Barkology: Unleash your dog’s potential

In this episode, Chantal and Angelique sit down with the extraordinary Kim Brophey , an applied ethologist, award-winning trainer, and creator of the revolutionary Dog L.E.G.S.® model.This conversation is a must-listen for both pet professionals and dog guardians everywhere. Together, we explore one of the most important and misunderstood topics in modern dog behaviour: agency. Kim dives into why so many dogs actually need less training, not more, and far more support in having their basic needs, instincts, and welfare considerations fully met.We talk about what happens when we stop viewing dogs through a narrow “obedience” lens and instead recognize them as complex animals shaped by Learning, Environment, Genetics, and Self (L.E.G.S.). Kim explains how behaviour only makes sense when we understand the whole dog, and why giving dogs more choice and control is central to preventing behavioural problems and improving quality of life.If you’ve ever wondered why your dog behaves the way they do (or how we can radically improve dog welfare by changing our perspective) this episode will change the way you see dogs forever.

In this episode, Chantal and Angelique explore a surprising truth about dog training: the most powerful part of learning doesn’t always happen during the lesson. It happens after.We obsess over timing, cues, and rewards, but science is showing that what dogs do once the training session ends (whether they chew, play, or rest) can make all the difference in how well they remember tomorrow.Drawing on recent research, including the 2025 Moesta et al. chewing study and multiple play and memory studies by Affenzeller et al. and Salomons et al., Chantal and Angelique unpack how activities after training influence brain chemistry, stress levels, and memory consolidation.You’ll learn:Why chewing helps dogs “press save” on new skillsHow play boosts motivation and long-term learning, especially for beginnersWhy rest and relaxation can sometimes be just as important as the training itselfPractical ways to combine chewing, play, and calm to make learning stickHow to design better training sessions by focusing on the cool-down, not just the repsFrom sport dogs and puppies to fearful rescues and reactivity rehab, this episode gives you a science-backed toolkit for helping dogs learn faster, retain more, and enjoy training even more.

In this episode of Barkology, Angelique and Chantal sit down with Jo and Vicky, the powerhouse duo behind The Canine Business Academy, to talk all things dog training, business growth, and finding your confidence as a professional in the pet industry.From their early days as struggling trainers to becoming sought-after business coaches, Jo and Vicky share the highs, the lows, and the mindset shifts that changed everything.🎧 In this episode, we explore:🐾 What first drew them to dog training—and what almost made them give it up🐾 How the industry has evolved, and why trainers today need more than just great skills with dogs🐾 The most common business struggles trainers face (think pricing, visibility, and burnout)🐾 The hard lessons they learned running their own businesses—and how they now help others avoid the same mistakes🐾 The guilt many trainers feel around charging “too much” and why that mindset needs to change🐾 Actionable advice for trainers who feel stuck, invisible, or overwhelmedWhether you're a new trainer, a seasoned pro, or somewhere in between—this episode is full of wisdom, validation, and practical advice to help you thrive.

In this episode, Chantal sits down with Cam, The Dog Nutritionist (@the_dog_nutritionist), to explore one of the most overlooked foundations of behaviour and wellbeing: nutrition.Cam holds a diploma in Canine Nutrigenomics and has helped countless dog owners transform their dogs’ health through personalised, natural nutrition plans. From allergies to weight loss, illness support to long-term vitality—he brings practical insight and real-world experience.

In this episode, Chantal and Angelique speak with Esther Matthew from the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) in South Africa about the remarkable world of conservation and detection dogs. Together, they explore the journey into conservation work, the process of selecting the right dogs, and the unique training phases that prepare them for the field.Esther shares her insights on building strong handler-dog bonds, identifying suitable canine candidates, and managing the challenges of high-energy dogs both on and off duty. The conversation also covers retirement and longevity, daily routines in the field, and how puppies are prepared for future conservation roles.From proud moments in conservation to the everyday skills that matter most, this episode offers an inspiring behind-the-scenes look at how dogs are making a difference in protecting wildlife. Plus, discover how scentwork can enrich the lives of pet dogs everywhere.

