
The Bitey End of the Dog
A podcast dedicated to helping dogs with aggression issues. Michael Shikashio CDBC chats with experts from around the world on the topic of aggression in dogs!
Latest episodes

Jul 3, 2023 • 1h 3min
The Intricate Dance of Dogs and Humans: A Conversation with Marco Adda
What if there was more to our canine companions than meets the eye? Join us for a captivating conversation with independent researcher and Anthrozology expert, Marco Adda, as we explore the complex relationship between humans and dogs, and unveil the fascinating world of free-ranging dogs across different cultures and geographic regions.We'll discuss Marco's extensive research on the behavior of companion and free-roaming dogs in Bali, examining the effects of restricting these dogs' freedom and the implications this has on their well-being. Gain insights into the importance of understanding individual personalities and providing an environment that allows dogs to express themselves. We'll also delve into the complexities of dogs' interactions with humans in urban environments, and how a lack of understanding and proper communication can lead to unintended consequences.Wrapping up, we'll touch on the often-misinterpreted concept of dominance in dogs and its role in their interactions with humans and their environment. Don't miss this enlightening episode with Marco Adda, as we uncover the rich culture of dogs and the intricate relationship we share with our four-legged friends.The Aggression in Dogs ConferenceThe Aggression in Dogs Master CourseThe Bitey End of the Dog Bonus EpisodesAbout Marco:Independent researcher, founder and director of AEDC Anthrozoology Education Dogs Canines and PFAH Portugal Focus Animal Help. He leads in-person and online educational programs on dog behavior, free-ranging dogs and wolves. He has studied free-ranging dogs in various countries, conducted field research on Bali dogs, and introduced dogs to schools in Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia. He also studied sledge dogs in Quebec, Dingoes in Australia, and wolves in the UK. He supported the rescue of animals in disasters in Indonesia and Portugal. Member of the International Society for Anthrozoology, the Animal Behavior Society, and board member for the international Anthrozoology Symposium, Romania. Accredited Dognition evaluator. Besides, Marco is a somatic researcher with a relevant interest in drama, social science, anthropology, neuroscience, actor training and martial arts. As such, he directs INS Integral NeuroSoma, is an accredited trainer by the European Commission SALTO Program and is a member of the Theatre and Performance Research Association (TaPRA).Info and socials: - www.marcoadda.com - AEDC Academy https://aedc.thinkific.com/ - FACEBOOK PERSONAL: https://www.facebook.com/marco.adda.7 - FACEBOOK PAGE: https://www.facebook.com/marcoaddaAEDC/ - Email: marcogerardoadda@gmail.comLearn more about options for help for dogs with aggression here:AggressiveDog.comLearn more about our annual Aggression in Dogs Conference here:The Aggression in Dogs ConferenceSubscribe to the bonus episodes available here:The Bitey End of the Dog Bonus EpisodesCheck out all of our webinars, courses, and educational content here:Webinars, courses, and more!

Jun 26, 2023 • 1h 3min
Transforming Vet Visits with Dr. Christine Calder
Imagine making your dog's veterinary visits a stress-free experience for both of you. Join us as we chat with Dr. Christine Calder, a Board Certified Veterinary Behaviorist who shares her expertise on low stress handling for animals. As the Chief Behavior Officer for Cattle Dog Publishing, Dr. Calder is passionate about educating veterinary students and helping pet owners create a positive and safe environment during veterinary procedures.We discuss practical strategies for building trust with your furry friend, such as giving them time to acclimate to the clinic and using treats to assess their emotional state. Dr. Calder emphasizes the importance of understanding canine body language and movement, as well as the role of proper equipment and muzzle training. Together, we explore the benefits of collaborating with trainers to provide comprehensive care for animals with behavioral challenges.The Aggression in Dogs ConferenceThe Aggression in Dogs Master CourseThe Bitey End of the Dog Bonus EpisodesAbout Dr. Calder:Dr. Calder has lived and practiced veterinary medicine in both New Jersey and Maine for many years. In addition to general practice, Dr. Calder spent time as part of the behavior service at San Francisco SPCA and in Community Practice as part of several veterinary school teaching hospitals. As a general practitioner, she always had an interest in animal behavior and in 2016, she finished a residency with the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists becoming a Diplomate with the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists (DACVB) in 2017. In addition to her own behavior referral practice, Dr. Calder is the Chief Behavior Officer for CattleDog Publishing and a Vets at VIN Consultant. www.caldervbs.comLearn more about options for help for dogs with aggression here:AggressiveDog.comLearn more about our annual Aggression in Dogs Conference here:The Aggression in Dogs ConferenceSubscribe to the bonus episodes available here:The Bitey End of the Dog Bonus EpisodesCheck out all of our webinars, courses, and educational content here:Webinars, courses, and more!

