67 episodes

Welcome! This podcast is a thought provoking journey into the world of dog rescue, science, rehabilitation, and canine behavior. Host, Billie Groom, is an expert in Canine Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and award winning author. She was featured in Psychology Today Magazine by Marc Bekoff, and appears on many shows, including LA Tribune, IGNITE Your Essence, DVM 360, The Animal Innovations Show, and is a featured speaker at the Animal Behavior Society Conference 2022, and the Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine Conference. Billie openly shares her experiences and knowledge, in a straight-forward and often humorous manner, acquired over three decades working with dogs, rescuers, fosters, adopters, and industry experts. She describes how dogs think, learn, process, and absorb our urban world, compared to that of puppies, and explains, without judgement, the inherent limitations of conventional training methods. Billie, then, introduces us to Canine Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CCBT), a scientifically proven methodology designed to recognize pre-established thought patterns, respect emotions, and harness cognitive abilities. NOTE: this podcast does not provide specific training advice. As a successful behaviorist for over 3 decades, helping over 150 clients per year, Billie knows the challenges faced by pet parents. If you feel defeated, or as though nothing is working, you are not alone! Billie chats with the most interesting people who help animals. From volunteers, to rescuers, to veterinarians, and authors, you will be amazed by the work these wonderful people do everyday! Mixed in with all this enlightening information, Billie dives deep into scientific studies on dog behavior, and dissects the world of dog rescue and training. Are the experts providing you with all the information? Or are you being saturated with gimmicks and ineffective advice? This podcast aims to change societal views on rescued dogs and our ability to effectively integrate dogs with checkered pasts into our world. By incorporating Canine CBT into mainstream dog rearing, we can reclaim the lost human-animal bond, and change the world for dogs in need. ABOUT Billie: Billie is a member of the Dog Writers Association of America, Comparative Cognition Society, and is on the board for the Animal Behavior Society. She is the author of an award winning book on rescued dogs, co-author of two handbooks, and published in Ruff Drafts Magazine, Cold Noses News, and Dog Desk Radio. She is a guest on multiple podcasts, tv and radio shows, and is a graduate of Western Ont. University. She is starting the PhD program at Antioch University in 2023. Her business won the Global Business Awards 2021. She hails from Ontario, Canada and lives in Saskatchewan, Canada with her rescued dogs and a cat who adopted her.

Dog Training DisrUPted - UPWARD Dogology Billie Groom

    • Kids & Family
    • 4.7 • 23 Ratings

Welcome! This podcast is a thought provoking journey into the world of dog rescue, science, rehabilitation, and canine behavior. Host, Billie Groom, is an expert in Canine Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and award winning author. She was featured in Psychology Today Magazine by Marc Bekoff, and appears on many shows, including LA Tribune, IGNITE Your Essence, DVM 360, The Animal Innovations Show, and is a featured speaker at the Animal Behavior Society Conference 2022, and the Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine Conference. Billie openly shares her experiences and knowledge, in a straight-forward and often humorous manner, acquired over three decades working with dogs, rescuers, fosters, adopters, and industry experts. She describes how dogs think, learn, process, and absorb our urban world, compared to that of puppies, and explains, without judgement, the inherent limitations of conventional training methods. Billie, then, introduces us to Canine Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CCBT), a scientifically proven methodology designed to recognize pre-established thought patterns, respect emotions, and harness cognitive abilities. NOTE: this podcast does not provide specific training advice. As a successful behaviorist for over 3 decades, helping over 150 clients per year, Billie knows the challenges faced by pet parents. If you feel defeated, or as though nothing is working, you are not alone! Billie chats with the most interesting people who help animals. From volunteers, to rescuers, to veterinarians, and authors, you will be amazed by the work these wonderful people do everyday! Mixed in with all this enlightening information, Billie dives deep into scientific studies on dog behavior, and dissects the world of dog rescue and training. Are the experts providing you with all the information? Or are you being saturated with gimmicks and ineffective advice? This podcast aims to change societal views on rescued dogs and our ability to effectively integrate dogs with checkered pasts into our world. By incorporating Canine CBT into mainstream dog rearing, we can reclaim the lost human-animal bond, and change the world for dogs in need. ABOUT Billie: Billie is a member of the Dog Writers Association of America, Comparative Cognition Society, and is on the board for the Animal Behavior Society. She is the author of an award winning book on rescued dogs, co-author of two handbooks, and published in Ruff Drafts Magazine, Cold Noses News, and Dog Desk Radio. She is a guest on multiple podcasts, tv and radio shows, and is a graduate of Western Ont. University. She is starting the PhD program at Antioch University in 2023. Her business won the Global Business Awards 2021. She hails from Ontario, Canada and lives in Saskatchewan, Canada with her rescued dogs and a cat who adopted her.

