Chinwag Dog Podcast

In this episode, Carla and Kim unpack one of the most common — and most misunderstood — questions in dog training: how do you tell the difference between anxiety and excitement when the behaviours look the same?Using real-world scenarios such as lead walking, social greetings, eating, and everyday outings, they explore the subtle body language cues and contextual clues that help distinguish an anxious dog from an over-excited one. From pulling on the lead to jumping, mouthing, avoidance, and hyper-alertness, they explain why what a dog is doing isn’t enough — context is everything.The conversation also dives into practical management strategies for anxious and reactive dogs, including creating space, adjusting walking routes, using home management tools like gates, and knowing when to keep walks short rather than trying to “train everything at once.” Carla and Kim highlight why anxiety-based behaviours often take longer to resolve than excitement-based reactions and why early recognition and intervention, especially in puppies, is so important.

In this episode, Kim and Carla dive into the often-overlooked reality of supporting the human behind the dog. They explore the emotional weight carried by owners of dogs with challenging behaviours — including guilt, embarrassment, fear, and isolation — and why these feelings can be just as important to address as the behaviour itself.The conversation looks at how trust, empathy, and open communication form the foundation of effective dog training, whether through agility, behaviour modification, or everyday management strategies. Kim and Carla discuss how personal circumstances, relationship dynamics, and confidence levels between owners can influence training outcomes, and why validating emotions while setting realistic expectations is key.They also unpack the harm caused by outdated concepts like “alpha” and “pack leader”, the pressure of social media comparisons, and the importance of normalising common (but often misunderstood) dog behaviours. Throughout the episode, they highlight the power of checking in, celebrating small wins, and creating safe spaces for owners to voice fears they may feel ashamed to admit.This episode is a reminder that good dog training is as much about people as it is about dogs — and that compassion, science, and support go hand in hand.

In this episode, Kim and Carla unpack one of the most misunderstood tools in dog training: management. Far from being a shortcut or a sign that training has failed, management is explored as a strategic, science-backed approach that prevents unwanted behaviours before they happen and sets dogs up for long-term success.The conversation dives into real-world applications, from dog walking and door greetings to managing reactivity and high-arousal moments. Kim and Carla discuss risk assessment, environmental control, and why preventing rehearsal of unwanted behaviours is often the most ethical and effective choice. They also explore practical tools such as baby gates, harnesses, snuffle mats, and licky mats, alongside the importance of adapting human behaviour to reduce stress for dogs.Whether it’s handling unexpected Amazon deliveries, choosing the right walking environment, or planning ahead for unfamiliar situations, this episode highlights how thoughtful management supports training, improves welfare, and creates calmer, safer outcomes for both dogs and their people.

In this episode, Kim and Carla dive deep into the challenges of preventing and managing separation anxiety in dogs—a condition affecting around 60% of pets, and increasingly common since lockdown. They discuss the early signs of anxiety, breed predispositions, and the subtle behavioral changes owners often overlook.Kim shares her evidence-based training strategies, including gradual desensitization, scent associations, safe environments, and the use of cameras to monitor stress. They also explore the importance of tailoring training plans to each dog’s needs, supporting owners to stay consistent without burnout, and encouraging independence in both dogs and their humans.Along the way, Kim and Carla touch on personal wellbeing, from the impact of coffee habits on daily routines to finding motivation and community through exercise—reminding us that caring for dogs starts with caring for ourselves. Whether you’re a dog owner, trainer, or behaviorist, this episode is packed with practical tips, real-life examples, and strategies to build confident, happy, and stress-free pups.

Have you ever felt like your dog has forgotten everything they once knew?In this episode, Kim and Carla unpack one of the most common—and misunderstood—issues dog owners face: behaviour regression. From puppies who suddenly stop recalling, to adolescent dogs who appear to “lose” their training, to adult and senior dogs whose behaviour changes seemingly overnight, this conversation breaks down why regression happens and how to respond without panic or punishment.We explore:Why adolescence is a peak time for training setbacks (and why this is completely normal)How hormones, brain development, stress, and environmental changes affect behaviourWhy training that works at home often falls apart in the real worldThe role of health, pain, and sensory changes in sudden behaviour shiftsWhy using tools like long lines or going back to basics is smart training—not failureHow early recall training and real-world exposure can future-proof your dogWhen behaviour change is a training issue—and when it’s time to call the vetThis episode is essential listening for dog owners feeling frustrated, trainers supporting adolescent dogs, and anyone worried that they’ve “done something wrong.” Spoiler: you haven’t.If your dog feels unpredictable right now, this conversation will help you understand what’s really going on—and how to support them through it.

In this episode of Kim and Carla’s Chinwag, Kim and Carla unpack why so many dogs are labelled as “naughty” — and why that label rarely helps anyone.They explore how behaviour looks very different when viewed from the dog’s perspective, and share three simple but powerful questions every owner (and professional) should ask:What is my dog feeling right now?What have they learned from similar situations before?What support does my dog need in this moment?The conversation covers practical tools like video analysis, the ABCs of behaviour (antecedents, behaviour, consequences), and why adolescence can be such a challenging — and misunderstood — stage of a dog’s development. Kim and Carla also touch on the importance of ongoing support for owners, especially when progress feels messy or nonlinear.A thoughtful, honest discussion for anyone who wants to move away from blame and towards better understanding, welfare, and realistic expectations.

