Exploring Canine Play with Craig Ogilvie [Episode 244]

12/30/24 • 52 min

In this highly anticipated second part of our conversation with Craig Ogilvie, renowned dog trainer and behavior consultant, we continue to dive deep into the world of interactive play. Craig, who operates the successful Ogilvie Dogs training center and authored The Interactive Play Guide, shares invaluable insights into how play can revolutionize dog training by meeting the biological needs of dogs, while also creating powerful reinforcement tools.

In this episode, Craig dissects the science behind play, exploring its origins in the predatory motor pattern, and how it serves both the physical and social development of dogs. From toy play to interpersonal play, Craig emphasizes the importance of creating structured yet engaging play experiences that not only enhance the dog’s ability to learn but also strengthen the bond between dogs and their caregivers. Craig also discusses the underutilized potential of play in addressing behavioral issues, showing how trainers can use play to increase responsiveness and reduce problematic behaviors, even in highly aroused states.

Listeners will come away with a deeper understanding of how to incorporate play as a key training strategy and hear Craig’s expert advice on adapting play styles to individual dogs for the most rewarding results.

What You’ll Discover in This Episode:

How play taps into dogs’ predatory motor patterns for learning and behavior development.
Techniques to tailor play styles to meet each dog’s unique needs and motivations.
The role of play in behavior modification and managing arousal levels.
Practical tips on using play as a reinforcer in both pet and sport dog training settings.

Why This Episode is a Must-Listen: Craig Ogilvie’s passion for play-based training and his wealth of experience make this episode a valuable resource for trainers and dog owners alike. Whether you’re working with reactivity, recall, or general engagement issues, Craig’s insights will inspire you to rethink how play can become a cornerstone of your training toolbox.

Engage With Us: If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, share with fellow trainers, and join our online community to explore more about ethical and science-based training practices.

LINKS:

What You’ll Discover in This Episode:

How play taps into dogs’ predatory motor patterns for learning and behavior development.
Techniques to tailor play styles to meet each dog’s unique needs and motivations.
The role of play in behavior modification and managing arousal levels.
Practical tips on using play as a reinforcer in both pet and sport dog training settings.

Engage With Us: If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, share with fellow trainers, and join our online community to explore more about ethical and science-based training practices.

LINKS:

Previous Episode

Craig Ogilvie’s Training Journey; From Police Dogs to Play [Episode 243]

In this engaging two-part episode of the Animal Training Academy podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Craig Ogilvie, a globally respected dog trainer, behavior consultant, and business mentor. Craig has dedicated his career to having his biggest possible positive impact on the world of dog training with his innovative interactive play approach and a deep understanding of canine behavior.

In this first part of our conversation, Craig shares his journey that brought him from his early days as a child inspired by his grandfather’s work with police dogs to becoming one of the UK’s top subject matter experts in dog training. He reveals the pivotal moments, challenges, and breakthroughs that shaped his career, including his time as a police instructor, predatory motor patterns, and the creation of his training center - Ogilvie Dogs.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into Craig’s philosophy on training, his techniques for building confidence and engagement in dogs, and his unique approach to blending science, play, and practicality in every aspect of his work.

What You’ll Discover in This Episode:

Craig’s inspiring journey from early mentorship to becoming an international dog trainining subject matter expert.
The evolution of his interactive play methodology and its transformative impact on dogs and their owners.
How Craig integrates scientific principles with hands-on techniques for real-world training success.
The story behind the creation of Ogilvie Dogs and its role in shaping the future of dog training.
Craig’s reflections on gratitude, happiness, and staying connected to one’s passion.

Why This Episode is a Must-Listen: Craig Ogilvie’s innovative methods, vast experience, and passion for improving the lives of dogs and their owners make this episode a treasure trove of inspiration and knowledge for trainers, behaviorists, and dog enthusiasts alike.

Engage With Us: Subscribe to the podcast, share this episode with fellow dog training enthusiasts, and join our community to discuss ethical, science-based training practices and beyond.

LINKS;

Next Episode

Navigating Feather-Destructive Behaviors with Belinda Young [Episode 245]

A Journey of Resilience and Innovation with Belinda Young [Episode 245]

In this episode of the Animal Training Academy Podcast, Ryan Cartlidge welcomes Belinda Young, an accomplished animal trainer and cherished member of the ATA team. With over a decade of experience, Belinda has worked extensively with dogs, cats, and parrots, specialising in reward-based training methods and tackling complex behavioral challenges.

In this episode Belinda shares an extraordinary case study featuring Scramble, her charismatic crimson-bellied conure. Scramble's journey with feather-destructive behavior - a challenge unique to captive parrots - is the centerpiece of this episode, offering listeners a raw, insightful, and inspiring look into the intricacies of animal training and behavior management.

Through heartfelt discussion, Belinda details her exploration of medical, environmental, and behavioral interventions to support Scramble’s recovery. She emphasises the importance of collaboration with veterinarians and behaviorists, the power of targeted cognitive training, and her commitment to addressing Scramble's emotional and physical needs.

What You’ll Discover in This Episode:

The unique challenges of feather-destructive behaviors in parrots.
Insights into using environmental enrichment and targeted cognitive training to support behavioral change.
How collaboration and community support are pivotal in navigating complex cases.
Practical strategies and creative solutions applicable to multiple species and behavioral challenges.

Why This Episode is a Must-Listen: Belinda’s journey is a testament to the resilience required when faced with unforeseen training challenges and the transformative power of persistence, learning, and compassion. Whether you’re managing feather-destructive behaviors, working with domestic or exotic animals, or seeking inspiration to tackle tough training problems, this episode is brimming with invaluable insights.

Links:

Scramble is @nevershakeababybird on instagram.

Belindas' website is www.treatplaylove.com.au and business facebook is www.facebook.com/treatplaylovetraining/

Animal Training Academy - Exploring Canine Play with Craig Ogilvie [Episode 244]

Transcript

00:00:03.740

Welcome to the Animal Training Academy podcast show. I'm your host, Ryan Carledge, and I'm passionate about helping you master your animal training skills using the most positive and least intrusive approaches. Here at ATA, we understand that navigating the vast challenges you encounter in training requires a comprehensive base of knowledge and experience. It's common to face obstacles and rough patches on your journey that can leave you feeling overwhelmed and stress