Pick of the Litter Podcast

Counter Surfing

Counter surfing is 100% natural for a dog; and 100% frustrating for that dog's human! In this episode, we start with the traditional approaches to this challenge, offerin

Why Your Dog Needs Friends, with Kim Brophey

In this special episode, ethologist Kim Brophey joins us to talk about the science showing just how sadly isolated our pet dogs have become, and — on the upside — the bea

A Dog-Centered Mystery, with Dr. Patricia McConnell

In this very special episode, THE Patricia McConnell talks with us about her fantastic debut novel, Away To Me. What happens when the world's favorite canine behaviorist

Reactivity: Is Your Dog Barking and Lunging?

Is your dog barking and lunging on leash?  That "reactivity" can certainly ruin your walks, but even more important, it's a sign that your dog is having a hard time with

Calming Signals: What Is Your Dog Saying?

Dogs have subtle signals that are designed to keep the peace, avoid conflict, and lower the temperature in any interaction. In this episode, we discuss Turid Rugaas's cla

Mouthiness in Puppies & Adolescents

Are those sharp puppy teeth taking a bite out of the joy you feel about puppyhood? Are your kids scared to play with new new puppy because "he's biting me!" Is your mouth

Caring for Your Older Dog -- and Adding a Puppy?

When your beloved dog starts to age, it's natural to think about getting a puppy. That can work beautifully to shape the puppy, and to soften the inevitable loss. But it

Cooperative Care: How to Get Your Dog's Buy-In for Handling

Do you dread clipping your dog's nails? How about giving ear medicine, or brushing out a mat? In this episode we talk about an approach called "cooperative care," which r

Doggie Language: Learn Signs of Stress, Fear, Happiness & Curiosity

In this episode, we explore Doggie Language by Lili Chin, a beautifully illustrated guide that helps dog owners understand canine body language and behavior. We discuss k

Helping Dogs Learn to Handle Being Alone

When 2020 ushered in an era of remote work, dogs everywhere rejoiced! Suddenly, all the humans were around a lot, allowing for a daily routine filled with walks, play and

Ditch the Bowl & Build Better Behavior

Does your dog snarf up a bowl of kibble in 20 seconds and then look up at you asking what's next? If "what's next" includes things like barking, pulling, lunging, jumping

The Power of Purposeful Walks

We've long been taught that our dogs need "a walk." But the kind of walk we're often giving them — say, 20 minutes around the block at a fast pace — may end up creating m

Choosing the Right Dog for You

 In this episode, we discuss the different factors that go into choosing the right dog. What breed might be the best match for your lifestyle and setup? Should you dive i

Dog - Human Play & Dr. Amy Cook

Do you know how to really PLAY with your dog? The answer is more complicated - and important - than it might seem. True social play between you and your dog can be a powe

Resource Guarding & Jean Donaldson's "Mine"

Have you ever been surprised by a growl as you tried to take something from your sweet dog? Taken aback when your usually friendly dog bared her teeth as the neighbor's d

Does Punishment Work? Ian Dunbar's "Barking Up The Right Tree"

Does punishment work with dogs? Dr. Ian Dunbar has spent five decades at the forefront of the industry as a vet, researcher and trainer, and he's channeled it all into hi

Your Puppy from Planet Dog

On this podcast, we often talk about authors — and this time, the author is one of us! "Welcoming Your Puppy from Planet Dog: How to Go Beyond Training and Raise Your Bes

Environmental Rewards: Going Beyond Treats

It's great to train with food, but don't forget to harness the powerful "environmental" rewards that are right at your fingertips! These "real life rewards" -- like sniff

Your Dog’s 4 L.E.G.S. Offer Answers from Kim Brophey

Kim Brophey's paradigm-shifting system of understanding our dogs is disrupting the dog training industry in the very best way: by finally making the dog's needs part of t

Enjoying The Holidays and Staying Safe With Your Dog

'Tis the season . . .  for dog bites, dog fights, and trips to the ER after a chocolate feast! In this episode we discuss the ways you can help your canine family members