Shows / The Dog People Podcast
The Dog People Podcast
The Dog People Podcast is a dog training and behaviour podcast covering everything from reactivity, recall and obedience to puppy training, aggression, socialisation and the everyday problems dog owners face.
Hosted by Jack Laurence, dog owner and training enthusiast, and Max O'Neil, accredited dog trainer and behaviour expert from Down Under Dog Trainer, the show takes a practical, no-nonsense approach to building a better relationship with your dog — so you never have to yell, “It’s OK, he’s…
Episodes
- The Dog People Podcast
Dog Training Standards: Do We Need Laws or Just Better Trainers?
Dog training is an unregulated industry but should it stay that way? In this episode, Jack takes the side of regulation after seeing firsthand the harm caused…
- The Dog People Podcast
Fixing the Why, Not Just the What
In this episode, Max and Jack dive into one of the most important lessons in dog training: don’t just stop a behaviour, understand why it’s happening in the…
- The Dog People Podcast
Why Puppy School Isn’t Enough to Train Your Dog
A four-week puppy school might be a great start, but it’s not the finish line. In this episode, Max explains the real role of puppy school, why it should be…
- The Dog People Podcast
Bringing Home a Second Dog? Be prepared to be a leader
Bringing home a second dog isn’t just about doubling the fun, it means doubling the responsibility. Max explains why “letting the dogs sort it out” is a…
- The Dog People Podcast
Punishing the act not the aftermath
When Max woke up to find his dog Nelson had shredded a cushion, he didn’t just get frustrated he used it as a training opportunity. In this episode, Max…
- The Dog People Podcast
Nature vs Nurture in Dogs: Are Behaviour Problems Born or Made?
Is your dog’s behaviour shaped by its breed and genetics—or by how it's raised? In this episode of The Dog People Podcast, professional dog trainer Max O’Neil…
- The Dog People Podcast
The Truth About Anti-Bark Devices: Why Ultrasonic Gadgets Don’t Work
Are ultrasonic anti-bark devices really the magic solution they claim to be? In this episode of The Dog People Podcast, professional dog trainer Max O’Neil…
- The Dog People Podcast
Large Dog Breeds That Can Be Too Much for First-Time Owners: Big Dogs, Big Demands
In the final episode of our breed guidance series for new dog owners, Jack and expert trainer Max O’Neil explore the large dog breeds that might not be the…
- The Dog People Podcast
Medium Dog Breeds That May Challenge First-Time Owners: High Drive, High Maintenance
In this episode of The Dog People Podcast, Jack and professional trainer Max O’Neil continue their honest look at breed suitability for new owners—this time…
- The Dog People Podcast
Small Dog Breeds That May Be Too Much for First-Time Owners: What to Know Before You Choose
Not every adorable small dog is an easy fit for first-time owners. In this honest and informative episode of The Dog People Podcast, Jack and dog trainer Max…
- The Dog People Podcast
Best Large Dog Breeds for First-Time Owners: Gentle Giants
In the final instalment of our breed recommendation series on The Dog People Podcast, Jack and professional trainer Max O’Neil tackle the best large dog breeds…
- The Dog People Podcast
Top Medium-Sized Dog Breeds for First-Time Owners: Balanced, Friendly, and Just Right
In part two of our first-time dog owner series on The Dog People Podcast, Jack and expert trainer Max O’Neil turn their attention to medium-sized dog…
- The Dog People Podcast
Best Small Dog Breeds for First-Time Owners: Your Perfect Pup Starts Here
In this episode of The Dog People Podcast, Jack and professional dog trainer Max O’Neil kick off a brand-new series designed to help first-time dog owners find…
- The Dog People Podcast
Reinforcement Schedules Explained: Why Unpredictable Rewards Create Addicted Learners
In this episode of The Dog People Podcast, Max and Jack unpack one of the most misunderstood parts of dog training — how often you should be rewarding your…
- The Dog People Podcast
Dog People Q&A: Daycare Advice, Vagus Nerve Facts & Fetch Troubles
Join Jack and Max as they field your questions in this dog-packed episode: uncover the realities of modern doggie daycare, debunk the vagus nerve “calming…
- The Dog People Podcast
Responsible Rehoming: Why It Isn’t Always a Failure
Rehoming a dog is one of the hardest decisions a person can make — and one of the most judged. In this honest conversation, we break down the stigma around…
- The Dog People Podcast
How to Build a Healthy Relationship With Your Dog
Want a dog who loves working with you but can also chill on their own? In this episode, we’ll teach you how to build a healthy relationship with your dog…
- The Dog People Podcast
Dogs Learn from Dogs: Choosing the Right Social Circle
Every interaction your dog has shapes them — so what are they picking up from their "friends"? This episode dives into how dogs influence each other’s…
- The Dog People Podcast
The Dog Park Debate: Social Playground or Behavioural Minefield?
Dog parks are everywhere — but are they really the best place for your dog? In this episode, we dive into the pros, cons, and common misconceptions around dog…
- The Dog People Podcast
The Second Dog Checklist: Are You and Your Dog Really Ready?
