Explore every episode of the podcast Balanced Dog Training With Suburban K9

The hosts spent some time talking about current news stories in the dog world. From dog robots to Korean dog meat farms, they covered a large variety of stories. Tune in and enjoy!

In this episode, the hosts discuss how to manage dogs that are scared of fireworks, especially with the 4th of July approaching.

They cover various strategies including medication, training techniques, and desensitization methods. The hosts emphasize the need for responsible pet ownership and proactive training to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both dogs and their owners during the holiday. Takeaways

• Medication like Benadryl can help manage fireworks anxiety in dogs.
• It's important to train your dog in basic commands before the fireworks start.
• Desensitization to loud noises can reduce fear of fireworks.
• Staying home with your dog during fireworks is crucial for their comfort.
• Exercise your dog leading up to the 4th of July to help them relax.
• Using music to mask the sound of fireworks can be beneficial.
• Fireworks anxiety can be managed with proper training and preparation.
• Don't let your dog hide during fireworks; it can worsen their anxiety.
• Consider boarding your dog if you have a party during fireworks.

In this episode, the hosts discuss the intricacies of e-collar training for dogs, emphasizing the importance of proper introduction and mechanics. They explore the differences between positive punishment and negative reinforcement, and how to effectively use e-collars for commands and behavioral corrections. The conversation also highlights common mistakes trainers make and the significance of client education in ensuring successful training outcomes. We also added a new game where we randomly call one of our trainers live on the show and put them on the spot!

Today on the Balanced Dog Training Show, we’re joined by the incredible Dr. Melanie Uhde for an eye-opening conversation on how hormones and neurotransmitters influence dog behavior—and how that knowledge can transform your training approach.

Dr. Uhde is a renowned expert in canine neurobiology and behavior, and she's leading the charge in bridging the gap between cutting-edge science and everyday dog training. In this episode, we dive deep into the major neurotransmitters and hormones—like dopamine, serotonin, cortisol, and adrenaline—and how each one affects a dog’s emotional state, reactivity, focus, and ability to learn.

We break down how these chemical messengers impact common behavioral issues such as anxiety, aggression, overexcitement, and fear. More importantly, we explore how understanding what’s happening inside a dog’s brain allows trainers and owners to tailor their approach, creating calmer, more confident dogs and more effective training sessions.

Whether you're a professional dog trainer, a passionate dog owner, or just someone curious about the science behind behavior, this episode offers a fascinating look at the biological forces shaping your dog’s actions—and how you can use that knowledge to your advantage.

Guest: Dr. Melanie Uhde

📘 Facebook: Dr. Melanie Uhde
📷 Instagram: @caninedecoded
▶️ YouTube: www.YouTube.com/@dr.melanieuhde

In this episode, the hosts discuss the concept of guard dogs, focusing on how to raise a family-friendly dog that can also exhibit guarding behaviors. They explore the balance between allowing natural guarding instincts and ensuring the dog remains social and manageable.

The conversation delves into the importance of breed selection, personality traits, and the role of training in shaping a dog's behavior. The hosts emphasize that a dog's deterrent effect often relies on its appearance and behavior rather than formal training.

They discuss how daily interactions shape a dog's behavior, the significance of socialization, and the management of barking. The conversation emphasizes the need for consistency in training and the understanding that dogs learn from their environment and the responses of their owners.

In this conversation, the hosts discuss the nuances of energy in dog training, emphasizing its critical role in establishing effective communication and training methods. They explore the differences between using treats and praise, the importance of reading a dog's energy, and how to tailor training approaches to individual dogs' needs. The discussion also touches on the significance of energy levels in creating a strong bond between trainers and dogs, and how understanding these dynamics can lead to more successful training outcomes.

In this episode of Balanced Training with Suburban K9, the hosts engage in a discussion about various dog training topics, including resource guarding, managing skittish behavior, the rules around dogs on furniture, and the importance of socialization. They emphasize the need for dog owners to understand their pets' body language and to intervene when necessary to ensure safe interactions. The conversation also covers practical training tips for puppies, including recall and attention commands, and the significance of establishing clear rules for dog behavior in the home.