Start the year off right with realistic, meaningful goals for your dog! In this episode, we discuss how to set achievable behaviour and training objectives that fit your dog’s personality, lifestyle, and emotional wellbeing. From small daily habits to long-term milestones, Kim and Carla share practical tips for planning a positive, stress-free year that strengthens your bond and supports your dog’s growth.

In this festive episode, Kim and Carla dive into everything you need to know about keeping your dog safe, calm, and happy during the Christmas season.They start with the centrepiece of most homes this time of year—the Christmas tree. From introducing a bare tree first, to using baby gates and lucky mats, they share practical strategies to prevent curious paws from causing chaos. They also explore how emotionally overwhelming the holiday prep can be, and why being present with our pets makes such a difference.Moving on to decorations, Kim and Carla discuss how to create a beautiful but dog-safe tree. They cover the risks of breakable ornaments, toxic baubles containing antifreeze, and the hidden dangers of edible gifts left under the tree. Kim even shares a few personal stories about her own dogs’ cheeky interactions with decorations and food, reminding us that dogs will always keep us on our toes!Finally, they tackle Christmas dinner. From foods to avoid (like onions, fatty meats and salty leftovers) to how to manage mealtimes in busy homes, this episode is packed with guidance to help you navigate the big day safely. Kim’s story about a Christmas-day dog escape offers a lighthearted yet important reminder: even well-trained dogs can surprise us.Whether you’re hosting, travelling, or keeping things low-key this year, this episode will leave you feeling confident, prepared, and ready to create a calm, dog-friendly Christmas for the whole family.

In this episode, Kim and Carla dive into one of the most common challenges new puppy owners face — puppy biting. They unpack the real reasons behind those needle-sharp nips, with Kim highlighting the number one cause that often gets overlooked: lack of sleep.Together, they explore how overtired puppies struggle to regulate themselves, why proper rest is essential for emotional stability, and how simple management tools like pens and baby gates can support both puppies with separation anxiety and overwhelmed owners.Kim and Carla also discuss practical, positive solutions for redirecting biting, including natural chew options like frozen carrots and soaked rope toys, breed-appropriate outlets, and the importance of meeting a puppy’s nutritional needs. Kim explains why underfeeding — or relying too rigidly on packaging feeding guides — can increase biting behaviours in growing puppies.Throughout the episode, they emphasise positive reinforcement, understanding breed traits, and steering clear of punishment.They wrap up by teasing their next topic: How to prepare your puppy for the Christmas season.Perfect for new puppy parents and trainers looking for science-based, compassionate guidance.

In this episode, Kim and Carla dive deep into one of the most misunderstood stages of a dog’s life — adolescence. Often arriving between 6 and 14 months, this phase brings big feelings, big behaviours, and, for many owners, big challenges. It’s also the age when dogs are most frequently relinquished to shelters, highlighting just how important support during this time really is.Kim and Carla break down why adolescence is nothing like puppyhood, despite many owners expecting it to get easier. From sudden “naughtiness” to lead pulling, reduced focus, and increased independence, they explain why this developmental stage mirrors human teenage behaviour and why patience and consistency are key.They discuss the common gap between completing a puppy course and the ongoing training adolescents desperately need — sharing personal stories with their own dogs, Millie and Sam. Together, they explore fear phases, training dips, and why neutering during adolescence can sometimes make things worse.Listeners will learn practical, positive tools including the Counting Game, Middle position, and hand targets, along with how to use breed-appropriate outlets, long lines, and sniffing freedom to support adolescent dogs.Whether you’re a dog owner or trainer, this episode will help you understand the why behind adolescent behaviours — and give you the guidance to support dogs through this turbulent but temporary stage.

Send us a textIn this episode, Kim and Carla dive into the real-world challenges of fitting dog training into busy, unpredictable lives. From juggling work shifts and family commitments to managing the routines of reactive or anxious dogs, they explore how flexibility—not rigid schedules—is the key to long-term success.Kim shares how she adapts training plans to fit seamlessly into her clients’ existing lifestyles rather than adding more structure, while Carla highlights the benefits of short, frequent sessions over long training blocks. Together, they discuss how to generalize skills across different environments, prepare dogs for life transitions (like new babies or moves), and strike the perfect balance between consistency and adaptability.Whether you’re a professional trainer or a devoted dog owner, this episode offers practical strategies to help you build routines that work for both ends of the lead. 🐾Support the showDon't forget to rate and reviewFollow me on instagram: pooches.galore

Send us a textIn this episode, Kim sits down with canine nutritionist Cam to explore the powerful connection between what dogs eat and how they feel and behave. Together, they unpack the complexities of formulating supplements, the surprising parallels between human and canine nutrition, and why understanding gut health is essential for every dog owner and trainer. From herbs and probiotics to the myths surrounding kibble, they discuss what truly supports long-term canine wellbeing—and why education, not marketing, should guide how we feed our dogs.Support the showDon't forget to rate and reviewFollow me on instagram: pooches.galore

