In this conversation, Kamal Fernandez and Victoria take a trip down memory lane discussing their rich and varied history together on TV shows like The Dog Academy and Dogs Might Fly, while exploring the complexities of living in a multi-dog household, the challenges that arise, and the importance of truly understanding dog behavior in dynamic situations. Kamal shares some key insights about the keys to living successfully in multi-dog households and his upcoming presentation about the topic at the 2026 Dog Behavior Conference. The discussion also delves into the concept of drive in dogs, highlighting the difference between arousal and purposeful drive, and the implications for training and behavior management.

An finally, Victoria and Kamal reflect on the legacy of the beloved Sarah Fisher, a true guiding light in the world of dog training and beyond. 

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What is separation anxiety and why do so many dogs suffer with this condition? How can you tell the difference between separation anxiety and boredom? Why is it so difficult to treat and what therapies are out there that can help?

Victoria chats with VSPDT trainer Nicola Cook from the Poochie People about her work with dogs that have separation anxiety and what experts like Nicola can do to help families navigate the tricky waters of this common, but complex, issue.

Victoria also introduces VSA’s brand new course for professional dog trainers: Reactivity for Dog Training and Behavior Professionals. This is a new and comprehensive approach to working with reactive behavior inside and outside the home, that will be available worldwide to all dog trainers and behavior professionals in the Autumn. 

The Reactivity for Dog Training and Behavior Professionals course incorporates The Reactivity Zones Approach, an innovative and effective method of helping dogs and guardians tackle reactive behavior without having to adopt tricky, long-winded DS/CC protocols. This course is a game changer for trainers, guardians and dogs that work and live with reactive behaviors.

Victoria opens the episode by introducing the talented cast of trainers from The Bad Dog Academy, sharing how the show has taken off across the UK—and beyond—for its honest, emotional approach to training. Kamal reflects on how the show felt like something truly special from the start, allowing space for deep vulnerability in the human-dog bond. Sean emphasizes how emotionally intense the work is, even comparing it to the pressure of playing professional rugby. Jo shares how surprised she was to be selected, and how grateful she feels knowing the show prioritizes ethics and transparency in every case.

The trainers laugh about some of the show’s lighter moments—like Jo’s fan-favorite hair and Sean’s rising “mountain man sex symbol” status—while also discussing the overwhelming pressure they faced behind the scenes. But beyond the laughs, they reveal just how much unseen preparation goes into each case, including lengthy planning meetings that often get upended the moment the dog walks in.

Victoria and the team emphasize the intentional authenticity of the show—viewers see real first meetings with clients, genuine training challenges, and a commitment to showing progress, not perfection. Unlike other programs that rely on fast fixes or scripted setups, The Bad Dog Academy offers a transparent, respectful look at both the dogs and people involved. The crew even follows up with clients and their dogs after filming ends, something Jo, Sean, and Victoria say has created lasting bonds.

They also give a shout-out to producer Nick Grimshaw (aka "Grimmy"), whose charm and curiosity helped bridge the gap between the trainers and the viewing audience. The addition of Grimmy brought levity and structure, but most importantly, he stayed true to the show's heart—never pretending to be an expert, just a deeply interested dog lover.

As the episode winds down, the trainers reflect on the emotional impact of their work. From helping owners regain confidence to noticing subtle improvements in fearful or reactive dogs, every case mattered. They wrap with rapid-fire takeaways, laughter, and heartfelt praise for each other and the entire production team. It’s clear this isn’t just a show about dog training—it’s a story about human growth, mutual understanding, and the power of doing things the right way, even when it’s hard.

How do dogs perceive sound and can music help dogs suffering with separation anxiety and aggression? Joshua Leeds and Alynn Lecznar join Victoria for part two of this fascinating exploration into a dog’s ear.

How does sound help reduce canine anxiety and can music really help prevent and reduce canine fear and noise phobias? Sound researcher and founder of Through A Dog’s Ear Joshua Leeds, joins Victoria along with Animal Scientist Aly Lecznar, to discuss the latest research on how sound can prevent and treat canine anxiety.

What should you do if your pet is stolen and why should veterinarians scan new patients for a microchip? Debbie Matthews from www.vetsgetscanning.co.uk joins Victoria to talk about pet theft, Fern’s Law and the importance of compulsory scanning.

