Best Veterinary Behaviorist Podcasts (2025)

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Chicago River Ride 2025 Cruise for Dogs is coming up, The Great American Dog Show returns in September, and more

6d ago

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It’s a dog show like none other – the Great American Dog Show will be held in Cantigy Park in Wheaton, September 5 to 7. Scott Pfeil, president of the Great American Dog Show explains how this show is so different, and welcoming of pet dogs, perhaps your dog. And the show is outdoors, and hugely family friendly. Jamie White is a member of the Board…

1
The Amys Pee'd Their Pants (with laughter) 45:13

10d ago45:13

45:13

The crazy train is pullin' into Urination Station. Can you guess who's on board? It's the Amys, of course! You've officially entered cat territory, and if kitty elimination questions are littering your brain (or your abode), this is the stop for you. In this episode the Amys guide you through all the marks and misses of the most common behavioral c…

1
The Hidden Risks of Board & Train Dog Training Schools for Aggression Cases 8:20

11d ago8:20

8:20

In this episode of the USA Dog Behavior podcast, Scott Sheaffer, a certified dog behavior consultant and behaviorist, dives into the complexities of board-and-train programs for dogs with aggression issues. While these programs may seem appealing for their promise of quick fixes, Scott explains why they often fall short—especially for aggression ro…

1
#KangaroosAreNotSkins Campaign, debunking myths regarding pet foods, and more

13d ago

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Wayne Pacelle, founder Center for a Humane Economy and Animal Wellness Action, has fueled the effort to stop using millions of kangaroos for making the athletic shoes. He launched the #kangaroos are not skins campaign. Today, most major manufacturers, as he explains, are no longer supporting killing kangaroos. He also makes an announcement, that he…

1
What are the best ways to help fearful and reactive dogs?

20d ago

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It’s one of the tougher issues to deal with, reactive or aggressive dogs. Increasingly some might sooner or later seek out a trainer who says, “I will help by using a shock collar.” Dr. Zazie Todd states that is the exact wrong approach. She is the author of Bark! The Science of Helping Your Anxious, Fearful or Reactive Dog. She says post pandemic …

1
Dogs, Data & The Dating Game : Adoption Advice from a Canine Scientist 48:51

24d ago48:51

48:51

Bachelor #1 likes long walks on the beach, snuggling by the fire, and is a massive foodie. Bachelor #2 loves to travel and is always planning his next big adventure. He spends Saturdays at the lake, Sundays at the brewery, and enjoys hosting big gatherings for his huge family and wide circle of friends. Bachelor #3 works 14-hour days from the comfo…

1
Cleaning Up Dog Accidents the Right Way: It Matters More Than You Think 6:44

27d ago6:44

6:44

In this episode of the USA Dog Behavior podcast, certified dog behavior consultant Scott Sheaffer dives into the often-overlooked but crucial topic of properly cleaning up dog accidents. He explains why scent matters more than the visible mess, comparing it to a "text message" for dogs that can lead to repeat accidents if not fully erased. Whether …

1
Do pets suffer from a mid-life crisis?

27d ago

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Dot Baisly, Executive Director of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) talks about why this organization stands strongly behind their science-based positive reinforcement approaches to dog training, and against the use of devices like shock collars. She also explains that IAABC certification isn’t only about dogs, th…

1
The incredible comeback of Heartland Animal Shelter in Wheeling

1M ago

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Jenny Schlueter is the Executive Director of Heartland Animal Shelter in Wheeling. And the comeback story there is quite incredible. After suffering from a devastating flood (all animals were heroically rescued but the facility suffered serious damage); this is a comeback story of perseverance featuring record adoption numbers. Anti Cruelty is the …

1
One FLU Over the Cuckoo's Nest 37:43

1M ago37:43

37:43

In this episode, the Amys take on RFK Jr and the Trump administration. Ok, not really... But we are talking about Avian Flu and how this administration’s policies regarding science are leaving a fowl taste in the mouths of experts. Join the Amys and their expert guest Dr. Kate Allison, internationally renowned for her work in public health and zoon…

