The Yappy Hour

All About Whippets: Training, Temperament & Living with This Sensitive Breed (with Jack’s Mum Dog Training)In this episode of The Yappy Hour (powered by Yappily), host Nathan Dunleavy chats with Vanessa from Jack’s Mum Dog Training about what makes Whippets so special and sometimes challenging!They cover breed differences, recall that works, separation-anxiety prevention, home safety, and enrichment ideas for this elegant, soulful sighthound.Topics covered:Whippet temperament & sensitivityShow vs working vs racing linesSafe puppy setup: floors, gates, leadsRecall games & chase-play for sighthoundsSeparation anxiety & home-alone trainingEnrichment ideas & energy managementLiving with kids, cats & other dogsComfort, coats & cosy livingPositive training & avoiding overwhelmVanessa’s mentoring journey & lessons learnedSubscribe & ReviewIf you love Whippets (or just dogs!), hit Subscribe and leave a review. It helps more pet parents find us.Chapters00:00 Intro03:00 Meet Vanessa & Jack’s Mum Dog Training10:00 What Defines a Whippet18:00 Show vs Working Lines26:00 Puppy Safety Tips33:00 Recall for Sighthounds40:00 Separation Anxiety Support48:00 Daily Enrichment55:00 Kids & Cats01:02:00 Comfort and Care01:07:00 Mentoring Insights & Wrap-UpThe Yappy Hour powered by YappilyReal talk, practical advice and expert insight for dog lovers and pet pros.

In this episode, host Nathan Dunleavy speaks with Maya Badham, founder of S-A-H-S-D-A and creator of the Partnership Planet Model. Maya shares her powerful journey from supporting trauma survivors to reimagining how we live with dogs — not as projects to train, but as partners to respect.💡 What you’ll discover:The roots of the Partnership Planet ModelWhy control and compliance limit connection with dogsHow co-regulation, autonomy, and stewardship transform relationshipsPractical examples of responding through partnership, not obedienceRedefining what “success” as a dog guardian really meansIf you’ve ever wondered what true partnership with your dog could look like, this episode is a must-listen.🐾 Subscribe for more heart-led conversations about dogs, training, and life together. Don’t forget to like, share, and leave us a review — it helps other dog lovers find us!

Dog Separation Anxiety Myths Busted with Rosee Riggs | Gentle, Evidence-Based HelpIf you’ve been told to “crate and cry it out,” this episode is for you. Certified separation anxiety pro behaviour consultant Rosee Riggs explains what SA really is, why common internet tips backfire, and the calm, step-by-step plan that helps dogs feel safe being home alone.In this episode you’ll learn:Why crates, cameras, and quick-fix hacks can worsen fearHow to set up managing absences (so your dog avoids panic while you train)The power of predictability and a simple safe signalHow to do gradual desensitisation without triggering anxietyLifestyle changes that reduce overall stress (sleep, sniffy walks, pain checks)When to get qualified, force-free professional supportChapters00:00 Intro01:08 Why separation anxiety is misunderstood05:42 Biggest myths (crates, “cry it out,” food distractions)14:30 Predictability & safe signals19:25 Why gadgets aren’t shortcuts24:10 Managing absences (your first step)28:36 Desensitisation done right34:10 Consistency beats intensity38:15 Lifestyle tweaks & co-factors44:00 Reframing your role as guardian48:10 One myth we’d erase forever51:00 Where to find RoseeGuestRosee Riggs — Certified Separation Anxiety Pro Behaviour ConsultantWork with us / stay connected• Subscribe for more dog-behaviour deep dives• If this helped, please like 👍, comment, and share with a friend who’s supporting an anxious dogDisclaimerThis episode is educational and not a substitute for an individual assessment from a qualified, force-free professional.