Victoria is joined by Certified Animal Behaviourist Andrew Hale, to talk about the new UK Dog Behaviour and Training Charter and how a different way of viewing canine behavior can improve the human/canine relationship.

In this episode, Aly Lecznar joins Victoria to talk about canine fitness and how to exercise safely with your dog.

Holly is back to give a journalist’s perspective on latest events and to talk about her senior dogs and canine cancer.

Victoria explores why teaching obedience cues like ‘sit’ should not be the focus of dog training.

Victoria is joined by VSPDT Kat Kekel, Behavior Tech at Cherokee County Animal Shelter to talk about sheltering, fostering and adopting animals during the pandemic.

Petrepreneur marketing guru J. Nichole Smith joins Victoria to discuss the importance of identifying and building around your ‘why.’

Victoria is joined by Holly Root-Gutteridge, post-doctoral researcher at the University of Lincoln, to talk about how science is unlocking the canine mind.

In this groundbreaking episode, Victoria welcomes Kari Bastyr—a Certified Professional Canine Nutritionist (CPCN) through the Feed Real Institute, certified behavior consultant, and gluten detection dog trainer—to explore the powerful link between canine nutrition, behavior, and emotional well-being. With certifications from the IAABC and VSPDT, and professional memberships with O.D.O.R. Service Dogs, the Pet Professional Guild, and the Animal Behavior Society, Kari brings both science-backed insight and hands-on experience to the table.

Kari opens up about her personal health journey with celiac disease and her dog Birdie—a trained gluten detection dog from Willow Service Dogs, where Kari also completed an internship with trainer Dawn Scheu. She explains how the gut-brain axis, microbiome diversity, and food-based inflammation can profoundly affect a dog’s behavior, contributing to issues like anxiety, fear, reactivity, and cognitive decline.

The conversation also includes practical takeaways, such as how to use prebiotics, probiotics, and fresh food toppers to support your dog’s health and behavioral wellness. Kari shares why minimally processed food matters, how nutrition can make or break a behavior plan, and why food truly affects mood—for both humans and dogs. Whether you're a trainer, pet parent, or someone navigating complex canine behavior challenges, this episode is a must-listen.

To learn more about Kari or to get in touch with her, visit Wag and Train or Celiac Service Dogs. 

Do dogs feel love? Are they capable of hatred? Victoria connects with one of her favorite dog experts, Clive Wynne to explore.

Is your dog happy? Victoria is joined by Zazie Todd, author and creator of Companion Animal Psychology to discuss her upcoming Dog Behaviour Conference presentation.

Victoria talks with veterinary behaviorist Dr. Meghan Herron about training methods, modifying behavior in a shelter environment, as well as her work for Gigi’s, an Ohio based organization that helps homeless dogs get into homes sooner.

What is e-learning, and what should you look for in an online course? Victoria and Aly break it all down here.

What’s the secret to staying engaged, productive and efficient when working or learning from home in the age of social distancing?

Victoria and Dr. Paula Bloom discuss the emotional impact of the coronavirus on people and their pets.

Tips for dog owners whose dogs are entering elderly status in order to keep them alert, active and healthy.

The animal rescue scene in Puerto Rico following the recent natural disasters, updates on Victoria’s Unsung Heroes video series, and Holly’s trip to an experiential art institution.

What’s the best way to acclimate a new puppy to a household? Whether or not to comfort a crying puppy, top tips for puppy housetraining, how long it takes for puppies to adjust to a new home, and more.

In this gripping episode, Victoria chats with Jim Crosby—former police officer, canine behavior expert, and forensic investigator—about the heartbreaking and vital work of understanding fatal dog attacks. Jim opens up about his transition from law enforcement to animal behavior and being one of the only experts to combine behavioral science with crime scene investigation. From dogfighting raids to fatality cases, Jim shares powerful stories of real dogs, real outcomes, and real evidence, emphasizing how understanding canine behavior can save both human and animal lives.

