Ep287 - Training the dog trainers: Joe Dickinson

In this episode of Life With Your Dog, Panos sits down with Joe Dickinson for a deep dive into the art and science of dog behaviour and training.

We explore why it’s important to stop simply labelling dogs as stubborn, dominant, anxious or aggressive and instead start observing the dog in front of us. Behaviour doesn’t happen in a vacuum, and understanding the individual dog means considering environment, arousal, reinforcement history, physical condition and, importantly, the person on the other end of the leash.

Joe also shares her approach to training dog trainers—teaching people not just how to follow a method or apply a technique, but how to observe, think critically and adapt their training based on the feedback the dog is giving them.

We discuss why the same training plan can work brilliantly for one dog and fall apart with another, the importance of understanding the why behind behaviour, and the balance between the science of learning and the art of actually reading and working with dogs.

A great conversation for dog owners and trainers alike about moving beyond labels, looking at what’s actually happening in front of you, and becoming a better observer of your dog.

Panos' book - The Nooch's Pooches Method: A Comprehensive Guide to Training and Living with Your Dog https://amzn.asia/d/f1wzLQK