Welcome to The Yappy Hour powered by Yappily!In this episode, host Nathan Dunleavy talks with Jo Middleton — Director of Studies at Canine Principles, Principal at the ISCP (International School for Canine Psychology), and MD at the International Institute for Canine Ethics (ICE) — about making dog training ethical, accessible, and effective for real life.⏱️ Chapters00:00 Intro: Why education changes everything02:08 Jo’s journey: rescue roots, ethics, and study leadership08:24 Consent-based handling & reading “no” in canine body language14:40 Confidence vs. competence: imposter syndrome in pet pros18:55 Biggest gaps: nutrition, first aid, equipment, sleep, pain25:30 Guardians: how to find ethical help you can trust31:10 Equipment that protects bodies (two-point harnesses)35:42 Quick-fix culture vs. real behaviour change40:05 Rehoming support: beyond the rigid “3-3-3” timeline45:18 Student-friendly learning: CPD hubs, live courses, tutors50:12 Community & mentorship: finding your voice54:10 What’s next: CPD accreditation, writer’s retreat, conferences58:20 Final message: compassion ≠ weakness — it’s strengthKey topicsEthical dog training & consent-based handlingCanine body language and advocacy at homePractical CPD routes for trainers, walkers, groomers, vets/vet nursesNutrition, pain, sleep, and welfare basics that change behaviourSafer walking equipment vs. collars/chains/slip leadsRehoming support that adapts to the individual dogConfidence & mindset for ethical pet professionals📚 Resources mentionedCanine Principles — ethical courses, CPD, first aidISCP — canine psychology diplomas; free bite-sized communication courseInternational Institute for Canine Ethics (ICE) — professional membership, Ethical Canine Professional Register, Three Stages of Adjustment resource🙌 If this helped you, please like, subscribe, and comment with your biggest takeaway. Share this with a dog guardian or pet pro who’d love ethical, science-based guidance.🐾 The Yappy Hour is powered by Yappily — helping dog lovers and pet professionals learn, grow, and support happier dogs.

Enrichment is essential, not optional — and in this episode of The Yappy Hour we dive into how to keep your dog truly happy, calm, and fulfilled.Host Nathan Dunleavy chats with canine enrichment expert and author Shay Kelly, who shares why enrichment matters, how it prevents behaviour problems, and simple enrichment ideas you can do at home today.Whether you have a playful puppy, a senior dog, or a nervous rescue, this episode is packed with practical, budget-friendly advice to help you strengthen your bond and give your dog a life worth living.🐾 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:00:00 – Welcome & introduction to Shay Kelly04:30 – What enrichment really means (beyond puzzle toys)12:10 – The 5 types of enrichment every dog needs19:40 – Why safety is the foundation of enrichment28:15 – Enrichment for puppies vs. senior dogs38:00 – How enrichment helps nervous or anxious dogs46:00 – Budget-friendly enrichment ideas you can try today55:00 – How enrichment prevents behaviour problems1:04:00 – Final thoughts: enrichment is essential, not optional👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to The Yappy Hour for more expert conversations on dog training, behaviour, and wellbeing.

In this episode of The Yappy Hour, powered by Yappily, your host, Nathan Dunleavy, sits down with internationally respected behaviourist and educator Sarah Fisher. Sarah is the founder of ACE (Animal Centred Education) and the creator of ACE Free Work, a structured yet gentle approach that helps dogs thrive through observation, trust, and choice.🐾 Whether you live with a nervous rescue, a high-energy adolescent, or a senior dog, this episode will change how you see your dog.🎧 What you'll learn:What ACE Free Work is and how to get startedHow observation helps identify hidden stress or painWhy “less is more” when supporting reactive or anxious dogsThe importance of sensory experiences in building calm and confidenceHow ACE is helping in vet practices, grooming salons, rescue shelters and morePractical ways to use Free Work at home, in daily life, or out on walks🌐 Learn more about Sarah and ACE Free Work:https://www.animalcentrededucation.comhttps://www.tilleyfarm.org.uk

This week, Nathan is joined by clinical animal behaviourist Daniel Shaw of Animal Behaviour Kent to talk about one of the most misunderstood stages in your dog’s life: adolescence.We explore:🐶 What’s really going on in your teenage dog’s brain⚠️ Why training may seem to fall apart — and why that’s normal🥴 How to spot the difference between temporary wobbles and deeper behavioural challenges💚 The importance of connection, co-regulation, and emotional safety👣 How to support your dog (and yourself) through the ups and downs of adolescence📍Whether your dog is barking more, listening less, or suddenly unsure of the world, this episode offers compassionate, science-based guidance — and a whole lot of reassurance.

In this episode of The Yappy Hour, host Nathan Dunleavy chats with Jay Gurden a dog behaviour expert, author, and founder of Good Guardianship, about how to truly support sensitive, complex, or "reactive" dogs.Jay shares powerful advice on how to build trust, reduce stress, and avoid the trap of “fixing” behaviours. You’ll learn how to read subtle body language, help your dog decompress, and become the advocate your dog needs in a busy world.Whether you're struggling with reactivity, over-arousal, fear-based behaviours, or just want to deepen your bond with your dog, this episode is full of practical tips and heartfelt reassurance.Topics covered:What “reactive” really means and why we’re moving away from that labelWhy trust and choice matter so much in behaviour changeHow to handle setbacks and bad daysTools and mindset shifts that help guardians and dogs thriveJay’s own experience with her sensitive dog, Finn🎧 Grab a cuppa, settle in, and listen to this supportive, insightful episode that will leave you feeling empowered and understood.For more episodes visit the Yappily pod page!

