Ep. 180: Who Is The Alpha?

Why do you think that dog is the alpha?  In this first episode of season 4, Tara and Laura break down the difference between being an alpha and being a protector.  They debunk the common myths associated with behaviors that make an “alpha” in a pack and explain how most of the time the dog owners believe is in that role is incorrect.  They also explain why this term of needing to be the “alpha” of the pack is unnecessary and not what we should strive to be for our dogs.Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

What are you hoping for in the new year?  This shortened episode is the last of this season and the year of 2025, so Tara and Laura talk about what they hope to see in the new year in regards to dogs and their owners.  Try to take a moment to reflect on your year with your dog and determine what goals you have for 2026 with your pup.  We hope everyone has a safe and happy New Year!Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

Monkey see, monkey do?  This week, Tara and Laura discuss some of the top social media trends they have seen with dogs and their owners.  They cover multiple trends, past and current, and why they are not all appropriate.  Sometimes it is better to stop and think of the impact these trends can have on your dog before just trying something you see on social media.Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

Helping veterans match with service dogs is an amazing calling.  This week, Tara and Laura welcomed Ryan Woodruff from Clear Path for Veterans to talk about their canine program.  They discuss Ryan’s background that led him to his calling and the process they use to help match the perfect service dog to help our veterans in this country.  What an amazing passion to have and one that we share!  Be sure to check out the amazing things they are doing at Clear Path for Veterans through their website and socials below.Website and socials:https://www.clearpath4vets.com/https://www.instagram.com/clearpath4vetshttps://www.facebook.com/ClearPathForVeteransSponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

Why does my dog ignore me?  This week, Tara and Laura address a common problem seen between owner and dog that can be extremely frustrating most of the time.  They explain the different reasons that a dog would choose to ignore their owner and the different scenarios this behavior is seen the most.  They offer advice on how to make sure communication between handler and dog is clear and challenge owners to see how their dog responds to their changes in tone.Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

Why is control aggression so difficult?  This week, Tara and Laura pick apart one of the most difficult types of aggression to work through, why it can be so difficult, and why it isn’t something to just sweep under the rug.  They give examples of ways that owners may miss subtle ways their dogs are gaining confidence in their control and the importance of consistency when dealing with a control aggressive dog.Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

What are your holiday plans?  This week’s episode, Tara and Laura re-cover things to consider with the holiday season upon us.  They go over plans to consider if you are traveling with your dog, boarding your dog, having someone stay over to watch them, having family visit, or dealing with distractions such as decorations.  It’s always best to prep and be overly prepared for anything instead of scrambling at the last minute.Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

What is causing the aggression epidemic?  In this episode, Tara and Laura break down the different reasons why people are seeing a rise in behavior and aggression cases.  They explain which types of aggressions are becoming more prevalent, why this is happening, and how it can lay heavy on the positive and force-free dog training community.Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

Is that behavior acceptable just because it is a lab?  This week Tara and Laura discuss the double standard that has been witnessed when it comes to behaviors of certain breeds, such as a lab.  They talk about personal experiences with their owns labs and their potentially inappropriate behavior that was allowed to happen only because of their breed.  Breed stigmas and stereotypes are not accurate, even with the dogs that are supposed to always be overly friendly, and can cause someone to get hurt.Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

Is prepping for going a hike with your dog necessary?  This week Tara and Laura cover all the things to consider when taking your dog on a hike to make sure they are safe and don’t get injured.  There are many scenarios that need to be considered, precautions that prove necessary, and ways to keep your dog safe so that everyone can have a great time.Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman