THE ROBOTIC DOG

Brittney Howard

Welcome to our podcast! We focus on balanced dog training techniques that emphasize positive and negative responses. Based in Central VA, we serve surrounding states too. Being a veteran-owned and operated company, we offer a special discount on Board and Train programs for veterans. Our training options include board and trains, personalized lessons, virtual sessions, phone consultations, group training, sport programs, and service dog training. Join us as we explore effective training methods and help you build a harmonious bond with your four-legged companion.

  1. 07/09/2025

    The dog you love has to go

    In this episode of The Robotic Dog, Brittney dives deep into a concept few trainers talk about — mourning the loss of the “old dog”. No, your pup didn’t cross the rainbow bridge… but the wild, frantic, clingy version of them? Yeah, that one’s gone. And that can feel weird. Brittney compares emotional detachment from humans to the subtle grief that sometimes comes with dog training. As we correct problematic behaviors, we also say goodbye to the chaos we secretly kinda liked — the overexcited greetings, the intense ball obsession, the clingy quirks. She shares stories of client dogs who evolved into calmer, more fulfilled animals — even if that meant giving up some of their “personality” quirks. Britt breaks down how modifying a dog’s core behavior changes their entire vibe — for the better. Grieving the version of your dog you “got used to” Why fixing root problems removes the “cute” chaos too How anxious or confused dogs display learned behaviors we accidentally reinforce The psychology behind creating a mentally strong dog Teaching polite behavior without killing the joy Understanding your dog is not your child… they're a predator in your house! The rent analogy: your dog pays rent through good behavior Training is more for the human than the dog — dogs follow formulas “You can’t fix the root of the problem and expect to keep the symptoms. That dog is gone. And that’s a good thing.” Brittney announces the launch of her online training program with multiple price points — from $5 quick wins to in-depth transformations. Stay tuned and get on the waitlist! Richmond, VA & Online info@dawgboss.com www.dawgboss.com

    13 min
  2. 05/06/2025

    Can love fix your dog's bad behavior?

    Summary In this conversation, Brittney Howard discusses effective ways to love and train dogs, emphasizing the importance of structure, clear communication, and understanding dog behavior. She highlights common misconceptions about food, affection, and freedom in dog training, and how these can lead to unintended negative behaviors. The discussion also touches on the significance of not overindulging dogs with gifts and treats, advocating for a more thoughtful approach to pet care. Takeaways You can love your dog, but it must be productive. Food can be a double-edged sword in training. Freedom without structure can lead to anxiety in dogs. Clear communication is essential for effective training. Petting your dog in the wrong context can reinforce anxiety. Gift giving to dogs can create confusion about value. Dogs thrive on structure and boundaries. Affection should be given at the right times. Overindulgence can lead to behavioral issues. Understanding dog psychology is crucial for pet owners. Chapters 00:00 Dating Disasters and Dog Behavior 03:07 Loving Your Dog: The Right and Wrong Ways 06:13 The Impact of Food on Dog Behavior 09:17 Freedom vs. Structure in Dog Training 12:09 Understanding Affection and Communication with Dogs 14:50 The Five Love Languages for Dogs 18:10 Navigating Dog Training and Human Emotions 21:00 The Importance of Clear Commands 24:08 Petting and Reinforcement: What to Avoid 31:14 The Role of Toys and Gifts in Dog Training 45:36 The Art of Ignoring Your Dog 49:35 Understanding Dog Behavior and Communication 52:40 The Dangers of Dog Toys Want to work with us? Shoot us a text at (804) 376-1856

    34 min
  3. 03/04/2024

    S03 EP02: STOP TRYING TO CONTROL YOUR DOG

    In this episode of the Robotic Dog Podcast, hosted by dog trainer Brittney Howard, the focus is on the concept of control in human and dog relationships. Brittney emphasizes the importance of moving away from a controlling approach in training, relationships, and life itself. She shares insights from a TV show business conference where mentor Stephanie Odea introduced the idea of following the pull instead of the push in life, suggesting that one should go towards what naturally attracts them. Brittany applies this philosophy to dog training, arguing against the forceful correction of dogs and in favor of creating circumstances that encourage dogs to follow willingly. She discusses her preference for using retractable leashes and prong collars for training, aiming to create a positive and desirable attitude in dogs towards their owners. Brittany also touches upon her personal experiences and the overall ease of dog training when approached correctly, urging listeners to engage with the podcast and share their own dog training journeys. 00:00 Introduction to Control in Relationships 01:11 The Concept of Going with the Flow 01:15 Life Lessons from a Business Conference 02:18 Applying Life Lessons to Dog Training 02:22 The Struggles of Forcing Relationships 03:25 The Importance of Letting Dogs Be Dogs 04:42 The Power of Pull in Dog Training 05:06 Understanding Dogs as Predators 06:17 The Benefits of Retractable Leashes 07:48 The Importance of Rewards in Dog Training 09:01 The Role of Obedience in Dog Training 10:47 The Power of Brainwashing in Dog Training 13:18 The Simplicity of Entrepreneurship 14:44 Conclusion: The Essence of Dog Training 14:53 Final Thoughts and Call to Action FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@reactivedogtrainer⁠⁠ IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/dawgbossrva/⁠⁠⁠⁠ FB: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/DawgbossRVA⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@dawgbossRVA⁠⁠⁠ Web: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://dawgbossrva.com/⁠⁠ Buy my dog stuff on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shop/britdogtrainervadogtrain Stephanie O'Dea Website: https://stephanieodea.com/

    16 min
  4. 01/16/2024

    S03 EP01: AM I BAD AT TEACHING MY DOG TO PLAY FETCH?

