In this episode, Panos and Luke chat with Jacqui Zakar from Dog Sense in Perth — a dog trainer with a background in psychology and a passion for helping owners understand their dogs better. Jacqui opens up about her own struggles with a reactive dog and how it led her down the path of behaviour work. They talk about the real-life challenges of dog ownership, and how to create a stronger bond with your dog. It’s an honest, practical, and super relatable convo for anyone trying to raise a well-beh...
Jul 02, 2025•1 hr•Ep. 252
In this episode, we explore a common myth in the dog world: are dogs inherently "good" or "bad"? Or is it more accurate to understand dog behaviour in terms of what's desirable or undesirable from a human perspective? We’ll break down how this thinking affects the way we train, live with, and advocate for our dogs. Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourd...
Jun 17, 2025•49 min•Ep. 251
Planning a road trip with your dog? In this episode of Life With Your Dog, Panos shares everything you need to know to make your trip safe, smooth, and enjoyable — for both you and your dog. From essential travel prep and how to find pet-friendly stops to training plans that help your dog settle into the road trip lifestyle, we’ve got you covered. Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >>...
Jun 11, 2025•32 min•Ep. 250
In this episode, we explore the idea of requiring a licence for dog ownership. With growing concerns around public safety, responsible pet care, and the rising number of dog-related incidents, some argue that a licensing system could help ensure owners are properly educated and prepared. Others believe it could create unnecessary barriers and punish responsible dog owners. We weigh the pros and cons, consider examples from places where such systems exist, and ask what responsible ownership reall...
May 28, 2025•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 249
Is it better to be born with talent, or can hard work take you further? In this Q&A episode, Panos answers a great question from listener Elliot and unpacks the difference between natural ability and consistent effort. Drawing from his experience as a dog trainer, business owner, and lifelong learner, Panos explores how real success is built — not just inherited. Whether you're working with dogs, developing a new skill, or striving for personal growth, this episode will remind you that effor...
May 22, 2025•38 min•Ep. 248
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...
May 08, 2025•1 hr 9 min•Ep. 247
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...
Apr 23, 2025•52 min•Ep. 246
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....
Apr 07, 2025•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 245
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 t...
Mar 27, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 244
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.instagra...
Mar 17, 2025•45 min•Ep. 243
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...
Mar 09, 2025•26 min•Ep. 242
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 onli...
Feb 26, 2025•53 min•Ep. 241
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...
Feb 12, 2025•47 min•Ep. 240
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 ...
Feb 05, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 239
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....
Jan 21, 2025•1 hr 18 min•Ep. 238
Panos shares a recap of 2024, his favourite episodes of last year and what lessons he's learnt in his dog training experience. This week's topic was all about dog's being creatures of patterns and as a dog owner, the importance of acknowledging patterns in your dog's behaviour. Your patterns of behaviour influence your dog and now that we are back to the beginning of the year, after some time off, you may notice new or challenging behaviour in your dog. A dog can be predictable if you can unders...
Jan 11, 2025•46 min•Ep. 237
This week we were joined by Kylie Marks, a physiotherapist who specialises in canine health and rehabilitation. A fascinating conversation around Kylie's expertise in this area which may be helpful for those of you with injured pooches! Find Kylie's work at https://www.instagram.com/strongandsteadycanines/ How to know if your dog is in pain Download showing different pain behaviours https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ELNJXEBtzP8LajbY-vsGctmSL5b8zMIE Ease Your Dog’s Arthritis Pain Download filled w...
Dec 19, 2024•1 hr 13 min•Ep. 236
Panos answers Amy's question "How do you talk to your dogs?" There are a few things to consider when you speak to your dog. Does your dog understand you? Are you speaking to them to be understood, or just talking for the sake of it? Is it an issue to "just talk" to your dog? Tune in to find out! Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> w...
Dec 05, 2024•17 min•Ep. 235
Samantha-Jo Walsh joined us this week to talk all about her work in caring for and raising dingoes, which are a native Australian apex predator. Sam is also the partner of John Ortega from Man's Best Friend Australia - you can find their work at https://www.instagram.com/sammyjowalsh/ or https://www.mansbestfriendaustralia.com.au/ Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.c...
