Nate Schoemer Dog Training Podcast The Mindset That Turns Struggling Dogs Into Confident Companions
Dec 4, 2025
Steven Hueston, a Marine Corps veteran and founder of Oracle K9 Training, shares insights on transforming dogs through structured, balanced training. He discusses how military discipline informs his approach and the importance of timing over tools in training. Steven highlights the benefits and pitfalls of service dogs for veterans, emphasizing their healing power while addressing long-term emotional risks. Listeners will be captivated by his success story about Dobby, a once-fearful Dogo Argentino, who found confidence through patience and tailored training.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Structure Powers Sustainable Training
- Military structure and daily processes translate directly into consistent, effective dog training routines.
- Steven Hueston says structure gave him purpose and a reliable framework for shaping dogs and clients.
Service Dogs: Healing With Future Risk
- Service dogs can deeply help veterans but also create long-term emotional risk when the dog later dies.
- Steven worries many veterans aren't prepared for the grief of a service dog's loss.
Quieting Drive With Precise Timing
- At Armin's facility, Steven's dog barked frantically until Armin waited for a brief silence and then rewarded with a bite, which calmed the dog instantly.
- The lesson: proper timing can quiet leakage without harsh suppression.