In this conversation, the hosts discuss the complexities of separation anxiety in dogs, exploring its symptoms, causes, and effective training techniques. They emphasize the importance of creating a calm environment, using obedience commands, and establishing a positive relationship with the crate. The discussion also highlights the role of daily exercise in managing anxiety and the necessity of correcting unwanted behaviors without punishing the dog's anxiety. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights for dog owners and trainers dealing with separation anxiety.

The conversation also touches on the role of medication in severe cases of separation anxiety and the importance of setting realistic goals for dog owners. Additionally, they identify specific dog breeds that are more prone to separation anxiety and offer preventative measures for new dog owners to help mitigate these issues.

In this episode of Balanced Training with Suburban K9, the hosts discuss the significance of obedience in dog training, exploring various perspectives on its importance and application. They delve into how obedience commands can serve as tools for managing behavior, building relationships, and addressing issues like food aggression and resource guarding.

The conversation emphasizes the need for tailored approaches based on individual dog temperaments and the role of trainers in guiding clients through effective training methods. In this conversation, the hosts discuss various topics related to dog training, including the importance of obedience commands in addressing issues like resource guarding, the changing role of dogs in modern society, and the significance of shared language between trainers and clients.

Takeaways

• Obedience only matters if you do it in the right manner.
• A well-trained dog is one that I don't have to talk to.
• Obedience commands are important for building a relationship.
• You can raise a dog with just the come command.
• Teaching commands isn't going to fix my problem.
• Obedience should be creating the behavior you want.
• Choose when you want to work.

• Obedience commands give you a common language with the dog.
• You can do a lot with energy and tone. Obedience commands are crucial for addressing resource guarding.
• Many people treat their dogs as surrogate children, leading to behavioral issues.
• Training should focus on building a shared language between the trainer and the dog owner.
• Resource guarding can be managed effectively with proper obedience training.
• The role of dogs in society has changed, with many being overly pampered.
• It's important to have control over your dog in various situations, including public spaces.
• Training should not just focus on tricks but on enforceable commands.
• Dogs need structure and boundaries to thrive in modern households.

• Understanding the difference between obedience commands and tricks is essential for effective training.

In this episode, the hosts discuss various methods for introducing dogs to one another, focusing on different scenarios such as introducing puppies to each other, friendly older dogs, standoffish older dogs, and aggressive dogs.

They emphasize the importance of having a plan, understanding dog behavior, and taking the time necessary for successful introductions. The conversation is filled with humor and personal anecdotes, making it both informative and entertaining for dog owners and trainers alike.

This conversation delves into the complexities of introducing dogs to one another, focusing on various scenarios including puppies to older dogs, older dogs to standoffish dogs, and aggressive dog introductions. The speakers emphasize the importance of understanding dog behavior, body language, and the need for structured introductions to ensure safety and success. They discuss strategies for managing introductions, the significance of trust and resources, and the necessity of muzzle training for aggressive dogs. The conversation concludes with a reminder to take time and be observant during the introduction process.

In this deep-dive episode, Matt Covey, Nelson Medrano, and Matt Wlos tackle one of the most controversial topics in dog training: dominance. Does it actually exist, or is it an outdated myth? What do the latest studies on wolves say, and how do they translate to our understanding of dogs?

First, we all learn that Nelson actually does drink water, and then the trio dives into the heart of the debate, unpacking the historical research on dominance in wolf packs—studies that have shaped (and reshaped) how we think about dog behavior. They explore the work of early researchers like Konrad Lorenz and David Mech, discussing how shifting perspectives on wolf hierarchy have influenced the way trainers approach dog training today.

A key question emerges: Are force-free trainers correct in saying that dominance doesn’t exist at all, or has the term simply been overused and misunderstood? Matt, Nelson, and Matt break it down, challenging the notion that hierarchy is absent in social structures—whether in wolves, humans, or even Pokémon card collectors (yes, that analogy happens).

They also explore the extreme interpretations of dominance theory that have given the term a bad reputation, from outdated dominance-based training methods to bizarre practices like spitting in a dog’s food to "assert leadership." The trainers emphasize that while dominance is real, it doesn’t mean harsh corrections or outdated "alpha" methods are necessary. Instead, they advocate for balanced training—a combination of positive reinforcement and well-timed corrections—to create clear, effective communication with dogs.

