Thoughts of A Dog Man

On this episode, we discuss a few ways to get your young dog started. There are tons of ways to start a tree dog pup! Over the last 10 years, I have used these techniques to start all of my tree dog pups!

On this episode, I share a story I hope new and beginners can learn from, and that is about being safe while hunting in these winter conditions. On a freezing February night, I decided to go coon hunting in single-digit temperatures, putting myself and my Leopard Dog Bama to the test. Little did I know things would take a turn, and I would leave the woods with a whole new outlook on the importance of:

Most of us have been driving for quite a bit of time and have experienced that tailgater at some point or another. The frustration, the worry, danger and all of the above that comes when someone is just riding your bumper trying to get you to speed up and do what they want you to do! Think about how this makes you feel and maybe even angry! Now with that in mind. Are you tailgating your pup to get them to start at a faster pace than they are ready for? At your Pace? WE discuss this in this...

On today’s episode of Thoughts of a Dog Man, I break down a mindset shift that every new and beginner hunting dog handler needs to understand:

Winners quit.

Quitters don’t always win.

It sounds backwards, but when you’re working dogs, building good habits, and trying to grow as a handler, quitting is part of the process — as long as you’re quitting the right things.

In this episode, we get into:

• Why quitting isn’t failure — it’s strategy

• The things you must quit if you want to grow as a...

On this episode, we talk about situations that bring out the fire and passion to pass along what it means to be a dog man or woman. There will be situations in life that require a fork in the road, and the decision will either further motivate or stop it in its tracks. Here are a few things that have motivated me to bring forth the Dog Man Inside- Official Bawlin Out Kennel Community. We can all work together to improve the dog world. We have to remember we all started from somewhere, so share your knowledge and pass...

In this episode, I get real about something most dog men never talk about — the mindset behind handling frustration, learning from your dogs, and becoming the kind of handler they can trust. This isn’t a training tips episode… this is about the man behind the dog.

We break down eight hard-hitting truths that every hunter, handler, and dog man eventually learns the real way — through experience, through mistakes, and through those dogs that challenge us, humble us, and make us better.

Inside this episode, I talk about:

🐾 Why the dogs that frustrate you the most...

So you think you want to get into coon hunting, huh? Before you grab a light and a dog box, let’s talk about what you’re really signing up for.

In this episode, I break down what it takes to get started the right way — from picking the right dog and gear, to understanding how a night in the woods actually goes. This one’s for the folks who are new, curious, or just trying to figure out where to start without wasting time or money.

We’ll cover:

🐾 What kind of dog to start...

In this episode of Thoughts of a Dog Man, I sit down with my good friend Ryan Elson to talk all things beagles — from starting young pups to the lessons we’ve learned along the way. We get into what makes a good rabbit dog, the challenges that come with training, and the mindset it takes to bring out a pup’s full potential.

Whether you’re just getting started or have been running dogs for years, this is a real, unfiltered conversation packed with practical insight, laughs, and that old-school dog man wisdom.

🐶 Topics we cover:

In this episode, I’m answering some of the most common questions I’ve been getting about hunting and training young tree dogs.

We’re talking about dogs that tree but leave, pups that won’t leave your feet, when it’s the right time to take that young dog to the woods, when to start shooting game to them, and a few more things new and beginning handlers run into.

These are real questions from real hunters — and I’m just giving my honest take on what’s going on and how I’d handle it from wha...

In this episode of Thoughts of a Dog Man, I answer real questions sent in from real hunters running beagles!

From young dogs that just want to play, to solo runners that won’t pack, I break down what’s really going on and options on how to correct the issues in my opinion! This one’s all about practical, no-fluff advice for everyday handlers trying to build better rabbit dogs.

Here’s what we cover:

🐾 How to get your dog to come when you spot a hot rabbit

🐾 Fixing two young dogs that...

We’ve all hunted with that guy — you know, the one who can’t help himself. In this episode of Thoughts of a Dog Man, I break down the “Don’t Be That Guy” list — the hunters we all love to joke about (and sometimes have been ourselves).

From the Spot-Stealer who hits your honey hole without you, to the Know-It-All who’s been hunting six months but swears he’s an expert, and the “Let Me See” Guy who’s gotta touch every new gun, scope, and handheld in camp — it’s all here.

We’re keeping it real, keeping it fun...

When the hunt starts, safety has to come first — because one mistake in the field can change everything. In this episode, we’re talking real talk about hunter safety and awareness: handling your firearm the right way, keeping control when the excitement hits, and making sure everyone — dogs and people — make it home safe.

We’ll cover why every hunter should have a first aid kit and tourniquet ready in the truck, and what you can do to treat a wound until help arrives. Plus, we’ll talk dog safety and field care — from hydration to pressure dressings and how t...