    The Connection Between the Canine-Guardian Bond and Dog Behavior

    The Connection Between the Canine-Guardian Bond and Dog Behavior

    In this episode, I read my scientific paper from my PhD course (Cognition, Emotion to Improve Animal Welfare - Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences).

    No scientific knowledge or prep required. I discuss canine enrichment, street dogs, adolescent dogs, and the guardian-canine bond to bring to light the benefits of human-based approaches, such as Flow, Cognitive Enrichment, and CBT meet the needs of pet parents and dogs. 

    ABSTRACT - "The aim of this paper is to highlight the connection between cognitive processes, affected states (primarily in relation to the guardian-canine bond), and behavior to explore the effects of these factors on the welfare of domestic dogs. I begin by presenting the proven benefits, as well as the limitations, of enrichment activities and training programs. I discuss the importance of stimulating cognitive functions and establishing the guardian-canine bond to prevent and address behaviors leading to surrender, euthanasia, and the implementation of aversive measures, and refer to studies to highlight the benefits of further research into factors affecting behavior. I then move beyond enrichment and the discussion of positive verses negative conditioning methods to introduce strategies borrowed from the human world to heighten cognitive stimulation, enhance bonding, and address behavioral issues as potential suggestions for future exploration to improve the welfare of domestic dogs."

    For a pdf copy of the paper with citations and links to referenced studies, please email me at bgroom@antioch.edu  Thank you
    Find all the episodes on Feedspot, where Dog Training DisrUPted in rated in the top 5 shows in the dog category in Canada: https://blog.feedspot.com/canadian_dog_podcasts/

    For more info on Billie Groom and Canine CBT, and links to social media:

    Dog Training, Canine Behavior and Cognition (upwarddogology.com)

    My Linktree with all my media, presentations, shows, articles

    Billie Groom - UPWARD Dogology | Instagram, Facebook | Linktree

    Here is the link to the recent article in Psychology Today Mag by Marc Bekoff on Canine CBT
    Dog Training: Perception, Cognition, and Emotions | Psychology Today

    Buy My Book! Winner of the 2019 American Best Book Fest Award (pets/narrative/non-fiction)
    The Art of Urban People With Adopted and Rescued Dogs Methodology: Rescued Dogs: The Misunderstood Breed: Groom, Billie: 9781525547287: Books - Amazon.ca

    • 21 min
    Canine Aggression and Anxiety - How Cognitive Dissonance Affects Dog Behavior

    Canine Aggression and Anxiety - How Cognitive Dissonance Affects Dog Behavior

    Dog behaviors associated with aggression and anxiety are caused by many factors, of which cognitive dissonance is rarely discussed, yet has a profound impact, in particular with adolescent and adult dogs, while, perhaps surprisingly, upbringing is not a differentiating factor.

    This episode covers what it is, common signs/behaviors including examples, what NOT to do - and most importantly, why, and why CCBT is so effective in addressing behaviors stemming from cognitive dissonance.

    As always, I appreciate your support, questions, feedback. Please feel free to share to help other professionals, pet parents and dogs.