Angelique de Kock and Chantal Karyta dive into the heated ethics of using e-collars to stop dogs from chasing. This episode unpacks a controversial 2024 study that claimed shock collars were more effective than treat-based methods and the fierce critique it triggered.You’ll Learn:Why critics say the study wasn’t a fair comparisonWhat actually counts as “positive reinforcement”How welfare needs to be meaningfully measured and not assumedWhat better recall training looks like in real lifeWhy your values and long-term goals matter more than speedTopics:00:00 – Introduction to the E-Collar Debate02:36 – Understanding the Study's Findings05:32 – Critiques of the Study's Methodology08:29 – Welfare Considerations in Dog Training11:00 – How the Training Could’ve Been Done Better14:03 – Long-Term Goals and Ethical ReflectionsResources & Mentions:Johnson & Wynne (2024) study on chase behaviourRebuttal 1 from positive reinforcement advocatesRebuttal 2 from positive reinforcement advocatesResponse to the rebuttalsBarkology Episode 1 (for study context)Don't forget to rate and review if you learned something new or felt inspired by this episode. We really appreciate your support!

Can you stop a dog from chasing—cars, wildlife, livestock—without using a shock collar?In 2024, an infamous study by Johnson & Wynne claimed e-collars were more effective than food-based methods for stopping chase behaviour in dogs. And it’s been making waves across the dog training world.In this episode of Barkology, co-hosts Chantal Karyta and Angelique De Kock dive into the details. As trainers who don’t use shock collars, we believe it’s essential to examine the science so we can advocate for dogs with clarity and compassion.We explore:How the study was designed and what they wanted to testThe three training groups (shock collar, food + fast lure, food + gradual lure)What the results showed and what they didn’tThis is Part 1 of a 2-part series. In Part 2, we’ll look at the published critique of this study, the authors’ rebuttal, what we think and what it all means for ethical, real-world dog training.Please subscribe and leave a review! We love unpacking the science, challenge assumptions, and helping you stay grounded.

⚠️ Disclaimer: This episode contains discussions about dog bites, including injury, behaviour assessments, and legal outcomes. Listener discretion is advised.In this episode, Chantal and Angelique talk to behaviourist and expert witness Daniel Shaw about one of the most complex and sensitive topics in the dog training world — dog bites.We explore the contexts in which bites most commonly occur, the early behavioural signs that are often missed, and how fear, pain, or predatory instincts might all influence a dog’s response. Daniel also shares his experiences working on legal cases involving bite incidents and reflects on the challenges of the Dangerous Dogs Act, as well as what needs to change to ensure fairness and welfare for dogs.Together, we ask:Can some bites be prevented with better education and awareness?Why bites happen and which underlying causes need to be addressed. What reforms are needed in how dog bite cases are handled?

In this episode, Chantal and Angelique sit down with Dr. Amy Cook, creator of The Play Way—a therapeutic approach that utilizes social, toy-free play to help shy and fearful dogs build confidence, reduce reactivity, and foster trust.We explore:The Science Behind Social Play: How interactive play can serve as a powerful tool in behavior modification, especially for dogs experiencing fear and anxiety. ​Applicability to Behavior Issues: Identifying which behavioral challenges benefit most from The Play Way and understanding its limitations.​Initiating Play: Techniques to respectfully invite play, ensuring the dog feels safe and in control.​Elements of Therapeutic Play: Breaking down the components that make play a successful intervention.​Tailoring Play to Individual Dogs: Adjusting play styles to suit high-energy breeds versus more reserved dogs, and strategies for engaging dogs unfamiliar with play, such as rescues.​Common Mistakes and Assessing Readiness: Recognizing pitfalls in implementing The Play Way and determining when a dog is prepared to engage, particularly if they're fearful or shut down.​Dr. Cook also shares her perspective on misconceptions in dog behavior and provides information on accessing her Play Way course or other online Fenzi courses for those interested in learning more.

Does your dog explode off the start line in agility? Bark non-stop when waiting for their turn? Struggle to stay focused in high-energy environments? In this episode, Angelique from Treat to Train and Chantal from CK9 Training, break down the power of pattern games—a simple yet effective way to help your dog stay engaged, regulated, and ready to perform.We’ll explore how these structured games can improve impulse control, reduce frustration, and build confidence, whether you're training for agility, working on reactivity, or just aiming for calmer walks.