Jun 19, 2023 • 60min
When Love Means Letting Go: A Look at Behavioral Euthanasia with Trish McMillan and Sue Alexander
In this episode, we navigate through the difficult topic of behavioral euthanasia in aggression cases. Our expert guests Trish McMillan and Sue Alexander share their expertise in animal behavior, sheltering, and the incredible support group they co-founded, Losing Lulu. We also explore the caregiver burden, the impact it can have on a family, and how to deal with criticism from those who do not understand the situation.The Aggression in Dogs ConferenceThe Aggression in Dogs Master CourseThe Bitey End of the Dog Bonus EpisodesAbout Sue:Sue has over 25 years experience training and handling dogs, both her own and those of her clients. Sue has been teaching dog obedience lessons since 1993. She has participated in a wide variety of dog sports including obedience, tracking, retrieving, Schutzhund, nose work, and agility with her own dogs and those of her clients. In the past year, Hawkeye has joined Sue as her most recent canine partner. Outside of the dog training world, Sue is an avid outdoorsman, participating in camping, hunting, fishing, and canoeing and she is also an enthusiastic equestrian athlete. Sue enjoys riding her gelding, Kahless, and learning the finer points of dressage. Sue founded Dogs in the Park and she was a student at the University of Guelph, and she co-owns that with her husband John. Sue is particularly interested in the rehabilitation of aggressive dogs and the resolution of behavioural problems with dogs in family homes. In 2003, Sue passed the Certificate of Professional Dog Training and in the fall of 2004, she was accepted into the International Association of Animal Behaviour Consultants as a clinical member. More recently she passed the Certificate of Behaviour Consulting Canine, Knowledge Assessed. Sue is a well respected speaker, both on line and in person and has delivered programming in Canada, the USA, the United Kingdom and Ireland. Sue has delivered webinars, seminars and lectures on Applied Behaviour Analysis, Resolving Behaviour Problems and Working with Clients. https://www.dogsinthepark.ca/About Trish:Trish McMillan is an internationally-known speaker on the topics of animal behavior and sheltering. She holds a master of science degree in animal behavior, and is a certified professional dog trainer. Trish first walked into a shelter in the mid 90’s and has been hooked on shelter behavior ever since. She worked for the ASPCA for nearly eight years, first as director of animal behavior at their NYC shelter, and then with the field team, helping assess and rehabilitate dogs from cruelty cases, dogfighting and hoarding situations.Trish owns McMillan Animal Behavior in North Carolina, where she lives in a tiny house on her farm, Pibble Hill. Trish currently shares her life with many animals of five species. Trish’s professional wLearn more about options for help for dogs with aggression here:AggressiveDog.comLearn more about our annual Aggression in Dogs Conference here:The Aggression in Dogs ConferenceSubscribe to the bonus episodes available here:The Bitey End of the Dog Bonus EpisodesCheck out all of our webinars, courses, and educational content here:Webinars, courses, and more!