Bringing home a second dog is a major life change — not just for you, but for your current dog too. In this episode, we dive into everything you need to…
- The Dog People Podcast
Are You Training or Managing? How to Know What Mode You’re In
In this episode, Max breaks down one of the most important distinctions in dog behaviour: training vs management. You should always be in one of these modes —…
- The Dog People Podcast
From Panic to Peace: Managing Your Dog’s Noise Phobia
Loud bangs, flashing lights, and rolling thunder — while we know it’s just weather or a celebration, for many dogs it’s terrifying. In this episode, we unpack…
- The Dog People Podcast
Reactivity, Redemption, and Real Lessons with Canines on Cue’s Seb Lemaire
In this episode of The Dog People Podcast, we sit down with Sebastian Lemaire from Canines on Cue to hear the honest, inspiring story of how his own dog…
- The Dog People Podcast
Dogs & Kids: Preparing for a Safe and Happy Home
This week on The Dog People Podcast, it’s all about kids and canines—and how to help them live together safely and harmoniously. Jack is joined by regular…
- The Dog People Podcast
Threshold Training could save your dogs life
In this episode of The Dog People Podcast, Jack opens up about a recent scare with Kira running through open doors left ajar by tradies—a potentially…
- The Dog People Podcast
Buying from a Breeder? Here’s How to Do It Right
In this episode of The Dog People Podcast, we tackle a topic that can stir up strong opinions—buying from breeders. While we absolutely recognise that many…
- The Dog People Podcast
My Dog’s Obsessed with the Cat! Plus: Cobberdog Enrichment Tips
In this episode of The Dog People Podcast, Max and Jack dive into your listener questions! First up, we explore the best outlets and breed-specific enrichment…
- The Dog People Podcast
Why Every Dog Needs a Job
In this episode of The Dog People Podcast, we explore one of the most overlooked keys to a calm, happy, and well-behaved dog—giving them a job. Whether you’ve…
- The Dog People Podcast
Positive vs Negative Reinforcement: What’s the Difference?
In this episode of The Dog People Podcast, we break down two of the most essential and misunderstood terms in dog training: positive reinforcement and negative…
- The Dog People Podcast
The Truth About Punishment: Why It’s Not a Dirty Word
In this episode of The Dog People Podcast, we tackle one of the most misunderstood concepts in dog training: punishment. For many, the word brings to mind…
- The Dog People Podcast
Recall That Works: The 4 Levels of Freedom Explained
Recall isn’t just about your dog coming when called—it’s about trust, timing, and proof. In this episode, Max breaks down his Four Levels of Freedom: Proofing…
- The Dog People Podcast
Why Is My Dog Barking? Understanding the Noise Before the Fix
Barking is one of the most common frustrations for dog owners—but it’s also one of the most misunderstood behaviours. In this episode of The Dog People Pod…
- The Dog People Podcast
Teach It, Train It, Proof It, Keep It: The Full Dog Training Cycle
Your dog listens at home, but ignores you at the park? You might be stuck between stages. This week, Max explains the four stages of learning every dog owner…
- The Dog People Podcast
At the Gate: Threshold Training That Could Save Your Dog’s Life
After a few too many incidents with Kira wondering off—thanks to tradies leaving gates open—Jack realised something had to change. In this episode, Max breaks…
- The Dog People Podcast
When to Hire a Dog Trainer: Setting You & Your Dog Up for Success
Every dog is different, and while some owners can tackle training on their own, others might need a little expert guidance. But how do you know when it’s time…
- The Dog People Podcast
Jealous Dogs and Harness Hiccups: Listener Q&A
We’re opening the inbox and answering your dog dilemmas! First, Max tackles a case of sibling rivalry—one listener’s young dog is acting out with jealousy, and…
- The Dog People Podcast
Unlocking Your Dog’s Motivation: Finding your dogs currency
If your dog isn’t responding to training, you might be using the wrong currency. In this episode, Jack and Max O’Neil explain how to identify what truly…
- The Dog People Podcast
So you want to be a dog trainer?
Turning a passion for dogs into a full-time career is a dream for many, but where do you start? In this episode, Max shares his blueprint for becoming a…
- The Dog People Podcast
Walking Your Dog, Not Flying a Kite
If your dog’s leash skills make you feel like you’re hang-gliding instead of walking, this episode is for you. Jack and Max O’Neil sit down to answeer the…
- The Dog People Podcast
Finding the Right Dog Trainer – What to Look For and What to Avoid
With so many different training methods and philosophies out there, finding the right dog trainer can feel overwhelming. In this episode, we break down what to…
- The Dog People Podcast
The crate debate!
Crate training is one of the most divisive topics in the dog world—some swear by it, while others strongly oppose it. In this episode, we take a balanced look…
- The Dog People Podcast
Engagement – Becoming the Centre of Your Dog’s World
How tuned in is your dog to you? In new environments, does your dog check in with you or run off in search of something more exciting—chasing birds, running to…
- The Dog People Podcast
Outlets – Giving Your Dog a Purpose
"You never want a working dog that's out of work!" A bored dog is a destructive dog! We dive into the importance of mental and physical outlets, from scent…
- The Dog People Podcast
Socialisation – More Than Just Saying Hello
Socialisation isn’t just about meeting other dogs—it’s about building confidence in all areas of your dog’s life. In this episode, we break down what true…
- The Dog People Podcast
Structure – The Key to a Balanced Dog
Much like us humans dogs thrive on routine, but what does a structured life really look like? We discuss how to create healthy boundaries, set realistic…
- The Dog People Podcast
The Five Pillars of a Well-Balanced Dog
Before we dive into the details, this episode sets the stage for our series by exploring the five key elements every dog owner needs to understand…
- The Dog People Podcast
Who are we!?
A no-nonsense approach to dog training, so you never have to yell, "It's OK, he's friendly!" In this show, hosts Jack Laurence (dog owner and training…