Dog Pro Radio

Host Matt Covey interviews Rose Waldrup, founder of the Waldrup Somatic Method, a nervous-system framework designed to help dogs regulate and recover from stress by reading body language and applying tools like breathwork, presence, and hands-on techniques. Waldrup explains polyvagal theory’s three states (ventral vagal, sympathetic, dorsal vagal), connects nervous system state to behaviors like leash reactivity and learning limits, and discusses using stress biometrics (heart rate, HRV) to show physiological data. She outlines a “regulate, read, relate” framework, emphasizing handler regulation, slowing down, consent-based touch, and using somatics before and after training (roughly 50/50 importance), with “during” as situational. She describes key techniques (chest circles, ear slides), discusses trainer time constraints, course options (Dog Somatics 101 and a certification track), and shares shelter/rescue approaches focused on safety and observation.

Dog Pro Radio interviews world-renowned dog trainer Ivan Balabanov, creator of “Training Without Conflict,” two-time world champion, and Malinois breeder, and notes Balabanov will speak at the IACP European Summit in Poland on what drives behavior. Balabanov contrasts sport and pet training as different in goals but rooted in the same learning principles, emphasizing evaluation of genetics, learning limits, emotional/brain state, confidence, and problem “levels” rather than fixating on the surface behavior. He critiques over-attributing issues to fear and argues for building dogs’ ability to overcome fears by changing perception and state, often using play (rather than food) to shift physiology and affect. He distinguishes fear from true predation, stating predation with intent to kill cannot be reliably interrupted by reinforcement and requires properly applied suppression, prioritizing welfare outcomes over momentary appearances. He frames dominance as momentary control of resources, not a personality trait. Discussing puppies, he highlights space, cleanliness, and allowing agency in exploration and socialization. He advises trainers to avoid cases beyond their skills, seek better education, and progress in manageable steps.

Dog Pro Radio hosts Eve Molzhon of Dog Handler Academy, who also owns dog daycare/boarding/training facilities and runs two nonprofits placing service dogs and rehabilitating shelter dogs. Eve explains how COVID prompted her to create Dog Handler Academy’s online staff-training modules and a handler-to-trainer program, now serving clients in 15 countries. The discussion centers on “holding staff and clients accountable with love,” using empathy, fair standards, and adapting communication to the other person’s needs. Eve applies the five love languages (affirmation, quality time, gifts, acts of service, physical touch/spatial cues) and “mirroring” to build trust, reduce shame, and improve follow-through. Through role-play, they cover homework compliance, creating house rules, motivating busy or affluent clients, using checklists and social accountability (texts/private Facebook groups), and doing regular check-ins to strengthen culture, retention, referrals, and business outcomes.

In this episode, the Matt Covey sit down with Jason Purgason, owner of Highland Canine and president of the IACP, to discuss running a professional dog training school. He shares insight into Highland Canine’s 24-week program, hands-on training opportunities, and the importance of building strong foundations across multiple disciplines.Jason emphasizes that success in dog training goes beyond handling skills, requiring strong communication, client management, and business knowledge. He also shares his perspective on industry regulation, advocating for education and experience over increased licensing.The episode wraps with real-world stories highlighting the impact of training and rehabilitation.

In the premiere episode of Dog Pro Radio's second season, host Duke Ferguson engages in an insightful and dynamic exchange on his experiences in dog training and personal growth. Duke highlights his career achievements, such as working with gun dogs and police dogs, and shares transformative personal stories, including overcoming health challenges and intense emotional struggles. He emphasizes the importance of personal development, the power of breathwork, and why focusing on client transformation is crucial in dog training. Duke also teases an upcoming breathwork webinar for IACP members, which promises to provide techniques for downregulating the nervous system to improve both personal well-being and professional effectiveness.

