E110: Helene Lawler - Arousal, Impulse Control, and Pressure

Helene Lawler, an experienced animal trainer and owner of a working livestock farm, shares her insights on managing a household of ten intact dogs. She discusses the myths surrounding intact dogs and emphasizes the importance of awareness in their reproductive cycles. The conversation dives into arousal and pressure in dog training, distinguishing between guiding and aversive pressure. Helene also explores dynamic versus static impulse control, essential for success in dog sports and herding, and encourages trusting one’s intuition over analysis paralysis in training.