Nate Schoemer Dog Training Podcast

Nate Schoemer
  • 4.5 (8)
  • PETS & ANIMALS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Join Nate Schoemer as he interviews top dog trainers—from behavior specialists and protection experts to authors, judges, and training school founders. Each episode offers expert advice on real training topics, followed by live Q&As where listeners can ask direct questions. You’ll also hear real virtual sessions solving common issues, plus unique follow-along obedience routines that simulate private lessons to help you train effectively. Whether you're a dog owner or aspiring trainer, this podcast gives you direct access to high-level training insights you can use right away.

  1. Ep. 44 - The Truth About Pressure in Dog Training (No One Wants to Admit This)

    3D AGO

    Ep. 44 - The Truth About Pressure in Dog Training (No One Wants to Admit This)

    The dog training world is deeply divided, force-free vs balanced training. But what happens when avoiding pressure actually creates more fear, anxiety, and instability in dogs? In this episode, Nate Schoemer sits down with Justin Rigney, veteran dog trainer and former law-enforcement K9 handler, for an honest, experience-driven conversation about pressure, fear, genetics, and real behavior change. Justin explains why he doesn’t view pressure as punishment, but as communication, when applied correctly, fairly, and with timing. Drawing from decades of experience working with pet dogs, working dogs, and high-drive behavioral cases, he breaks down how pressure can provide clarity, encourage neutrality, and help dogs move through stress instead of becoming trapped in avoidance or fear. They also explore how well-intentioned training approaches can unintentionally reinforce fear, why genetics matter long before formal training begins, and why experienced trainers avoid rigid systems in favor of reading the individual dog in front of them. This conversation is especially relevant for dog owners, professional trainers, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of canine behavior beyond trend-driven or ideological training narratives. 🧠 What You’ll Learn in This Episode • Why pressure is often unavoidable in real-world dog training • How fear can be unintentionally reinforced by handlers • The difference between fair, structured pressure and harmful handling • Why neutrality can be a powerful emotional state for many dogs • How balanced trainers blend reward, pressure, and restraint • Why some reward-only systems struggle under high stress or distraction • How genetics influence behavior long before formal training begins 🎓 Recommended Training Resource From Novice To Pro: The Ultimate Guide To Dog Training By Nate Schoemer👉 ⁠https://sitstaylearn.com/collections/instructional-videos/products/from-novice-to-pro-the-ultimate-guide-to-dog-training-by-nate-schoemer?rfsn=8100182.cd38c94&variant=50148621582625⁠🔗 Connect with Justin Rigney Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/jrigk9/⁠ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/K9servicesunlimited⁠ TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@k9servicesunlimited⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@k-9servicesunlimited136⁠ Website: ⁠https://k9servicesunlimited.com/⁠ 🔗 Connect with Nate Schoemer YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/nateschoemer⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/nateschoemer⁠ TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@nateschoemer⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/NateSchoemer⁠ X (Twitter): ⁠https://x.com/NateSchoemer

    1h 6m
  2. Ep. 43 - The Brain Hack That Builds Confident, Resilient Dogs (Not Calm Ones)

    5D AGO

    Ep. 43 - The Brain Hack That Builds Confident, Resilient Dogs (Not Calm Ones)

    Most dog training advice tells owners to keep their dog calm at all costs.Neuroscience suggests that approach often backfires. In this episode, Nate Schoemer sits down with neuroscientist and dog trainer Dr. Melanie Uhde to challenge some of the most common assumptions in modern dog training. Rather than chasing constant calm, this conversation explains why manageable stress, frustration, and challenge are essential for building confident, resilient, real-world dogs. Drawing from neuroscience, biology, genetics, learning theory, and real training experience, Dr. Uhde breaks down how dogs actually learn, adapt, and cope — and why avoiding stress entirely can create long-term behavioral problems. This is not theory for theory’s sake. Every concept discussed is tied back to practical training decisions dog owners and trainers make every day. 🧠 Topics Covered in This Episode • Why “calm” is often the wrong goal in dog training• The difference between productive stress and harmful stress• How stress inoculation builds confidence and resilience• Why frustration and challenge accelerate learning• Common myths about cortisol and dopamine in dogs• Why emotional corrections damage learning• How genetics and environment interact in behavior• Why biologically appropriate outlets prevent problem behaviors• How to build real-world reliability without suppression 🎓 Recommended Training Resource From Novice To Pro: The Ultimate Guide To Dog TrainingBy Nate Schoemer👉 https://sitstaylearn.com/collections/instructional-videos/products/from-novice-to-pro-the-ultimate-guide-to-dog-training-by-nate-schoemer?rfsn=8100182.cd38c94&variant=50148621582625 🔗 Connect with Nate Schoemer YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nateschoemerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nateschoemerTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nateschoemerFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/NateSchoemerX (Twitter): https://x.com/NateSchoemer 🔬 Learn More from Dr. Melanie Uhde Website: https://www.caninedecoded.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dr.melanie.uhdeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/caninedecodedYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.melanieuhdeTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@caninedecoded