Jun 12, 2023 • 1h 15min
From Penguins to Pups: The Science of Animal Aggression with Dr. Eddie Fernandez
Ever wondered why your dog growls at other pups or why penguins are surprisingly aggressive? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Eddie Fernandez as we uncover the mysteries of aggression in animals from an academic perspective. Dr. Fernandez shares his expertise in animal welfare research, taking us on a journey through the fascinating world of animal behavior.Throughout this episode, we'll explore the complex world of aggression and its various forms across species like dogs, hippos, walruses, and even penguins. We'll discuss how artificial selection has affected aggression in different breeds of dogs and touch on the effects of captivity on various species. Finally, we'll reveal the power of enrichment for managing animal behavior, discussing reinforcement and punishment contingencies to maintain behavior. Dr. Fernandez shares examples of successful enrichment programs, like scent work and nose work for dogs. Don't miss this captivating episode with Eddie as we navigate the intricate world of animal from the perspective of both evolution and learning.The Aggression in Dogs ConferenceThe Aggression in Dogs Master CourseThe Bitey End of the Dog Bonus EpisodesAbout Dr. Fernandez:Eduardo J. Fernandez is a Senior Lecturer of Applied Animal Behaviour and Welfare in the School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences at the University of Adelaide (Australia). He received his Ph.D. in Psychology (minors in Neuroscience and Animal Behavior) from Indiana University, where he worked with the Indianapolis and Cincinnati Zoo. He received his M.S. in Behavior Analysis from the University of North Texas, where he founded the Organization for Reinforcement Contingencies with Animals (ORCA). Most of his past and current work involves behavioral research applied to the welfare and training of zoo, aquarium, and companion animals. His past positions include a Visiting Professorship at Seattle Pacific University, a Visiting Professorship in the School of Behavior Analysis at the Florida Institute of Technology, an Affiliate Assistant Professorship in the Psychology Department at the University of Washington, a Research Fellowship with Woodland Park Zoo, and a National Science Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship. While working with UW and the Woodland Park Zoo, he started the Behavioral Enrichment Animal Research (BEAR) group, which conducted welfare research with many of the species and exhibits located throughout the zoo. He currently runs the Operant Welfare Lab (OWL), which is dedicated to the use of learning principles to improve the lives of animals across many settings, including exotic animals in zoos and companion animals in homes and shelters. OWL is also part of the broader Animal Behaviour, Welfare, and Anthrozoology Lab (ABWAL; abwal.com). Many of Eduardo’s past publications, research projects, and presentations can be found on his ResearchGate profile: Learn more about options for help for dogs with aggression here:AggressiveDog.comLearn more about our annual Aggression in Dogs Conference here:The Aggression in Dogs ConferenceSubscribe to the bonus episodes available here:The Bitey End of the Dog Bonus EpisodesCheck out all of our webinars, courses, and educational content here:Webinars, courses, and more!

Jun 5, 2023 • 51min
Patricia McConnell Ph.D., CAAB Emeritus
Welcome to Season 4 of The Bitey End of the Dog. I’m really excited to be launching 17 episodes with so many incredible conversations centered around the topic of aggression, and all of the ways we can help dogs and their people.Many of this season’s episodes focus on the human side of aggression cases, and while I didn’t actually plan for that, I am truly happy many of the conversations took a deep dive into understanding why the human element is such a crucial part of dog aggression. In this episode, I have the distinct honor to chat with one of my all time heroes in dog training, Patricia McConnell. Her work was pivotal in helping me learn more about kinder, gentler methods to dog training, and her knowledge, kindness, and generosity will forever be etched into the betterment of humankind.I also want to take a moment to provide an important content warning for this episode. This was one of the most emotional episodes for me to record, and Trisha and I go deep into some very sensitive subjects. We discuss Trisha’s book, The Education of Will, and the topics of trauma, abuse, and assault are focused on throughout the conversation. Listener discretion is advised. I also want to note that while we focus much on the human side of trauma in our discussion, we also discuss how trauma impacts dogs, and it’s impact on aggression as well. Learn more about Patricia on her wonderful website here.Purchase The Education of Will here. Please consider donating to the RCC here.Learn more about help for dogs with aggression here. Learn more about options for help for dogs with aggression here:AggressiveDog.comLearn more about our annual Aggression in Dogs Conference here:The Aggression in Dogs ConferenceSubscribe to the bonus episodes available here:The Bitey End of the Dog Bonus EpisodesCheck out all of our webinars, courses, and educational content here:Webinars, courses, and more!

Dec 12, 2022 • 47min
How Severe is Your Aggression Case? A Bonus Episode With Michael Shikashio!
Whether you are a behavior pro, part of a shelter or rescue team, or a pet guardian, the decisions to navigate in an aggression case can be overwhelming! It's a "solo show" where I discuss the prognostic factors in aggression cases to help clients understand the severity of their situation, and determine potential outcomes. It's also a special bonus, bonus episode all about setting expectations and determining potential outcomes in aggression cases as Season 4 doesn't officially launch until June of 2023!Other topics in the subscription series focus on specific types of aggression cases such as territorial aggression, stranger danger, dog to dog aggression, and more!Subscribe to more bonus content by hitting the "subscribe" button in your Apple Podcast player OR sign-up here and add the subscription to most podcast players, such as Spotify:https://thebiteyendofthedog.supercast.com/Learn more about dog aggression here:https://aggressivedog.thinkific.com/Learn more about options for help for dogs with aggression here:AggressiveDog.comLearn more about our annual Aggression in Dogs Conference here:The Aggression in Dogs ConferenceSubscribe to the bonus episodes available here:The Bitey End of the Dog Bonus EpisodesCheck out all of our webinars, courses, and educational content here:Webinars, courses, and more!