They discuss the realities behind canine aggression, how trauma and environment influence behavior, and why breed-specific legislation misses the mark. Jim also dives into the work he's doing with the Canine Brain Project at Harvard, stressing the importance of accurate data collection and individualized assessment over knee-jerk reactions. Whether you're a trainer, pet parent, or policy-maker, this episode is a sobering but essential reminder that behavior is complex, context matters, and prevention starts with listening.

Following the death of UK presenter Caroline Flack, Victoria and Holly are joined by Dr. Paula Bloom for a special podcast focusing on mental health, depression and bullying on social media.

Victoria and Holly share a new vision for the future of the Positively Podcast and the way fans' questions will help drive what the podcast is all about. Victoria discusses her emotional trip to help Humane Society International close a South Korean dog meat farm and rehome the farm's animals while helping the farmers relaunch a plant-based business instead.

Victoria discusses misconceptions about what positive training is (and isn't) in the great debate about dog training methods. Also Dog Behaviour Conference, VSA, courses and Kindness is Powerful

Aly and Victoria discuss how you can make your dog feel more comfortable during the holidays. Whether your dog is shy of people or a social butterfly, discover great ways to prevent overwhelm and set your dog up for success. How can you teach visiting children to understand what your dog needs and to respect your dog’s space? Can you feed your dog table scraps?

In this podcast, Victoria and Aly share great ideas on how to provide enrichment for your dog when it’s cold outside. Aly shares some great canine fitness ideas, how to play hide and seek with your dog and making meal times more enriching.

Victoria is joined by Victoria Stilwell Academy's Curriculum Manager, Aly Lecznar, to talk about VSA's newly-launched Online Dog Trainer Course and the introductory Fundamentals of Dog Training & Behavior Course, including what makes VSA such a groundbreaking new learning opportunity both for dog owners and aspiring professional dog trainers.

Victoria and Holly ring in the new year with a special guest in studio and discussing several of the new projects and developments coming in 2018 in the Positively ecosystem.

Special Boxing Day episode finds Victoria explaining what’s special about December 26th to Holly as well as a discussion about avalanche dogs and a new batch of Ask Victoria training questions. 

Victoria shares the gifts she’s celebrating this holiday season, including the success of the #LucysLaw campaign, California’s ban on pet store sales, and Australia’s first state to ban puppy mills. Also: dogs unhappy going into kennels, over-bonded pets, and how to create safe boundaries without fences.

K9 officer Shawn Humphreys talks with Victoria and Holly about the world of police dog training, its challenges, and the changes he’s noticing with his move towards more positive training. Also, new VSA course dates, how to find a licensed trainer as well as leash-walking and separation anxiety issues.

In this episode, Victoria Stilwell welcomes Jamie Diaz, founder of Dynamite Dog Training and a rising star in the dog training world. Jamie shares her journey from starting her Florida-based training business to building a massive online following by showcasing real-time, authentic dog training content. She discusses the challenges of working in an industry often dominated by outdated methods, her strategies for creating meaningful content, and the impact of social media on dog training education. Jamie also highlights the importance of resilience, balancing business with family life, and staying true to her values in the face of online criticism. If you're a trainer, aspiring influencer, or dog lover seeking inspiration, this episode is a must-listen!

You can connect with Jamie through the following channels:

https://www.instagram.com/dynamitedogtraining/
https://www.tiktok.com/@dynamitedogtraining

The widespread outbreak of campylobacter infections due to poor practices on the part of Petland pet stores. A chat with Finding Shelter’s Grace Kelly Herbert in her fight against Amish puppy mills, the state of anti-puppy mill legislation, and how people can get involved locally to fight the puppy mill trade.

This episode brought to you by Zukes.Victoria and Holly talk about overweight pets, including Victoria’s ‘Fat Dogs’ specials on It’s Me or the Dog, as well as the struggle to keep weight off of pets.On the Positively Hotline, Victoria and Holly welcome the star of the recent Animal Planet show, ‘My Big Fat Pet Makeover,’ Travis Brorsen, to discuss Travis’s new show and the issue of obesity in pets.Ask Victoria questions include: How to get your dog to focus on you, especially in distracting environments. A 15-year old dog who suddenly developed a fear of sleeping at night. A rescued Jack Russell who gets so excited while harnessing up for walks in the morning.Show Links: Travis Brorsen’s webpage My Big Fat Pet Makeover show page

Why dogs and Halloween don’t mix, November’s pet awareness holidays, how to detect signs your dog is in pain. Also, consistency when paper training pups, mouthing puppies, constant barking, issues that come with adopting street dogs.