In this episode of Dog Pro Radio, Nate Schoemer, a former US Marine and professional dog trainer, shares his extensive knowledge on dog training. Trained under Tom Rose, a legendary figure in dog training, Nate discusses the importance of patience and structured, step-by-step processes in dog training. He emphasizes the necessity of filtering through the overwhelming and often conflicting information available online. Nate elaborates on various training methods, including the significance of understanding operant and classical conditioning. He stresses the importance of initial engagement training, using markers, and creating positive associations for dogs. Nate also provides practical advice on handling command compliance, using different levels of pressure and corrections, and the importance of building a strong relationship with the dog before implementing corrections. He highlights the need for training consistency and environmental adaptability, offering a detailed, methodical approach to effective dog training.

In this episode of Dog Pro Radio, the host interviews Heather Beck, founder of Heather's Heroes and IACP Member Hall of Fame Inductee in 2023. Heather discusses her extensive 30-year career in dog training, which includes founding the K9 Lifeline boarding and training center, starting the 'Heather's Heroes' product line, and her involvement with camels. Key points include her development of the 'Sidekick' head collar, its unique training benefits, and the importance of pressure and release in dog training. Heather also touches on her experiences with animal rescue and fostering, her views on managing and training difficult dogs, and her upcoming educational endeavors. The episode covers training philosophies, the challenges of preconceived notions about training tools, and her transition from running a physical training facility to focusing on education and mentoring through various platforms.

This episode of Dog Pro Radio features Antonio Diaz from Leader of the Pack Canine Training. Antonio discusses his journey into dog training, his methods, and philosophies. Antonio shares his experiences with balancing positive reinforcement and corrections, the challenges of leash reactivity, the importance of tailoring training to each dog, and the value of understanding dog body language. He also talks about his involvement with the IACP, his recent participation in their conference, and his new role as the Director of Education for IACP. Additionally, Antonio outlines his future plans, including new online courses and mentorship programs.

Dog Pro Radio Episode #19 features Dee Hoult, a professional dog trainer who runs a prison dog training program in Miami, Florida. Dee explains her method of choosing dogs from shelters, the training regimen within the prison, and how the inmates are trained using positive reinforcement and various enrichment activities. She also touches on safety, the selection process for inmates, and the positive outcomes for both the dogs and the participating inmates. Additionally, Dee encourages those interested in starting similar programs to use her as a resource and offers an open invitation for speakers to visit and share knowledge with her inmates.

Join us for an in-depth discussion with Athena Haus on Dog Pro Radio. Athena, with over two decades of experience in training and working with search and rescue dogs, shares her journey and insights. From her beginnings as a firefighter to her involvement with FEMA and various task forces, Athena talks about the intricacies of working with dogs in highly challenging environments. Learn about the impact of choosing the right dog and the role of drones and AI in modern search and rescue operations. Don't miss out on exclusive tips and expert advice in this engaging episode.

This episode of Dog Pro Radio features an in-depth discussion with Tyler Muto, a well-known figure in the dog training industry and past president of the IACP. Tyler insights on various topics such as effective strategies for both new and experienced trainers, the importance of lesson planning tailored to specific client goals, and the challenges posed by the evolving economic landscape. He emphasizes the significance of customizing training programs to focus on key problem behaviors rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, and discusses the balance between client satisfaction and realistic training outcomes. Additionally, Tyler talks about his upcoming event, The Art of Teaching 2.0, targeted at improving trainers' teaching skills and the overall client experience. The conversation touches on business aspects, highlighting the importance of a solid online presence and adapting strategies to current economic conditions to ensure financial stability and growth in the dog training industry.

In this episode of Dog Pro Radio, they welcome guest Pat Stuart, a distinguished dog trainer, and educator. Pat shares his journey from serving in Australia's Special Forces to becoming a professional dog trainer in 2015, and offers insights into the importance of practical experience and continuous learning in the field. The conversation covers the internal challenges within the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP), the influence of social media on dog training, and the potential threats from zealot groups seeking to ban training tools. Pat emphasizes the need for balanced trainers to maintain competence, uphold ethical standards, and unite against external adversaries. He also discusses his latest projects, including an upcoming online dog training course aimed at helping trainers achieve excellence without compromising their principles.