and what happens in your dog’s brain when things go wrong. Most importan...

Littermate syndrome is one of those topics that sparks a lot of debate among dog owners and trainers, and it’s easy to see why. In this episode, we’re unpacking what really happens when two puppies grow up side by side and why it can lead to tricky challenges, all from a concept training perspective. From subtle influences in behaviour to big spirals that leave both dogs struggling, we’ll explore the hidden dynamics you might not have considered. Whether you’re already living with littermates, thinking about adding a second dog or just curious about how dogs influenc...

Does your dog bark, panic or lose their cool every time the doorbell rings? This is one of the most common struggles dog owners face. In this episode, we’re discovering the “why” behind those big reactions and how the doorbell can affect your dog’s stress levels far beyond just that one moment. You’ll hear simple, realistic strategies that can make a huge difference to your dog’s wellbeing and your own peace of mind. Whether you’ve got delivery drivers showing up daily, neighbours popping in, or just the occasional visitor, these ideas can help stop your dog’s exp...

Every dog owner knows the sinking feeling when another dog comes charging over, uninvited and unstoppable. It’s stressful, emotional, and it can quickly turn what should be a lovely walk into chaos. In this episode, we dive into the real-life challenges of incoming dogs and the surprising role we, as owners, may be playing in those moments. You’ll hear about what’s within your control (and what isn’t), and how small changes can completely shift your dog’s experience. We’ll also explore environments, movement and subtle signals that could be attracting unwanted attention. If you’ve ever wonder...

Is your dog marking in the house? Although it’s a common behaviour struggle, it can feel pretty frustrating when it keeps happening despite your best efforts. In this episode, we take a deep dive into the reasons dogs mark and what might really be going on when they do it. You’ll hear a listener’s real-life question that inspired this conversation, plus practical steps to help you understand and manage the behaviour. We’ll talk through common triggers, the role of emotions, and why “rehearsal” matters more than you might think. Whether your dog has just started or has been...

Bringing a new puppy or new dog into your life after years with another dog can be both exciting and overwhelming. In this episode, we explore what it really means to start fresh when your last dog had struggles or was the “dog of a lifetime.” You’ll hear practical insights on shifting your mindset, building new routines and enjoying the unique journey of raising a puppy or dog without falling into comparison traps. We’ll also talk about how past experiences can guide you, without holding you back, and how to see challenges as opportunities. Whether your last dog had...

Ever had a dog that’s perfectly fine one moment, then suddenly not? You’re not alone! And in this episode, we’re diving into why dogs can seem unpredictable in everyday situations. Whether it’s being petted, meeting someone new or bumping into a stranger at the vets, their reactions can sometimes feel confusing or even frustrating. We explore the hidden layers behind these moments and how small things can add up to big reactions. You’ll discover a fresh way to look at your dog’s behaviour that makes sense of what feels “random.” This episode is packed with insi...

If you’ve ever dreamed about working with dogs, whether as a trainer, a behaviourist or someone just starting to explore the field OR you’re looking for a behaviourist and wonder what the certification scene is like, this episode is going to open your eyes. The world of dog training education is often described as a maze, and for good reason: it’s unregulated, confusing and full of pitfalls that can waste time and money. In this episode, we take a behind-the-scenes look at how the industry works, the challenges people face and why it’s so important to under...

If you’ve ever dreamed of working with dogs but wondered if it’s truly possible, this episode is for you. We’re pulling back the curtain on what life as a dog behaviourist is really like: the rewards, the variety, the unexpected moments that keep you hooked. You’ll hear what makes this work so uniquely fulfilling and why the world desperately needs more qualified trainers and behaviourists. Whether you’ve been toying with the idea for years or only just realised it could be your calling, you’ll walk away with fresh motivation. You won’t hear about fluffy “...