    1h 30m
  3. Ep. 42 - Should You Quit Your 9–5 to Become a Dog Trainer? (Natalie Dobkins’ Story)

    12/15/2025

    Ep. 42 - Should You Quit Your 9–5 to Become a Dog Trainer? (Natalie Dobkins’ Story)

    Thinking about leaving your 9–5 to become a professional dog trainer?Natalie Dobkins did exactly that — and in this episode, she breaks down how and why she made the leap, plus what it really takes to build a sustainable dog training business. Natalie (Team K9 Training) joins host Nate Schoemer for an honest, no-fluff conversation about transitioning out of the corporate world and into full-time dog training. They dive deep into the business foundations most trainers overlook, including LLC setup, pricing, marketing, client management, and how to avoid burnout in an unregulated industry. This episode isn’t just about training dogs — it’s about building a career that lasts. Whether you’re an aspiring dog trainer, a working professional considering a career shift, or an established trainer looking to tighten up your business systems, this episode delivers real-world insight you can apply immediately. The Career LeapWhat finally pushed Natalie to leave her corporate job and pursue dog training full-time. Business Foundations for Dog TrainersWhy LLCs, finances, contracts, and structure matter before you ever take a leash. Marketing & Client AcquisitionHow to attract clients without feeling salesy — and when paid ads actually make sense. Owner Education & Client RetentionWhy training owners is just as important as training dogs. Avoiding BurnoutWhy “being the Walmart of dog training” destroys trainers — and how to set boundaries. Scaling With SystemsHow email automation, follow-ups, and streamlined programs free up your time. Get 20% OFF with code: YONEISALL Amazon (US):https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DS2N3T3X?maas=maas_adg_A9BF15CFF1EEF7A701CF2F51611A4226_afap_abs&ref_=aa_maas&tag=maas Official Store:https://oneisallinc.pxf.io/WyjNrM Course:From Novice To Pro: The Ultimate Guide To Dog Traininghttps://sitstaylearn.com/collections/instructional-videos/products/from-novice-to-pro-the-ultimate-guide-to-dog-training-by-nate-schoemer?rfsn=8100182.cd38c94&variant=50148621582625 Follow Nate:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nateschoemerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nateschoemerTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nateschoemerFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/NateSchoemerX (Twitter): https://x.com/NateSchoemer 🎧 Podcast Home:https://pod.link/1804414647 Guest – Natalie Dobkins (Team K9 Training) Website: https://www.teamk9training.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teamk9.training/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@teamk9trainingYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@teamk9training/videos

    3h 22m
  4. Ep. 41 - The Mindset That Turns Struggling Dogs Into Confident Companions

    12/04/2025

    Ep. 41 - The Mindset That Turns Struggling Dogs Into Confident Companions

    From Marine Corps discipline to professional dog training, Steven Hueston’s journey shows how structure, patience, and purpose can transform both people and dogs. In this powerful episode, Nate Schoemer sits down with Steven Hueston—Marine infantry veteran, professional dog trainer, and host of the Dogs of War Podcast—to explore how lessons from military life shaped his approach to balanced dog training, behavior modification, and helping veterans heal through canine companionship. If you’ve ever wondered how the mindset of a Marine translates to calm, confident, reliable dogs, this episode breaks it all down. How military structure and timing translate directly into effective dog training The difference between sport protection dogs and true working dogs Why service dogs can both help and harm veterans—and the long-term emotional risks few discuss How to build confidence in fearful dogs without coddling or over-correcting The truth about “force-free” training and why many trainers use punishment without realizing it What balanced training really means and how Steven tailors it to each dog and owner Why patience and timing matter more than tools The biggest mistakes dog owners make (and how to fix them quickly) The story of Dobby, a Dogo Argentino who went from reactivity to off-leash freedom How working with dogs provides veterans with purpose, healing, and connection Steven Hueston is a Marine infantry veteran turned professional dog trainer. He brings real-world structure, discipline, and emotional intelligence to every dog he trains. He is the founder of Oracle K9 Training in Avon, Colorado, and host of the Dogs of War Podcast, where he interviews top trainers, handlers, and veterans on life, healing, and training. Website: https://oraclek9training.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083883048752 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oracle_k9_training Podcast: https://pod.link/1532993707 From Novice to Pro: The Ultimate Guide to Dog Training https://sitstaylearn.com/collections/instructional-videos/products/from-novice-to-pro-the-ultimate-guide-to-dog-training-by-nate-schoemer?rfsn=8100182.cd38c94&variant=50148621582625 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NateSchoemer Podcast: https://pod.link/1804414647 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nateschoemer TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nateschoemer Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NateSchoemer Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NateSchoemer Sit Stay Learn: https://sitstaylearn.com

