The Brain and Behaviour Podcast with Daniel Shaw MSc, CDBC dives into the science behind complex dog and cat behaviour. Blending neuroscience, real-world cases, and expert insights, Daniel explores topics like aggression, trauma, and training to help listeners better understand the animals in their lives.
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Episode 1 - Scent, Science and Ethics: Behaviour through a Neuroscience Lens - Simon Gadbois
Season 1 · Episode 1
Wednesday, June 4, 2025 • Duration 02:25:21
Dr. Simon Gadbois is a behavioural scientist and neuroscientist at Dalhousie University, Canada, where he directs the Canid and Reptile Behaviour and Olfactory Cognition Lab. His research integrates animal psychology, neuroscience, and ethology, with a focus on olfactory cognition in dogs. His projects include wildlife conservation detection, biomedical scent detection (PTSD and diabetes), and locating unmarked graves. Simon is also known for his outspoken critique of pseudoscience and ethical oversights in animal training culture.
Summary:
In this wide-ranging conversation, Dr. Gadbois shares insights into animal behaviour science, from foundational theories of learning and motivation to practical applications in scent work and training. He explores the tension between scientific research and mainstream dog training ideas, discusses the ethical implications of tool use and training choices, and offers a strong case for more rigorous, nuanced science communication. The episode is both a critical analysis and a passionate call for better integration between academic science and practical dog work.
Key Topics:
Classical vs. operant conditioning: applications and misunderstandings
Motivation, the seeking system, and the role of dopamine
The problem with pop neuroscience in the dog world
Ethical frameworks in training and the case against relying solely on “what works”
The role of science literacy and academic bias in behaviour theory
Take-Home Message:
Not all scientific claims in the dog world are created equal. Understanding the source, depth, and context of behaviour science is critical to making ethical and effective choices for animals. We must build bridges between academic knowledge and practical work without oversimplifying the science.
Challenge assumptions, read beyond the popular sources, and stay curious. For further learning, check out Simon’s research and explore broader neuroscience literature. You can also deepen your education at abklearn.co.uk or attend the 2025 ABK Conference.
Join us at the ABK Conference 2025 on July 12–13 at the Ashford International Hotel, Kent, or via livestream from anywhere in the world. This year’s theme is “Raising Resilient Dogs”, featuring leading voices in dog behaviour, neuroscience, and welfare.
Episode 2 - Understanding Separation-Related Behaviour – Dr. Moira Hechenleitner
Season 1 · Episode 2
Wednesday, June 11, 2025 • Duration 01:26:25
Dr. Moira Hechenleitner is a veterinarian and Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT) with over 16 years of experience helping dogs and their guardians navigate separation-related issues. She holds a postgraduate qualification in Animal-Assisted Therapy and is a founding board member of the Chilean Association of Professional Dog Trainers. Moira works internationally, offering consultations and support through SeparationAnxietyDog.com, delivering expert guidance in both English and Spanish.
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Daniel Shaw speaks with Dr. Moira Hechenleitner about the complex world of separation-related behaviours in dogs. They explore the terminology, underlying causes, and challenges surrounding separation anxiety. Moira offers valuable insights into differentiating between true separation anxiety, adaptation challenges, confinement issues, and other contributing factors like medical conditions and frustration behaviors.
The conversation dives into the importance of individualised assessments, the role of predictability and variability in treatment, and how to structure effective support for clients and their dogs. Moira also discusses her own streamlined, tech-forward training model and how she uses daily data tracking to improve outcomes.
Key Topics Covered:
Identifying types of separation-related behaviours
The value of predictability in treatment
Supporting clients through remote, data-driven training
Misdiagnosis and why it matters
Reassessing “suspend all absences” in context
Take-Home Message:
Episode 3 - Dogs Helping Dogs - Trish McMillan
Season 1 · Episode 3
Wednesday, June 18, 2025 • Duration 01:10:51
In this episode, Daniel Shaw speaks with Trish McMillan about how dogs can help other dogs. They explore how well-socialized dogs can be used to assist fearful or reactive dogs in overcoming anxiety and building confidence through social support. Trish discusses the concept of social facilitation, where dogs learn appropriate behavior by observing their peers. She shares practical techniques for setting up playgroups, utilizing helper dogs, and creating low-stress environments in shelters and training settings. The episode also highlights her work with Shelter Behaviour Hub and her upcoming courses on defensive handling.
This episode was recorded a few months before Trish's incredible dog Theodore sadly passed away. Theodore was a truly inspirational dog and you can find more about him by visiting https://www.facebook.com/teothepitbull/
Bio
Trish McMillan is an internationally recognized expert in animal behavior, sheltering, and training. She holds a Master’s degree in Animal Behavior and is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA). Trish spent nearly eight years with the ASPCA, contributing to their behavior and sheltering work, including writing the defensive handling section of Animal Behavior for Shelter Veterinarians and Staff. She now runs her own consulting business in North Carolina, focusing on behavior and shelter consulting, and offers online mentorship through the Shelter Behaviour Hub. Additionally, she co-founded Losing Lulu, a support group for those who have experienced grief from behavioral euthanasia.