Ever had to awkwardly hoist your dog into the car while wondering, “You can jump on the bed just fine, what gives?” You’re not alone! In this episode, we’re diving into why some dogs hesitate with car rides, even when they love where the journey ends. Hint: they’re not being stubborn; there’s a lot more going on underneath the surface. We’ll explore how to shift your dog’s mindset, turn the car into a space they actually want to get into and help them build confidence from the ground up. We’re sharing smart, easy strategies (p...

Does your dog hate being groomed? How can you set them up for success at the groomers, for bath time, nail clipping and more? In this episode, we’ll be diving into what you can do to set your dog up for a stress-free grooming experience. From the first steps at home to finding the right groomer, we’re talking about the building blocks that create a dog who feels confident, safe and even happy during grooming (including bath time!). You’ll learn how to introduce your dog or puppy to the sights, sounds and sensations they’ll experience and what...

Feeling overwhelmed by your dog’s long list of struggles? You’re definitely not alone, and more importantly, there is a way through it. In this episode, Dr Tom Mitchell explains how to approach untangling multiple behaviour issues without feeling like you’re playing an endless game of whack-a-mole. We’ll help you figure out what to focus on first and why not all problems are created equal. You’ll learn how to assess the big picture and work with your dog’s needs to stop everything from barking, separation anxiety, resource guarding and reactivity.

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Whether your dog is...

Ever wondered whether your dog is too young to train or how long the perfect training session should be? In this episode, we’re exploring how to set up sessions your dog actually wants to be a part of, using some creative thinking and tailoring to your dog’s specific needs. You’ll learn how to grow with your dog through meaningful sessions to set them up for success in the real world. We’ll also unpack what it means when your dog gets distracted and why it might be the best clue you have to shape their training! If you’v...

Do you have a small dog? Do you wonder how on earth you’re supposed to reward them without filling up their tummies or hurting your back in the process? In this episode, Dr Tom Mitchell dives into the clever ways you can train and play games with your tiny companion (and he’d know, as the owner of two tiny dachshunds!). We’ll be looking at everything from how to portion out rewards to avoid overfeeding to smart strategies that keep your sessions short, sweet and effective. You’ll get ideas on how to teach your small dog to catch...

Is your dog really ok when you leave the house or are they quietly struggling every time the door shuts behind you? In this eye-opening episode, Dr Tom Mitchell unpacks the hidden signs of canine separation anxiety that many pet owners miss. Even if your dog seems “fine,” there could be subtle behaviours suggesting they’re anything but. We’ll help you understand how to spot those whispers of separation struggle without worrying or guessing. Tune in for insights that could change the way you see your dog’s time alone forever to unlock new levels of freedom at home (and...

Is your garden a war zone for your dog? Whether it’s your dog reacting in their backyard or your neighbours’ dog sparking the drama, what seems like innocent outdoor time could actually be shaping your dog’s behaviour more than you think! Have you ever noticed how your dog’s mood spikes from just a quick trip outside? Or how their behaviour in other parts of their life isn’t getting better? There’s a surprising link that’s quietly feeding these unwanted behaviours without you realising! In this episode, we’ll shine a light on these overlooked moments and offe...

Moving home with your dog? You’re probably wondering if this big life change is going to undo all of the calmness, settling and other training you’ve worked so hard on. But what if this move could actually set your dog up for even greater success? In this episode, we’re challenging some common fears about dog behaviour and house moves. You’ll discover why a fresh start might just be the best thing for your dog’s emotions and how to shape exactly what you want in your new home, room by room. Whatever your dog’s household st...

Do you have a dog that just won’t settle at night? Whether you’ve got a puppy who’s crying through the night or an older dog who keeps waking you up at 3am, this episode is packed with ideas to help you (finally) get some rest. We’re looking at why dogs of all ages can struggle to sleep through the night and what you can do to gently guide them toward peaceful slumber. If you’ve ever found yourself stuck sleeping on the sofa or forgetting random things due to sleep deprivation, this one’s for you. We talk...

