What if your dog’s behavior isn’t disobedience—but a misunderstood personality? In this eye-opening episode of the Courageous Canine Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Melanie Uhde, founder of Canine Decoded and a PhD-level scientist turned canine behavior expert. From her academic roots at Stanford and Columbia to the villages of Northern Thailand, Dr. Uhde shares how she uncovered the science behind reactivity, anxiety, and the five core personality traits in dogs.

You’ll learn:
🐾 Why some dogs are naturally cautious or neurotic—and how that’s not a bad thing
🐾 How to use science and empathy together for better training results
🐾 Real-life stories of transformation with anxious and reactive dogs
🐾 The truth about training “difficult” breeds like Shiba's, Border Collies, and wolf hybrids
🐾 How to identify your dog’s unique personality—and why it matters more than the breed

Whether you’re a dog owner, trainer, or just a canine behavior nerd, this conversation will change how you see your dog forever. Listen now and start decoding what your dog has been trying to tell you all along.

In this heartwarming and powerful episode, Michael sits down with Freddie B, a retired professional turned full-time dog rescuer with over 50 years of experience working with dogs—especially those who are fearful, aggressive, or feral. Freddie shares how he turned his retirement into a mission-driven life, founding Freddie B’s Furry Friends Rescue to help the dogs most others avoid.

Freddie opens up about:

• Why fearful and aggressive dogs are often the last to be adopted—and how he helps them heal
• The emotional and behavioral transformation of dogs like Tigger and Piglet
• The role of patience, body language, and energy in building trust with traumatized dogs
• The difference between shelter-based and foster-based rescue models
• Why understanding canine communication is essential for avoiding bites and creating lasting bonds
• How compassion fatigue affects rescue workers—and how he overcomes it by focusing on the joy of transformation

This episode is packed with wisdom, emotion, and practical insight. Freddie reminds us that every dog, no matter how broken or scared, deserves a second chance—and with the right support, they can thrive.

🦴 To support Freddie B’s work or become a foster:
Visit freddiebsfurryfriendsrescue.org

🐾 Sponsored by: BECanine.com – Human-grade supplements for happier, healthier dogs.

Next Episode: Don’t miss our next guest, Remy Mundschenk, an agility trainer and medical foster doing incredible work in Spokane, Washington.

In this heartfelt episode of The Courageous Canine Podcast, host Michael Pickens sits down with Tabitha Newell, a resilient dog mom, podcast host, and founder of RU & Crew Nutrition. After a shocking MS diagnosis and the sudden loss of her beloved Frenchie, Rupert, to an aggressive form of cancer, Tabitha turned her heartbreak into a mission. She shares how Rupert’s passing inspired her to dive deep into both human and canine wellness, launch a supplement line, and advocate for prevention through education and holistic care.

We explore:

-Her journey from thriving CrossFit junkie to chronic illness warrior.

-The tragic and rapid decline of Rupert—and what she wishes she knew sooner.

-The overlooked dangers of tap water, synthetic supplements, and poor breeding practices.

-What it’s really like raising a paralyzed rescue dog.

-French Bulldog pros, cons, and why they’re not for the faint of heart.

It’s a moving, empowering conversation full of laughter, tears, and takeaways every dog parent should hear.

Listen, learn, and love your pup a little deeper today.
🦴 Visit: RUandCrewNutrition.com
🎧 Check out Tabitha’s podcast: Little Bit of Life Cast on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube.

"The Courageous Canine Podcast" is your go-to source for all things related to holistic dog health. Hosted by Michael Pickens, a holistic health researcher, dog dad, and Chief Empowerment Officer for Pacific Crest Canine Health, the podcast aims to educate dog parents and canine caretakers on natural methods to ensure their furry companions live healthy, happy lives.

In this introductory episode, Michael shares his passion for helping dogs overcome health issues using natural means. He emphasizes the importance of preventive care to extend dogs' lifespans, citing the alarming decrease in average lifespans of dog breeds over the years. Through insightful conversations with experts and real pet parents, the podcast will explore various topics, including nutrition, supplements, alternative therapies, behavior, and training.

Michael discusses common health issues affecting dogs, such as obesity, joint problems, dental disease, allergies, parasites, digestive disorders, cancer, heart disease, respiratory problems, mental health, and senior health. He highlights the significance of addressing these issues holistically, considering factors like environment, diet, exercise, mental well-being, and genetics.

The podcast aims to debunk myths, educate listeners, and provide practical solutions to improve canine health. Michael stresses the importance of early detection and intervention, as well as preventive measures to avoid serious health conditions like cancer. He encourages dog owners to explore fresh food options and move away from overcooked kibble.

Listeners are encouraged to stay tuned for upcoming episodes that will delve deeper into specific topics, such as treatment options for dogs with cancer, including cannabis, Chinese medicine, diet, water quality, and vibration therapy. Each episode will feature expert guests sharing their insights and experiences.

Follow us at http://www.Courageous.dog