Nate Schoemer Dog Training Podcast

In this episode, I sit down with Oscar Mora, founder of Elevated Canine Academy, to break down what it really takes to train dogs at a high level—whether you’re working with pet dogs, sport dogs, or protection dogs.Oscar has been training since 2009 and is certified as a Schutzhund helper, French Ring decoy, and Mondio Ring decoy. He’s a three-time Southwest Region IGP Champion and has traveled across the United States, Mexico, and Australia teaching seminars to handlers at every level.In this conversation, we cover:• The difference between a training decoy and a trial decoy• How to properly build drive in bite work• Teaching a clean and reliable out without reducing intensity• The balance required for high-level obedience and performance• Real-world case studies from Oscar’s training experience• The difference between understanding the science vs mastering the art of dog training• Mistakes we made early on and what we would do differently today• Oscar’s long-term vision for building a professional dog training schoolThis episode is packed with practical insight for anyone serious about dog training, protection sports, obedience, and canine performance.Connect with Oscar MoraWebsite:https://www.elevatedcanine.com/https://www.omk9.com/https://www.oscarmorak9.com/Skool:https://www.skool.com/oscarmoradogtraining/aboutFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/OscarMoraK9https://www.facebook.com/ElevatedcanineacademyInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/oscarmorak9s/https://www.instagram.com/elevatedcanineacademy/TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@oscarmorak9sYouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@OscarMorak9sWork with NateBook a 1-hour virtual training session:https://calendly.com/nateschoemer/1-hour-virtual-trainingDog Training CourseFrom Novice To Pro — Nate Schoemerhttps://sitstaylearn.com/collections/instructional-videos/products/from-novice-to-pro-the-ultimate-guide-to-dog-training-by-nate-schoemer?rfsn=8100182.cd38c94&variant=50148621582625Connect with NateWebsite: https://NateSchoemer.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nateschoemerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/NateSchoemer/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nateschoemerFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/NateSchoemer/X: https://x.com/NateSchoemerPodcast: https://pod.link/1804414647#DogTraining #ProtectionDog #BiteWork #IGP #DogTrainer

In this episode, I sit down with world-renowned dog trainer Denise Fenzi to talk about what truly matters in dog training today: education.We break down how better education leads to better decisions, clearer communication, and more effective training outcomes, whether you’re a professional trainer or a dedicated dog owner.We cover:- Why Denise shifted her focus to education- How to structure effective seminars- The role of relationship and play in training- Errorless learning vs allowing mistakes- Training the dog in front of youWork with me:https://calendly.com/nateschoemer/1-hour-virtual-trainingDenise Fenzi:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/denise.fenziInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/denise_fenzi/Website: https://www.fenzidogsportsacademy.com/Podcast: https://pod.link/1601526432Sponsored by German Shepherd Shop:https://germanshepherdshop.com/Use code: NATEDog Training Course:https://sitstaylearn.com/...Connect with Nate:Website: https://NateSchoemer.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nateschoemerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/NateSchoemer/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nateschoemerFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/NateSchoemer/X: https://x.com/NateSchoemerPodcast: https://pod.link/1804414647

What separates average dog trainers from elite professionals?In this episode, Nate Schoemer sits down with legendary Hollywood animal trainer Joel Silverman to unpack decades of real-world experience training animals for film, television, marine mammal programs, and advanced performance work.Joel explains the principles that actually create reliable obedience, strong motivation, and lasting communication between dog and handler. From reinforcement schedules to environmental influence and foundational structure, this conversation reveals what professional trainers understand that most people overlook.Whether you’re raising a puppy, solving behavioral issues, or refining advanced obedience, this episode delivers practical strategies grounded in behavioral science and real-world application. As Joel puts it, if your dog does not experience training as engaging and rewarding, you limit its full potential.• Why bonding should come before formal training• The biggest mistake trainers make with foundations• How variable reinforcement builds long-term motivation• When to use high-value vs low-value rewards• Why rewarding in position matters for precision behaviors• The truth about markers, shaping, and luring• How environment influences training outcomes• What professional trainers consistently do differentlyFrom Novice To Pro — Nate Schoemerhttps://sitstaylearn.com/collections/instructional-videos/products/from-novice-to-pro-the-ultimate-guide-to-dog-training-by-nate-schoemer?rfsn=8100182.cd38c94&variant=50148621582625Joel Silverman’s Hollywood Dog Training Programhttps://sitstaylearn.com/collections/instructional-videos/products/joel-silvermans-hollywood-dog-training-program-by-joel-silverman?rfsn=8100182.cd38c94&variant=49804463079713Websitehttps://NateSchoemer.comYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/nateschoemerInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/NateSchoemerTikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@NateSchoemerFacebookhttps://www.facebook.com/NateSchoemerXhttps://x.com/NateSchoemerPodcasthttps://pod.link/1804414647Websitehttps://joelsilverman.net/Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/joelsilverman22YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@CompanionsForLife1Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/joelsilvermandogtrainer/Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/joel_dogtrainer/TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@joelsilverman8

