The Crisis of Unqualified Dog Trainers Treating Dog Aggression
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 dominance-based techniques, exacerbating aggression rather than resolving it. Sheaffer emphasizes that effective aggression treatment requires proven experience, a deep understanding of behavioral science, and the use of positive reinforcement, desensitization, and counterconditioning. He warns against trainers who promise quick fixes or "cures," stressing that aggression is complex and demands a tailored, science-backed approach.Sheaffer provides listeners with key red flags to identify unqualified trainers and outlines three signs of a competent professional: prioritizing safety and management, developing customized plans based on thorough assessments, and focusing on behavior modification rather than obedience training. He urges dog owners to ask detailed questions, avoid miracle cures, and seek help promptly, as aggression tends to worsen over time. The episode concludes with a call to action for responsible dog ownership and a reminder of the high stakes involved in choosing the right trainer. Listeners are encouraged to subscribe and follow USA Dog Behavior for more insights.Subscribe for more bite-sized episodes and visit USADogBehavior.com for additional resources!Find us at USADogBehavior.com.Follow us on Facebook.DisclaimerIf your dog is aggressive toward humans, consult an experienced, certified canine behavior consultant immediately and ensure your dog cannot harm anyone. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional guidance. Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not liable for outcomes resulting from the advice provided.
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10:58
Can Dogs Be Psychotic? Understanding Bizarre Canine Behavior
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 than clinical psychosis. Sheaffer breaks down potential triggers, including neurological issues, toxins, anxiety, or past trauma, and emphasizes the importance of ruling out underlying health problems with a veterinarian when needed.This episode highlights key warning signs that demand professional attention, such as unexplained aggression, disorientation, or compulsive behaviors. Sheaffer provides actionable steps for pet owners, urging them to consult a behaviorist or vet rather than dismissing odd behaviors as quirks. The takeaway? Early intervention is crucial for helping dogs lead calmer, happier lives. Tune in for expert insights and practical advice on understanding and addressing bizarre canine behavior.Subscribe for more bite-sized episodes and visit USADogBehavior.com for additional resources!Find us at USADogBehavior.com.Follow us on Facebook.DisclaimerIf your dog is aggressive toward humans, consult an experienced, certified canine behavior consultant immediately and ensure your dog cannot harm anyone. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional guidance. Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not liable for outcomes resulting from the advice provided.
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9:58
Can Your iPhone Really Identify Dog Breeds? I Put It to the Test
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 breeds—but how accurate is it? Scott shares his hands-on experience testing this tool revealing how well it works for purebred and mixed-breed dogs. Plus, he breaks down the simple steps to try it yourself, along with tips for troubleshooting when the feature doesn’t cooperate. Whether you're a dog lover, trainer, or behavior professional, this tech trick could be useful.Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and even follow us on Facebook for more dog behavior insights, training tips, and canine tech hacks.Episode Links:How to Deal with Visual Look Up Not WorkingCan Your iPhone Really Identify Dog Breeds? I Put It to the TestTune in and remember to subscribe for more quick and insightful dog behavior tips!Find us at USADogBehavior.com.Follow us on Facebook.DisclaimerIf your dog is aggressive toward humans, consult an experienced, certified canine behavior consultant immediately and ensure your dog cannot harm anyone. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional guidance. Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not liable for outcomes resulting from the advice provided.
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5:00
Why Your Dog Ignores You (and What to Do About It)
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 commands to overwhelming distractions, we’ll cover practical training techniques to make communication with your dog clearer and more effective.Learn how to build better engagement with your dog using positive reinforcement, environmental control, and strategic training methods. Scott shares simple solutions to help your dog become a better listener, making training sessions more fun and rewarding for both of you. Tune in now to strengthen the bond with your dog and create a training routine that works!Tune in and remember to subscribe for more quick and insightful dog behavior tips!Find us at USADogBehavior.com.Follow us on Facebook.DisclaimerIf your dog is aggressive toward humans, consult an experienced, certified canine behavior consultant immediately and ensure your dog cannot harm anyone. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional guidance. Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not liable for outcomes resulting from the advice provided.
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9:23
When Your Dog Acts Out: How to Handle Aggression Toward Dogs and People
What do you do when your dog suddenly acts out, showing aggression toward other dogs or even people? It’s a stressful and often confusing situation for any dog owner, but the good news is that there are steps you can take to manage and address this behavior. In this episode of the USA Dog Behavior Podcast, we’ll walk you through exactly what to do in the moment—from staying calm to safely removing your dog from the situation—and how to prevent future outbursts. Whether your dog is growling, lunging, or snapping, we’ve got practical tips to help you navigate these challenging moments with confidence. We’ll also dive into the why behind your dog’s aggression. Is it fear, frustration, or overexcitement? Understanding the root cause is key to creating a long-term solution. Plus, we’ll discuss when it’s time to call in a professional and how tools like positive reinforcement and desensitization can make a world of difference. Tune in to learn how you can manage your dog who is overreactive around others.Tune in and remember to subscribe for more quick and insightful dog behavior tips!Find us at USADogBehavior.com.Follow us on Facebook.DisclaimerIf your dog is aggressive toward humans, consult an experienced, certified canine behavior consultant immediately and ensure your dog cannot harm anyone. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional guidance. Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not liable for outcomes resulting from the advice provided.
Are you struggling with a dog that is anxious, fearful, or aggressive? You’re at the right place. In this audio podcast series, Scott Sheaffer will explore insights and strategies to guide dog owners, veterinary practices, and dog trainers in overcoming these issues using scientific and humane methods.
Netherlands