Thoughts of A Dog Man

Steven Thomas
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Thoughts of A Dog Man is the ultimate podcast for new hunters who want to unlock the full potential of their four-legged partners. If you are starting your journey with hunting dogs, on the fence about getting started, or even a seasoned vet, this show dives deep into training techniques, proven strategies, and real-world experiences to help you and your dog succeed in the field. The podcast focuses on Hunting Beagles, Treeing Dogs, and Pointing Dogs. Join me as I share useful, practical, and knowledgeable advice, personal stories, and hard-earned lessons to guide new hunters in the right direction. You're in the right place if you’re passionate about hunting and the incredible bond between man and dog!

  1. Coon Dog Paralysis Explained for Beginners: Causes, Risks, and Prevention

    2D AGO

    Coon Dog Paralysis Explained for Beginners: Causes, Risks, and Prevention

    Coon dog paralysis is something many handlers have heard about — but few truly understand until it hits close to home. In this episode of Thoughts of a Dog Man, I break down what coon dog paralysis is, what it does to a dog, why the onset can take time, and the hard lessons that come with it. This isn’t a scare tactic episode. It’s an understanding episode. We talk about: What coon dog paralysis actually isWhy symptoms don’t always show up immediatelyHow it affects a dog’s nervous system and mobilityWhy some common practices can increase riskThe difficult reality that there is no guaranteed curePrevention, awareness, and perspective for new handlersThere are things in this sport that are avoidable — and things that aren’t. The goal of this episode is to help new and beginner handlers think critically, protect their dogs, and avoid putting them in unnecessary risk situations. Sometimes experience teaches hard lessons. If this episode helps even one handler make a better decision, it’s worth it. Resources📘 Rabbit Dog Starter Bundle + 3 Bonus Audios https://bawlinoutkennels.com/products/rabbit-dog-starter-bundle-book-3-bonus-audios 👥 Dog Man Insider Community (Beginner-Friendly, No Ego) https://www.facebook.com/groups/1562828264897293 💳 Dog Man Insider Membership https://buy.stripe.com/7sYcMYdym52b4Sq8Aj7bW02 Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/thoughts-of-a-dog-man/exclusive-content

    46 min
  2. Titles Aren’t the Only Measure of a Good Coon Dog

    FEB 4

    Titles Aren’t the Only Measure of a Good Coon Dog

    Coon hunting didn’t used to feel this complicated. Somewhere along the way, pressure replaced enjoyment, titles replaced memories, and a lot of people — especially new handlers — started to feel like they were doing something wrong just for wanting to enjoy the dogs. In this episode of Thoughts of a Dog Man, I break down 15 ways to make coon hunting fun again, with a focus on protecting new and beginner handlers from unnecessary pressure, unrealistic expectations, and burnout. This episode isn’t anti–competition hunting. It’s about reminding people that coon hunting is bigger than titles, scorecards, or trends — and that enjoying the sport still matters. In this episode, we talk about: How pressure quietly drains the fun out of coon huntingWhy young dogs get rushed and over-correctedHow chasing a “winning” dog can ruin honest dogsWhy pleasure hunting still mattersHow to redefine success so you and your dogs can enjoy the processWhy beginners deserve space to learn without judgmentIf you’re new to coon hunting — or you’ve been around long enough to feel burned out — this episode is a reminder that coon hunting was never supposed to feel stressful. Your dog is allowed to learn. You’re allowed to enjoy the hunt. And success doesn’t have to look the same for everyone. Resources📘 Rabbit Dog Starter Bundle + 3 Bonus Audios https://bawlinoutkennels.com/products/rabbit-dog-starter-bundle-book-3-bonus-audios 👥 Dog Man Insider Community (Beginner-Friendly, No Ego) https://www.facebook.com/groups/1562828264897293 💳 Dog Man Insider Membership https://buy.stripe.com/7sYcMYdym52b4Sq8Aj7bW02 Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/thoughts-of-a-dog-man/exclusive-content

