In part three of Bjorn to Be Wild,
Erik sits down once again with Wayne Dixon to continue documenting the real-time development of a young West Siberian Laika toward becoming a solo bear dog.
This episode focuses on something often overlooked in hunting dog development — nutrition, health, and the bond between dog and handler. Wayne shares his thoughts on feeding strategies for both puppies and adult dogs, the role of raw diets, and why proper nutrition can influence everything from growth and recovery to confidence and long-term performance.
We also discuss epigenetic expression, conditioning, and how environment, stress, and daily routines shape a dog beyond genetics alone.
The conversation returns to bonding and trust — especially in primitive breeds — and why the relationship between handler and dog becomes the foundation everything else depends on. Wayne explains why patience, consistency, and making the kennel a positive place are critical parts of raising a confident hunting dog.
The episode also touches on vaccinations, parasite control, health monitoring, and building confidence in young dogs through gradual exposure and repetition.
This isn’t just about creating a hunting dog.
It’s about building a healthy, stable, and dependable partner over time.
Highlights include:
🐾 Nutrition and feeding strategies for working dogs
🧬 Epigenetics, growth, and environmental influence
🐕 Bonding and trust in primitive breeds
🩺 Vaccination, parasite control, and health routines
🐻 Building confidence for future bear work
🧠 Patience, repetition, and long-term development
Another honest step in the ongoing process of turning potential into performance.
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