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

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!

Jun 3, 2025 • 1h 15min
Forrest School with Tara Stillwell LFDM-W
Sit down this week with Sarah and Tara Stiwell, a licensed family dog mediator of the working division who co-owns Glimmer Dog where the innovative Forrest School operates. Forrest School integrates natural environments, stable social groups, and support and skill development to solve all manner of behavioral concerns in dogs.
Join Tara June 16 for her webinar all about Forrest School, and use the link below or the discount code COGDOG20.
https://glimmer.dog/forrest-school-webinar?promo=COGDOG20
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

May 27, 2025 • 7min
Reactivity Mythbusting
Discover the truth behind common misconceptions of dog reactivity, such as barking and lunging. The discussion emphasizes the need for skillful handling over simple confidence. It also advocates for a holistic approach to dog training, stressing the importance of training methods and environmental factors. Instead of relying on labels and tools, listeners are encouraged to seek comprehensive solutions for their furry friends' behaviors.

23 snips
May 20, 2025 • 59min
REPLAY: The False Dichotomy with Lisa Mullinax CDBC Part Three
In the final installment of The False Dichotomy Sarah and Lisa wrap up their conversation about the “balanced vs force free” falsehood in dog training.
Find Lisa Mullinax at www.serenitycanine.com

May 13, 2025 • 1h 22min
REPLAY: The False Dichotomy with Lisa Mullinax CDBC Part Two
In the second (of three!) parts on The False Dichotomy in dog training, Sarah and Lisa get into the weeds regarding what effectiveness looks like, what it truly means to manipulate aversive or appetitive stimuli, and all the nuances involved. Stay tuned for the final installment in two weeks!
Two podcasts on reinforcement:
Sarah-stremming – Reinforcement-misunderstandings
Sarah-stremming – Coercion-with-adam-skandarani
A blog concerning the coercion of R+:
thecognitivecanine.com/high-value-vs…einforcement/
Find Lisa at serenitycanine.com and shelterbehavior.com
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

May 6, 2025 • 1h 2min
REPLAY: The False Dichotomy with Lisa Mullianx CDBC Part One
In response to the “trainer wars” between the balanced and force-free communities Sarah and past podcast guest (and friend) Lisa Mullinax sit down to talk about the place where ethics meet efficacy. Lisa and Sarah do not claim a label as trainers (neither balanced nor force-free), and have both undergone an evolution in the behavior field that has helped them to arrive at a place free of dogma and full of compassion.
Know the opinions expressed here are vulnerable and honest, and there can’t be enough time for all nuance to be present in all conversations. Neither Sarah nor Lisa represent anything other than themselves in their thoughts expressed herein.
Two podcasts on reinforcement:
Sarah-stremming – Reinforcement-misunderstandings
Sarah-stremming – Coercion-with-adam-skandarani
A blog concerning the coercion of R+:
thecognitivecanine.com/high-value-vs…einforcement/
Find Lisa at serenitycanine.com and shelterbehavior.com
https://sarahstremming.com/tennis-racquets-and-doubles-partners/
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

Apr 29, 2025 • 14min
Where Do I Even Start? What it Means to be Welfare First in Behavior Consulting
Explore the importance of a welfare-first mindset in behavior consulting for dogs. Delve into the complexities of handling cases where multiple factors affect a dog's well-being. Learn about real-life examples that highlight the significance of prioritizing health and collaboration with veterinary experts. Discover how a systematic approach can lead to better outcomes for our furry friends, even when faced with daunting behavior challenges.

20 snips
Apr 22, 2025 • 14min
Reactive Adolescent Dogs
Is it a phase? Will they grow out of it? Is my young dog cursed for life with reactivity? The good news is that adolescence passes. The bad news is the lessons learned there do not. Learn the four most important things to do while your dog is a teenager do be sure they grow into a balanced adult.
https://sarahstremming.com/tennis-racquets-and-doubles-partners/
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

Apr 15, 2025 • 13min
Teammate or Tool?
This discussion dives into the ethics of partnership in dog sports. It highlights the fine line between viewing dogs as teammates or just tools. The conversation stresses the importance of values and compassion in competitive environments. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on accountability and the welfare of their canine partners. The insights challenge owners to consider how they treat their dogs while pursuing success in agility sports.

Apr 10, 2025 • 10min
Patreon Minisode 5
Explore the puzzling world of reinforcement confusion in sports and its surprising crossover to dog training. Hear a humorous tale about a friendly dog that takes a turn for the unexpected. Dive into methods for prioritizing a dog's welfare while addressing behavior issues, focusing on their comfort rather than just convenience for owners. Gain insights into managing displacement behaviors and social discomfort in dogs, equipping you with practical tools for training and enhancing your pet's well-being.