The episode also raises an important distinction: If submission exists in dogs, then by definition, so must dominance. But does using the word "dominance" create unnecessary division in the training world? Could reframing the conversation around control, structure, and leadership help bridge the gap between force-free and balanced trainers?

Throughout the discussion, the team highlights common myths, the importance of context in training, and why the ultimate goal is a well-adjusted, confident dog—not a submissive one. They even dive into the ethics of different training approaches, questioning whether some force-free methods (like withholding food to increase motivation) are truly less aversive than a mild correction.

As always, the episode wraps up with an open invitation for force-free trainers to weigh in. If you disagree, they want to hear from you! Drop a comment and join the conversation.

Topics covered in this episode:
✔️ What dominance actually means in dog behavior
✔️ The history of wolf research and how it affects modern training
✔️ The "alpha wolf" myth—what did David Mech really say?
✔️ The difference between dominance-based training and balanced training
✔️ Myths about dominance—like why your dog sitting on the couch isn’t a power play
✔️ The psychology of submission and control in social animals
✔️ Why the debate between force-free and balanced trainers might be more about marketing than methodology
✔️ How misunderstanding dominance leads to flawed training philosophies

Final Takeaway:
Whether you’re a professional trainer or just a dog owner looking to understand your pup better, this episode will challenge your thinking and give you a more nuanced perspective on dominance, leadership, and effective training methods.

Tune in now and let us know—where do you stand on the dominance debate?

What should you do if a dog charges at you? How can you defend yourself from an aggressive dog without making the situation worse? In this episode, expert dog trainers Matt Covey, Nelson Medrano, and Matt Wlos take a deep dive into dog attack survival tactics, breaking down real-life scenarios and debunking some of the worst self-defense advice floating around online.

Using personal experiences, viral attack videos, and proven techniques, they cover everything you need to know about dog attack prevention and defense, including:

✅ How to prevent a dog attack before it happens – Understanding dog body language, recognizing warning signs, and avoiding high-risk situations.
✅ The best techniques for deterring an aggressive dog – When to use intimidation, eye contact, and body posture to stop an attack before it starts.
✅ What to do if a dog bites you – Why staying on your feet is critical, how to defend yourself without escalating the attack, and when to fight back.
✅ How to use everyday objects for protection – Backpacks, bikes, garbage can lids, leashes, and other improvised shields to keep a dog from latching onto you.
✅ Pepper spray, bear spray, and break sticks – Which self-defense tools actually work and when to use them.
✅ Why bad advice could get you killed – A breakdown of viral videos, including a police training clip that gives dangerous recommendations for dog attacks.
✅ What to do if a dog chases you on a bike – Why outrunning the dog isn’t always the best move and how to use your bike as a barrier.
✅ When to call authorities after a dog attack – The legal and ethical considerations, plus what happens if a dangerous dog is reported.

Dog attacks happen more often than most people realize, and knowing how to handle them could save your life or someone else’s. Whether you’re a dog owner, a trainer, or just someone who wants to be prepared, this episode is packed with actionable advice from professionals who have faced these situations firsthand.

📢 Have you ever encountered an aggressive dog? What would you do differently after hearing this discussion? Drop a comment below and let us know!

#DogAttack #DogSelfDefense #SurvivingADogAttack #DogTrainingTips #PersonalSafety #BalancedDogTraining #PepperSprayForDogs #HowToStopADogAttack

In this episode, Matt Covey and Matt Wlos discuss New Jersey's Senate Bill 3814, which proposes a licensing board for dog trainers. They explore the implications of the bill, including the potential criminalization of certain training methods, the authority of the proposed board, and the economic impact on the dog training industry. The conversation highlights public response to the bill, the legal nuances involved, and the broader implications for dog training across the country.

The hosts emphasize the importance of community engagement in legislative processes and the need for ongoing vigilance regarding dog training regulations.

