What if the key to understanding intelligence, emotion, and even human evolution starts with puppies?

In this episode, we explore the surprising science behind how dogs think, learn, and connect with us—beginning at the earliest stages of life. Our guest, Vanessa Woods, takes us inside the world of canine cognition, revealing what puppy development can teach us about communication, cooperation, empathy, and the deep bond between humans and dogs.

From the concept of “puppy kindergarten” to groundbreaking research on how dogs read our emotions and intentions, this conversation uncovers why dogs may be one of the most powerful windows into understanding intelligence—both theirs and ours.

Equal parts science, storytelling, and wonder, this episode will change how you see puppies, dogs, and the minds that connect us.

www.thefurrealpodcast.com

ig@ dukecaninecognition ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle

fb@ Mark A Kyle tik tok@ The Fur Real Podcast

Puppy Kindergarten Book

https://a.co/d/1ULahRA

Dontaion Link

https://www.gifts.duke.edu/?designation=3990908

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Cadaver dogs are often thought of as simply having an exceptional nose—but the truth is far more complex.

In this episode, Dr. Lisa Briggs breaks down what truly goes into cadaver detection, from the science behind human scent to the intensive training required for both dogs and their handlers. She explains how scent changes depending on environment, time, and conditions, and why locating human remains in water, fire scenes, or open terrain requires specialized knowledge, experience, and precision.

The conversation also addresses a critical issue in the field: why properly trained and certified teams matter. Well-intentioned but untrained efforts can lead to false alerts, wasted resources, and compromised searches—making professional standards essential in work where accuracy is everything.

This is an inside look at the discipline, science, and responsibility behind cadaver dogs—and why they are much more than a good nose.

www.furrealpodcast.com

ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle fb@Mark A Kyle tik tok@Thefurrealpodcast

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What happens when a nuclear disaster site becomes home to one of the world’s most unique dog populations?

This week, Mark speaks with Dr. Jennifer Betz of the Clean Futures Fund, who has spent years studying, caring for, and advocating for the free-roaming dogs of Chernobyl.

Dr. Betz offers rare insight into the science behind the dogs’ survival, including genetic research, behavioral studies, and the challenges of providing veterinary care within the Exclusion Zone. She also dismantles the many myths — from supposed mutations to ghost-dog stories — revealing the real, grounded truth behind these animals’ lives.

This episode blends history, biology, and human compassion to tell the extraordinary story of the Chernobyl dogs and the people dedicated to protecting them.

www.cleanfutures.org www.furrealpodcast.com

ig@cleanfuturesfund ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle'

fb@ Clean Futures Fund fb@ Mark A Kyle

tik tok@ dogsofchernobyl tik tok@ thefurrealpodcast

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.