    If your dog is reactive, nervous, fearful, experiencing change in behavior, or acting unpredictable, I recommend this episode as a starting place. 

    Links mentioned in episode.

    Linktree to all my  interviews, articles and presentations
    Billie Groom - UPWARD Dogology | Instagram, Facebook | Linktree

    Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine Conference 2023 Presentation
    2023ASVMConf.mp4 - Google Drive





    Find all the episodes on Feedspot, where Dog Training DisrUPted in rated in the top 5 shows in the dog category in Canada: https://blog.feedspot.com/canadian_dog_podcasts/

    For more info on Billie Groom and Canine CBT, and links to social media:

    Dog Training, Canine Behavior and Cognition (upwarddogology.com)

    My Linktree with all my media, presentations, shows, articles

    Billie Groom - UPWARD Dogology | Instagram, Facebook | Linktree

    Here is the link to the recent article in Psychology Today Mag by Marc Bekoff on Canine CBT
    Dog Training: Perception, Cognition, and Emotions | Psychology Today

    Buy My Book! Winner of the 2019 American Best Book Fest Award (pets/narrative/non-fiction)
    The Art of Urban People With Adopted and Rescued Dogs Methodology: Rescued Dogs: The Misunderstood Breed: Groom, Billie: 9781525547287: Books - Amazon.ca

    • 15 min
    Comparing Humans and Dogs in Applying Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

    Comparing Humans and Dogs in Applying Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

    David Roberts, Licensed Master Social Worker, is an expert in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and has extensive personal experience, claiming "it played a major role in saving my life after my daughter died at the age of 18." 

    Dave and I dive deep into what CBT is and use comparative examples in human and dog behavior and rehabilitation. We discuss the role of mindset, perception, habits, and cognitive appraisal in making decisions. We discuss the difference between CBT and Counter Conditioning, and why CBT is so effective with dogs in different life stages, as with humans. We discuss the benefits of methods not requiring the stimuli to be present or relying on rewards.

    This episode is sure to inspire, allowing you to see your dog's behavior in a new light.

    bootsyandangel@gmail.com 

    Podcast -  The Teaching Journeys Podcast | Podcast on Spotify

    Book:
    When The Psychology Professor Met The Minister: How the woman on the corner of Hunter and Whittier permanently transformed one academic’s worldview. eBook : Roberts, Dave, Furino, Patty: Amazon.ca: Kindle Store

    Big thanks to Open Strum for donating the music clips!  Open Strum is a huge supporter of rescue pets. They provide creative programs for children and youths to become involved in animal welfare and encourage respect for all living species.

    Open Strum | Facebook

    And thanks to The Jeff Mertick Band for the opening clip Facebook


    Find all the episodes on Feedspot, where Dog Training DisrUPted in rated in the top 5 shows in the dog category in Canada: https://blog.feedspot.com/canadian_dog_podcasts/

    For more info on Billie Groom and Canine CBT, and links to social media:

    Dog Training, Canine Behavior and Cognition (upwarddogology.com)

    My Linktree with all my media, presentations, shows, articles

    Billie Groom - UPWARD Dogology | Instagram, Facebook | Linktree

    Here is the link to the recent article in Psychology Today Mag by Marc Bekoff on Canine CBT
    Dog Training: Perception, Cognition, and Emotions | Psychology Today

    Buy My Book! Winner of the 2019 American Best Book Fest Award (pets/narrative/non-fiction)
    The Art of Urban People With Adopted and Rescued Dogs Methodology: Rescued Dogs: The Misunderstood Breed: Groom, Billie: 9781525547287: Books - Amazon.ca

    • 1 hr 14 min
    Dog Fosters! Goal Setting for Success

    Dog Fosters! Goal Setting for Success

    Fostering adolescent and adult dogs can be challenging. In this episode, I break down the goals and introduce the 7 step fostering program I have applied with hundreds of dogs and taught to dozens of fosters.