Dec 5, 2022 • 41min
Helen St. Pierre - Old Dogs Go to Helen - A Special Episode Dedicated to Our Older Friends
This is a special bonus episode of The Bitey End of the Dog that is a bit off-season for the show since I typically launch each season in the beginning of each Summer, but I couldn’t resist when my friend Helen St. Pierre wanted to talk about old, senior dogs, which is a topic that isn’t talked about enough. Helen runs Old Dogs Go to Helen, a non-profit organization that cares for senior or hospice dogs, and all the considerations that go into running such a wonderful cause. We chat about their care and behavior considerations, including aggression, or lack there of, but one of the highlights of this episode for me was learning what Helen does to navigate the emotions of saying goodbye to the dogs in our care.ABOUT HELEN:https://nomonkeybusinessdogtraining.com/meet-the-trainers/SAVORING THE SUNSET WEBINAR (Scheduled for 12/14/22 at 6pm Eastern):https://nomonkeybusinessdogtraining.thinkific.com/courses/savoring-the-sunset?fbclid=IwAR2hPldBQCMmROxLwhSoLriD59-RxVKZlfz6ocHyGycuH24Fz-4KJ3Y7TNwDONATE TO THE CAUSE HERE:https://olddogsgotohelen.com/donateLearn more about options for help for dogs with aggression here:AggressiveDog.comLearn more about our annual Aggression in Dogs Conference here:The Aggression in Dogs ConferenceSubscribe to the bonus episodes available here:The Bitey End of the Dog Bonus EpisodesCheck out all of our webinars, courses, and educational content here:Webinars, courses, and more!

Oct 24, 2022 • 37min
Melissa McMath Hatfield, MS, CBCC-KA, CDBC --- Dog Bite Litigation
A bite from a dog can have many ramifications. These can include the emotional impacts on the dog’s guardians, or the dog practicing an undesirable behavior, or even the potential fate of the dog. And of course in our litigious society, we often will see civil and even criminal ramifications when a dog inures a person or other animal. For this episode of Fresh Bites on The Bitey End of the Dog, I chat with Melissa McMath Hatfield who is an expert on expert witness work in dog bite cases. Melissa does an excellent job of breaking down what can happen when a bite incident ends up in court, and what to expect from both the plaintiff and defendant sides. For additional resources on helping dogs with aggression, visit:https://aggressivedog.comAbout Melissa:Melissa McMath Hatfield, MS, CBCC-KA, CDBC, has combined her experience as a trial consultant and her passion for the human-canine relationship to develop and strengthen the canine-human relationship through understanding, knowledge, and empathy. Hatfield earned a master’s degree in counseling psychology (1981) and is a retired Licensed Psychological Examiner. As owner of McMath Trial Consultants for 42 years, her area of specialization has been in jury selection, developing jury profiles, focus groups, case presentation, voir dire, and witness preparation. She has been published and presented to numerous state and national bar associations and is considered an expert in jury selection for both state and federal courts. She has participated in high-profile cases in both civil and criminal courts across the country. Hatfield is a Certified Canine Behavior Consultant and a Professional Member of both the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) and the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT). She has been published in the IAABC Journal, the APDT The Chronicle of the Dog, the Royal Spaniel, and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel The Bulletin. Her articles have received numerous nominations in the Dog Writers Association of America’s writing competition. Relative to this presentation, she was published in the IAABC Journal, August 2017, “Witness for the Prosecution” and the APDT, Chronicle, Spring, 2018, “Witness for the Prosecution…Dog trainers, behaviorist may be called for expert testimony.” She presented a 2015 E-Training Webinar, “Identifying and Assessing Mental Health Issues in the Dog,” and “Attachment Scales as a Tool for Trainers, Shelters and Behavior Consultants,” at the APDT 2017 fall conference in Richmond Virginia. Currently, Hatfield has a private practice in which her skills as a trial consultant and certified canine consultant can be combined to assist the professionals who find themselves in litigation. However, her primary focus is temperament assessments and behavior evaluations of dogs that are exhibiting mental health issues, such as anxiety, aggression, fear, and other behavior problems. Hatfield lives in Fayetteville, Arkansas, with her very supportive husband, Dick, and two Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Haviland and Huntington, who is currently aspiring toward Learn more about options for help for dogs with aggression here:AggressiveDog.comLearn more about our annual Aggression in Dogs Conference here:The Aggression in Dogs ConferenceSubscribe to the bonus episodes available here:The Bitey End of the Dog Bonus EpisodesCheck out all of our webinars, courses, and educational content here:Webinars, courses, and more!