Mentioned Links:
1. https://www.shelterbehaviorhub.com/ — Mentorship programs and behavior courses.
3. — Support group for behavioral euthanasia grief.
Episode 4 – Resilience in Dogs - Dr Kathy Murphy and Bobbie Bhambree
Season 1 · Episode 4
Wednesday, June 25, 2025 • Duration 01:05:59
Guest Bios:
Dr. Kathy Murphy graduated from the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons UK in 1999, initially working in mixed clinical practice before studying for two post graduate clinical qualifications. In 2009 she was awarded a highly prestigious Wellcome Research Training Fellowship to study for her PhD, in Behavioral Neuroscience, at The Queens College, University of Oxford, UK. She subsequently worked in the USA as Assistant Professor of Neuroscience and Anesthesiology at the Icahn School of Medicine NYC; and is now back in the UK, where she held a clinical-academic position as Director of the Comparative Biology Centre at Newcastle University before becoming Director of Barking Brains Ltd (a neuroscience outreach program for the animal behavior and training community) and joining Behavior Vets LLC.
Dr. Murphy’s clinical interest has always been anesthesia, analgesia, since the age of 13yo and she has recently completed a residency at the European College of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia. In addition to her primary career roles she was Trustee and Veterinary Advisor to the Rottweiler Welfare Association for 14 years, is a co-founder of Ethics First (a collective which lobbies for ethical decision making in clinical practice), is an Oversight Committee Member for the UK Dog Behavior and Training Charter, sits on numerous National and International boards, working groups and ethical review panels, and most of all loves spending time with her own 5 dogs and supportive husband.
Bobbie Bhambree (CDBC, CPDT-KA) is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant and Certified Professional Dog Trainer. She is a faculty member of CATCH Canine Trainers Academy and Agility University. Additionally, she is one of the founders and regular contributors to a passion project called Brain Camp, where neuroscience, behavior, and dog sports intersect. Bobbie founded Dogology Behavior Consulting in 2024.
Bobbie began her career in 2003 as a pet behavior counselor at the ASPCA Animal Behavior Center, where she implemented behavior modification programs for dogs surrendered by the public or seized by Humane Law Enforcement. In 2007, she joined the Humane Society of Westchester, spending the next nine years as their shelter trainer. During her tenure, she created and implemented dog training and enrichment programs, counseled adopters, trained volunteers, participated in community outreach programs, and conducted evaluations.
Episode 7 - Welfare and Working Dogs - Sally Dickinson
Season 1 · Episode 7
Wednesday, July 16, 2025 • Duration 01:18:47
Guest Bio:
It all started as a kid working border collies on a sheep farm in northern England, Sally knew from a young age that animals, and dogs in particular, would be an enduring feature of her life.Now based out of northern Virginia, Sally recently completed 20 years of service as a firefighter / paramedic and technical rescue specialist, concurrent with training and working Search and Rescue dogs for local, national and international agencies. Perfecting the incredible work of today’s handler and preparing the work of tomorrow’s handler is a priority for Sally, who specializes in teaching SAR canine programs, combining operational experience and the evidence based training.The science of animal behavior and the wellbeing of working dogs is a passion for Sally. She is a graduate of the KPA Professional Dog Trainer program, University of Tennessee Certified Canine Fitness Trainer, and the University of Washington Animal Behavior program and is now continuing her formal education as a PhD candidate in Applied Animal Behavior focusing her research on working dogs and how physical conditioning affects field ability at Virginia Tech.
Summary:
Sally shares her journey from sheep farms to search and rescue, and how her experiences led her to pursue a PhD. The episode explores the impact of stress on working dogs and how physical and emotional conditioning influence performance and welfare. Sally offers a rare dual perspective: operational and scientific.
Want to learn more from us? Check out our new online platform:
Episode 6 - Rescue, Behaviour and Ethics – Tom Candy
Season 1 · Episode 6
Wednesday, July 9, 2025 • Duration 01:08:59
Tom Candy is a Certified Clinical Animal Behaviourist with extensive experience in rescue, welfare, and canine training. He holds a BSc in Bio-Veterinary Science and an MSc in Clinical Animal Behaviour from the University of Lincoln. Starting in rescue at just 15 years old, Tom has since worked across rehoming centres as a Senior Training and Behaviour Advisor, supporting teams in managing complex behaviour cases. He’s also a Certified Canine and Shelter Behaviour Consultant with the IAABC, a faculty member at the Grisha Stewart Academy, and the founder of Simplifying Shelter Behaviour – a podcast and online platform dedicated to sharing evidence-based insights with rescue professionals.
