Whether you realize it or not, your dog is learning from you every single day. Every greeting at the front door, every walk around the neighborhood, every treat, toy, cuddle, and even every "no" teaches your dog something about the world—and about their relationship with you. In this episode of Fur Mama, host Sarah Alter welcomes two experts in canine behavior and training to explore one of the most important—and most misunderstood—topics in dog ownership: positive reinforcement training.
Guests:
Whether you realize it or not, your dog is learning from you every single day.
Every greeting at the front door, every walk around the neighborhood, every treat, toy, cuddle, and even every "no" teaches your dog something about the world—and about their relationship with you.
In this episode of Fur Mama, host Sarah Alter welcomes two experts in canine behavior and training to explore one of the most important—and most misunderstood—topics in dog ownership: positive reinforcement training.
Joining Sarah are Dr. Annie Valeska, Principal Scientist in Pet Behavior at Nestlé Purina, and Lindsay Echito, Behavioral Specialist, from Orphans of the Storm. Together, they explain why reward-based training is supported by behavioral science, how dogs actually learn, and why building trust creates better long-term behavior than relying on fear or punishment.
Whether you're raising your first puppy, helping an adolescent dog navigate the teenage months, or teaching an older companion new skills, you'll come away with practical techniques you can begin using immediately.
Training is about far more than teaching a dog to sit, stay, or come when called.
At its best, training creates communication.
Positive reinforcement helps dogs understand which behaviors earn positive outcomes while strengthening confidence, trust, and the bond between pets and their families. Rather than focusing on correcting mistakes, reward-based training teaches dogs what to do, making learning enjoyable for both the dog and the pet parent.
Throughout this conversation, our guests explain how consistent, science-based training helps dogs become happier, more confident companions while making everyday life less stressful for everyone involved.
In this episode, you'll discover:
Sarah introduces the science behind positive reinforcement and explains why this training philosophy benefits dogs of every age—from puppies to senior companions.
Dr. Annie explains when pet parents should seek help from a behaviorist, while Lindsay outlines the important role trainers play in teaching manners, socialization, and foundational skills. She also offers advice on choosing a qualified trainer with recognized certifications.
Lindsay breaks down positive reinforcement, positive punishment, negative reinforcement, and negative punishment, explaining how each affects behavior and why reward-based methods are preferred.
Dr. Annie discusses authoritarian, permissive, and authoritative pet parenting styles and explains why research consistently supports an authoritative approach that combines clear boundaries with empathy and positive reinforcement.
The conversation explores how treats, praise, and positive experiences motivate dogs, strengthen trust, and make learning enjoyable. The guests also explain why rewards should match the importance of the behavior you're teaching.
Lindsay shares how Orphans of the Storm uses positive reinforcement to help shelter dogs build confidence, trust people again, and prepare for successful adoption into loving homes.
Dr. Annie explains why scent is a dog's primary sense, how remarkable canine smell truly is, and why highly aromatic treats can dramatically improve training success. She also introduces the concept of the "sniffari"—allowing dogs dedicated time to explore the world through scent.
Learn why reward value matters, how to create "jackpot" rewards for critical behaviors like emergency recall, and why toys, praise, kibble, and affection can all become powerful reinforcers depending on the individual dog.
The guests explain how dogs can unintentionally learn unwanted behaviors when owners unknowingly reward jumping, barking, or demanding attention—and how small changes in our own responses can make a big difference.
Sarah shines the spotlight on Orphans of the Storm in Riverwoods, Illinois. Lindsay discusses the shelter's nearly 100-year history, foster and volunteer opportunities, adoption programs, and the life-changing impact community support has on homeless animals.
Positive reinforcement isn't simply about giving treats.
It's about building a relationship based on trust, communication, and consistency.
When we focus on rewarding the behaviors we want rather than punishing the ones we don't, dogs learn more confidently, feel more secure, and become better companions. Every interaction is an opportunity to teach—and every positive experience strengthens the bond between pets and the people who love them.
Dr. Annie Valeska is Principal Scientist in Pet Behavior at Nestlé Purina. Her work focuses on canine and feline behavior, cognition, and applying behavioral science to help strengthen the bond between pets and their families.
Lindsay Echito serves as Animal Logistics & Programs Coordinator at Orphans of the Storm in Riverwoods, Illinois. With years of experience in shelter behavior, fostering, and dog training, she helps prepare homeless animals for successful adoption while educating pet parents on effective, reward-based training methods.
Fur Mama helps dogs, cats, and the people who love them live happier, healthier lives together. Each episode features trusted experts in veterinary medicine, nutrition, behavior, training, and pet wellness, offering practical, science-based advice that empowers pet parents to make informed decisions and strengthen the bond they share with their furry family members.