Episodes

  • Positive Reinforcement 101: Beyond the Biscuit
    Jan 6 2026

    On this episode of Dog Works Radio, professional dog trainers from Alaska Dog Works share practical dog training tips, discuss common dog behavior problems, and explain how positive dog training and dog training consistency create better behavior at home.

    In this episode of Dog Works Radio, hosts Robert and Michelle Forto delve into the concept of positive reinforcement in dog training. They discuss the importance of understanding what motivates dogs, the various types of rewards beyond treats, and the critical role of timing in reinforcement.

    The episode also highlights the distinction between reinforcement and bribery, emphasizing that effective training is about building value in behaviors rather than relying solely on treats. The conversation concludes with a preview of the next episode, which will cover environmental management techniques to prevent unwanted behaviors.

    • Lead Dog Service Dog Training Program

    • DAWGS Therapy Dog Program

    • The Pack Membership

    • Dog Works Radio Homepage

    Products We Use for Dog Works Radio

    My equipment: • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro Recommended resources: • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing

    Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link.

    Dog Works Radio is a podcast education show brought to you by Dog Works Radio and is hosted by Michele Forto. If you enjoy the show, I'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app!

    And please let your friends and other podcasters know they can listen for free on Spotify and Apple Podcasts

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    10 mins
  • Crate Training: Panic or Testing?
    Jan 3 2026

    On this episode of One Minute Dog Training Tips, Nicole Forto discusses: Crate Training: Panic or Testing?

    Products We Use for Dog Works Radio

    My equipment: • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro Recommended resources: • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing

    Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link.

    Dog Works Radio is a podcast education show brought to you by Dog Works Radio and is hosted by Nicole Forto. If you enjoy the show, I'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app!

    And please let your friends and other podcasters know they can listen for free on Spotify and Apple Podcasts

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    6 mins
  • The 3 C's: Your Dog Training Compass
    Jan 2 2026

    On this episode of Dog Works Radio, professional dog trainers from Alaska Dog Works share practical dog training tips, discuss common dog behavior problems, and explain how positive dog training and dog training consistency create better behavior at home.

    This episode of Dog Works Radio introduces new dog owners to the complexities of dog training, emphasizing the importance of understanding the three C's: Criteria, Consequences, and Consistency. The hosts discuss how these principles can help clarify training methods and improve the relationship between dogs and their owners. The episode aims to provide a solid foundation for effective dog training, encouraging owners to reframe their expectations and approach training with confidence.

    • Lead Dog Service Dog Training Program

    • DAWGS Therapy Dog Program

    • The Pack Membership

    • Dog Works Radio Homepage

    Products We Use for Dog Works Radio

    My equipment: • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro Recommended resources: • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing

    Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link.

    Dog Works Radio is a podcast education show brought to you by Dog Works Radio and is hosted by Michele Forto. If you enjoy the show, I'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app!

    And please let your friends and other podcasters know they can listen for free on Spotify and Apple Podcasts

    Show more Show less
    11 mins
  • New Year's Resolutions in Dog Training: 4 Commitments That Build Better Dogs
    Jan 1 2026

    New Year's resolutions aren't just for people. In this episode of Dog Works Radio, we talk about four powerful dog training resolutions that can change the way you train, communicate, and build a relationship with your dog. From listening to your dog and reacting fairly, to adjusting your dog training approach and staying consistent when things get tough, these simple commitments lead to better dog behavior and stronger bonds.

    Whether you're new to dog training or looking to reset your dog obedience training goals, this dog training podcast episode offers practical dog training tips you can start using today.

    Suggested internal links to add in the episode blog post:

    • Lead Dog Service Dog Training Program

    • DAWGS Therapy Dog Program

    • The Pack Membership

    • Dog Works Radio Homepage

    Products We Use for Dog Works Radio

    My equipment: • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro Recommended resources: • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing

    Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link.

    Dog Works Radio is a podcast education show brought to you by Dog Works Radio and is hosted by Michele Forto. If you enjoy the show, I'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app!

    And please let your friends and other podcasters know they can listen for free on Spotify and Apple Podcasts

    Show more Show less
    7 mins
  • National Train Your Dog Month: How Consistent Training Builds Better Behavior
    Dec 30 2025

    January is National Train Your Dog Month, and it's the perfect time to reset your dog's training habits. In this episode of Dog Works Radio, we explain why training is not optional, how consistency shapes behavior, and why short, focused sessions lead to real results.

    You'll learn why most behavior problems come from confusion, not bad dogs, how predictability reduces anxiety, and what happens when training becomes part of everyday life. We also share practical ways to pick one training goal, stick with it, and build momentum that lasts all year.

    Whether you're dealing with leash pulling, jumping, reactivity, or just want a calmer, more confident dog, this episode gives you a clear starting point. If you need help building a training plan that fits your dog and your lifestyle, Alaska Dog Works is here to help.

    Visit AlaskaDogWorks.com to schedule a strategy call today.

    Suggested internal links to add in the episode blog post:

    • Lead Dog Service Dog Training Program

    • DAWGS Therapy Dog Program

    • The Pack Membership

    • Dog Works Radio Homepage

    Products We Use for Dog Works Radio

    My equipment: • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro Recommended resources: • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing

    Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link.

    Dog Works Radio is a podcast education show brought to you by Dog Works Radio and is hosted by Michele Forto. If you enjoy the show, I'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app!

    And please let your friends and other podcasters know they can listen for free on Spotify and Apple Podcasts

    Show more Show less
    10 mins
  • You Got a Christmas Puppy. Now What Comes Next?
    Dec 25 2025

    Bringing home a Christmas puppy feels magical at first. Then the sleep loss, chewing, accidents, and overwhelm hit fast. In this episode of Dog Works Radio, Michele Forto explains exactly what to do after bringing home a holiday puppy, from vet care and routines to training, socialization, and managing expectations. This episode helps new puppy owners avoid common mistakes and start their relationship on the right path.

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    8 mins
  • A Better Plan: What To Do Instead of Getting a Christmas Puppy
    Dec 23 2025

    In the final episode of the Dog Works Radio Christmas puppy series, Michele Forto shifts the conversation from warnings to solutions. Instead of focusing on why holiday puppies often lead to stress, this episode lays out a calmer, more intentional path for bringing a dog into your home. Michele explains why timing matters more than sentiment, how you can gift the idea of a dog without harming a real one, and why fostering during the holidays can be an eye-opening, meaningful step for families.

    If you're considering a dog but want to do it responsibly, this episode gives you the blueprint for a better beginning. And if you bring home a puppy anyway, Alaska Dog Works is ready to guide you with a free strategy call.

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    7 mins
  • Christmas With Your Dog
    Dec 19 2025

    On this episode of One Minute Dog Training Tips, Nicole Forto discusses: Christmas with your dog.

    Products We Use for Dog Works Radio

    My equipment: • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro Recommended resources: • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing

    Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link.

    Dog Works Radio is a podcast education show brought to you by Dog Works Radio and is hosted by Nicole Forto. If you enjoy the show, I'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app!

    And please let your friends and other podcasters know they can listen for free on Spotify and Apple Podcasts

    Show more Show less
    4 mins
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