Decoding the Dachshund | Yappy Hour Podcast with Nicky HammelWelcome to The Yappy Hour, powered by Yappily – the podcast for dog lovers who want to deepen their bond with their four-legged friends. In this episode, host Nathan Dunleavy chats with Nicky Hammel, a licensed breeder and behaviourist specialising in long-haired dachshunds.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How to read and understand dachshund behaviourCommon behavioural challenges and how to tackle themThe truth about dachshunds' "stubborn" reputationWhy responsible breeding is crucial and what to look for in a breederManaging barking, reactivity, and separation anxietyTips for raising a well-adjusted dachshund from puppyhood to adolescenceEssential health considerations like IVDD and PRAListen to more episodes on The Yappy Hour Pod PageIf you enjoyed this episode, hit the like button, share it with a fellow dog lover, and subscribe to The Yappy Hour to never miss an update.

Join Nathan Dunleavy on this episode of Yappy Hour as he welcomes Carrie-Anne Selwyn, the founder of Canine Hoopers World. Discover how the inclusive and low-impact dog sport, Hoopers, is transforming the way dog guardians connect with their pets. Carrie-Anne shares her journey from pet dog trainer to international Hoopers advocate, the benefits of Hoopers for all breeds and ages, and how anyone can get started with minimal equipment. Whether you’re looking for a fun activity, a confidence builder for reactive dogs, or a new way to bond with your pup, this episode is packed with insights and practical advice.Listen in to learn how Hoopers can be practised casually at home or competitively, and how it fosters trust, focus, and teamwork between dogs and their guardians.Tune in now to find out why Hoopers is the perfect sport for every dog, no matter their size, age, or ability!Listen to more episodes on the pod page!

In this episode of The Yappy Hour, host Nathan Dunleavy is joined by Sue Williamson, a consent-based groomer and behaviourist. Sue shares her journey from the corporate world to becoming a grooming advocate, focusing on stress-free, dog-centric grooming practices. Learn how to decode calming signals, prevent matting, and use tools that enhance comfort for sensitive pups. Discover the impact of grooming on a dog's emotional and physical well-being, and how pet parents can support positive grooming experiences at home. Tune in to find out how to transform a typically stressful grooming session into a calm and enriching experience for your dog.Listen to more episodes on The Yappy Hour PODCAST PAGE

Host: Nathan DunleavyGuest: Sally Gutteridge, bestselling dog writer, advocate, and rescue dog handlerIn this heartwarming episode, Nathan Dunleavy sits down with Sally Gutteridge, a bestselling author, ethical dog trainer, and former military dog handler. Sally opens up about her incredible journey from working with military dogs to rescuing and rehabilitating traumatised dogs, including ex-puppy farm survivors.What You’ll Learn:The importance of positive, science-based dog trainingHow to help rescue dogs decompress and build trustWhy understanding canine body language is crucialThe impact of trauma on a dog's behaviour and how to respondHow to create a predictable, safe environment for anxious dogsWriting as a tool for dog advocacy and educationVisit The Yappy Hour podcast page for more episodes!

Welcome to Yappy Hour, powered by Yappily - the podcast for dog lovers who want to build better relationships with their dogs!In this episode, host Nathan Dunleavy is joined by Border Collie specialist and founder of That’ll Do Academy, Martina Miradoli. If you're living with (or considering owning) a Border Collie, this episode is packed with essential advice for understanding this intelligent, driven, and sometimes challenging breed.We discuss:What makes Border Collies uniqueTheir work ethic, herding drive & natural instinctsHow to meet their needs without over-exercisingHow to manage behaviours like car chasing or stalkingThe importance of mental enrichment & switching offTraining techniques that build connection & cooperationCommon mistakes pet parents make with Border ColliesHerding: When it’s appropriate and what to considerFind out more about Martina Miradoli and her work at That'll Do Academy website.If you're an ethical and qualified dog pro or pet business we'd love you to list on YappilyDon’t forget to subscribe to Yappy Hour and leave us a review if you found this episode helpful!

