Struggle Care

68: Emotionally Intelligent Dog Training with Andrew Gleason

Dec 14, 2023

Andrew Gleason, a dog trainer, discusses the limitations of traditional dog training methods and emphasizes the importance of addressing emotional issues in dogs. He highlights the significance of healthy boundaries and mutual respect in dog training, and the importance of effective communication and emotional well-being. Gleason also talks about his successful in-home and online coaching programs.

01:07:02

Episode guests

Andrew Gleason

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Establishing boundaries and mutual respect is crucial in dog training, rather than relying solely on obedience-based programs or control-based training.

Traditional dog training techniques that prioritize command-based or obedience-based programs may lead to suppression or defensive reactions in dogs, highlighting the need for a holistic approach that considers emotional model learning and creates a safe and optimistic learning environment.

Effective communication in dog training requires clarity and optimism through providing clear and consistent feedback, focusing on teaching the dog how to learn and understand boundaries rather than solely using punishment to suppress behavior.

Deep dives

The Importance of Boundaries and Mutual Respect in Dog Training

In this podcast episode, Andrew Gleason from Dog Savvy Training discusses the significance of establishing boundaries and mutual respect in dog training. He emphasizes that relying solely on obedience-based programs or control-based training is insufficient. Instead, he advocates for a comprehensive approach that considers the emotional well-being of the dog and facilitates learning through clear communication and positive reinforcement. Gleason warns against using punishment or aversive methods that focus on stopping undesirable behavior without addressing the underlying emotions and conflicts. He underlines the importance of creating a safe and optimistic learning environment for the dog to foster a harmonious relationship based on boundaries and mutual respect.

Introduction

2min

The Limitations of Traditional Dog Training Methods

16min

Understanding the Emotional and Human Problems in Dog Training

5min

Addressing Emotional Issues in Dog Training

20min

The Importance of Boundaries and Mutual Respect in Dog Training

6min

Effective Communication and Emotional Well-being in Dog Training

20min

Effective Dog Training Programs: In-Home and Online Coaching

3min

As we continue with the topic of responsible dog ownership for those with mental health challenges, I’m joined today by Andrew Gleason of Dog Savvy Training. He’s my personal dog trainer, and I love his approach. Join us to learn more about training and teaching your four-legged “wild child.”

Show Highlights:

● How Andrew came into the work he does today

● Why most obedience training is a way to control misbehavior—and falls short

● Why most dog behaviors fall into two categories of suppression or reaction

● How Andrew breaks down a simple issue like leash-walking

● How learning for all mammals comes down to constructional model learning and emotional model learning

● How to support your dog’s learning

● What “force-free training” entails with a more holistic approach

● How Andrew attempts to take a healthy approach to limitations, boundaries, and respect

● How common training techniques don’t communicate learning

● How Andrew uses aversions and optimism to teach a dog about the freedom of choice

● An overview of Andrew’s company, Dog SavvyTraining, and their scope of both in-person and virtual training