Nov 23, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 234
Panos elaborates on a question asked at a recent group class. "When I gave my dog the Middle command, she ignored me. I tried to put her in time out, but wasn't sure what to do. What should I have done?" There are a few ways to answer this as context, level of dog's skillset and management strategies need to be taken in consideration. Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagr...
Nov 18, 2024•20 min•Ep. 233
Our listener Trevor reached out with a question, "My dog is digging dentasticks into my couch, we don't mind now, but we are getting a new couch soon. What should I do?" Panos answers this by offering advice on what types of bones and enrichment are appropriate, along with tips on how to resolve thus issue. Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcas...
Nov 09, 2024•16 min•Ep. 232
LISTENER DISCRETION ADVISED. Dog fighting is discussed in this episode. You have been warned. John's love for dogs started when he was 5 years old - his brother brought home Luna and Mono at 8 weeks old. Brother and sister American Staffordshire Terriers, it was when he met them that a spark flickered inside him to learn more about "man's best friend". You can find John's services at https://www.mansbestfriendaustralia.com.au/ Thank you for listening! Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtra...
Oct 30, 2024•1 hr 23 min•Ep. 231
This week we break down all the details of what's typically involved with a "first lesson" with a professional dog trainer. What should you expect as a dog owner? Join us as we discuss this in detail. Thank you for listening! Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.com...
Oct 20, 2024•48 min•Ep. 230
This week we break down a topic idea from Panos, talking about the concept of "perfect for today". Which essentially means, setting standards for your dog's training based on TODAY - not yesterday, not tomorrow. A little esoteric ... join us! Thank you for listening! Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.com...
Oct 11, 2024•30 min•Ep. 229
Panos answers Pei's question about her Cavoodle barking at random objects in the home, main thing she barks at is the ceiling fan! Check out why Panos thinks she is doing this and what he would do to address the issue. Thank you for listening! Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast.com...
Oct 04, 2024•17 min•Ep. 228
Alex is back for round 3! Panos and Alex going deep and on tangents discussing different topics from conditioning, genetics and anxiety in dogs. Alex spent 3 weeks with Michael Ellis travelling with the master while he did the seminar loop around Australia. Sharing some of what he learnt along the way. Alex is a very knowledgeable and talented dog trainer and to have him back on was a great pleasure! Ps. Apologies for some of the bad internet connection. We tried very hard to fix it, if you can ...
Sep 27, 2024•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 227
(Re-uploaded to fix the audio cutting out at 14mins - sorry guys!) Panos goes into detail on what socialisation and habituation are. Most people understand that socialisation is important for dogs, however overdoing it has is issues that can become significantly worse over time. Over socialisation goes against the nature of appropriate socialisation and it is a common mistake people make with the best intentions. This episode offers tools and tips to help provide the best advice on how to manage...
Sep 19, 2024•31 min•Ep. 226
A recall is one of the MOST important commands for your dog's safety, and yet can be one of the trickiest to nail down in terms of reliability or being "proofed" We break down all of the various steps required to teach your dog a reliable recall! Thank you for listening! Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourdogpodcast...
Sep 04, 2024•58 min•Ep. 225
Founder and Head Trainer of Clear Canine, Sharonika is a successful IGP trainer and competitor, and canine obedience & behaviour coach/instructor for competition sport dog handlers and pet dog owners. Panos and Sharonika deep dive into building a relationship with your dog as a key component to success with training any behaviour. They also discuss what it takes to be successful on the field in dog sports along with other very interesting topics on the specifics of dog training. Find Sharoni...
Aug 28, 2024•1 hr 20 min•Ep. 224
This week we break down the 3 levels of "space" when it comes to dog training - public space, social space, personal space What are our dogs' critical distances that they need to be away from people or other dogs, in order to set ourselves up for success? Thank you for listening! Find us online >> Panos @ www.npdogtraining.com >> Luke @ www.kizunacanine.com.au >> www.facebook.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.instagram.com/lifewithyourdogpodcast >> www.lifewithyourd...
Aug 14, 2024•41 min•Ep. 223