What’s the real reason so many people won’t adopt rescue dogs, and what happens when fosters or adoptions don’t go well? Also, a discussion about ‘foster failures’, bullied dogs, dogs that don’t like kids, dogs that lean on guests, and dogs that won’t potty outside.

How to be prepared for natural disasters with your pet, what happens to dogs rescued from dogfighting rings, how to help your dog want to go out for walks, how to get your dog back inside after potty breaks, stopping barking in shelter dogs, and whether to adopt littermates into a single household.

Victoria and Holly reconnect after a few months away and discuss how to recognize signs of pain in your older dog, keys to curbing rambunctious dog play, managing noisy nighttime behavior, overcoming anxiousness when guests visit your dog, and how to get dogs used to water.

Season 6 ends with a bang as Holly and Victoria reveal two brand new releases that listeners will be able to enjoy.

On this jam-packed episode of the Positively Podcast, Holly and Victoria first  chat about Victoria's new book and some of the fascinating research that's being conducted on canine cognition.Here are a few of the questions they discuss: Do dogs dream? How can you tell if your dog is in pain? Why do small dogs live longer than larger dogs?Also on this episode of the podcast is an interview with K-9 Ninja Roo Yori, who has become a household name both through his endeavors on American Ninja Warrior as well as his work promoting pit-bull type dogs.And finally, a round of Ask Victoria questions and Animal Academy questions will both fascinate and entertain you!

Victoria and Holly chat about the Victoria Stilwell Academy and the latest news from the program. They also answer your most pressing dog training questions!

Victoria and Holly cover the latest news related to puppy mills in both the US and UK, and have a fascinating chat with Marc the Vet about the topic.

In this deeply moving episode, host Victoria Stilwell welcomes renowned author and applied animal behaviorist Patricia McConnell to discuss her impactful career, powerful personal journey, and her unwavering dedication to improving the lives of dogs and their people. Patricia reflects on how her book The Other End of the Leash revolutionized dog training by shifting the focus toward understanding canine communication and building relationships based on empathy and respect.

The conversation delves into Patricia's early experiences navigating a male-dominated industry and her efforts to elevate dog training as a respected profession. Patricia shares personal stories about her struggles with PTSD and how her bond with her dog, Will, played a crucial role in her healing journey. Her book The Education of Will reveals the profound connection between human trauma and canine behavior, showing how kindness and understanding can be transformative forces for both dogs and their people.

Patricia and Victoria also discuss the vital role of play in learning, the challenges facing positive reinforcement trainers in an industry still grappling with outdated methods, and the importance of trainers embracing their role as emotional supporters for clients navigating difficult decisions. Patricia’s heartfelt reflections remind listeners that kindness—not just for dogs but for ourselves—is essential in fostering positive change.

As a pioneer in the dog training world, Patricia’s influence continues to inspire trainers worldwide, encouraging them to embrace science-based methods grounded in compassion. Don’t miss this powerful conversation filled with wisdom, warmth, and inspiration. Be sure to visit Patricia’s blog for invaluable insights into behavior, training, and the magic of the human-animal bond.

Victoria and Holly are gearing up for the holiday season, and chat about how the stress of the holidays affects both people and their pets. Victoria gives some tips for keeping your dogs happy and healthy over the holidays, and the pair chats about their thoughts on when one person tells them they prefer one of their dogs over the other.Another feel-good holiday story the ladies cover is a young boy who is willing to give up everything he has to help a dog in need.Ask Victoria questions include: Is getting a new puppy a good idea for a grieving older dog? Do pit bulls need to be treated differently from other dogs? Why does my dog nip at guests when they come over? How can you teach a blind dog to negotiate stairs? How can you stop a dog from biting people's feet? What's the best way to stop a dog from jumping on people?

Victoria and Holly are stuffed after Thanksgiving! You're going to want to hear the story of how Holly ended up with a deer eating her dinner over the holiday.

Holly and Victoria invite Working with Dog founder Nichole Smith to the show to talk about her list of reasons why you should consider working as a "petrepreneur."