    Programs for pet parents are different than those of fostering - Why? Because the goal is different!  Fostering is not about BEING the best home or addressing behavioral issues that are specific to the foster home, but rather, taking the steps to ensure a successful adoption into the best home for the dog.

    I use the example of a recent foster couple I helped with their challenging dog. Their goal to address behavioral issues specific to their home life complicated the process of providing the dog with the necessary skills to be happily homed.

    The UPWARD Dogology 7 step program keeps the goals in the forefront and the success rate high. In this episode, I review these steps, discussing why they are important, and how they eliminate the need for lengthy fostering periods and allow for an easy integration into their new home.

    Win-Win!

    Here are the links discussed in the episode

    Are you a Dog Mom or foster Mom? If you are struggling to keep it together, you are not alone! (buzzsprout.com)

    A Scientific Study on Changes Needed in the Adoption Process. Is the Need to Ensure Successful Adoptions Over-Complicating the Process? (buzzsprout.com)

    Big thanks to Open Strum for donating the music clips!  Open Strum is a huge supporter of rescue pets. They provide creative programs for children and youths to become involved in animal welfare and encourage respect for all living species.

    Open Strum | Facebook


    Find all the episodes on Feedspot, where Dog Training DisrUPted in rated in the top 5 shows in the dog category in Canada: https://blog.feedspot.com/canadian_dog_podcasts/

    For more info on Billie Groom and Canine CBT, and links to social media:

    Dog Training, Canine Behavior and Cognition (upwarddogology.com)

    My Linktree with all my media, presentations, shows, articles

    Billie Groom - UPWARD Dogology | Instagram, Facebook | Linktree

    Here is the link to the recent article in Psychology Today Mag by Marc Bekoff on Canine CBT
    Dog Training: Perception, Cognition, and Emotions | Psychology Today

    Buy My Book! Winner of the 2019 American Best Book Fest Award (pets/narrative/non-fiction)
    The Art of Urban People With Adopted and Rescued Dogs Methodology: Rescued Dogs: The Misunderstood Breed: Groom, Billie: 9781525547287: Books - Amazon.ca

    • 18 min
    Canine Behavioral Enrichment - Why is it trendy and is it effective?

    Canine Behavioral Enrichment - Why is it trendy and is it effective?

    Welcome to Dog Training DisrUPted by UPWARD Dogology!

    Canine Enrichment is all the rage, especially in shelters and amongst behavioral experts. Yes, another trendy term that seems positive, but is it?   Well, like most things, when used to divert from the real issue, or "sell" products and services by promoting them as something they are not, this can lead to frustration with tragic results.

    Once again, I present a candid, educational view to help you make the right decisions for you and your dog. 

    There is no "one right way" to work with a dog, to train, or to pet parent. Know your options and make educated decisions.

    Thank you for your support and interest. And for all you do for the dogs. 



    Find all the episodes on Feedspot, where Dog Training DisrUPted in rated in the top 5 shows in the dog category in Canada: https://blog.feedspot.com/canadian_dog_podcasts/

    For more info on Billie Groom and Canine CBT, and links to social media:

    Dog Training, Canine Behavior and Cognition (upwarddogology.com)

    My Linktree with all my media, presentations, shows, articles

    Billie Groom - UPWARD Dogology | Instagram, Facebook | Linktree

    Here is the link to the recent article in Psychology Today Mag by Marc Bekoff on Canine CBT
    Dog Training: Perception, Cognition, and Emotions | Psychology Today

    Buy My Book! Winner of the 2019 American Best Book Fest Award (pets/narrative/non-fiction)
    The Art of Urban People With Adopted and Rescued Dogs Methodology: Rescued Dogs: The Misunderstood Breed: Groom, Billie: 9781525547287: Books - Amazon.ca

    • 13 min
    The low-down on animal welfare orgs, dog experts, and the shelter system - are they working in your favor?

    The low-down on animal welfare orgs, dog experts, and the shelter system - are they working in your favor?