    Understanding Dog Behaviour and Training Techniques This podcast discusses various aspects of dog behaviour, training techniques, and general understanding of dogs. It provides insights on methods for training dogs to play fetch, teaching dogs to be neutral, dealing with territorial behavior, and setting specific bathroom spots. The podcast also highlights the importance of understanding a dog's behaviour and communicating effectively with them for a better outcome. Further, it demystifies misconceptions about certain breeds and dog behaviours. Towards the end, the host expresses a desire to correct dog myths perpetuated in popular media, specifically those mentioned on the Joe Rogan experience. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:14 Exploring 'Answer the Public' 01:05 How to Train Your Dog to Play Fetch 04:24 The Importance of Teaching Neutrality 05:22 The Art of Training Your Dog to be Neutral 05:24 The Importance of Training Your Dog to Ignore Distractions 05:45 The Art of Training Your Dog to Walk on a Loose Leash 06:32 The Importance of Teaching Your Dog to Respect Boundaries 08:05 How to Train Your Dog to Play Dead 14:09 Understanding Dog Psychology 23:21 How to Train Your Dog to Pee in One Spot 25:27 Closing Remarks and Joe Rogan Experience Discussion FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@reactivedogtrainer⁠⁠⁠ IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/dawgbossrva/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ FB: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/DawgbossRVA⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@dawgbossRVA⁠⁠⁠⁠ Web: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://dawgbossrva.com/⁠⁠⁠

    27 min
  5. 01/17/2021

    S02 EP02: HOW TO OBTAIN FOCUS FROM YOUR DOG

    Everyone asks me "How do you get such great focus from your dogs?" And the answer is simple. I am LIFE to my dog.  In this episode, Britney Howard, dog trainer at Dawg Boss k9 Training, delves into methods for creating focus in dogs. Emphasizing the importance of building relationships and connections with dogs, she shares her advice on training techniques such as behavioral modification, eye contact training, and engagement. She explains the concept of focus as a trained behavior developed through rewards, noting it is not a natural behavior for dogs. Britney also highlights the importance of defining a goal before training focus and illustrates how to create engagement through physical activities and reinforcing dogs' understanding that their owner is the primary source of rewards. With tips on luring and free shaping a focused heel, she reminds listeners that the training process should be enjoyable and repetitive for effective learning. Finally, Britney encourages engagement through five daily training sessions of five minutes each. 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast 01:07 Understanding the Concept of Focus in Dog Training 02:53 The Importance of Relationship and Engagement in Training 03:29 How to Obtain Focus in Dog Training 04:56 Defining Your Own Focus Goals 05:58 The Role of Mental State in Training 07:09 Starting to Train Focus: Eye Contact and Engagement 11:51 The Importance of Movement in Training 14:16 Training Techniques: Free Shaping and Luring 20:56 Conclusion and Contact Information FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@reactivedogtrainer⁠⁠⁠ IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/dawgbossrva/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ FB: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/DawgbossRVA⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@dawgbossRVA⁠⁠⁠⁠ Web: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://dawgbossrva.com/⁠⁠⁠ Video to train what was discussed:  https://youtu.be/JbVogiGNvUQ

    22 min
  6. 12/31/2020

    S02 EP01: YOUNG DOG TRAINER NEEDS HELP WITH HER GROWLY DOG!

    Hayley is a young dog trainer seeking guidance for her dog Hutch. Hutch has been growling at her younger brother, and has also been blowing off recall commands. Listen in to hear some solutions to these issues. Dog Training Advice: Dealing With Growling and Improving Recall After a two-year gap, Brittney returns with an episode aimed to help a listener named Haley, who is experiencing problems with her mixed breed dog, Hutch. Hutch has been growling at Haley's little brother and is struggling with recall, responding only when treats are offered. The host suggests understanding and acknowledging that most dogs are opportunistic and understanding this can assist in effective training. Haley is also advised to seek help on YouTube and from professional trainers for corrective measures. Regarding the growling issue, the host suggested understanding the relationship between Hutch and her brother and avoid off-leash encounters until the situation is managed. For recall training, she recommends a frequent practice regime, using his food as a treat, calling him regularly and rewarding him as soon as he turns back. 00:06 Introduction 00:24 Introducing Haley's Dog Hutch 00:45 Haley's Questions about Hutch 01:31 Understanding Dog Behavior 02:37 Addressing Hutch's Growling 04:40 Training Resources and Tips 06:27 Recall Training for Hutch 08:13 Closing Remarks and Social Media Plugs *All training should be done under adult supervision, especially when dealing with potentially aggressive behaviors. *We conquer all dog training issues, big or small! Any breed, any age! FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA IG: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/dawgbossrva/⁠ TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@dogtrainerb⁠ FB: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/DawgbossRVA⁠ Web: ⁠https://dawgbossrva.com/⁠

    9 min

About

Welcome to our podcast! We focus on balanced dog training techniques that emphasize positive and negative responses. Based in Central VA, we serve surrounding states too. Being a veteran-owned and operated company, we offer a special discount on Board and Train programs for veterans. Our training options include board and trains, personalized lessons, virtual sessions, phone consultations, group training, sport programs, and service dog training. Join us as we explore effective training methods and help you build a harmonious bond with your four-legged companion.