About this episode

Dr. Sophie Liu discusses frustration-related behaviour in shelter dogs and strategies to help them cope.

In this episode, veterinary behaviourist Dr. Sophie Liu dives into the complex world of shelter dogs and frustration-related behaviour, why it happens, how it looks, and what we can practically do to help these dogs cope and thrive. The conversation starts by unpacking what frustration actually is for dogs in a shelter setting: the emotional state that sits between “I want something” and “I can’t get it.” Dr. Liu explains how limited freedom, barriers (kennel doors, leashes, gates), unpredictable routines, and social isolation can all turn normal emotions into chronic frustration. We also discuss strategies to support frustrated dogs and how we can implement these successfully in shelter and rescues. About Dr. Sophie Liu As a veterinarian, published scientific author, and an accomplished dog trainer, Dr. Sophie Liu is a highly sought after behavior consultant and presenter. After receiving ACVB-resident training, Dr. Liu returned to her roots in Oakland, CA to provide a full range of services for East Bay dog owners. Dr. Liu knows that raising a puppy or a well-adjusted adult dog requires a perfect blend of a dog's genetic background + confident learning experiences + expert…

People in this episode

Host: Simplifying Shelter Behaviour

Guest: Dr. Sophie Liu

Topics covered

• shelter dogs
• frustration-related behaviour
• veterinary behaviour
• dog training
• animal welfare

Keywords

• shelter dogs
• frustration
• behaviourist
• dog training
• animal behaviour

More episodes of Simplifying Shelter Behaviour

• Ep. 60 Considering a Good Death: A Hospice Approach for Animals," with Helen St. Pierre · April 22, 2026 · 54 min
• Ep. 59 Reactivity Training in the Shelter: What We've Learnt with Jess wheatcraft · April 10, 2026 · 50 min
• Ep. 58 Quality of Life for Dogs, Staff and Adopters with Kelly Bollen · March 25, 2026 · 46 min
• Ep. 57. Intergrating behaviour into shelter operations with Dr. Meghan Herron · March 12, 2026 · 1h 2m
• Ep. 56 Muzzle and Misunderstood- Improving the Perception of Muzzle Dogs in Shelter and Rescue. · February 24, 2026 · 17 min
• Ep. 55 Medical and behaviour, can we separate them? With Dr. Èlise Christensen · February 11, 2026 · 50 min

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Simplifying Shelter Behaviour podcast page.