Welcoming a baby into your home is a huge transition, and if you’ve got dogs, it can add a whole new layer of complexity. This episode pulls back the curtain on what it’s REALLY like to live through that change, not just plan for it. From what worked exactly as expected to what caught us completely off guard, there’s plenty we learned from the experience that we hadn’t anticipated. You’ll hear real moments, real adjustments and real insights we gained from living through it these last few weeks. If you’re not preparing for a baby, we’l...

If you’ve ever felt like your dog has a rocket booster attached to their tail, this episode is for you! We’re jumping back into the world of high-energy, over-the-top, can’t-sit-still dogs. You know the ones: they seem to think everything should happen at hyper speed. The ones that bounce off the walls, want to walk faster (or better yet, run!), who want everything to happen NOW (and will bark, action prompt and attention seek for it) and leave you wondering if you’re just the fun police keeping them in check. Dr Tom Mitchell spills our top thre...

Have you ever felt like your dog has a personal vendetta against the TV? You’re not alone! In this episode, we’re diving into a listener's question about a dog who just can’t stop barking at animals on the screen. It’s a surprisingly common problem with surprisingly few answers online, and it often leaves owners feeling stuck and overwhelmed (possibly with broken TVs!). Why is your dog reacting like that to the latest Attenborough documentary as if elephants and giraffes just invaded your living room? And more importantly, what can you actually do about it? Tune in as we...

Managing a multi-dog household can feel like juggling with one hand tied behind your back, especially when it comes to training. How does it even work and what are the steps? You’ve probably heard that working with your dogs one at a time is the way to go, but what does that actually look like in real life? What if your dogs struggle being apart, or one starts barking the moment the other gets your attention? This episode breaks down a common roadblock many dog owners face and explores how to make solo training not only doable but en...

Is your puppy avoiding their harness or seeming less than thrilled about going for a walk? In this episode, we’re diving into why your dog might be dodging their harness (even if nothing traumatic happened) and how to reframe things and turn their walking gear into a “superhero cape” that sparks joy, calmness and confidence, transforming your walks and potential reactivity at the same time. Dr Tom Mitchell, creator of the 10-day “Help! My Walks Are Stressful” programme and renowned vet and dog behaviourist, is giving us some simple, everyday strategies to help your dog not only love their harn...

A baby is on the way! But this time, it’s a skin baby, not a fur baby! In this episode, we’re diving into how to prepare your dog for this new arrival, whether it’s a long-term addition or just a tiny visitor. From unpredictable sounds to strange new objects, babies bring a whole lot of novelty into a dog’s world. We talk about practical, low-stress ways to help your dog adjust to all the changes even before the ‘novelty machine’ arrives. Whether you’re expecting or have the occasional skin baby visitor, this one’s for anyone looki...

Is your dog a little itchier than usual this time of year? Or maybe on and off all year round? In this episode, we’re diving into the world of allergies and the subtle ways they might be affecting your dog’s behaviour – even if you’ve never thought of them as an “allergic dog”. From a vet’s perspective, we explore how low-level itchiness can spill over into your dog’s behaviour and share super practical tips to help reduce their allergen load from pollen, mites and more. You’ll learn about your dog’s immune system and how to get the most...

Does your dog behave one way on lead and a totally different way off lead? This is a super common behaviour, and in this episode, we’ll be diving into why this happens and what you can do about it. We’re getting really practical and giving you clever ways to blur the lines between “on lead” and “off lead” so your dog starts to make the same awesome choices, no matter the set up. Whether your dog dashes off the second the lead is unclipped, is constantly testing the limits of their longline or completely forgets you exist once freedom...

Have you ever been on a walk where your dog decides to stop dead in their tracks, refusing to move? They might also lie down and flatten themselves on the ground making it even harder to move them on without dragging them across the pavement (or sidewalk for the Americans). We call this “pancaking”! In this episode, you’ll be introduced to the “pancake dog”. We’ll talk about why they do it and what you can do about it (without having to drag them along behind you!). We’ll be sharing some top tips and strategies for those dogs that just...