    Welcome to the final episode of 2022 - a not-so-typical year in review.

    It is time!  You deserve to know why the dog behavioral experts are keeping the info from you. Why is the shelter system unaware of Canine CBT - or are they? Are behavioral veterinarians any more educated than your average trainer? Why are trainers scared to admit that methods are not meeting the needs of all the clients?

    This episode is, essentially, a year in review – with a twist. Have you wondered why the so-called industry experts do not know Canine CBT? Here is your answer! Find out what the industry experts are doing and how it affects you, your dog, and your industry related profession!

    BEFORE LISTENING:

    It is important to note two points:

    1)     the orgs or individuals mentioned in the episode are not required, responsible, or expected to accept, review, or evaluate CCBT. Equally, they do not hold the power or the right to assess, approve, disapprove, dismiss, or judge CCBT. The industry is non-regulated, which means there is no governing, regulatory body that is required, or available, to review and assess innovations. There is simply no process or organization, as with regulated industries, to do this. CCBT is scientifically proven by meeting the requirements to scientifically prove a methodology.

    2)     Dr. Nicolas Dodman runs a non-profit organization whose website states the mission is to research and perform studies to discover solutions to prevent behavioral euthanasia and surrender, which is why I reached out to him. During our conversation, he admitted to not knowing what the website stated, and that their goal is to increase donations via media and awareness.

    So, both these points will make more sense when you dive into the episode. I apologize for not including this info in the episode.

    About Nicholas Dodman and his Seminars | Narnia Pet Behavior & Training, Inc. (narniapets.com)

    For more info on Billie Groom and Canine CBT, and links to social media:

    Dog Training, Canine Behavior and Cognition (upwarddogology.com)

    My Linktree with all my media, presentations, shows, articles

    Billie Groom - UPWARD Dogology | Instagram, Facebook | Linktree

    Here is the link to the recent article in Psychology Today Mag by Marc Bekoff on Canine CBT
    Dog Training: Perception, Cognition, and Emotions | Psychology Today

    Buy My
    Find all the episodes on Feedspot, where Dog Training DisrUPted in rated in the top 5 shows in the dog category in Canada: https://blog.feedspot.com/canadian_dog_podcasts/

    For more info on Billie Groom and Canine CBT, and links to social media:

    Dog Training, Canine Behavior and Cognition (upwarddogology.com)

    My Linktree with all my media, presentations, shows, articles

    Billie Groom - UPWARD Dogology | Instagram, Facebook | Linktree

    Here is the link to the recent article in Psychology Today Mag by Marc Bekoff on Canine CBT
    Dog Training: Perception, Cognition, and Emotions | Psychology Today

    Buy My Book! Winner of the 2019 American Best Book Fest Award (pets/narrative/non-fiction)
    The Art of Urban People With Adopted and Rescued Dogs Methodology: Rescued Dogs: The Misunderstood Breed: Groom, Billie: 9781525547287: Books - Amazon.ca

    • 35 min

Customer Reviews

4.7 out of 5
23 Ratings

23 Ratings

beatLjuce ,

Risky is good

Billie defies the norm and probably will irk the positive reinforcement trainers, but she makes a lot of sense. Her approach is logical and I learned a lot about why what I was trying was ineffective. I hope it catches on.

ggtcall ,

Another dog rescued by Billie

Billie has an amazing way to work with dogs. If you have a dog that is over 6 months, you want to listen to this podcast. As a client, she has given me skills to work with all dogs and her podcast not only covers her focus: Canine Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, but also covers other trends in the dog (and broader animal) world and features guests and organizations that go above and beyond for dogs. Lots of information and humour make for easy listening.

CoreyNaish ,

Big help for rescue dogs

I heard about Billie’s podcast through our local fostering agency, and it has probably single handedly saved our foster dog’s life. Absolutely worth a listen, whether you’re struggling with a dog or not. Especially helpful with dogs that are already adults/no longer in puppy phase.

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