Ep243 - When do dogs mature?

Is there ever a moment when your dog is truly done with training? In this episode of Life With Your Dog, Panos invited Daniel on the podcast to dive into the age-old question: When is a dog fully trained? Spoiler—there’s no finish line. We explore what “fully trained” really means, why training is an ongoing lifestyle, and how your dog’s needs change over time. Whether you’re raising a puppy, managing an adolescent, or refining an adult dog’s skills, this episode will reshape how you think about training, progress, and what success actually looks like. Daniel has been shadowing Panos for a year as well as working for Nooch's Pooches running puppy development classes and helping out in private sessions.   Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.com

In this episode, we discuss intermittent and variable reinforcement in dog training and how these methods can help strengthen and maintain behaviors over time. By varying the timing and frequency of rewards, trainers can keep dogs more engaged and responsive. We explore the science behind why unpredictable reinforcement works, and when to apply it in training routines. Whether you're focusing on basic cues or more advanced behaviours, understanding these reinforcement strategies can support more consistent and lasting results. Join us for a thoughtful look at how timing and variability can shape behavior more effectively.   Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.com

In this episode we welcome back Josh & Alex, both top notch dog trainers to discuss valuable topics of the dog world. Both Josh and Alex are joining forces to run seminars in Queensland and Victoria, Australia in June for: Dealing with Difficult Dogs Group Socialisation Masterclass Understanding Electric Collars Some of this was discussed in the episode along with talking about how social media affects expectations of dog training, stories of training for real life breed fulfilment and work. Also how ecollars have the wrong public perspective, difficult clients and much more. Find Josh www.barefootdogtrainer.com Alex www.refineyourcanine.com.au Their upcoming seminars: Sunshine Coast https://www.eventbrite.com/e/alex-edwards-josh-moran-sunshine-coast-seminars-tickets-1235442304189?aff=oddtdtcreator Melbourne https://www.eventbrite.com/e/josh-moran-alex-edwards-melbourne-seminar-tickets-1236823896569?aff=oddtdtcreator   Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.com

In this episode, we dive into the complex world of fear aggression in dogs—one of the most misunderstood behavioral challenges pet owners face. We’ll break down what fear aggression looks like, what triggers it, and why some dogs react with growling, barking, or even biting when they feel threatened.   Join us as we explore expert-backed techniques for managing and rehabilitating fear-aggressive dogs. We’ll also discuss common mistakes owners make and how to create a safe, structured environment that helps your pup feel secure. Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.com

There are 4 stages of maturity in dogs ranging from puppyhood through adolescence to maturity. In each stage there are different expectations and level of training to work through. Panos and Luke go through these stages and will help you understand what to work on, what to expect and how to navigate your training as your dog matures.   Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.com

Panos answers Roger's question: "In your time with using Spades and Chili as demo dogs to help out with other dogs' issues have there been instances where it was a bad experience for your dogs? How did you handle it? Did they get over it? How did you get over it?" Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.com

Panos' book, The Nooch's Pooches Method- A comprehensive guide to training & living with your dog has been released. After years of preparation and writing it is finally available for you to purchase. The book is not just a guide to training, it is a blueprint from the foundations of dog behaviour, definitions, step by step guide to training and applications to everyday life. Available in both paperback and ebook on Amazon, you can get your copy here: https://amzn.asia/d/f1wzLQK Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.com

Dr. Michelle Rassool joins us again on the show, this time to discuss the fascinating topics of genetics and epigenetics in the dog world ... enjoy! Find her work at https://www.drmichellerassool.com/   Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.com    

Spades was my beloved dog of 14 years and he has sadly left us. We dedicated this episode to him and talked all about his life, to celebrate the life of the best dog. From being a shelter puppy, to joining my family to then work with me and witness starting my own family, Spades was apart of this era in my life. His passing is the closing of one chapter in my story and I'm so happy he was able to share it with me. Thank you Spades for teaching me so much. We are honoured to share his story with you.   Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.com

Pat joins us again (he was on way back in June 2020!) for the 2nd time. We discussed, among other things, his views on the major differences between sport/working dog trainers and pet dog trainers, and how this impacts the lives of the average pet dog. We also touched on e-collars and some common misconceptions regarding them. Find Pat and his wealth of knowledge at https://www.seriousdogbusiness.com/home   Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.com