If you were at the top of your game, winning competitions and receiving approval from those around you, what would it take for you to walk away? For dog and horse specialist Pennie Clayton it was listening to the needs of her dog Flynt. During this episode Pennie shares how her understanding of dog behaviour and communication was shaped by recognising what Flynt truly enjoyed in life. We discuss how ambition and ego can sometimes get in the way of enjoying our lives with our dogs, as well as the ways they benefit when we put these things aside. This is the episode to listen to if you strive to be your dog's best friend.

Horse and Hound School: www.horseandhoundschool.co.uk

Facebook @horseandhoundschooltrainer

Enhancing the life of your hound Facebook group

Slow Dog Movement: www.slowdogmovement.org

The old maxim of 'never work with children and animals' doesn't apply in Mel Ritterman's world. In this 'That Dog' story, we meet the gorgeous Cooper, a golden retriever who helped his human re-evaluate and grow in new directions, from career to parenting. Mel runs a successful business in Melbourne, Australia called Cooper and Kids which specialises in creating safe, happy and positive relationships between babies, kids and dogs. During this episode Mel talks honestly and openly about the mistakes she made with Cooper in the beginning and the crucial role he played in how she now works with and supports dogs and families. We delve into ways parents can foster healthier relationships between dogs and children, as well as the often unfair expectations we place on the 'family pet'. This is a must listen episode not just for parents but for anyone who believes dogs deserve to be understood, loved and respected members of the family.

www.cooperandkids.com

Facebook @cooperandkids

Instagram @cooperandkids

Can dogs provide a gateway to a richer emotional life? When Skye the lurcher entered the home of Lisa Tenzin-Dolma, he provided her with new depths of understanding of canine communication. Lisa has been an influential force within the dog industry and played a pivotal role in educating future generations of trainers and behaviour consultants. During this conversation we talk about changes in the industry and what they mean for the future of dog training, as well as ways we can build harmonious lives with our dogs. We discuss Skye's rambunctious teenage phase and how he went on to help many other dogs recover from trauma and live better lives. This is a 'that dog' story that celebrates the power of friendship.

The International School for Canine Psychology and Behaviour: www.theiscp.com

Association of INTODogs: www.intodogs.org

The Dog Welfare Alliance: www.thedogwelfarealliance.co.uk

International Companion Animal Network: www.companionanimal.network

www.tenzindolma.co.uk