The Dog People Podcast

Got a rescue dog with a name you don’t love or a dog whose name just doesn’t feel right? A lot of owners worry that changing a dog’s name will confuse them or damage the bond.In this episode of The Dog People Podcast, Jack and Max O’Neil answer one simple question: can you change your dog’s name… and should you? Max explains how dogs actually understand their names, why they don’t attach the same meaning to names that we do, and how a new name can even become a positive fresh start for anxious or rehomed dogs.If you’ve ever wondered, “Is it cruel to change my dog’s name?” this episode will put your mind at ease and give you a simple, step-by-step way to do it properly.

We’re back to our regular programming and diving straight into your questions. Today, Max breaks down dog-food aggression, resource-guarding behaviours around toys, and the crucial difference between true punishment and unintentionally postive reinforcing of a behaviour.Got a question for us? Join The Dog People Podcast Facebook group and get involved.

This is another episode in our dog sports series where we are trying to convince more people to do cool things with their dogs! and IGP is certianly one of those sports. It takes dedication and time but can be incredibly rewarding for you and your dog and more importantly FUN!!In this episode we sit down with Sharonkia Williamson, founder of Clear Canine and one of Australia’s most respected IGP trainers, for a clear and practical look into the world of the working-dog sport. Sharonkia breaks down the fundamentals of IGP’s three phases — tracking, obedience and protection — and explains why the sport is as much about clarity, control and communication as it is about drive.We dive into what makes a great working dog and Sharonkia also shares advice for beginners and how everyday dog owners can jump into IGP.

In this extra long Dog pod episode, Jack and Max sit down with Casey from Big Show PSA — a trainer with one of the wildest origin stories you’ll ever hear. Casey has spent years working with animals of all sizes, and his path into dog training and PSA protection sports began in the most unexpected place: training tigers for a movie. When COVID hit and the industry shut down overnight, Casey pivoted and found his purpose in the world of working dogs.He talks us through PSA protection sport, why he loves it so much and how you can get into it!

In this episode, Jack and Max are joined once again by the team from Barn Dogs Australia — but this time, they’re heading to the pool! The crew dives into the fast-growing sport of dock diving, a high-energy activity that’s as fun for owners as it is for dogs. From the basics of getting started to training tips, safety, and competition insights, this episode covers everything you need to know to help your dog take the leap. Whether your pup’s a natural swimmer or just loves chasing a toy, dock diving could be their new favourite outlet.BARN DOGS AUSTRALIA

In this episode of The Dog People Podcast, Jack and Max are joined by the team from Barn Dogs Australia to uncover one of the most exciting and accessible dog sports around — Barn Search! Learn how this scent-based game taps into your dog’s natural instincts, builds confidence, and strengthens your bond. Whether you’ve got a working breed or a couch companion, Barn Search offers a fun, low-pressure way to engage your dog’s nose and mind. Discover how to get started, what you’ll need, and why this fast-growing sport is perfect for everyday dog owners.

Jack and Max are joined by Jamie the Dog Trainer to dive into the world of ANKC obedience — one of the fastest-growing dog sports around. Jamie breaks down the structure of obedience competitions, explains how ANKC works, what makes it unique, and how everyday owners can get involved. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your dog’s obedience skills or step into the exciting world of ANKC sport, this episode is packed with insights on training, structure, and community.

In this new mini-series, Jack and Max dive into the world of dog sports that anyone can get involved in — no elite training required. From dock diving to barn search and obedience competitions, these sports aren’t just great fun, they’re an incredible way to build a stronger relationship with your dog. Whether you’ve got a high-energy pup or a more laid-back companion, there’s a sport out there for you. Discover how to get started, what’s involved, and why these activities are booming in popularity.

What makes someone leave a career as a professional triathlete to become one of Victoria’s most respected dog trainers? In this episode, Max and Jack sit down with Jamie, a trainer who started out teaching puppy school classes before helping Petstock build their national puppy program. He shares how he turned his passion into a thriving business, grew a loyal social media following, and the training philosophies that shape his work today. If you’ve ever thought about turning your love for dogs into a career, this one’s for you.