1
Is Euthanasia Ever Right for Severe Dog Behavior Problems? 5:53

1M ago5:53

5:53

Deciding whether euthanasia is appropriate for a dog with severe behavior issues is one of the most heartbreaking choices a dog owner can face. In this episode, we explore when behavioral euthanasia may be the most compassionate option—such as when a dog poses an unmanageable safety risk, suffers from poor quality of life due to extreme anxiety or …

1
An in-depth conversation with Dr. Patricia McConnell about the current state of dog training, prong collars, and more

1M ago

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Dr. Patricia McConnell is the GOAT of dog training. Among her books, the classic, The Other End of the Leash. She discusses the state of dog training today, and her feelings about a movement among a vocal and perhaps increasing minority to use shock and prong collars. She also talks about the magic relationship we have with dogs. Also, a tribute to…

1
Puppy proofing your home to caring for senior pets and everything in between

2M ago

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Kathy Callahan and Helen St. Pierre, co-authors Old Dog, New Dog: Supporting Your Aging Best Friend and Welcoming a New One talk about everything from “puppy proofing a home” to adjusting homes for senior pets to whether or not to mix it up, do you bring in a young dog to share space with an old dog? Callahan runs a rescue for displaced senior dogs…

1
Talk Dirty to Me 36:55

2M ago36:55

36:55

Are you sick of people not understanding gay rights or transgender peoples? Animals don't care! The Amys understand that love is love no matter who you are. Join us in celebrating pride month with our sexpert Dr. Kara Kolster, studier of the creation of the beast, as we discuss the animal kingdom's secret and not-so-taboo sexual encounters. Normal,…

1
Tips to prepare your pets for the 4th of July and how CBD can help

2M ago

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It turns out that by learning about cancer in dogs, we can help people with cancer too, it’s called comparative medicine. By studying and researching cancers dogs naturally get, we can save their lives and human lives – and it’s happening. Dr. Timothy Fan, veterinary oncologist and professor veterinary oncology University of Illinois College of Vet…

1
Award-winning photographer Bob Walker discusses his latest book, the definition of community cats, and more

2M ago

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Award-winning photographer Bob Walker’s latest book is a love letter to one very unlikely recipient who enters his cat house, a Chihuahua: A Lost Dog Finds Cat Paradise: Tails of Love and Mischief. The EveryCat Health Foundation’s 2025 Communications Award recipient is Stacy LaBaron for her podcast, The Community Cats Podcast. What exactly are comm…

1
Science DOES Matter! 1:12:38

2M ago1:12:38

1:12:38

Dr. Kristina Spaulding returns to flip the script on the Amys! Research Bites is Dr. Spaulding’s podcast and platform for delivering applied animal behavior to non-scientists, and revealing how science and research apply to working and living with dogs in our everyday lives. Join the conversation about everything from the Mind-Body Unit, to the con…

1
Cesar Millan’s 4 Biggest Dog Training Myths 6:42

2M ago6:42

6:42

In this episode of the USA Dog Behavior Podcast, we’re calling out some of the most persistent, and damaging, dog training myths made popular by Cesar Millan. From the outdated “alpha dog” theory to the idea that a tired dog is a well-behaved dog, we unpack four harmful misconceptions that continue to mislead dog owners. Backed by modern science an…

1
Veterinary behaviorist Dr. Christine Calder explains what cooperative care is all about

2M ago

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Co-editor of Low Stress Handling: A Practical Guide to Cooperative Care, Training, and Behavior Modification, veterinary behaviorist Dr. Christine Calder explains what cooperative care is about. For example, how you may train your dog or cat to comply contentedly with having nails trimmed. And what’s the most important cue you can teach a cat or do…

1
Puppy yoga classes using puppy mill pups are popping up all over Chicago and the city has taken action

3M ago

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Illinois Director of the Humane Society for Animals Marc Ayers joins Steve Dale to explain how the seemingly harmless and fun puppy yoga classes may be sourcing puppies from puppy mills. In Chicago, this is illegal, and the City has taken action. https://serve.castfire.com/audio/7459762/7459762_2025-06-08-183802.64kmono.mp3 Recent Posts Steve Dale’…

