

Training Without Conflict® | Dog Training Podcast
Training Without Conflict®
Training Without Conflict® is a dog training podcast hosted by Ivan Balabanov. With 40+ years of experience training and breeding working dogs, Ivan shares practical insights on dog behavior, obedience, aggression, reactivity, fear, motivation, drive, and real-world training results. Episodes include deep conversations with respected guests and clear explanations for dog owners and professional trainers who want serious learning without ideology.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 3, 2025 • 1h 38min
Episode Fifty-Nine: Dr. Orion
Ori Stollar, known as Dr. Orion, is a veterinarian and board-certified veterinary behaviorist. He joins Ivan to discuss the controversial use of SSRIs in dogs. They question if the 'chemical imbalance' theory is valid or just marketing hype. The conversation delves into whether SSRIs genuinely improve behavior or simply make pets easier to handle. They also explore the balance between medication and training in addressing canine behavior issues, advocating for responsible practices and a better understanding of each dog's needs.

Apr 22, 2025 • 2h 37min
Episode Fifty-Eight: Jan Van Maren
Jan Van Maren, a renowned IGP helper from the Netherlands, shares insights from his impressive career, including his experience at prestigious championships. He discusses the recent ban on stick hits and its impact on training methods and dog behavior. The conversation dives into personalized coaching for competitors, exploring how individual strengths can enhance performance. Jan also highlights the importance of understanding a dog's prey drive versus aggression, and the need for tailored approaches in training to maximize effectiveness and maintain motivation.

Mar 8, 2025 • 1h 40min
Episode Fifty-Seven: Johan Weckhuyzen
I had a great conversation with Johan Weckhuyzen. Johan is the breeder of van de Duvetorre Malinois kennels in Belgium. He is also the president of FMBB. I've known Johan for a very long time and finally was able to catch him to come to the podcast. We talk about Malinois, the legends in the breed, selection l, genetics, and training, Ring sport, IGP, detection and much more. We did not have time to go over the future goals of FMBB , this will part two. Enjoy and don’t forget to comment!

Feb 13, 2025 • 2h 13min
Episode Fifty-Five: Javier Mendoza-Diek
Today, I have an incredible guest with an inspiring journey—Javier, a talented dog trainer who proves that hard work and passion can take you far. However you have to take the risks and challenges in front of you. Originally from Honduras, Javier moved to the U.S. at just 16 years old with his father. He initially pursued a career in veterinary medicine, meanwhile working as a vet tech, but soon realized that dog training was his true calling.Javier started as an army of one experimenting with the possibility and eventually took the leap into full-time dog training. Eventually he also took the TWC course. Now, he runs a thriving business with over 20 employees, showing what’s possible when you commit to your passion. His story is a must-listen for anyone on the fence about making dog training their career. If you’ve ever wondered whether you should take that leap—this episode is for you.Ivan Balabanov is a 2-time World Champion dog trainer, Ot Vitosha Malinois breeder, trainer of Premier Protection Dogs and founder of the revolutionary Training Without Conflict® dog training system.For more information about Ivan Balabanov's Dog Training School and information on how to train your dog using the Training Without Conflict® system, check out: https://trainingwithoutconflict.comhttps://malinois.comhttps://premierprotectiondogs.comPlease like, comment, and share with your dog friends💪🏼

Jan 30, 2025 • 3h 15min
Episode Fifty-Four: Jason Purgason
In this engaging conversation, Jason Purgason, President of Highland Canine Training, shares insights from his 30-plus years in dog training, spanning law enforcement to specialized service dogs. He highlights the critical importance of matching dogs with their owners' lifestyles, especially those on the autism spectrum. Jason also addresses the need for ethical standards in the industry and rethinking dog training methodologies, particularly for detection dogs, advocating for evidence-based practices while emphasizing the power of community engagement in fostering a supportive dog training environment.

32 snips
Jan 3, 2025 • 3h 2min
Episode Fifty-Three: Dylan Jones
Dylan Jones, a TWC-certified dog trainer renowned for handling tough cases, shares his passion for working with challenging dogs. He discusses the barriers new trainers face and the importance of trust in building relationships with dogs. Dylan advocates for innovative, humane training methods and reflects on the unique dynamics between trainers, dogs, and owners. He highlights the emotional challenges in dog training, especially in shelter environments, urging for ethical, force-free practices that prioritize canine welfare.

71 snips
Dec 19, 2024 • 2h 41min
Episode Fifty-Two: Panel Discussion (Balabanov, Ellis, Hilliard, Cottee)
In a thought-provoking discussion, experts Stephanie Cottee, an animal behavior scientist, Stewart Hilliard, a behavioral neuroscientist, and legendary trainer Michael Ellis delve into the contentious AVSAB position statement on training methods. They challenge common misconceptions surrounding force-free and aversive techniques, highlighting the importance of a balanced approach to dog training. The panel emphasizes animal welfare, the psychological impacts on both dogs and their owners, and the need for evidence-based practices that advocate for resilience and a strong human-animal bond.

Dec 13, 2024 • 2h 57min
Episode Fifty-One: Jim Bradley
Training Without Conflict® Podcast Episode Fifty-One: Jim BradleyToday, I had an insightful conversation with Jim Bradley, who, for the past several years, has been dedicated to rescuing Malinois dogs on the side while maintaining a full-time job. Jim runs a rescue organization and has also gone trough my Training Without Conflict® Certification Program.In our discussion, we delve into the complexities of rehoming dogs, the current state of animal shelters, and explore potential improvements in how they operate. We also touch on the commitment it takes to volunteer in this field. Furthermore, we challenge the Force Free ideology, discussing how sometimes, in the face of real-world challenges, difficult decisions must be made beyond idealistic approaches. Get ready for a thought-provoking episode!Ivan Balabanov is a 2-time World Champion dog trainer, Ot Vitosha Malinois breeder, trainer of Premier Protection Dogs and founder of the revolutionary Training Without Conflict® dog training system.For more information about Ivan Balabanov's Dog Training School and information on how to train your dog using the Training Without Conflict® system, check out: https://trainingwithoutconflict.comhttps://malinois.comhttps://premierprotectiondogs.comPlease like, comment, and share with your dog friends💪🏼

Nov 27, 2024 • 2h 23min
Episode Fifty: Jacqui Zakar
Jacqui Zakar, a professional dog trainer from Perth, Australia, and founder of Dog Sense Training and Behavior, examines the troubling narratives in the dog training industry. She shares her transition from pharmaceuticals to dog training, revealing intriguing insights on accreditation and the necessity of diverse methodologies. The conversation tackles the complexities of training tools, such as prong collars, the ethical implications of varied methods, and emphasizes the need for informed practices that prioritize animal welfare and individual needs.

5 snips
Nov 8, 2024 • 2h 44min
Episode Forty-Nine: Dave Kroyer
In this engaging conversation, dog trainer Dave Kroyer, a seasoned expert in agility, AKC obedience, and nose work since 1999, shares personal anecdotes and insights with his longtime friend. They reflect on their journeys from competitors to judges in dog sports, emphasizing the joys of companionship with dogs. The duo explores the unique traits of Belgian dogs, the importance of endurance in training, and the evolving methods in the industry. Through humor and thoughtful reflections, they critique modern training practices while advocating for foundational principles.