What separates average dog training programs from systems that consistently produce reliable, real-world results?In this episode, Nate Schoemer sits down with Brian Claeys, founder of All Dogs Unleashed, to break down what professional trainers do differently when working with high volumes of real dogs and real owners.This is a behind-the-scenes conversation about structure, clarity, proofing, client education, follow-up systems, and the operational habits that separate high-performing programs from average training businesses.Whether you’re a professional trainer, aspiring trainer, or serious dog owner, this episode will change how you think about long-term results and real-world obedience.Why most dog training programs fail long-termHow high-volume board & train programs are structuredWhat real consistency looks like in daily training routinesHow clarity and proofing create reliable obedienceWhy customer education matters more than most trainers realizeThe importance of follow-up systemsHow trainers balance obedience and behavior modificationWhat separates elite programs from average operationsHigh-quality working dog gear, training equipment, and accessoriesUse Code: NATEShop: https://germanshepherdshop.com/Follow German Shepherd Shop:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GSDstagramInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gsdstagram/From Novice To Pro — Nate Schoemerhttps://sitstaylearn.com/collections/instructional-videos/products/from-novice-to-pro-the-ultimate-guide-to-dog-training-by-nate-schoemer?rfsn=8100182.cd38c94&variant=50148621582625Dog Training Decoded — Michael Ellishttps://sitstaylearn.com/collections/instructional-videos/products/dog-training-decoded-by-michael-ellis?rfsn=8100182.cd38c94&variant=51512501371169Course Breakdown Article:https://nateschoemer.com/dog-training-decoded-why-every-serious-trainer-should-learn-from-michael-ellis/Peoria, AZ — February 21–22, 2026Working Spot: SOLD OUTAudit Spot: $250Tickets: https://square.link/u/fUpcbPtGNorth Bend, OR — March 13–14, 2026Working Spot:https://9ce05e2d-70ad-4316-a25c-0e8363a9306a.paylinks.godaddy.com/nateschoemerworkingspotAudit Spot:https://9ce05e2d-70ad-4316-a25c-0e8363a9306a.paylinks.godaddy.com/3059b659-5945-4fc3-b4e7-db5San Marcos, TX — September 26–27, 2026Tickets Coming SoonWebsite: https://www.alldogsunleashed.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alldogsunleashedInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/alldogsunleashed/Website: https://NateSchoemer.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nateschoemerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/NateSchoemerTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@NateSchoemerFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/NateSchoemerX (Twitter): https://x.com/NateSchoemerWhat You’ll Learn In This Episode🎯 Sponsor — German Shepherd Shop🎓 Recommended Dog Training Courses📍 Upcoming Live Seminars👤 Guest — Brian Claeys🔗 Connect With Nate