Send us a textIn this short and practical episode, Kim and Carla share essential Halloween safety tips for dog owners. From managing decorations and trick-or-treaters to avoiding toxic treats and unexpected scares, they discuss how to keep dogs safe, calm, and comfortable during the festivities. With simple, proactive advice — like keeping dogs indoors, using pumpkins as healthy treats, and creating a quiet space away from the front door — this episode helps you make Halloween a stress-free night for your four-legged friend.Support the showDon't forget to rate and reviewFollow me on instagram: pooches.galore

Send us a textIn this episode, Kim and Carla explore how to prepare dogs for fireworks season with compassion and science-based strategies. They discuss why being proactive is key, how to create a safe and calming environment, and why comforting a frightened dog is not only okay but important. From using sound therapy and calming sprays to consulting vets about medication for anxious dogs, this episode offers practical, welfare-led advice to help every dog feel safer when the bangs begin.Support the showDon't forget to rate and reviewFollow me on instagram: pooches.galore

Send us a textIn this episode, Kim chats with Chloe, the creator of the Tuft app — a game-changing platform helping dog groomers manage their schedules while giving pet owners an easy way to book trusted grooming services. Chloe shares how her love for dogs and background in marketing inspired the app’s development, and how Tuft is revolutionizing admin and client management for the pet care industry. They explore the realities of running a pet business, the balance between progress and perfectionism, and Chloe’s vision for expanding Tuft across the UK and beyond.Check out Tuft here: https://tuftapp.com/Support the showDon't forget to rate and reviewFollow me on instagram: pooches.galore

Send us a textKim and Carla dig into the ups and downs of running puppy classes — from socialisation and safety to communication and positive reinforcement.  They share real-world tips, training insights, and what it really takes to make puppy classes fun, effective, and rewarding for everyone involved!Book puppy classes with Carla: https://www.auntycarlasdogtraining.co.uk/puppySupport the showDon't forget to rate and reviewFollow me on instagram: pooches.galore

Send us a textIn this episode, Kim sits down with Hector, co-founder of Entovore a pioneering company farming mealworms for sustainable pet food. They explore the fascinating world of insect farming—from the spark of inspiration on the Jurassic coast to building a climate-controlled farm and creating novel protein treats for dogs. Hector explains why mealworms were chosen over black soldier flies, how surplus grain is repurposed into feed, and the surprising benefits of mealworm farming, from natural fertilizer to allergy-friendly nutrition.Kim and Hector also discuss the challenges of consumer perceptions, the development of sweet potato and mealworm-based treats, and the exciting potential of insects in the circular economy. Whether you’re a dog owner curious about new nutrition options or someone interested in sustainability and innovation, this conversation will open your eyes to the future of pet food.Support the showDon't forget to rate and reviewFollow me on instagram: pooches.galore

Send us a textIn this episode, Carla and Kim dive into the challenges of leash laws and public dog policies. They explore why a “one-size-fits-all” approach doesn’t work for every dog, the potential role of designated off-lead areas, and the complications that councils and communities face in making these decisions. Along the way, they reflect on the Dangerous Dogs Act, share stories of real-world risks like long-line injuries, and discuss why better owner education and systemic change may be more effective than breed-specific rules. The conversation highlights the balance between safety, freedom, and responsibility in our shared public spaces.Support the showDon't forget to rate and reviewFollow me on instagram: pooches.galore

Send us a textIn this episode, Kim and Carla dive into the realities of raising children alongside dogs. From preparing your pup for a new baby to managing curious toddlers, they share practical tips and personal stories that make life easier (and safer) for the whole family. Topics include how to introduce dogs and babies, managing toddler interactions, setting up your home with baby gates and safe spaces, and recognising canine body language around children. Kim and Carla also highlight how play, enrichment, and simple management strategies can help dogs feel secure during big family transitions. Whether you’re a new parent or juggling a busy household, this episode offers support, laughs, and plenty of real-life advice to nurture happy kids and happy dogs.Support the showDon't forget to rate and reviewFollow me on instagram: pooches.galore

Send us a textIn this episode of The Happy Dog Podcast, Kim is joined by Danny from Tug-E-Nuff to dive into the world of dog play, toys, and training. Danny shares the inspiring story of how his mum founded the company in 2009, starting with a single food bag toy designed for her agility dog, Indy, and growing into a trusted brand loved by trainers worldwide.Together, Kim and Danny explore what makes a great dog toy, from safe designs that engage puppies and children to innovative products like their floating water toy “Bob.” They discuss how play isn’t just fun — it’s a powerful training tool that can help dogs settle, reduce frustration, and strengthen the bond with their humans.From practical tips on choosing the right toy and adapting play styles to your dog’s breed, to the role of play in puppy training and lifelong learning, this episode is packed with insights for every dog owner. Whether you’re new to tug games or looking to make training more engaging, you’ll come away inspired to put more play into your dog’s day.https://tug-e-nuff.com/POOCHESGALORESupport the showDon't forget to rate and reviewFollow me on instagram: pooches.galore