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On this episode, I discuss the brutal truths. Everyone loves the pictures of barking beagles, treed hounds, and bird dogs locked on point — but that’s not the full story. Behind every great hunt are hard lessons that most people don’t talk about. In this episode, I pull back the curtain and give you the brutal truths about hunting with dogs:

In this episode, I discuss some of the mistakes I made as a new tree dog trainer. These are mistakes, I believe, that a new and beginning handler can avoid, which will help you speed up the process in your training. I know not everyone has a mentor to turn to to ask questions. At Bawlin Out Kennels, we aim to help new and beginning handlers with options on training and mindset that can help them on their hunting dog journey. I share seven mistakes I made in hopes that you do not make the same mistakes I did...

Thinking about buying a new hunting dog before the season starts—or maybe picking up a pup that someone else has already started? Before you make that decision, there are some key things every handler should consider.

In this episode of Thoughts of a Dog Man, I break down my personal checklist for evaluating a new dog. We’ll cover:

Understanding why you’re buying—whether it’s for hunting, future breeding stock, or resale. The importance of honestly matching your goals with the dog’s background. Key signs of a healthy dog that will save you time...

Here is a short episode where I share some thoughts on the mistakes I made when I first started rabbit hunting! With a focus on new and beginning handlers, I want to share these mistakes to help you avoid them and get started on the right track. The benefit of having someone share mistakes they have made with you is that it saves you time, energy, and a headache. I hope these resources help you as you get started on your rabbit hunting and dog training journey.

In this episode, I sit down with Chris Johnson, a member of the Iowa Blood Tracker Association, and we talk about tracking wounded deer with dogs. At Bawlin Out Kennels, we strive to share information with new and beginning handlers on the topic of tracking with dogs. This was fascinating to me, which allowed me to learn something new. Chris has been around dogs for a long time and has been working with deer-tracking dogs for a few years, in addition to running rabbits with beagles. Give it a listen as Chris talks more about how tracking wounded deer...

In this episode, we discuss having a young dog that might not stay on the tree when it gets treed. I have a question sent to me on Facebook about how a dog sometimes can mill around the tree and not quite be belly up or even leave the tree when the owner is walking in. I have dealt with this before and share something I did that seemed to help my dog when he would tree for a bit and start to leave the tree. WE discuss being slow to correct in these situations to make sure the...

On this episode, we discuss how most hunting dog people relate their love for hunting dogs to an incurable disease of the healthiest kind. The love we share for hunting dogs goes so much further than just harvesting game, but becomes about the dogs, the love of being in the woods or timber, and creating memories with others who love hunting with dogs. We keep this episode light-hearted and fun as I share some comparisons in my mind between the love for dogs and the incurable disease of being thankful for the dogs and friends I have made over...

In this episode, we discuss culling dogs as a new and beginning handler. We define culling and outline some key considerations before deciding whether to cull. Culling a dog is something you, as the owner and handler, have to determine is right or not for you. We discuss key considerations when deciding whether to cull a dog. Making sure you, as a new handler, have some sort of standard or metric in your mind to make sure you are giving the dog the best chance possible to become the best dog they can be. Not everyone agrees on culling...

In this episode, I discuss some lessons I have learned along the way on my dog man journey. I believe in staying open-minded and willing to evaluate and adjust through life. Dealing with dogs is no different; learning to adjust and be honest with yourself will go a long way. Some of these lessons include Getting out, what you put in, Not Quitting before your breakthrough, Being your own competition, and many more. Start how you want to finish how you want to, and control what you can, which is your attitude and effort.

On this episode, I sit down with a huge advocate for youth and women hunting here in Iowa! Who also covers Missouri. Steph Lane is a connector who strives to help youth and women expand their experiences in the world of hunting! Steph not only sets the youth and women up for success, but is also an avid hunter herself, with bird dogs. Steph shares some of her thoughts on bird dog training and the future projects to look forward to. If you are a landowner looking to participate in these projects, or someone new to hunting and seeking...

In this episode, we discuss some ways to set your pup up for success this coming season. With a lot of pups and people getting prepared for the upcoming rabbit season, squirrel season, pheasant season, or coon season, along with many others, I want to make sure you, as a new handler, have done all the prep work at the house before taking your pup or young dog into their first season. I discuss eight key points to consider when preparing a pup or young dog for the season. These are straightforward things to do and can be worked...

In this episode, I discuss what I believe to be one of the most important aspects of working with dogs at a high level. For beginners, starting how you want to finish is crucial, and it all begins with Mindset. Having the proper mindset and approach will take you as far as your heart desires with hunting dogs. There will be plenty of times of frustration naturally, and sometimes confusion, but with the proper mindset, you can persevere through all of it and continue to develop your skills and dogs to be the best they can be. I share 10...

On this episode, we discuss the topic of Hot Nose and Cold Nose, and whether this trait is bred into a dog or if it is a learned behavior acquired by the dog from its owner or trainer. I was taught, like most hunting dog owners, about the concept of a hot nose versus a cold nose, but as I continue to develop my knowledge and skills in dog training, there has been a shift in my thinking. In this episode, I share my thoughts on the hot nose vs. cold nose concept as I develop and work through...