Aggression cases don’t fail because of dogs, they fail because owners aren’t trained properly. In this episode, professional dog trainer Austin Laramee joins Nate Schoemer to break down how play-based training, leash communication, and owner education create behavior change that actually lasts.Austin shares his journey from adopting a shelter dog with no formal experience to working hundreds of real-world behavior cases. Together, they dive into what most owners get wrong, why many training programs fail once the dog goes home, and how play builds confidence, engagement, and impulse control.This conversation is practical, real-world focused, and packed with takeaways for dog owners and trainers who want better results without gimmicks.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:• Why owner education matters more than training the dog alone• How play builds confidence, engagement, and control• The biggest mistakes people make with aggressive dogs• How leash pressure becomes a powerful communication tool• Why board-and-train programs often fail long-term• How to structure training for real-life environmentsResources Mentioned:From Novice To Pro — Nate Schoemerhttps://sitstaylearn.com/collections/instructional-videos/products/from-novice-to-pro-the-ultimate-guide-to-dog-training-by-nate-schoemer?rfsn=8100182.cd38c94&variant=50148621582625Dog Training Decoded — Michael Ellishttps://sitstaylearn.com/collections/instructional-videos/products/dog-training-decoded-by-michael-ellis?rfsn=8100182.cd38c94&variant=51512501371169Michael Ellis Course Breakdown Articlehttps://nateschoemer.com/dog-training-decoded-why-every-serious-trainer-should-learn-from-michael-ellis/Upcoming Live Seminars:Corpus Christi, TX — January 23–25, 2026Hosted by Harley & Sergio Dog Training (SK9)Tickets: https://harleyandsergio.academy/workshopPeoria, AZ — February 21–22, 2026Hosted by Kinected K-9 AZ Dog TrainingTickets: https://square.link/u/fUpcbPtGNorth Bend, OR — March 13–14, 2026Working Spot:https://9ce05e2d-70ad-4316-a25c-0e8363a9306a.paylinks.godaddy.com/nateschoemerworkingspotAudit Spot:https://9ce05e2d-70ad-4316-a25c-0e8363a9306a.paylinks.godaddy.com/3059b659-5945-4fc3-b4e7-db5San Marcos, TX — September 26–27, 2026Tickets coming soonFollow Nate Schoemer:Website: https://NateSchoemer.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nateschoemerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/NateSchoemerTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@NateSchoemerFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/NateSchoemerX (Twitter): https://x.com/NateSchoemerGuest — Austin Laramee (Zero To Hero Dog Training):YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AustinLarameeDogTrainerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/zerotoherodogtrainingakron/Website: https://zerotoherodogtraining.online/Email: Zerotoherodogtraining@gmail.comIf you’re dealing with aggression, reactivity, or obedience challenges, this episode delivers real frameworks you can start applying immediately — without shortcuts or hype.

The dog training world is deeply divided, force-free vs balanced training. But what happens when avoiding pressure actually creates more fear, anxiety, and instability in dogs?In this episode, Nate Schoemer sits down with Justin Rigney, veteran dog trainer and former law-enforcement K9 handler, for an honest, experience-driven conversation about pressure, fear, genetics, and real behavior change.Justin explains why he doesn’t view pressure as punishment, but as communication, when applied correctly, fairly, and with timing. Drawing from decades of experience working with pet dogs, working dogs, and high-drive behavioral cases, he breaks down how pressure can provide clarity, encourage neutrality, and help dogs move through stress instead of becoming trapped in avoidance or fear.They also explore how well-intentioned training approaches can unintentionally reinforce fear, why genetics matter long before formal training begins, and why experienced trainers avoid rigid systems in favor of reading the individual dog in front of them.This conversation is especially relevant for dog owners, professional trainers, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of canine behavior beyond trend-driven or ideological training narratives.🧠 What You’ll Learn in This Episode• Why pressure is often unavoidable in real-world dog training• How fear can be unintentionally reinforced by handlers• The difference between fair, structured pressure and harmful handling• Why neutrality can be a powerful emotional state for many dogs• How balanced trainers blend reward, pressure, and restraint• Why some reward-only systems struggle under high stress or distraction• How genetics influence behavior long before formal training begins🎓 Recommended Training ResourceFrom Novice To Pro: The Ultimate Guide To Dog Training By Nate Schoemer👉 ⁠https://sitstaylearn.com/collections/instructional-videos/products/from-novice-to-pro-the-ultimate-guide-to-dog-training-by-nate-schoemer?rfsn=8100182.cd38c94&variant=50148621582625⁠🔗 Connect with Justin RigneyInstagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/jrigk9/⁠Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/K9servicesunlimited⁠TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@k9servicesunlimited⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@k-9servicesunlimited136⁠Website: ⁠https://k9servicesunlimited.com/⁠🔗 Connect with Nate SchoemerYouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/nateschoemer⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/nateschoemer⁠TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@nateschoemer⁠Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/NateSchoemer⁠X (Twitter): ⁠https://x.com/NateSchoemer

