Michael Ellis on the Most Overlooked Key to Dog Training: Engagement

In this wide-ranging conversation, world-renowned dog trainer Michael Ellis shares what he believes is the most overlooked key to successful dog training: engagement.

Before you can teach a dog what to learn, you first have to teach them how to learn—and that starts by creating motivation, attention, and buy-in. Whether you’re a dog owner, a new trainer, or a seasoned pro, this discussion will change the way you think about dogs, behavior, and obedience.

We cover:
• Why engagement is the foundation of all dog training
• How classical conditioning shapes behavior (often without us realizing it)
• The right and wrong way to use markers and rewards
• How to avoid common mistakes like overshadowing and learned irrelevance
• When to switch from continuous to intermittent reinforcement
• How to address behavior issues like fear, aggression, and anxiety
• The future of dog training and how science is reshaping the field

Learn more from Michael Ellis:
Michael Ellis School for Dog Trainers: https://michaelellisschool.com/
Membership Platform: https://michaelellisschool.com/membership/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@michaelellisschoolfordogtr6450
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063534012479
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michael_ellis_school/

Work with Nate Schoemer:
Online Course: From Novice to Pro: The Ultimate Guide to Dog Training
https://sitstaylearn.com/collections/instructional-videos/products/from-novice-to-pro-the-ultimate-guide-to-dog-training-by-nate-schoemer?rfsn=8100182.cd38c94&variant=50148621582625

⏱ Episode Breakdown:
00:00 – Engagement in Reward-Based Dog Training
06:35 – Measuring Dog Training Engagement
13:20 – Delayed Reward Timing in Dog Training
18:13 – Effective Dog Training Commands
26:24 – Intermittent Dog Training Strategies
27:43 – Effects of Continuous Rewards
36:16 – Evolving Dog Training Methods
41:51 – Evolving Dog Training Insights
46:09 – Training People for Dog Skills
51:48 – Dog Training: Beyond Protocols
58:09 – Effective Rewards for Anxious Dogs
01:01:26 – Pavlovian Interference in Dog Training
01:06:29 – Delayed Rewards in Dog Training
01:11:20 – Evolving Approach to Dog Training
01:19:55 – Michael Ellis Membership Launch
01:20:56 – Affordable Dog Training Access

Thinking about getting a puppy—or struggling with one you already have?

In this in-depth conversation, professional dog trainer Nate Schoemer sits down with Maureen Cucinella to debunk common puppy training myths, tackle crate and muzzle training, explain the truth about socialization, and offer real solutions for raising a confident, balanced dog.

You’ll learn:
• How to spot reliable dog training advice (and avoid the harmful stuff)
• The truth about punishment, dominance, and boundaries
• Crate training and muzzle use as confidence-building tools
• Tips to stop puppy biting, jumping, and overexcitement
• How to safely socialize unvaccinated puppies

Whether you're raising your first dog or looking to sharpen your training skills, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you raise the dog you’ve always wanted.

- Work with Nate Schoemer:
Online Course: From Novice to Pro
https://sitstaylearn.com/collections/instructional-videos/products/from-novice-to-pro-the-ultimate-guide-to-dog-training-by-nate-schoemer?rfsn=8100182.cd38c94&variant=50148621582625

Book a 1-on-1 Virtual Lesson:
https://calendly.com/nateschoemer/1-hour-virtual-training

- Learn more from Maureen Cucinella:
Website: https://www.SpiritedK9.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpiritedK9/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5PRQlY3iuS9oBXhXEo9Lfg
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spiritedk9/

- Episode Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction: Dog Socialization and Reactivity Issues
07:18 – Realistic Puppy Training Approaches That Actually Work
13:00 – Using Maternal Techniques to Raise Well-Behaved Dogs
18:31 – How to Adapt Your Training to Fit Each Dog
25:47 – Playing with High-Drive Puppies (Sport Dog Tips)
31:21 – Keeping Puppies Calm and Grounded
34:57 – Stop Dog Jumping with the “Invitation Only” Rule
38:16 – Breaking Down Common Puppy Training Advice
43:54 – Crate Training: Why It’s a Must (Not a Jail)
53:06 – Frustration-Free Puppy Training Techniques
59:11 – Puppy Socialization Mistakes to Avoid
01:01:02 – Safe Socialization for Unvaccinated Puppies
01:07:11 – Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Journey, Not Just the Training

🎙️ What does it really take to raise a reliable service dog?

In this episode, Nate Schoemer sits down with professional service dog trainer Heather Lowell to explore the science and strategy behind raising life-changing canine partners. From genetics and early development to advanced training and public access proofing, this episode is packed with honest insights and expert advice.

Whether you’re starting with a puppy, considering a rescue, or looking to train a dog you already have, Heather shares a clear roadmap to success—rooted in real-world experience and evidence-based techniques.

• How to select the right dog for service work (puppy vs. rescue)

• The role of genetics, epigenetics, and the critical socialization period

• Crate training, potty training, and early management strategies

• Common myths around service dog certification and ADA laws

• E-collar training, reward timing, and advanced behavior shaping

• Public access training, task work, and distraction proofing

Founder of The K9 Advocate
📺 YouTube: @TheK9AdvocateLLC
🌐 Website: https://www.thek9advocate.com/
📸 Instagram: @k9advocateheather
💡 Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheK9AdvocateLLC

Check out Nate’s complete step-by-step course:
🎓 From Novice to Pro: The Ultimate Guide to Dog Training
👉 https://bit.ly/4jGVNNB

If you enjoyed this episode, follow the show and leave a rating — it helps us reach more dog lovers and support more training journeys. 🐶

🔍 Topics Covered:👤 Guest: Heather Lowell🐾 Want to train your own dog like a pro?