1
All you need to know about a new and improved pheromone product which will reduce anxiety in your pets

3M ago

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Veterinary behaviorist Dr. Beth Strickler makes an exciting announcement which will save lives of dogs, cats and rabbits. There’s a new and improved pheromone product available which will reduce anxiety, the Secure line of products by Signs. After all, behavior is the number one cause of death for pets and the most common behavior issues occur beca…

1
We're Off to See the Wizard! 54:47

3M ago54:47

54:47

Steve Dale has his pulse on the veterinary and training world at all times - thats why we call him the Wizard! Join the Amys and certified Animal Behavior Consultant, pet expert, public speaker, and host of Steve Dale's Pet World, the fabulous Steve Dale, as they discuss heart disease in cats and emerging new treatments. They also delve into behavi…

1
The Hidden Ways You Might Be Punishing Your Dog Without Knowing It 7:48

3M ago7:48

7:48

In this episode, we uncover the hidden ways you might be punishing your dog without even realizing it. While many associate punishment with physical corrections like shock collars or leash jerks, behaviors like yelling or harsh tones can be just as intimidating—and counterproductive—for your pup. Learn how dogs perceive punishment differently than …

1
Dog trainer Zak George talks why shock collars are problematic and more

3M ago

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Hard to believe that a dog training organization that seeks to set licensing standards for dog trainers is willing to accept the use of shock collars. Dog trainer Zak George explains why that is unacceptable. He notes that while the use of shock can stop of a problematic behavior in its tracks, it will also cause significant collateral damage to th…

1
The most common behavior problem in dogs, the role the economy is playing in relinquishing of pets, and more

3M ago

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Veterinary behaviorist Dr. Nicholas Dodman, Co-founder of Center for Behavior Studies explains what this non-profit to support pet studies and keeping pets in homes is all about. Dr. Dodman reveals the most common behavior problem in dogs. Why do dogs sometimes have compulsive behaviors, such tail or light chasing, and what can be done to help thes…

1
Why Are Some Dogs Aggressive? 11:54

3M ago11:54

11:54

In this insightful episode of the USA Dog Behavior Podcast, certified dog behavior consultant and behaviorist Scott Sheaffer delves into the complex topic of canine aggression. He explains that aggression in dogs often stems from fear rather than inherent hostility, serving as a defensive mechanism to create distance from perceived threats. Sheaffe…

1
Tails of Tethered Cord Syndrome : A Medical Mystery 44:02

3M ago44:02

44:02

Is your pet a medical or behavioral mystery? Searching for the veterinary version of Dr. House can be frustrating. Join the Amys as they discuss Malus - a very special Terrier with a medical mystery. Without his mom Katrina pushing for a diagnosis, Malus' behavior would never have improved. Learn more about this mysterious disorder - Tethered Cord …

1
Chicago’s oldest and most significant animal shelter fundraiser, Bark in the Park, returns to Lincoln Park on May 31st

3M ago

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Dog trainer Jeff Millman on a new way to think about dog bite prevention, which is actually Steve’s idea. Millman is the author of Triggers and Reactions: A Guide to Fixing Dog Behavior Problems: Volume One: On-Leash Aggression Anti Cruelty President Darlene Duggan talks about the city’s oldest and most significant animal shelter’s biggest fundrais…

1
Susan Russell talks about her book ‘Midnight: Don’t Judge Me Ruiz’ and the still-existing long list of pit bull related fallacies

3M ago

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Once the executive director of Chicago Animal Care & Control, Susan Russell is now in Philadelphia and after a stint at an animal shelter there, she has authored Midnight: Don’t Judge Me Ruiz. She discusses the book and the still existing long list of pit bull related fallacies and Philly cheese-steak sandwiches. Good news about heart disease in ca…

1
Losing a Dog Hurts—Here’s the True Story Behind a Famous Poem That Eases the Pain 5:59

4M ago5:59

5:59

In this heartfelt episode of the USA Dog Behavior podcast, Scott Sheaffer explores the deep emotional impact of losing a beloved dog. Scott shares his personal reflections on the grief that follows such a loss and introduces listeners to the famous poem The Rainbow Bridge, which has brought comfort to countless grieving pet owners for over six deca…

