

Cog-Dog Radio
Sarah Stremming, The Cognitive Canine
Dog trainer, blogger, competitor.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 12, 2025 • 22min
Becoming a Dog Trainer: A Hero's Journey
The adage goes that we can all learn something from everyone. But if you are learning from everyone, are you actually learning from anyone? Sarah posits in this description of dog training education as a hero’s journey of sorts that there are five categories of teachers that matter; and knowing which kind you are being presented with is vital to true growth as a professional or a hobbyists.
Sign up for courses and join the membership here: sarahstremming.com
Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cogdogradio
Music by AlexGrohl from Pixabay

Aug 5, 2025 • 29min
Virtual Behavior Consulting: A Day in the Life
With twenty years in the field and half of them being online, Sarah brings a unique perspective to the virtual behavior consulting space. Guardians and consultants can both gleam insight from this episode that is all about what happens behind the scenes for the Cog Dog Coach. How long do clients usually stay? Is everyone successful? What about behavior problems that turn out to be medical? Is there universal information, or is everything tailored? Learn about the format, the life lessons, and the mistakes too, all in this episode.
Sign up for courses and join the membership here: sarahstremming.com
Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cogdogradio
Music by AlexGrohl from Pixabay

Jul 29, 2025 • 11min
Attunement
Attunement is the ability to perceive and respond to the emotions of another and it is vital to good relationships, dog-human or otherwise. This is a magical thing, but also a practical skillset that can be learned.
Sign up for courses and join the membership here: sarahstremming.com
Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cogdogradio
Music by AlexGrohl from Pixabay

13 snips
Jul 22, 2025 • 17min
True Healing from Fear
Fear in dogs is a complex emotion that requires nuanced training techniques. The discussion highlights the shortcomings of the counter conditioning approach, urging a deeper understanding of canine fears. A three-step rescue protocol for acute fear responses is introduced, emphasizing empathy and gradual exposure. Listeners are encouraged to build secure bonds with their dogs and celebrate small victories in overcoming fear. This journey of growth parallels nature, showing that patience and respect for a dog's emotions can lead to significant progress.

7 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 1h 10min
Capacity with Karishma Warr
Karishma Warr, a seasoned trainer and behavior consultant, dives deep into the nuances of 'capacity' and its vital role in dog training and human well-being. The discussion uncovers how self-awareness impacts our relationships with pets and the community. Karishma shares insights on recognizing personal limits, promoting self-care, and the importance of community support. Using relatable anecdotes, they challenge the notion that operating at full capacity equals success, advocating for a balanced, restorative approach to both life and pet care.

10 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 15min
The Three Rs of Off Leash Reliability
Explore the essentials of off-leash training with a focus on recalls, radius, and rebounds. Discover how these key behaviors enhance your dog's freedom and the vital bond between you and your pet. Learn why environmental stability plays a crucial role in successful training. Gain insights to ensure your dog's off-leash experience is safe and enjoyable!

Jun 24, 2025 • 15min
“Obedience” in a Welfare-First Behavior Intervention
The podcast dives into the complexities of managing dog behavior with a welfare-first approach. It debates whether traditional obedience training is sufficient for resolving behavior problems. Emphasis is placed on empowering dogs to make choices, rather than just focusing on commands. The discussion highlights creative strategies like avoidance and distraction, showcasing a more holistic view of behavior intervention.

5 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 15min
Errorless Learning
Delve into the intriguing debate surrounding errorless learning in dog training. Discover how this approach can offer a more compassionate alternative to traditional trial-and-error methods. Explore common misconceptions and the importance of fostering a supportive learning environment for our furry friends. This conversation challenges listeners to reassess how they perceive failure in training, urging a more understanding perspective.

4 snips
Jun 12, 2025 • 8min
Patreon Minisode 6
Explore the curious dynamics of dog training as the hosts tackle bizarre behavior seen in an agility class. Dive into the fears of a nervous pup on the trails and uncover strategies to help anxious dogs thrive. Gain insights on managing aggression in a feisty Jack Russell and supporting a mixed breed’s anxiety. Learn the importance of understanding canine needs and creating a calm, encouraging training atmosphere.

5 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 23min
Is a Bench the Same as a Bull? Trigger Types and How to Deal
Discover how to differentiate between various triggers your dog may encounter, from social scenarios to inanimate objects. Learn why a kid on a bike isn’t the same as a chasing rabbit and how to respond appropriately to each. This insightful discussion categorizes triggers into four types, revealing effective strategies for managing your dog's reactions. Perfect for new puppy owners or anyone looking to better understand canine behavior!