Episode Summary
In this conversation, Tom delves deep into the behavioural and ethical complexities of working in dog rescue and rehoming. He shares stories from his frontline experience, discusses how to navigate misinformation in the training world, and provides a thoughtful take on difficult decisions like behavioural euthanasia. With a focus on compassion and practicality, Tom explains how rescue professionals can support dogs and their owners through judgement-free education, early intervention, and honest communication.
Key Topics
1. The reality of behaviour work in shelters and rescues
2. How to handle misinformation and build trust with dog owners
3. When and how to discuss behavioural euthanasia
4. Ethical challenges in rescue and rehoming decisions
5. Proactive solutions: early intervention, better adoption matches, and flexible support
6. The impact of societal change, stress, and expectations on pet relinquishment
7. Creating systemic support to prevent crisis points for dogs and their people
Episode 5 - What Makes Dogs Tick? Genetics, Cognition and Personality - Katriina Tiira
Season 1 · Episode 5
Wednesday, July 2, 2025 • Duration 48:59
Dr. Katriina Tiira is a behavioural geneticist and the founder of SmartDog, a company offering scientific cognition and personality testing for dogs. She holds a PhD and has researched canine genetics and cognition for over 20 years.
Summary
Katriina explains how cognitive traits and genetic differences influence dog behaviour. She introduces the SmartDog test system and discusses how trainers and breeders can use cognitive profiling in practical ways.
Key Topics
1. Genetics and personality in dog behaviour
2. Testing cognition: methods and insights
3. Breed differences and individual variation
4. Using test results in training and breeding
5. Supporting dogs with different cognitive profiles
Take-Home Message
Understanding cognition helps us train and care for dogs in ways that match who they are—not just what they do.
Call to Action
Learn more at smartdog.fi or visit abklearn.co.uk for professional development opportunities.
Join us at the ABK Conference 2025 on July 12–13 at the Ashford International Hotel, Kent, or via livestream from anywhere in the world. This year’s theme is “Raising Resilient Dogs”, featuring leading voices in dog behaviour, neuroscience, and welfare.
Episode 8 – Marketing and Messaging – Andre Yeu
Season 1 · Episode 8
Wednesday, July 23, 2025 • Duration 01:06:44
Guest Bio
Andre Yeu is a highly successful dog trainer and entrepreneur. As the founder of When Hounds Fly Dog Training, he's grown his business to over seven figures in annual revenue with five locations and a team of over 20. His expertise has also led him to become a Karen Pryor Academy faculty member, where he shares his knowledge with aspiring trainers. Yeu is a sought-after speaker, delivering keynotes and talks at prominent industry conferences such as APDT, IAABC Foundation, and ClickerExpo. His passion for positive reinforcement training and dedication to building a thriving dog training business make him a respected figure in the dog training world.
Episode Summary
In this business-focused episode, Andre Yeu joins Daniel to explore the current challenges facing dog trainers in a declining market. He discusses why many professionals are struggling to attract and retain clients—and how shifting our communication, marketing, and mindset can help. Andre explains the “curse of knowledge,” the power of storytelling, and the importance of simplifying language to connect with clients more effectively. He also shares practical tips on balancing ethics and effectiveness in messaging, crafting impactful social media content, and using SEO and local marketing strategies to build credibility and visibility.
Episode 9 - Rethinking Leash Reactivity with Jessica Wheatcraft
Season 1 · Episode 9
Wednesday, July 30, 2025 • Duration 57:07
Guest Bio
Jessica Wheatcraft, CDBC is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant and professional dog trainer who has worked with thousands of dogs for over 17 years. She works with dog professionals virtually all over the world via her Leash Reactivity Mentorship for Professionals and online community, in addition to in-person seminars for trainers, behavior consultants and shelter staff. She specializes in leash reactivity cases, with an emphasis on understanding each dog as an individual and thinking outside of the box to implement the most effective, humane training solutions. She shares her life with her two dogs, Scout and Finn, mustang horse, Waylon and cat, Reeves.
Episode Summary
In this episode, Jessica Wheatcraft dives into the complex topic of canine reactivity, challenging the often rigid labels and protocols that dominate the conversation. She explains how many dogs who are labelled “reactive” are actually overwhelmed or underprepared for real-world environments. Jessica encourages trainers and guardians to zoom out, take stock of the whole picture, and ask better questions. Through real examples and compassionate insights, she shares how to approach reactivity not as a checklist of triggers to desensitize—but as a relationship to rebuild.