Takeaways

• Senate Bill 3814 aims to regulate dog trainers in New Jersey.
• The bill could criminalize balanced training methods.
• Public opposition played a significant role in halting the bill.
• The proposed board would have extensive authority over dog training practices.
• Definitions in the bill could lead to ambiguous interpretations.
• Aversive training methods are broadly defined, raising concerns.
• The bill could increase dog training costs significantly.
• There are existing animal cruelty laws that address harmful training practices.
• The bill's implications could extend beyond New Jersey to other states.
• Community engagement is crucial in influencing legislative outcomes.

In this episode we dive into the topic of how many dogs a person should have. How many dogs is the ideal number? How do you know how many dogs is too many? Will getting another dog make life easier or harder with your current dog?

Let us know your opinion in the comments!

We get a lot of questions revolving around dogs and wheels. A lot of dogs like to chase bikes, skateboards etc and we see it all!

In this episode we answer a number of questions from our YouTube channel on this topic. Learn how our trainers work to solve wheel related issues with their clients' dogs.

On today's episode we had Cody Will from Rattlesnake Ready, LLC.  Cody is a great guy with a crazy job!  Tune in to learn how he works with dogs and live rattlesnakes in order to keep dogs safe.  Cody is a well known expert in this field and in our opinion is the top trainer in the country when it comes to Rattlesnake avoidance training.

We recommend him to all of our clients who live in snake country and we don’t make recommendations lightly.  As we discussed in the show, Cody has people come in from all over the country to work with him in order to keep their pup safe.  

If you are looking for training check out Cody's site here:

www.rattlesnakeready.com

If you want to learn more about his zoo operations you check out this site:

www.rattlesnakeranchaz.com

Dr. Hayley Gammons came on the show to discuss how vaccines can affect a dog's socialization schedule, how spaying and neutering at different ages can affect a dog's health and a variety of other topics.

Dr. Gammons is a veterinarian in Franklin, TN and sees clients from all over the Nashville area.

Let us know what you think of the episode!

We had some of the folks from Dogtra on the show and it was a blast! We spent some time talking about Dogtra's past, present and future as well as the industry as a whole.

We also spent some time talking about the new 280x and the 1900x. Both of these collars are awesome and are a huge improvement over the older models.

E Collars have changed a lot over the years and they will continue to change in the future. Tune in for some insight on what the future will look like and also some tips on how to get the most out of your collar.

As mentioned in the podcast, we will be running a contest and giving away a 280x in the near future. Drop a comment on the podcast if you would like to be entered!

In this episode we respond to a lot of comments from YouTube and other social media sites. If you have a question you would like us to cover please let us know!

We let chat GPT interview us and this is the results! It was a little weird, but not as weird as we expected. Check out the episode to learn something about us and also get some dog training knowledge.

All about Frenchies!  How did the French Bulldog become the most popular dog breed in the country?  They are awesome dogs, but they come with some issues and challenges.  From breathing problems, to allergies to back issues....there is a lot to know before you get one.  

Also, while many of them are little cuddle bugs, some are tough drivey dogs that want to work.  Make sure you know all about the breed before you commit.  

For the right person a French Bulldog could be the best dog in the world.  For the wrong person they could be a nightmare of medical bills and behavioral challenges.

Tune in and hear Matt and Nelson's opinions on the breed.

In this episode we dive into the best small dog breeds. To make it more fun we polled our nation wide team of trainers and highlighted their recommended breeds in the episode.

Please share this with anyone considering getting a small dog so that they can choose the right breed for them.

The title says it all! This is another episode where we take questions from social media and answer them on the show.

Submit your own question here or on YouTube and we will try and cover it on a future episode!

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of dog body language. Dogs are constantly communicating with us through their movements, posture, facial expressions, and even their tail wags! Whether you're a seasoned dog owner or new to the canine world, learning how to read these signals can enhance your bond and help you better understand your pup.

We'll explore common signs of happiness, stress, fear, and excitement, as well as some of the more subtle cues that dogs use to express themselves. By the end of the episode, you’ll have a clearer insight into what your dog is really thinking.