    1h 27m
  5. Ep. 40 - Are You Neglecting This Vital Step in Your Dog ’ s Training Plan? | Evan Doggett Interview

    11/04/2025

    Ep. 40 - Are You Neglecting This Vital Step in Your Dog ’ s Training Plan? | Evan Doggett Interview

    Many dog trainers only focus on obedience… but what if the real solution to your dog’s behavior issues lies somewhere else entirely? In this powerful and eye-opening conversation, Nate Schoemer sits down with Evan Doggett (@doggett.style) to explore how small, often-ignored factors can transform a dog’s behavior from the inside out. From understanding canine communication to rethinking tools like e-collars, this episode uncovers what truly makes dogs reliable, calm, and happy companions. In This Episode, You’ll Learn:• Why your dog’s daily habits can shape behavior long before formal training begins• A simple “doggie multivitamin” recipe that owners swear by• How to use e-collars the right way, as a tool for communication, not punishment• The difference between socialization and desensitization (and why it matters)• Practical ways to fix reactivity, aggression, and resource guarding• How to make training fun, effective, and sustainable for both ends of the leash Top Quotes from Evan Doggett: “If your dog treat has more than five ingredients, throw it away.”“Most behavior problems start with the body, fix the health, and you fix the brain.”“At the beginning, think of the e-collar like a gentle leash pull, it’s about communication, not control.” About Evan Doggett:Founder of Doggett Style Dog Training, Evan blends humor, science, and real-world experience to help owners raise confident, balanced, and well-behaved dogs through clear communication and modern training strategies. 🌐 Website: https://doggettstyle.com/📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doggett.style/🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@doggettstyle▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@doggettstyledogtraining📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DoggettStyle Follow Nate Schoemer:YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Podcast | Sit Stay Learn 🎓 From Novice to Pro: The Ultimate Guide to Dog Training by Nate Schoemer →https://sitstaylearn.com/collections/instructional-videos/products/from-novice-to-pro-the-ultimate-guide-to-dog-training-by-nate-schoemer?rfsn=8100182.cd38c94&variant=50148621582625

    2h 38m
  6. Ep. 39 - Carlos Ramirez: From Special Forces K9s to Everyday Obedience | A Masterclass in Dog Training

    10/17/2025

    Ep. 39 - Carlos Ramirez: From Special Forces K9s to Everyday Obedience | A Masterclass in Dog Training

    Carlos Ramirez of CRK9 is one of the most respected and experienced dog trainers in the country, and in this episode, he breaks down exactly how he gets such reliable, real-world results. From training elite military and police K9s to transforming household pets with serious behavioral issues, Carlos brings a deep, proven approach to canine development. In this interview, you’ll learn: How he went from farm life in Puerto Rico to training special forces dogs The truth about e-collars, prong collars, and the balanced training debate How to stop leash pulling, jumping, aggression, and disobedience The foundations required for off-leash reliability What separates personal protection dogs from basic obedience Why training the owner is just as important as training the dog This is a must-listen for dog owners, aspiring trainers, and anyone curious about what it really takes to build a confident, well-behaved, and trustworthy dog. Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. - Follow Carlos Ramirez / CRK9 Online:- Website: https://carlosramirezk9.com- Email: info@carlosramirezk9.com- Instagram: @carlosramirezk9- Facebook: facebook.com/carlosramirezk9- YouTube: @carlosramirezk9- TikTok: @crk9Don’t forget to subscribe and share!