Thinking about leaving your 9–5 to become a professional dog trainer?Natalie Dobkins did exactly that — and in this episode, she breaks down how and why she made the leap, plus what it really takes to build a sustainable dog training business.Natalie (Team K9 Training) joins host Nate Schoemer for an honest, no-fluff conversation about transitioning out of the corporate world and into full-time dog training. They dive deep into the business foundations most trainers overlook, including LLC setup, pricing, marketing, client management, and how to avoid burnout in an unregulated industry.This episode isn’t just about training dogs — it’s about building a career that lasts.Whether you’re an aspiring dog trainer, a working professional considering a career shift, or an established trainer looking to tighten up your business systems, this episode delivers real-world insight you can apply immediately.The Career LeapWhat finally pushed Natalie to leave her corporate job and pursue dog training full-time.Business Foundations for Dog TrainersWhy LLCs, finances, contracts, and structure matter before you ever take a leash.Marketing & Client AcquisitionHow to attract clients without feeling salesy — and when paid ads actually make sense.Owner Education & Client RetentionWhy training owners is just as important as training dogs.Avoiding BurnoutWhy “being the Walmart of dog training” destroys trainers — and how to set boundaries.Scaling With SystemsHow email automation, follow-ups, and streamlined programs free up your time.Get 20% OFF with code: YONEISALLAmazon (US):https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DS2N3T3X?maas=maas_adg_A9BF15CFF1EEF7A701CF2F51611A4226_afap_abs&ref_=aa_maas&tag=maasOfficial Store:https://oneisallinc.pxf.io/WyjNrMCourse:From Novice To Pro: The Ultimate Guide To Dog Traininghttps://sitstaylearn.com/collections/instructional-videos/products/from-novice-to-pro-the-ultimate-guide-to-dog-training-by-nate-schoemer?rfsn=8100182.cd38c94&variant=50148621582625Follow Nate:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nateschoemerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nateschoemerTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nateschoemerFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/NateSchoemerX (Twitter): https://x.com/NateSchoemer🎧 Podcast Home:https://pod.link/1804414647Guest – Natalie Dobkins (Team K9 Training)Website: https://www.teamk9training.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teamk9.training/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@teamk9trainingYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@teamk9training/videos

Many dog trainers only focus on obedience… but what if the real solution to your dog’s behavior issues lies somewhere else entirely?In this powerful and eye-opening conversation, Nate Schoemer sits down with Evan Doggett (@doggett.style) to explore how small, often-ignored factors can transform a dog’s behavior from the inside out. From understanding canine communication to rethinking tools like e-collars, this episode uncovers what truly makes dogs reliable, calm, and happy companions.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:• Why your dog’s daily habits can shape behavior long before formal training begins• A simple “doggie multivitamin” recipe that owners swear by• How to use e-collars the right way, as a tool for communication, not punishment• The difference between socialization and desensitization (and why it matters)• Practical ways to fix reactivity, aggression, and resource guarding• How to make training fun, effective, and sustainable for both ends of the leashTop Quotes from Evan Doggett:“If your dog treat has more than five ingredients, throw it away.”“Most behavior problems start with the body, fix the health, and you fix the brain.”“At the beginning, think of the e-collar like a gentle leash pull, it’s about communication, not control.”About Evan Doggett:Founder of Doggett Style Dog Training, Evan blends humor, science, and real-world experience to help owners raise confident, balanced, and well-behaved dogs through clear communication and modern training strategies.🌐 Website: https://doggettstyle.com/📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doggett.style/🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@doggettstyle▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@doggettstyledogtraining📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DoggettStyleFollow Nate Schoemer:YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Podcast | Sit Stay Learn🎓 From Novice to Pro: The Ultimate Guide to Dog Training by Nate Schoemer →https://sitstaylearn.com/collections/instructional-videos/products/from-novice-to-pro-the-ultimate-guide-to-dog-training-by-nate-schoemer?rfsn=8100182.cd38c94&variant=50148621582625