Oct 17, 2022 • 39min
Alex and Will Sessa - Living and Working With a Police Dog
Have you ever wondered what it is like training, working with, and living with a police dog? If so, then this is the episode for you! I have the opportunity to chat with Alex and Will Sessa for this episode of Fresh Bites on The Bitey End of the Dog. Alex is an experienced and successful dog trainer who owns Peach On a Leash, and Will is a an experienced and successful police canine trainer with over 15 years of service. Talk about a dynamic duo! I am sure you will enjoy hearing about what life is like in the Sessa home, living with a blend of working and pet dogs, and two young children as well!For additional resources on helping dogs with aggression, visit:https://aggressivedog.comHere is the special link to The Aggression in Dogs Master Course and Expert Webinar Bundle. Offer expires on 11/1/22.https://aggressivedog.thinkific.com/bundles/the-aggression-in-dogs-master-course-and-expert-webinar-bundleAbout Alex:Peach on a Leash® is a full-service dog training company based in Alpharetta, Georgia and serving Metro Atlanta and its northern suburbs, from Midtown to Cumming.Utilizing the most modern, science-based training techniques, head trainer and pet behavior expert Alex Sessa, CPDT-KA, CDBC and her team of certified, highly experienced trainers will deliver the results you’re looking for.We provide your dog with a positive and effective learning experience that provides quick results and dramatically improves behavior while strengthening your bond with your dog.Regardless of your dog’s breed or behavior issues, you’ll be amazed at how quickly your dog responds to our training.https://peachonaleash.com/Learn more about options for help for dogs with aggression here:AggressiveDog.comLearn more about our annual Aggression in Dogs Conference here:The Aggression in Dogs ConferenceSubscribe to the bonus episodes available here:The Bitey End of the Dog Bonus EpisodesCheck out all of our webinars, courses, and educational content here:Webinars, courses, and more!

Oct 10, 2022 • 35min
Bobbie Bhambree CDBC, CPDT-KA
This is an excellent episode with another awesome team member from Behavior Vets. For this episode of Fresh Bites on The Bitey End of the Dog, I have an enjoyable conversation with Bobbie Bhambree, the director of behavior services at Behavior Vets, about veterinarian and trainer collaborations. An often important and crucial aspect of working with dogs who have aggression issues is this team approach which includes the dog’s guardian, their veterinarian, and the behavior professional or trainer to ensure the best possible outcomes. Bobbie and I discuss a number of key strategies to build these team relationships, and I think you will get some nice takeaways from this episode. For additional resources on helping dogs with aggression, visit:https://aggressivedog.comHere is the special link to The Aggression in Dogs Master Course and Expert Webinar Bundle. Offer expires on 11/1/22.https://aggressivedog.thinkific.com/bundles/the-aggression-in-dogs-master-course-and-expert-webinar-bundleAbout Bobbie:Bobbie Bhambree (CDBC, CPDT-KA) is the Director of Behavior Services and a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant at Behavior Vets. She is also a faculty member of CATCH Canine Trainers Academy and Agility University. Bobbie started her career in 2003 as a pet behavior counselor with the ASPCA Animal Behavior Center. While there, she implemented behavior modification programs for dogs who had been surrendered by the public or seized by Humane Law Enforcement. In 2007, Bobbie joined the Humane Society of Westchester, spending the next nine years as their shelter trainer. She created and implemented training and enrichment programs for the dogs, counseled adopters, trained volunteers, participated in community outreach programs, and performed evaluations.In 2016, Bobbie joined the North Shore Animal League America in Port Washington, NY as the Director of Pet Behavior. During her tenure there, she managed a team of canine and feline trainers who focused on developing behavior modification and enrichment programs for the animals in the shelter. She also deployed for the ASPCA Anti-Cruelty Behavior Team to work in the field, supporting the team with dog fighting busts, puppy mill cases, and hoarding cases. In addition to this work, she founded and directed her own company, DogCentric Dog Training, helping people whose pet dogs experienced a wide spectrum of canine behavior issues.Learn more about options for help for dogs with aggression here:AggressiveDog.comLearn more about our annual Aggression in Dogs Conference here:The Aggression in Dogs ConferenceSubscribe to the bonus episodes available here:The Bitey End of the Dog Bonus EpisodesCheck out all of our webinars, courses, and educational content here:Webinars, courses, and more!