Are daily dog walks always the best thing for your pup? In this thought-provoking episode of The Yappy Hour, host Nathan Dunleavy chats with dog trainer, author, and advocate Niki French to challenge the traditional approach to dog walking. Niki, author of Stop Walking Your Dog and creator of #DontWalkYourDogDay, shares why not all dogs benefit from daily walks and how alternative enrichment activities can be even more fulfilling.If you’ve ever felt guilty about skipping a walk or wondered if there’s a better way to meet your dog’s needs, this episode is for you!What You’ll Learn in This Episode:🐾 Why traditional daily walks aren’t always beneficial for every dog🐾 How to identify if your dog struggles with walks🐾 Enrichment activities that provide mental and physical stimulation🐾 How giving dogs choices helps build confidence🐾 The emotional impact of changing your routine and overcoming guilt🐾 Everything you need to know about #DontWalkYourDogDay and how to get involvedKey Takeaways:Some dogs experience stress or anxiety on walks, and forcing them outside daily isn’t always the best solution.Activities like scent work, puzzle games, free work, and interactive play can be more fulfilling than a walk.Giving your dog choices—like picking a chew or deciding where to explore—can help them feel safer and more confident.Pet parents should trust their instincts—if walks feel stressful, it’s okay to change things up.#DontWalkYourDogDay (April 2nd) raises awareness and supports pet parents in exploring alternatives to traditional walks.Join the Conversation:💬 Do you have a dog that struggles with walks? Have you tried enrichment instead? Tag us on social media and let us know what works for you!🎧 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow dog lovers!👉 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!

Did you know probiotics can do more than support gut health? In this episode of Yappy Hour, host Nathan Dunleavy sits down with Jo Flanagan from Ingenious Probiotics to explore how probiotic-based pet care is transforming the way we look after our dogs. From soothing allergies and skin conditions to preventing ear infections and improving dental health, probiotics are a game-changer.We dive into:🐾 Why probiotics are essential for your dog’s skin, ears, and dental health🐾 How they help reduce allergies, infections, and irritation🐾 The connection between microbiome health and pet behaviour🐾 Why probiotic cleaning products create a safer home environment🐾 How probiotic care can reduce reliance on antibioticsIf you want to support your dog's health naturally, this episode is packed with expert insights you won’t want to miss!Resources & Links:🔗 Learn more about Ingenious Probiotics🔗 Follow The Yappy Hour for more pet health tips📩 Enjoyed this episode? Share it with a fellow pet parent, leave a review, and subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Discover how scent work can transform your dog’s life! In this episode of The Yappy Hour, host Nathan Dunleavy chats with Jamie Pound, founder of UK Sniffer Dogs, about how engaging your dog’s nose can reduce stress, boost confidence, and enhance behaviour. Whether your pup is anxious, high-energy, or just needs mental stimulation, scent work is the game-changer you’ve been looking for.

In this episode of The Yappy Hour, host Nathan Dunleavy chats with Vicki Main from Love Your Paws about training dogs for connection, not compliance. Vicky shares how understanding a dog's unique perspective leads to better training outcomes, the importance of breed-appropriate enrichment, and how thoughtful training strengthens bonds. Whether you have a sensitive dog or simply want to deepen your relationship with your dog, this episode is packed with invaluable and thoughtful insights.

In this episode of The Yappy Hour, host Nathan Dunleavy chats with Dr. Sophie Bell from Animal Love Pet First Aid about essential pet first aid skills, reducing vet visit stress, and how accessible pet education can empower dog guardians and professionals alike.

In this episode of The Yappy Hour powered by Yappily, host Nathan Dunleavy chats with Danny from Tug-E-Nuff about the vital role of play in dog training. Discover how interactive tug toys can strengthen the bond between you and your dog, boost training success, and improve motivation. Whether you have a playful pup or a more reserved dog, this episode is packed with insights on choosing the right toy and making playtime more rewarding.

Thinking about getting a Boxer or already have one bouncing around your home? 🐶💨 In this episode of The Yappy Hour, host Nathan Dunleavy is joined by Justyna from Bombproof Boxer, a breed specialist dedicated to helping Boxer dog guardians better understand and train their high-energy, intelligent companions.Together, they explore what makes Boxers unique, the importance of breed research, common misconceptions, and expert training & socialisation tips. Whether you're a first-time Boxer owner or a long-time lover of the breed, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you raise a happy boxer!