Keep in mind that dog body language can be very confusing. All the things dogs do when fighting are also done while they are playing. You generally can not rely on just one part of your dog's body language to determine if they are being friendly or aggressive. You need to evaluate their mouth, their eyes, their back, their tail and also look at their overall body language. Is it "tight" or "loose"? Tight body language is often an issue and loose body language is never an issue.

Drop a comment and let us know what you think of the episode!

In this episode we talk about how to adopt an adult dog. We spend some time discussing how to pick the right dog and then spend most of the episode on how to introduce that dog to your home.

Is the "decompression period" real? Should you start training your new dog right away or allow them free rein for a while they acclimate? Matt and Nelson give their opinions on these topics and more.

We discussed the following video during this episode:

Picking the right puppy:https://youtu.be/XzGCu6t6-_w?si=bGpfK5La1WuPiixz

The guys dive into intra household dog aggression and discuss how to help dogs that live together and fight with each other. Fixing this can be tough, but it is definitely possible.

Here are a few of the videos we mentioned in the episode.

Place command Video ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xk4YI6AOPAw&t=37s⁠

We covered a lot of wacky topics in this episode. Tune in and let us know what you think!

Here is everything you need to know to potty training your puppy quickly.

We also included a link to a funny video we discussed in the episode. It is definitely worth watching!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MI6Jmgb04lU

We get a lot of questions on the difference between a service dog, a therapy dog and an emotional support dog. These are three very different categories and the differences matter.

Different rules and laws both protect and restrict dogs and their handlers and it is crucial to know the difference if you will be taking your dog in public as a therapy dog, ESA or service dog.

This is an often overlooked topic that we help clients with all the time. Many people get their dog trained well enough to listen to them, but are still worried about how that dog will react to a dog sitter or a dog walker.

We cover how to handle this situation with dogs that are simply wild, dogs that are aggressive and dogs that are fearful.

Let us know if you have any questions after giving it a listen!

Here is another installment to our Q&A episode series.

We read some of the most recent comments from our various social media platforms and then give detailed answers.

If you have any questions you would like answered feel free to ask away!

The guys explain how they pick a veterinarian for their personal dogs and give you some real life actionable tips so that you can do the same.

Matt and Nelson give a lot of great advice on how to become a dog trainer.

You need to decide what kind of trainer you want to be before you can figure out the right path to get there. Reach out with any questions you have after listening to the episode!

We saw a few videos over the last few weeks where dog trainers act like there is a quick fix for serious behavioral issues. Are they selling false hope or do people understand it is a video edited for marketing purposes rather than educational purposes?

Here are some of the videos we discussed in today's podcast!

First Day with new Puppy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PlrGLGD7jhA&list=PLjsEeeS4XAfa75HpDaKyweSQkD_h2XJ7y&index=13

Crate Training: (Barking) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zuykDVpBX70&list=PLjsEeeS4XAfa75HpDaKyweSQkD_h2XJ7y&index=8

Crate Training

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IRt_yZ1Ksaw&list=PLjsEeeS4XAfa75HpDaKyweSQkD_h2XJ7y&index=9

1st Walk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LbiRUdUC8UU&list=PLjsEeeS4XAfa75HpDaKyweSQkD_h2XJ7y&index=10

Potty Training: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-jjlXIdGAIs&list=PLjsEeeS4XAfa75HpDaKyweSQkD_h2XJ7y

Socialization: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JXdgvxS3azk&list=PLjsEeeS4XAfa75HpDaKyweSQkD_h2XJ7y&index=3

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JXdgvxS3azk&t=1s

Acclimating to Stairs: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s7U0FVpJXm4

Handling Videos: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xMD5cJPx_ks

Classical Conditioning: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e4lu0ue_UK8

Puppy Checklist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gkJv8fN_yJ8&list=PLjsEeeS4XAfa75HpDaKyweSQkD_h2XJ7y&index=17

This is a serious question and it is something worth thinking about. People are using current versions of AI to answer many types of questions. Are they asking it for dog training advice? If so, is it biased towards a particular type of training?

Also, what does the future hold? We already have AI powered robots running factories, how long until AI powered robots are able to train dogs?

In this episode the guys explain the pros and cons of every major dog training tool. One big focus of the conversation is that you should be considering different tools based upon your dogs personality.