Want to learn more? Check out our new online platform:
https://www.brainandbehaviouracademy.co.uk/
Episode 10 - Genetics and Behaviour - Dr. Jessica Perry Hekman
Season 1 · Episode 10
Tuesday, August 12, 2025 • Duration 01:10:29
Guest Bio
Jessica Perry Hekman, DVM, PhD, is a behavioral geneticist. She is one of the founders of the Functional Dog Collaborative (functionalbreeding.org), a non-profit which seeks to change the conversation around dog breeding in the dog loving community. She also teaches behavioral biology at the Virginia Tech online Masters program for Applied Animal Behavior and Welfare, and offers webinars online and consults with breeders about genetic testing and breeding choices. Perry lives in Raymond, NH with her husband and two dogs.
Episode Summary
In this episode, Dr. Jessica Perry Hekman unpacks the science behind puppy development, behaviour, and socialisation. She discusses why the first 12 weeks of a dog’s life are so crucial, how genetics interact with experience, and what we know (and don’t know) about creating stable, resilient adult dogs. Jessica and Daniel talk about how breeders, shelters, and puppy buyers can all play a role in shaping behavioural outcomes—and why there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. They also dive into the mission behind the Functional Dog Collaborative and how a more inclusive, science-informed breeding culture can benefit dogs and humans alike.
Want to learn more? Explore science-backed courses, webinars, and resources for dog behaviour professionals at our new online platform: www.brainandbehaviouracademy.co.uk
Not all alone-time issues in dogs are the same—understanding the specific cause behind a dog’s behaviour is critical for successful intervention. With the right assessment, structure, and support, we can help dogs build resilience and reduce stress, while also empowering guardians with clear, compassionate strategies.
If you’re working with a dog who struggles to be alone, don’t guess—get a proper assessment. Visit SeparationAnxietyDog.com to learn more about Moira’s services.
Join us at the ABK Conference 2025 on July 12–13 at the Ashford International Hotel, Kent, or via livestream from anywhere in the world. This year’s theme is “Raising Resilient Dogs”, featuring leading voices in dog behaviour, neuroscience, and welfare.
To learn more from Trish, you can also join us at the ABK Conference 2025 on July 12–13 at the Ashford International Hotel, Kent, or via livestream from anywhere in the world. This year’s theme is “Raising Resilient Dogs”, featuring leading voices in dog behaviour, neuroscience, and welfare.
In 2016, Bobbie became the Director of Pet Behavior at the North Shore Animal League America in Port Washington, NY. There, she managed a team of canine and feline trainers focused on developing behavior modification and enrichment programs for shelter animals. She also deployed with the ASPCA Anti-Cruelty Behavior Team, working in the field to support dog fighting busts, puppy mill cases, and hoarding cases.
Bobbie has presented at the Lemonade Conference, hosted by IAABC and Fenzi Dog Sports Academy, the HeartDog International Wellbeing Summit in 2022, the Control Unleash Conference in 2024, and the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) in 2024. She is also a co-creator of the Resilience Framework, a framework for resilience-building interventions, and has been interviewed for several podcasts on this subject.
Over the years, Bobbie has successfully competed in agility at various venues with several of her dogs, including Marvel, who placed third in Performance Speed Jumping and Performance Grand Prix at the Mid-Atlantic Regionals in 2019. She has authored several articles for the agility-focused publication Clean Run and is passionate about helping dog sports teams struggling with behavior issues. Bobbie regularly teaches behavior workshops for the dog sports community.
Currently, Bobbie shares her life with two terriers, a Pitbull, a border collie/whippet mix, a border collie/Croatian Sheepdog mix (Marvel, Heady Topper, Eleanor Rigby, Phuncky, and Drazen), and a very supportive husband in southern New Jersey.
https://www.brainandbehaviouracademy.co.uk/
Take-Home Message
Effective behaviour support in rescue is about meeting dogs and people where they are—without judgement. Success comes from trust, empathy, and helping everyone make informed, compassionate decisions.
Call to Action
Learn more from Tom at Simplifying Shelter Behaviour on Facebook, Instagram, and podcast platforms. For more professional development, visit abklearn.co.uk.
Join us at the ABK Conference 2025 on July 12–13 at the Ashford International Hotel, Kent, or via livestream from anywhere in the world. This year’s theme is “Raising Resilient Dogs”, featuring leading voices in dog behaviour, neuroscience, and welfare.
Tickets and full agenda: animalbehaviourkent.co.uk/abk-conference-2025
For more on evidence-based training, canine behaviour science, or upcoming events, visit animalbehaviourkent.co.uk or explore our learning platform at abklearn.co.uk.
Questions or feedback? Email us at daniel@animalbehaviourkent.co.uk.
Tickets and full agenda: animalbehaviourkent.co.uk/abk-conference-2025
For more on evidence-based training, canine behaviour science, or upcoming events, visit animalbehaviourkent.co.uk or explore our learning platform at abklearn.co.uk.
Questions or feedback? Email us at daniel@animalbehaviourkent.co.uk.
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