In this episode, Robert Cabral shares how his journey from martial arts shaped his dog training philosophy—and how discipline, empathy, and clarity help dogs trust, thrive, and transform.We dive into shelter dog work, communication systems (yes/no, binary), building rapport, and why the “alpha” model is often misunderstood.This interview is for dog owners, trainers, or anyone passionate about animals. Whether you want better clarity, stronger results, or a deeper bond with your dog, there’s something here for you.What You’ll Learn:How Robert’s martial arts background shaped his training approach.The real meaning of “alpha” and why aggression doesn’t belong in leadership.How to build trust, motivation, and engagement with puppies.Step-by-step strategies for issues like potty training and reactivity.Insights into Robert’s “binary dog” concept and why yes/no can simplify communication.Why training is about clarity, not control.Tools, corrections, and fairness in balanced training.Lessons from shelter dogs and what they can teach us about resilience.Check Out Robert’s Courses:Shelter Course – $995https://robertcabral.com/shelter-dog-training/training/nateschoemer/Puppy Course – $199https://robertcabral.com/my-first-30-days-with-my-puppy-course/training/nateschoemer/Crate Mini Course – $39https://robertcabral.com/crate-training/training/nateschoemer/Membership – $20/month or $129/yearhttps://robertcabral.com/training/nateschoemer/Nate Schoemer’s Course:From Novice to Pro: The Ultimate Guide To Dog Traininghttps://sitstaylearn.com/collections/instructional-videos/products/from-novice-to-pro-the-ultimate-guide-to-dog-training-by-nate-schoemer?rfsn=8100182.cd38c94&variant=50148621582625Connect with Robert Cabral:Website: https://robertcabral.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RobertCabralDogsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/robertcabral/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RobertCabralTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@robertcabraldogsConnect with Nate Schoemer:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nateschoemer

What happens when one of the world’s most innovative dog trainers takes his famous trick dogs from Hollywood stunts to the art world?In this episode, Nate Schoemer sits down with Omar Von Muller — the legendary trainer behind viral sensations Jumpy and Monkey, and the man who trained the pit bull in Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.Omar’s story is incredible: from rescuing dogs off the street, to training them for blockbuster films, to now teaching his dog Monkey to paint over 50 original works of art in just seven months. His philosophy blends clarity, communication, and creativity, showing the world what’s possible when we think beyond traditional obedience.In this episode, you’ll learn:How Omar trained dogs for Once Upon a Time in Hollywood and other major filmsWhy communication systems like the “mark system” are the foundation for advanced trainingThe role of creativity in keeping dogs engaged and fulfilledWhy Omar retired Monkey from stunt work and pivoted into paintingThe process of teaching a dog to paint — from brush handling to unique strokesHow Omar balances play, exercise, and art to give his dogs the fullest life possibleConnect with Omar Von Muller:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omarvonmullerFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/omarvonmullerFacebook (Omar & Monkey): https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088557324948Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/omarsdogtrainingMonkey’s Art Gallery: https://monkeysartgallery.comOmar’s Course – The Mark System Blueprint: https://sitstaylearn.com/collections/instructional-videos/products/the-mark-system-blueprint-by-omar-von-muller?rfsn=8100182.cd38c94&variant=50640517660961From Novice To Pro: The Ultimate Guide To Dog Training by Nate Schoemer:https://sitstaylearn.com/collections/instructional-videos/products/from-novice-to-pro-the-ultimate-guide-to-dog-training-by-nate-schoemer?rfsn=8100182.cd38c94&variant=50148621582625

In this episode, I sit down with Nino from STSK9, one of the most respected and innovative figures in the dog training world. Nino’s journey is extraordinary—he grew up afraid of dogs, yet went on to become a K9 handler, elite trainer, and the creator of the S-Flow system that’s redefining obedience and working dog training.We cover:Nino’s unlikely path from fear to obsession and ultimately to the K9 unit.The mindset it takes to overcome obstacles and achieve mastery.Why handler skills, synchronization, and mechanics are as critical as the dog’s abilities.How the S-Flow system was developed and why it produces precise, powerful, and reliable obedience.The role of psychology, decision-making, and talent development for both dog and handler.Lessons from Belgian Ring, Mondioring, and K9 deployments that apply to anyone training dogs.The difference between focus heel, contact heel, and street heel—and how synchronization is the real secret to leash work.Whether you’re a pet owner wanting a better connection with your dog, a professional trainer, or a working-dog enthusiast, this conversation is packed with insights that will change the way you think about training.🎓 Learn more from Nino and STSK9’s programs (use code NATESCHOEMER):https://onlineuniversity.stsk9.com/a/2147494584/wiKC9xeShttps://onlineuniversity.stsk9.com/a/2147496476/wiKC9xeS📌 Follow Nino (STSK9):Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stsk9/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@stsk9Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nino.drowaertYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@STSK9Website: https://stsk9.com/