    47 min
  3. Cold Weather Dog Care: What Every New Dog Owner Should Know

    JAN 28

    Cold Weather Dog Care: What Every New Dog Owner Should Know

    Cold weather changes everything for dogs — not just how they perform, but how they eat, drink, rest, and stay healthy. In this episode of Thoughts of a Dog Man, I break down cold weather dog care in a practical, no-nonsense way that applies to all outdoor and working dogs, not just hunting dogs. Too many problems in winter come from good intentions paired with bad information. This episode is about helping dog owners understand what actually matters when temperatures drop — so dogs stay healthy, comfortable, and protected. In this episode, we cover: Why not all dogs handle the cold the same (age, coat, and breed matter)Why hydration is critical in winter, even when dogs don’t feel thirstyHow cold weather affects calorie needs and why fat matters for heat productionFeeding strategies for winter, including higher-fat blends like 28/28 and 30/30Why bedding choice matters more than people realizeStraw vs pine vs cedar vs heated padsKennel setup tips that reduce cold stress, wind exposure, and ice-related injuriesWhy wind protection and south-facing kennels can make a big differenceThis episode isn’t about being soft — it’s about being responsible. Dogs will push through discomfort without complaint. That means it’s on us to notice problems before they turn into health issues. If you keep dogs outside during the winter or work dogs in cold weather, this episode will help you make better decisions that protect them long-term. Resources You May Find Helpful📘 Rabbit Dog Starter Bundle + 3 Bonus Audios (Video + Book) https://bawlinoutkennels.com/products/rabbit-dog-starter-bundle-book-3-bonus-audios 👥 Dog Man Insider Community (Facebook Group) https://www.facebook.com/groups/1562828264897293 💳 Dog Man Insider Membership https://buy.stripe.com/7sYcMYdym52b4Sq8Aj7bW02 Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/thoughts-of-a-dog-man/exclusive-content

    46 min
  4. Number 1 Secret Any Handler Needs To Know With Hunting Dogs

    JAN 21

    Number 1 Secret Any Handler Needs To Know With Hunting Dogs

    The number one secret to being successful with hunting dogs isn’t a tool, a method, or a bloodline. It’s a...., Check out the episode to learn what it is! In this episode of Thoughts of a Dog Man, Stevie breaks down why this secret is the foundation of long-term success with hunting dogs — and why most new handlers struggle not because they lack effort, but because they’ve never fully committed. This secret doesn’t mean “I’ll try and see how it goes.” It means committing to a result and cutting yourself off from the option to quit, bounce methods, or constantly start over. In this episode, we walk through a simple 3-step framework: What you’re focusing on — choosing one priority instead of chasing everything at onceWhat things mean to you — how the meaning you give setbacks determines whether you quit or growWhat you’re willing to do — the standards, consistency, and patience required to create real resultsThis episode is for new and beginner handlers who feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or stuck — and need direction more than more information. Success with dogs isn’t complicated. It’s demanding of simple things done over time. And it starts with this ONE clear secret! Resources You May Find Helpful📘 Rabbit Dog Starter Bundle + 3 Bonus Audios https://bawlinoutkennels.com/products/rabbit-dog-starter-bundle-book-3-bonus-audios 👥 Dog Man Insider Community (Facebook Group) https://www.facebook.com/groups/1562828264897293 💳 Dog Man Insider Membership https://buy.stripe.com/7sYcMYdym52b4Sq8Aj7bW02 Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/thoughts-of-a-dog-man/exclusive-content

    36 min
  5. Restarting a Kennel: How I'm Rebuilding My Pack

    JAN 14

    Restarting a Kennel: How I'm Rebuilding My Pack

    This spring, I’m in the process of restarting and rebuilding my kennel. A lot of the dogs I’ve run for years are getting older, which means it’s time to slow down, evaluate what I have, and be intentional about how I add new dogs to the pack. In this episode of Thoughts of a Dog Man, I break down the six things I personally focus on when rebuilding a kennel, picking puppies, and planning the future of my pack. This isn’t about chasing hype, papers, or quick fixes. It’s about clarity, purpose, and long-term thinking, especially for new and beginner handlers who want to build something solid from the start. In this episode, I cover: Honest evaluation — being clear about your current dogs’ strengths and weaknessesBloodlines matter, but paper doesn’t — why chasing ancestors and patterns matters more than titlesWhere you hunt — how terrain and conditions should influence the dogs you chooseThe litter’s purpose — understanding what the breeder is trying to gain from the crossDoing the legwork — why taking time to talk to people and research crosses pays offThe “starting five” approach — structuring a pack like a basketball team, where each dog has a role and purposeIf you’re new to hunting dogs, thinking about adding puppies this year, or trying to improve your kennel instead of just adding numbers, this episode is meant to help you slow down, think clearly, and make better decisions that pay off in the long run. Resources You May Find Helpful📘 Rabbit Dog Starter Bundle + 3 Bonus Audios https://bawlinoutkennels.com/products/rabbit-dog-starter-bundle-book-3-bonus-audios 👥 Dog Man Insider Community (Facebook Group) https://www.facebook.com/groups/1562828264897293 💳 Dog Man Insider Membership https://buy.stripe.com/7sYcMYdym52b4Sq8Aj7bW02 #HuntingDogs #KennelBuilding #PickingPuppies #BloodlinesMatter #NewHuntingDogHandlers #DogManMindset #WorkingDogs #BuildingABetterPack #ThoughtsOfADogMan #BawlinOutKennels Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/thoughts-of-a-dog-man/exclusive-content

