Secrets of The Bad Dog Academy

Victoria opens the episode by introducing the talented cast of trainers from The Bad Dog Academy, sharing how the show has taken off across the UK—and beyond—for its honest, emotional approach to training. Kamal reflects on how the show felt like something truly special from the start, allowing space for deep vulnerability in the human-dog bond. Sean emphasizes how emotionally intense the work is, even comparing it to the pressure of playing professional rugby. Jo shares how surprised she was to be selected, and how grateful she feels knowing the show prioritizes ethics and transparency in every case.

The trainers laugh about some of the show’s lighter moments—like Jo’s fan-favorite hair and Sean’s rising “mountain man sex symbol” status—while also discussing the overwhelming pressure they faced behind the scenes. But beyond the laughs, they reveal just how much unseen preparation goes into each case, including lengthy planning meetings that often get upended the moment the dog walks in.

Victoria and the team emphasize the intentional authenticity of the show—viewers see real first meetings with clients, genuine training challenges, and a commitment to showing progress, not perfection. Unlike other programs that rely on fast fixes or scripted setups, The Bad Dog Academy offers a transparent, respectful look at both the dogs and people involved. The crew even follows up with clients and their dogs after filming ends, something Jo, Sean, and Victoria say has created lasting bonds.

They also give a shout-out to producer Nick Grimshaw (aka "Grimmy"), whose charm and curiosity helped bridge the gap between the trainers and the viewing audience. The addition of Grimmy brought levity and structure, but most importantly, he stayed true to the show's heart—never pretending to be an expert, just a deeply interested dog lover.

As the episode winds down, the trainers reflect on the emotional impact of their work. From helping owners regain confidence to noticing subtle improvements in fearful or reactive dogs, every case mattered. They wrap with rapid-fire takeaways, laughter, and heartfelt praise for each other and the entire production team. It’s clear this isn’t just a show about dog training—it’s a story about human growth, mutual understanding, and the power of doing things the right way, even when it’s hard.