On this episode, we discuss for those of us who only have access to hunting public lands, how to make the most of it when hunting with your dogs. Everything Bawlin Out Kennels does starts with respect! It will take you so much further in life and hunting. I share a few ways to maximize your public land experience when hunting with your dogs, from choosing the best times to hunt to respecting the different seasons and being mindful of other hunters who also share public lands. I hope this helps you on your journey with your hunting dog...

On this episode, I sit down with a best friend, Jason Keen. Our paths crossed a few years ago, and a friendship like no other was created. His love for The Lord, Coon Hunting and Brotherhood just scratches the surface of the man he is and what her stands for. He traveled from Virginia to Illinois to meet each other for a weekend. We discuss his start in coon hunting, Leopard dogs and a little advice for new and beginner handlers getting started. This is another episode that will be near and dear to my heart. I hope you...

On this episode, we discuss a couple of options for beginners getting started who may not have a ton of money but want to hunt a good dog or prospect. We discuss how to approach the concepts of hunting a dog for another owner, making puppy arrangements, and how being new can be a great blessing, allowing you access to good dogs that other seasoned individuals may not have access to. You will only be a beginner for a short period, so being a trustworthy, honest person will take you a long way in the arena of hunting dogs.<...

On this week's episode, we discuss the importance of communication when training a hunting dog. The foundation of communication, coupled with the bond made between the handler and dog, is a crucial part of success. Miscommunication is a recipe for frustration when it comes to training a hunting dog companion. We discuss dissecting the miscommunication matrix that is making training difficult for you and your pup. There are five communication metrics discussed, and if you, as a handler, can assess which one of the five needs improvement, it will significantly enhance the communication between you and your pup.

On this episode, we talk rabbit hunting with beagles. I have been rabbit hunting with beagles for close to 10 years and am still constantly learning each time I take my dogs hunting or training. I want to focus on getting new hunters started in the right direction by sharing some mistakes I made often when I first started rabbit hunting with my beagles. It took me quite a few seasons to get comfortable to the point I can now tell you just about right where a rabbit will show. Here, I share 5 mistakes to avoid for new hunters and...

On this episode, I sit down with a mentor who has made a lasting impression on my life and who is why I started hunting with dogs. Mr. Mike Lensing has genuinely changed the trajectory of my life and given me a passion I had no idea I would love so much. This passion has given me unbelievable memories and friendships around the country. Join me as I have a conversation with Mike about his start with dogs, the importance of mentorships, and the sport of coon hunitng.

On this episode, we finish up the Puppy-to-Partner training series for getting a puppy started. In Phase IV, I speak about setting your pup/young dog up for hunting scenarios. If the other phases are followed until the pup can sufficiently complete all the tasks and understands what the game is, the pup is ready to start moving on to hunting scenarios. With most other things, we allow the pup to let us know when they are ready to move forward. These are the exact steps I use to train each pup that comes through Bawlin Out Kennels, as...

In this episode, I continue the discussion of training puppies and getting them ready to start hunting. In phase III, I discuss sight release of game and how to create hunting-like scenarios for your pup/young dog to help them become a future hunting partner. After this episode, listeners will have more tools when starting puppies. Starting puppies can be an enriching task, especially when you do it yourself, and Thought of A Dog Man teamed up with Bawlin Out Kennels to help.

On this episode, we continue the discussion on starting puppies. This phase is based on introducing the pups to live game for training using live traps. I want to discuss options for allowing you and your pups the best possible start. We also discuss ways I want to introduce pups to live game and some things to consider during the training process to avoid pitfalls and setbacks while working with your pup on live game. Follow me on Social Media @Bawlinoutkennels

In this episode, I discuss the first phase of starting your hunting dog. The foundation is essential to set yourself up for long-term success. I walk through the first steps and some tips to get your pup on the right track. The discussion is around how I like to get my young dogs, and how it does not require a lot of tools and items, but being willing to give it a reasonable faith effort, a new handler can accomplish great things. Please take a listen and share with a new handler to help them in their hunting dog...

Discover the secrets behind top-tier hunting dogs in Bloodlines and Brains: Choosing the Right Hunting Pup. In this video, we dive into how genetics, bloodlines, and mental traits play a crucial role in selecting a high-potential hunting dog. Whether you’re after drive, intelligence, or trainability, understanding a pup’s lineage can make all the difference. Learn what to look for and how to stack the odds in your favor when picking your next hunting companion.

Welcome to Thoughts of A Dog Man Podcast, your go-to podcast for every dedicated dog handler who understands that true success starts from within. Join us as we dive deep into the core principles that build lasting success in the field: cultivating the right mindset, living with honesty, and embracing a personal growth journey.

We’re not here to chase trophies or compare ribbons; this podcast focuses on your path, your bond with your dog, and staying grounded when others’ achievements try to shake your confidence. Whether training your first pup or refining your seas...

In this episode, I explain what to expect from the NEW Thoughts of A Dog Man Podcast. I give a little background about myself as the host, who the podcast is for, what listeners can expect, the podcast format, and so much more! This is very much a welcome for new listeners as we start the journey of podcasting and sharing information in the growing community!