    1h 34m
  7. Ep. 38 - The Most Misunderstood Dog Training Lessons | Robert Cabral Interview

    10/03/2025

    Ep. 38 - The Most Misunderstood Dog Training Lessons | Robert Cabral Interview

    In this episode, Robert Cabral shares how his journey from martial arts shaped his dog training philosophy—and how discipline, empathy, and clarity help dogs trust, thrive, and transform. We dive into shelter dog work, communication systems (yes/no, binary), building rapport, and why the “alpha” model is often misunderstood. This interview is for dog owners, trainers, or anyone passionate about animals. Whether you want better clarity, stronger results, or a deeper bond with your dog, there’s something here for you. What You’ll Learn: How Robert’s martial arts background shaped his training approach. The real meaning of “alpha” and why aggression doesn’t belong in leadership. How to build trust, motivation, and engagement with puppies. Step-by-step strategies for issues like potty training and reactivity. Insights into Robert’s “binary dog” concept and why yes/no can simplify communication. Why training is about clarity, not control. Tools, corrections, and fairness in balanced training. Lessons from shelter dogs and what they can teach us about resilience. Check Out Robert’s Courses: Shelter Course – $995https://robertcabral.com/shelter-dog-training/training/nateschoemer/ Puppy Course – $199https://robertcabral.com/my-first-30-days-with-my-puppy-course/training/nateschoemer/ Crate Mini Course – $39https://robertcabral.com/crate-training/training/nateschoemer/ Membership – $20/month or $129/yearhttps://robertcabral.com/training/nateschoemer/ Nate Schoemer’s Course:From Novice to Pro: The Ultimate Guide To Dog Traininghttps://sitstaylearn.com/collections/instructional-videos/products/from-novice-to-pro-the-ultimate-guide-to-dog-training-by-nate-schoemer?rfsn=8100182.cd38c94&variant=50148621582625 Connect with Robert Cabral: Website: https://robertcabral.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RobertCabralDogs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robertcabral/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RobertCabral TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@robertcabraldogs Connect with Nate Schoemer: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nateschoemer

    2h 11m
  8. Ep. 37 - Ivan Balabanov: Building Trust, Motivation, and Lasting Results in Dog Training

    09/12/2025

    Ep. 37 - Ivan Balabanov: Building Trust, Motivation, and Lasting Results in Dog Training

    In this episode, Nate Schoemer sits down with legendary dog trainer Ivan Balabanov to explore his groundbreaking philosophy, Training Without Conflict. Ivan shares why true success in dog training comes from rapport, trust, motivation, and cooperation—not force or fear. Whether you’re a dog owner, aspiring trainer, or seasoned professional, this conversation will reshape the way you think about dogs, behavior, and effective communication. You’ll learn how to: Understand the real meaning of Training Without Conflict Build rapport, trust, and cooperation with your dog Balance food vs. play and why play transforms focus and endurance Avoid common miscommunication mistakes that create conflict Use struggle as a tool for growth and deeper trust Apply reward strategies, timing, and reinforcement schedules Harness the role of emotions, energy, and dopamine in learning If you’re serious about elevating your training and building a rock-solid relationship with your dog, this is one interview you don’t want to miss. 🔗 Resources & Links✅ Ivan Balabanov’s Training Without Conflict School:https://trainingwithoutconflict.com✅ OT VITOSHA MALINOIS: https://www.malinois.com/✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ivan.Balabanovhttps://www.facebook.com/TrainingWithoutConflict✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trainlikeivan/✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@IvanBalabanov✅ TikTok: http://tiktok.com/@trainingwithoutconflict✅ X: https://x.com/BalabanovIvan✅ Nate Schoemer’s Course: From Novice to Pro: The Ultimate Guide To Dog Traininghttps://sitstaylearn.com/collections/instructional-videos/products/from-novice-to-pro-the-ultimate-guide-to-dog-training-by-nate-schoemer?rfsn=8100182.cd38c94&variant=50148621582625Thanks for listening and supporting the channel.

    3h 29m
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Ratings & Reviews

4.5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

Join Nate Schoemer as he interviews top dog trainers—from behavior specialists and protection experts to authors, judges, and training school founders. Each episode offers expert advice on real training topics, followed by live Q&As where listeners can ask direct questions. You’ll also hear real virtual sessions solving common issues, plus unique follow-along obedience routines that simulate private lessons to help you train effectively. Whether you're a dog owner or aspiring trainer, this podcast gives you direct access to high-level training insights you can use right away.

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