Why hasn’t the training you’ve done in the past worked for your dog? Is your dog still barking and lunging? Pulling on lead? Jumping at your guests? Stealing your socks? Are they still anxious, over-excited, crazy and a complete handful? The answer is simpler than you think! In this episode, we’ll be breaking down why this happens, how your dog actually learns and what you should be doing instead. Plus, we’ve got a special invite for you to join us in an exciting, free challenge to help your dog with their struggles once and for all.

If you have dogs zooming around the house, jumping on guests, launching off at every sound or creating chaos with your other dogs, you might be amazed to hear that something as simple as their bed could be your ticket to a calmer home! In this episode, we’re diving into the magic of boundaries – what they are, why they matter and how they can transform life with your dog (or dogs!). From multi-dog household struggles, visitors, doorbells and more, boundaries taught the right way can be a game-changer. We’ll also chat about a common question: Are our dogs a...

Ever feel like your dog is glued to you 24/7 – following you everywhere (even the toilet!), demanding attention or struggling when you leave? It turns out that this could be due to another dog training mistake we might be making! In Part 2 of our special double feature, we’re breaking down why so many dogs have a hard time settling and staying calm when we’re not interacting with them. We’ll be learning why a “small” expectation can result in struggles with action prompting, separation anxiety and separation in the house, causing trouble when you just want to spend some time wi...

Could these two really common things we do with our dogs be the very reason they struggle with listening to us, ignoring us or chase? In this episode, Part One of Two, we’re breaking down how a super common piece of advice might be shaping your dog’s choices in a big way. We’ll reveal a simple, secret skill that, once your dog understands it, makes life so much easier (think: no more chasing, ignoring you, sniffing too much, running off to visit dogs or people…). Plus, we’ll be sharing some super easy strategies to grow this skill...

Is there hope for your reactive dog? There’s more than that – there’s a life-changing opportunity. In this powerful episode, we’re giving you an update on Gorse’s emotional, inspiring journey. Once a dog paralysed by fear after a traumatic dog bite incident, you’ll find out about her remarkable transformation and latest adventure on the beach. If you’ve ever felt stuck, frustrated or like progress is impossible, this is the story you need to hear. We’ll talk about the takeaways that can turn what could be a difficult and frustrating time into the most rewarding dog-ow...

Ever wondered why some dogs struggle more no matter how much training they receive? Or why some seem to regress backwards? In this episode, we’re diving into the fascinating connection between health and behaviour. Get ready to get geeky as we discover how hidden pain, allergies or gut issues could be silently contributing to your dog’s reactivity and behaviour struggles. Tune in to learn how addressing these issues could be the key to accelerating behaviour transformation and locking in lasting results!

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Whether your dog is unpredictable with other dogs or predictably bad…

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Ever wonder what it takes to REALLY make your dog’s life extraordinary? It’s more than just food, shelter and the occasional walk you learned about when you first got your dog. In this episode, we break down the secret formula for happiness and a long life for your dog – going beyond the basics to unlock their full potential. You’ll discover the pyramid of needs and why some of the things you’ve been told about dog care might be holding you back. Plus, we’re inviting you to take on an exciting FREE challenge that will transform yo...

Ever feel like you’re stuck in a vicious cycle of trying to exercise your dog but only seeing their behaviour get worse? In this episode, we’re looking at a tricky behaviour case where an owner was stuck walking their reactive dog five times a day in an attempt to tire them out and was faced with this exact challenge. We’ll explore the common misconception that more exercise always leads to a calmer dog and why, sometimes, completely ditching everything isn’t exactly the way to go, either. Learn some effective alternatives to help your adrenaline junkie of a dog...

You’ve probably been there: you’re making progress, but then, suddenly you hit a roadblock and you feel like you’re back to square one. What’s going on? In this episode, we’re tackling the two biggest reasons why people often struggle to transform their dog’s behaviour. We’ll break down how our human brains can trick us into giving up when things get tough. Learn how to shift your mindset, avoid falling into some common traps and keep your eye on the prize. Get ready for some real transformation that can help you overcome setbacks and keep your...