1
Neutralizing cat allergies, Dr. Kevin Fitzgerald talks his autobiography, and more

4M ago

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You may recall Dr. Kevin Fitzgerald from Animal Planet’s Emergency Vets and E-Vet Interns or perhaps you’ve even seen him perform his stand-up act at a comedy club. He talks about what he’s learned about veterinary medicine from the best and about what he’s learned about show biz from the likes of the Rolling Stones to George Burns. He talks about …

1
Wag More, Bark Less 31:53

4M ago31:53

31:53

Ever wonder if your dogs and cats are happy? What constitutes happiness for our companion animals? Join the Amys and their esteemed guest, award-winning author and creator of Companion Animal Psychology, Dr. Zazie Todd, as they discuss the science of our pet's happiness. Dr. Todd remains a major voice and driving force behind the worldwide humane d…

1
Chicago Animal Care and Control is turning a new leaf and is focused on absolute transparency

4M ago

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Straight up, asking questions listeners would want to ask of Armando Tajeda, Executive Administrative Assistant and Public Information Officer Chicago Animal Care and Control (CACC). He conceded the agency doesn’t have a long history (and that’s true in many other cities as well) of absolute transparency, that’s now changed. And offer Armando an op…

1
The Crisis of Unqualified Dog Trainers Treating Dog Aggression 10:58

4M ago10:58

10:58

In this episode of the USA Dog Behavior podcast, certified dog behavior consultant and behaviorist Scott Sheaffer addresses the critical issue of unqualified dog trainers handling aggression cases. He highlights the lack of regulation in the dog training industry, where inexperienced individuals often use harmful methods like shock collars or domin…

1
Author Susan Hartzler talks about her latest books and shares her love for dogs

4M ago

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Unlucky in love but lucky with dogs, Susan Hartzler talks openly about her life in “I’m Not Single, I Have A Dog: Dating Tales from the Bark Side.” She explains that she’s fine and content today and accepting that she may from now on only have partners with four legs. And why in many ways, that is a good thing. Hartzler also talks about her book “T…

1
I Like Big Brains and I Cannot Lie! 1:01:37

4M ago1:01:37

1:01:37

Do you like BIG, JUICY, SEXY BRAINS as much as we do? (We're not talking about zombies again...) We're talking about something so much cooler – neuroscience! Join the Amys and their favorite neuroscientist, Dr. Marsha Penner, owner of Learning to Dog Training & Enrichment in Durham, North Carolina, for a mind-tingling discussion about the brain and…

1
Steve Dale is joined by Dr. Sheldon Rubin for an in-depth conversation about the dangers of heartworm disease, the importance of Anti-Cruelty, and more

4M ago

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Legendary Dr. Sheldon Rubin has been a guest on WGN radio dating back to Wally Phillips, when he was among the first veterinarians to talk regularly about pets in the media. Dr. Rubin is passionate about informing people of the dangers of heartworm disease which is nearly always preventable. He also recalls odd animals he’s dealt with, including a …

1
Can Dogs Be Psychotic? Understanding Bizarre Canine Behavior 9:58

5M ago9:58

9:58

In this episode of the USA Dog Behavior Podcast, certified dog behavior consultant and behaviorist Scott Sheaffer explores the question: Can dogs be psychotic? While dogs may exhibit behaviors that resemble human psychosis—such as staring at "nothing" or sudden aggression—these actions are typically linked to medical or environmental causes rather …

1
From Panic to Purrs: Getting Unstuck with Canopy Cat Rescue 50:01

5M ago50:01

50:01

Send us a text Sean from Canopy Cat Rescue takes us behind the scenes of an extraordinary mission—saving cats from towering trees across Washington State. As a professional arborist and mountain guide, Sean reveals how he and his partner Tom turned their climbing expertise into a specialized rescue organization that's saved nearly 8,000 feline live…

1
Steve Dale reveals the most popular and trendy dog breeds; learns more about Simon Tofield’s latest book; and more!

5M ago

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With over 300 million views on his Simon the Cat’s YouTube page, and several books published, Simon Tofield explains the origin of Simon and why he think his animated cat became an international sensation. With countless interviews under his belt this is the first time he explains why he feels he is so innately in touch with cat behavior. His lates…