We often hear people talking about positive reinforcement training vs balanced training. The thing is, balanced training includes a lot of positive reinforcement. There are quite a few trainers out there who practice balanced training and tell people they are positive reinforcement trainers. That is true, but it can also be misleading.

What is positive reinforcement training? What is balanced training? What the heck is the difference? Tune in to find out!

The guys spend some time discussing when dog bites, barks and growls are reasonable and when they are unwarranted aggression. They talk through some real life examples and pull up some videos to discuss as well.

This is our second question and answer episode where we take real questions from our followers and answer them on the show. If you would like your question featured, please ask away!!!

The guys spend a lot of time diving into leash reactivity/leash aggression and give insight on how to manage and fix these issues.

This episode is a must for anyone dealing with a reactive dog!

In this episode we answer YOUR questions! The guys answer real dog training questions that we have received from YouTube, Spotify and Facebook.

Here are some of the videos we discussed in the episode!

Teach Dog To Comehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P-xi6hYhtug

Intro to E Collar Stimhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fNt0h6hiDQo

Littermate (GSD)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z4ok69cdUA0

Teaching Placehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xk4YI6AOPAw

Dog Attack Shorthttps://www.youtube.com/shorts/yiokUWq3qn0 

Intro with Reactive Dogshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKAobBf9Qyk

Submit your own question and we may cover it on a future episode.

The title kinda says it all. In this episode we talk about things you should do with your dog before you worry about teaching typical obedience commands.

This is our first "Behind The Scenes" episode. In it we discuss real situations that came up during the previous week. From dangerous aggression cases to easy to solve problems we discuss a wide variety of topics. Let us know if you enjoy the episode!

A lot of people have trouble picking out the right training route for their dog. It is important to know that sometimes it is not simply a matter of preference! There are certain issues that are best addressed with a particular training route and taking the wrong route can lead to long term problems.

Listen in to find out more!

In this episode we talk about how to help your dog overcome fear. This is often not an easy task and can take a lot of work!

The guys talk about desensitization and flooding and lay out how they help fearful dogs overcome their fear and live a great life!

When should a dog be euthanized for aggression? Are some dogs dangerous enough that they must be put to sleep?

As trainers who are called in on aggression issues all the time this is a topic that we deal with frequently.

Although most aggression cases can be fixed, there are times that due to the dog, the family or the situation itself euthanasia is the right choice. Whether you call it euthanasia, putting the dog down or putting them to sleep, this is a tough choice that is hard on the entire family.

Rehoming a dog can be a great option for some aggression cases, but not for others. If your dog has resource guarding issues and you have a baby in the home then rehoming could work extremely well. On the flip side, if you have a large aggressive dog that has attacked new people, finding the right home to continue his training can be difficult or impossible.

Follow our advice in the podcast to think through how much of a danger your dog is to yourself and others and then consider all of your options.

How should your dog behave off leash? A lot of people allow their dogs to be jerks when they are off leash and this creates so many issues. Not only does your dog need to be well trained and listen off leash, but you also need to be respectful of others. Having a strange dog rush you can be terrifying for some people and as you will hear in this episode it can be deadly to the dog.

Check out this YouTube video we discussed during the podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pXjWnIu4Yfk

Are you getting ready to add a new and furry addition to your family? Listen in to get advice on how to choose the right puppy! The guys talk about everything they look for as professional trainers, and talk about their personal experiences in picking out their own puppies!

Links to referenced:

• How to Pick the Right Puppy!

• Littermate Syndrome in Dogs: How to Prevent it and How to Fix it!

Everyone knows that a dog with it’s tail up and wagging is a happy, friendly dog… right? Listen to this episode where we discuss a ton of common dog myths. Here are a few of the myths we discussed:

• Once a dog tastes blood it’s going to be aggressive

• When a dog is wagging it’s tail it’s happy

• Can’t teach an old dog new tricks

• You should dominate your dog (or opposite myth that dominance doesn’t exist)

• The best way to meet a dog is to stick our your hand so they can smell it

• E Collars make dogs aggressive

• Ticking Time Bomb Theory

• Stopping a dog from growling is always bad because then they won’t warn you anymore