Nate Schoemer Dog Training Podcast Ep. 32 - From Frustration to Focus: Michael Ellis on Smarter Dog Training
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Jul 7, 2025 
Join Michael Ellis, an international dog training expert with 40+ years of experience, as he reveals the secret sauce to effective training: engagement. He discusses how motivation shapes learning and shares must-know tips on using verbal markers correctly. From tackling common mistakes like learned irrelevance to addressing fear and aggression, he emphasizes the importance of clear communication and tailored techniques. Plus, discover the future of dog training as science redefines best practices. Perfect for anyone looking to enhance their dog training game!
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Introduce Variable Reinforcement Early
- Introduce intermittent reinforcement early rather than staying on continuous rewards too long.
- Watch mechanics and enthusiasm to decide when to start variable rewards.
Experiment And Backtrack When Needed
- Experiment with unrewarded reps to find each dog's limits and then adjust training.
- Push forward to test edges, and if it's too soon, simply return to continuous reinforcement.
Best Methods Borrow From Both Worlds
- The best future training blends the strengths of traditional and reward-based methods.
- Science and broader canine research will refine that blended sweet spot.