1
Stressed The F Out! 1:37:46

5M ago1:37:46

1:37:46

Have you ever been stressed out? Were you experiencing eustress, distress, or toxic stress? Do you know what factors in your life have directly affected your stress threshold? Join the Amys and their bee-guiling guest, Dr. Kristina Spaulding - the stress expert - and founder of Science Matters Academy of Animal Behavior, as they discuss all the F w…

1
Major advancements and breakthroughs for your cat’s health; How your dog can become an assisted therapy animal; and more

5M ago

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Pretty much everything we know about cats was once funded by the non-profit – EveryCat Health Foundation. Jackie Ott Jaakola, Executive Director, explains further and how recently treatments have been found for feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) and feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (the most common heart disease in cats). In fact, anyone can att…

1
Cat Minds Decoded with Dr. Kristyn Vitale 53:49

5M ago53:49

53:49

Send us a text Ever wondered what's really going on inside your cat's mind? Prepare to have your understanding of feline behavior completely transformed in this captivating conversation with Dr. Kristyn Vitale, a certified applied animal behaviorist and pioneering researcher in feline social cognition. Dr. Vitale dismantles the persistent myth that…

1
Can Your iPhone Really Identify Dog Breeds? I Put It to the Test 5:00

5M ago5:00

5:00

Can your iPhone really identify dog breeds? In this episode, I'm going to put it to the test. In this episode of the USA Dog Behavior Podcast, certified dog behavior consultant Scott Sheaffer puts Apple’s dog breed identification feature to the test! If you have an iPhone running iOS 15 or later, your Photos app can automatically detect 350+ dog br…

1
Who will win the Windy City Sweets cookie contest?

5M ago

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Oh rats! It’s a real dog sport, and now available in Evanston from City Sniffers. Megan Renner is a Certified Canine Sports Training Professional and Certified Canine Training & Behavior Specialist. Currently she is a judge for Happy Ratters and Rat Games. What the heck is that all about? Who will win the Windy City Sweets cookie contest, which ben…

1
Vet Med For Idiots By Idiots - Part 1 1:07:23

5M ago1:07:23

1:07:23

Have you ever wondered what happens when the world turns upside down? Do you know Angela Bassett? Does she run a Board and Train? Join The Amys and their idiotic guests Cory & Kent, co-hosts of the Vet Med For Idiots By Idiots podcast, for an obnoxiously long discussion on the history of veterinary behavior and dog-human interactions. Do you know h…

1
Certified Dog Trainer Kathy Callahan offers unexpected advice to new puppy parents

5M ago

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Funny lady JoAnne Worley from TV’s Laugh In and countless TV shows and stage work also happens to be President of Actors and Others for Animals. She talks about the mission and work of the non-profit, including a continued focus on spay/neuter and supporting the wildfire’s animal victims. The big question? Will she gift Steve Dale and WGN listeners…

1
Steve Dale: How to stop your dog from eating its own waste

5M ago

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WGN Radio’s pet expert and host of Steve Dale’s Pet World and Steve Dale’s Other World joins Wendy Snyder, in for John Landecker, to discuss what you can do if your dog will not stop eating its own waste. https://serve.castfire.com/audio/7320273/7320273_2025-03-13-024513.64kmono.mp3 Recent Posts John Landecker Wednesdays with Whit: Back to school s…

1
Leaf It Alone: A Cat Owner's Survival Guide to Houseplants 49:13

5M ago49:13

49:13

Send us a text Ever brought home a beautiful houseplant only to discover your cat treating it like an all-you-can-eat buffet? You're not alone. The delicate balance between maintaining a green home and keeping our feline friends safe is something many pet parents struggle with. Hiss and Tell welcomes plant and pet specialist Anastasia from Leaf & P…

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Why Your Dog Ignores You (and What to Do About It) 9:23

6M ago9:23

9:23

Does your dog ignore you when you call their name or give a command? It’s not stubbornness—there’s always a reason behind it! In this episode of the USA Dog Behavior Podcast, certified dog behavior consultant Scott Sheaffer breaks down the most common reasons dogs “tune out” their owners and what you can do to fix it. From poor generalization of co…

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Veterinary Behaviorist Podcasts

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