Michael Ellis on the Most Overlooked Key to Dog Training: EngagementIn this wide-ranging conversation, world-renowned dog trainer Michael Ellis shares what he believes is the most overlooked key to successful dog training: engagement.Before you can teach a dog what to learn, you first have to teach them how to learn—and that starts by creating motivation, attention, and buy-in. Whether you’re a dog owner, a new trainer, or a seasoned pro, this discussion will change the way you think about dogs, behavior, and obedience.We cover:• Why engagement is the foundation of all dog training• How classical conditioning shapes behavior (often without us realizing it)• The right and wrong way to use markers and rewards• How to avoid common mistakes like overshadowing and learned irrelevance• When to switch from continuous to intermittent reinforcement• How to address behavior issues like fear, aggression, and anxiety• The future of dog training and how science is reshaping the fieldLearn more from Michael Ellis:Michael Ellis School for Dog Trainers: https://michaelellisschool.com/Membership Platform: https://michaelellisschool.com/membership/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@michaelellisschoolfordogtr6450Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063534012479Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michael_ellis_school/Work with Nate Schoemer:Online Course: From Novice to Pro: The Ultimate Guide to Dog Traininghttps://sitstaylearn.com/collections/instructional-videos/products/from-novice-to-pro-the-ultimate-guide-to-dog-training-by-nate-schoemer?rfsn=8100182.cd38c94&variant=50148621582625⏱ Episode Breakdown:00:00 – Engagement in Reward-Based Dog Training06:35 – Measuring Dog Training Engagement13:20 – Delayed Reward Timing in Dog Training18:13 – Effective Dog Training Commands26:24 – Intermittent Dog Training Strategies27:43 – Effects of Continuous Rewards36:16 – Evolving Dog Training Methods41:51 – Evolving Dog Training Insights46:09 – Training People for Dog Skills51:48 – Dog Training: Beyond Protocols58:09 – Effective Rewards for Anxious Dogs01:01:26 – Pavlovian Interference in Dog Training01:06:29 – Delayed Rewards in Dog Training01:11:20 – Evolving Approach to Dog Training01:19:55 – Michael Ellis Membership Launch01:20:56 – Affordable Dog Training Access

🎙️ What does it really take to raise a reliable service dog?In this episode, Nate Schoemer sits down with professional service dog trainer Heather Lowell to explore the science and strategy behind raising life-changing canine partners. From genetics and early development to advanced training and public access proofing, this episode is packed with honest insights and expert advice.Whether you’re starting with a puppy, considering a rescue, or looking to train a dog you already have, Heather shares a clear roadmap to success—rooted in real-world experience and evidence-based techniques.How to select the right dog for service work (puppy vs. rescue)The role of genetics, epigenetics, and the critical socialization periodCrate training, potty training, and early management strategiesCommon myths around service dog certification and ADA lawsE-collar training, reward timing, and advanced behavior shapingPublic access training, task work, and distraction proofingFounder of The K9 Advocate📺 YouTube: @TheK9AdvocateLLC🌐 Website: https://www.thek9advocate.com/📸 Instagram: @k9advocateheather💡 Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheK9AdvocateLLCCheck out Nate’s complete step-by-step course:🎓 From Novice to Pro: The Ultimate Guide to Dog Training👉 https://bit.ly/4jGVNNBIf you enjoyed this episode, follow the show and leave a rating — it helps us reach more dog lovers and support more training journeys. 🐶🔍 Topics Covered:👤 Guest: Heather Lowell🐾 Want to train your own dog like a pro?