Positively Dog Training - The Official Victoria Stilwell Podcast - Training Dogs with Science and Kindness with Paul Owens, The Original Dog Whisperer

Training Dogs with Science and Kindness with Paul Owens, The Original Dog Whisperer

10/15/24 • 52 min

Positively Dog Training - The Official Victoria Stilwell Podcast

In this episode, Victoria Stilwell speaks with Paul Owens, widely known as the original Dog Whisperer. Paul reflects on his remarkable 50-year career as a professional dog trainer, transitioning from traditional punitive methods to pioneering force-free, positive reinforcement techniques. They discuss Paul's journey, including the pivotal moment when he embraced a more compassionate approach to dog training and the evolution of his teaching. Paul shares the importance of blending science and heart in training, ensuring a relationship of trust and kindness with our canine companions. Listeners will be inspired by his stories and wisdom about how positive reinforcement impacts not just dogs, but the people who love them.

They also delve into the misconceptions around positive reinforcement, especially its effectiveness with high-drive or aggressive dogs. Through his gentle yet powerful approach, Paul continues to show that kindness is not only effective but essential. With stories about his after-school program, "Paws for Peace," and insights from his latest book, "Training for the Joy of Dogs," Paul offers invaluable guidance for trainers and pet owners alike.

Previous Episode

Unlocking Canine Wellness: The Power of Myotherapy for Dogs with Julia Robertson

In this episode, host Victoria Stilwell chats with Julia Robertson, founder of Galen Myotherapy and author, to explore how her techniques have transformed the lives of thousands of dogs. Julia explains how muscular compensation and adaptive changes in dogs can lead to behavioral issues, often mistaken for aggression or anxiety, when they are actually rooted in pain. Her work emphasizes the importance of recognizing physical discomfort and offering choice-based treatments that empower dogs during therapy.

Victoria and Julia also discuss the critical role of guardian empowerment, drawing parallels between canine Myotherapy and progressive dog training approaches. The episode highlights how owners can foster healthier relationships with their dogs by prioritizing comfort and wellness. Listeners will gain insights into the power of understanding canine body language and the preventative measures that can be taken in early puppyhood to ensure long-term health.

Next Episode

A Roundtable Discussion - The Future of Dog Training

In this Roundtable Discussion, Victoria Stilwell and the Positively Team explore the evolving landscape of dog training. Together, they address recent controversies in the industry, including a flawed study promoting the use of shock collars, and emphasize the need to move beyond outdated methods like punishment and reward-based systems. The trainers advocate for a shift toward relationship-centered training, where the focus is on enhancing the well-being and cooperation between dogs and humans.

Through real-life stories, analogies, and insights from the panel, listeners are encouraged to think critically about their own approach to dog training. The conversation touches on the importance of trust, empathy, and collaboration, not just between trainers and dogs, but within the professional community. This episode provides a hopeful vision for the future, where welfare and kindness are at the heart of every training decision.