Brain and Behaviour

Daniel Shaw

The Brain and Behaviour Podcast with Daniel Shaw MSc, CDBC dives into the science behind complex dog and cat behaviour. Blending neuroscience, real-world cases, and expert insights, Daniel explores topics like aggression, trauma, and training to help listeners better understand the animals in their lives.

  1. 05/11/2025

    Episode 17 - The Play Way - Dr Amy Cook

    Guest Bio: Dr. Cook is an International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, a longstanding professional member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), and was one of the first trainers nationally to become a Certified Professional Dog Trainer through independent evaluation. Dr. Cook received her Ph.D. in Psychology from UC Berkeley, with her research focusing on the dog-human relationship and its effect on the problem solving strategies dogs employ. Dr. Cook is the founder and creator of the Play Way and a popular instructor for the online school, The Fenzi Dog Sports Academy. She has been training dogs for nearly 30 years, and has specialized in the rehabilitation of shy and fearful dogs for over 20 years Episode Summary: Amy and Daniel explore the origins and applications of The Play Way. Amy explains how she combined insights from child play therapy, human psychology, and dog training to create a system that helps fearful and anxious dogs feel safe and connected. They discuss the role of social buffering, laughter, and expectation-free play in building resilience, and why traditional conditioning methods often leave underlying fear untouched. The conversation is full of practical insights into how play can transform the dog-human relationship. Amy's signature Play Way class starting in December looking at using the Play Way to support fearful and reactive dogs: https://www.fenzidogsportsacademy.com/index.php/courses/84 Want to learn more? Explore science-backed courses, webinars, and resources for dog behaviour professionals at our online platform: ⁠www.brainandbehaviouracademy.co.uk

    1h 22m
  2. 24/09/2025

    Episode 14 - Dog Welfare Today - Breeding, Law, and Owner Responsibility - Rowena Packer

    Guest Bio Dr. Rowena Packer is a lecturer in Companion Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science at the Royal Veterinary College in London. Her research focuses on contemporary dog welfare issues, including breeding practices, inherited disorders, training, and the impact of legislation on welfare outcomes. She has been a leading force in generating evidence on brachycephalic health and welfare, and regularly contributes to policy and public education worldwide. Episode Summary In this episode, Rowena Packer and Daniel explore the major welfare challenges facing dogs in the UK and globally. They discuss the ethics and realities of dog breeding, the enforcement gaps in legislation, and the responsibilities of owners versus breeders. Rowena explains how cultural differences and government involvement affect welfare standards across countries, and why meaningful enforcement is just as critical as laws themselves. The conversation also dives into the importance of engaging “the unengaged” dog owners, and how public attitudes, misinformation, and anti-expert culture create barriers to better welfare. Relevant Links • Royal Veterinary College https://www.rvc.ac.uk More information: Website: https://animalbehaviourkent.co.uk ABK Learn Platform: https://www.abklearn.co.uk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@animalbehaviourkent261 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/animalbehaviourkent Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Animalbehaviourkent Twitter (X): https://x.com/AnimalKent For more on evidence-based training, canine behaviour science, or upcoming events, visit animalbehaviourkent.co.uk or explore our learning platform at abklearn.co.uk. Questions or feedback? Email us at daniel@animalbehaviourkent.co.uk.

    1h 11m

About

The Brain and Behaviour Podcast with Daniel Shaw MSc, CDBC dives into the science behind complex dog and cat behaviour. Blending neuroscience, real-world cases, and expert insights, Daniel explores topics like aggression, trauma, and training to help listeners better understand the animals in their lives.

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