    39 min
  6. How to Win in 2026: Setting Expectations for Your Hunting Dogs

    JAN 7

    How to Win in 2026: Setting Expectations for Your Hunting Dogs

    If 2026 is the year you’ve decided to get into hunting dogs, this episode is for you. In this episode of Thoughts of a Dog Man, Stevie breaks down the expectations that matter most for new and beginner hunting dog handlers—the ones that decide whether you enjoy the journey or burn out early. Too many handlers don’t quit because they lack effort, but because they expect too much, too fast, or the wrong things altogether. This episode is about setting realistic, healthy expectations that help you stay patient, consistent, and confident as you and your dog grow together. We talk about: Why dogs become what you repeatedly show themBuilding a team with your dog instead of trying to control oneWhat to expect from young dogs, starting pens, and early mistakesWhy small wins matter more than big momentsHow to filter advice without getting overwhelmedThis is not about shortcuts or expert flexing. It’s about clarity, mindset, and direction—so you can have your best year yet with your hunting dog. If this is your year to get started, let’s set expectations that help you win in 2026. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/thoughts-of-a-dog-man/exclusive-content

    47 min
  7. Leopard Tree Dogs... There Is A Learning Curve

    12/31/2025

    Leopard Tree Dogs... There Is A Learning Curve

    Leopard Dogs are by far my favorite tree dog. There is nothing I would rather hunt! Leopards are not only capable coons dogs but also great partners. Each Leopard dog can be unique, but those who have the good ones will be very slow to get another breed. In this episode, I list several things a new Leopard owner should know. The leopard breed is so small. Here is my list of things I believe will help you succeed! My list is as follows: -A leopard can be slower to Mature and needs to be mentally stimulated  -Color doesnt tree coon -Leopards are intellectual breeds, very intelligent      The mind's ability to understand, reason, and think, separate from feelings -Leopards have feelings -Be clear with who you buy a Leopard from if you plan on outcrossing to another breed -Line breeding is even more important with leopards. -Get a Leopard from the terrain you plan to hunt -You will ruin them if you try to make them something they are not -Leopards thrive on trust; if you break that, good luck -Leopards do not thrive on heavy-handed training techniques  -Leopards crossed on other breeds is not the goal of Leopard Owners; it's not needed -There are Leopards being bred for the Money grab -If you want a hunting Leopard, get one out of Hunting Leopard -Leopards are in a class of their own. If you want a more houndy style, go with that; if you want a more classical cur style, go with that. The hope is that these frameworks can help people choose the Leopard Dog that will work for you!! Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/thoughts-of-a-dog-man/exclusive-content

    51 min
  8. Starting a Young Tree Dog, 8 Training Frame Works for Success

    12/24/2025

    Starting a Young Tree Dog, 8 Training Frame Works for Success

    On this episode, we discuss a few ways to get your young dog started. There are tons of ways to start a tree dog pup! Over the last 10 years, I have used these techniques to start all of my tree dog pups! Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/thoughts-of-a-dog-man/exclusive-content

    46 min
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5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Thoughts of A Dog Man is the ultimate podcast for new hunters who want to unlock the full potential of their four-legged partners. If you are starting your journey with hunting dogs, on the fence about getting started, or even a seasoned vet, this show dives deep into training techniques, proven strategies, and real-world experiences to help you and your dog succeed in the field. The podcast focuses on Hunting Beagles, Treeing Dogs, and Pointing Dogs. Join me as I share useful, practical, and knowledgeable advice, personal stories, and hard-earned lessons to guide new hunters in the right direction. You're in the right place if you’re passionate about hunting and the incredible bond between man and dog!

Information

  • Creator
    Steven Thomas
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    45
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Thoughts of A Dog Man

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