Words of wisdom on dog training from TV's Graeme Hall.
Episode 60 – Dogs Who Use Their Paws
Graeme Hall tackles a number of questions listeners have about dogs who like to use their paws. First up is a cross breed who absolutely loves digging up the garden. Her owner has made her a sandpit so she can dig there... but she’s still intent on making a mess of the grass.
Then, what does The Dogfather suggest for a dog who keeps flipping her water bowl upside down and causing a mess on the kitchen floor? Plus, help for an old Jack Russell who can’t stop gnawing at her paws.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com
5/17/2022 • 15 minutes, 47 seconds
Episode 59 – Settling Dogs Alone
Graeme Hall talks through how to help your dog settle in various scenarios, including when you’re busy working from home, when you leave them alone in the house, and at night time.
How long should you leave your dog by themselves? Should the dog be able to sleep out of their crate? How much should you interact with your dog during the day? The Dogfather explains that the answers to all these questions is always ‘it depends on the dog’.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
5/10/2022 • 20 minutes, 42 seconds
Episode 58 – Teaching Dogs To Share
Graeme Hall helps a couple of listeners whose dogs don’t like sharing things – particularly toys – with other dogs. First, he wonders if a spaniel who can growl when others try to play would benefit from learning some boundaries in other areas of his life. Then, he hears about a cockapoo who isn’t enjoying the company of the new puppy the family have brought home. Is the fact that he’s not neutered part of the issue?
Plus, people have to learn to share too... if your new partner comes with a badly behaved dog, how can you help them understand that you need to share responsibility for training?
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
5/3/2022 • 16 minutes, 44 seconds
Episode 57 – Dogs and Toys
Graeme Hall helps a couple of listeners whose dogs don’t seem to be particularly interested in toys. First, an owner who wants to use a toy to teach his food-motivated rottweiler an ‘out’ command, and secondly an owner who would like her rescue dog to learn how to play.
The Dogfather also wonders whether it’s important that every dog likes playing, or if some just never will, and that’s ok. Plus, why might brain games be just as – if not more – important than physical games?
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
4/26/2022 • 15 minutes, 46 seconds
Episode 56 – Communicating with Dogs
Graeme Hall explains the principles behind why we generally communicate with dogs both verbally and visually with voice commands and hand signals. With this in mind, he then helps two listeners who have deaf dogs. One can’t hear other dogs barking when he might be playing too rough with them, and the other can’t hear his own incessant barking. Given these dogs can’t hear verbal commands, those visual signals become more important, as does communicating physically through things like little tugs on the lead and stroking as a reward.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com
4/19/2022 • 20 minutes, 34 seconds
Episode 55 – Dogs Exploring With Senses
Graeme Hall explains how dogs explore the world with the mouths and noses. He met spaniel Bertie on Dogs Behaving Very Badly; he was grabbing and eating everything from facemasks to fireworks. The Dogfather recaps with owners Jackie and Daisy how they taught Bertie a ‘leave’ command, and talks them through how to continue the training out on walks.
A listener also has a question about her dog who sniffs obsessively out on walks. What will Graeme suggest to help combat this frustrating habit?
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
4/12/2022 • 25 minutes, 21 seconds
Episode 54 – Dogs That Bite
Graeme Hall tackles two problems with dogs that bite. The first gets over excited when visitors arrive, and explores the new people by getting his teeth round their wrists. The Dogfather is clear he’s not being vicious, but he does need to be taught how to stay calm in exciting new situations.
The second dog is chihuahua Hulk, who Graeme recently met on the TV show Dogs Behaving Very Badly. Owners Kathryn and Craig catch Graeme up on how their training’s been going since he left. They originally called him in as their dog was scared of them, and reacting by biting.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
4/5/2022 • 24 minutes, 37 seconds
Episode 53 – Dogs That Don’t Like Cars
Graeme Hall talks about dogs who don’t like cars – one that barks and lunges when he’s near traffic, and one who bites and lunges when she’s put inside the car.
The first is Old English Sheepdog Wilson, who Graeme met on TV’s Dogs Behaving Very Badly. Owner Joanne joins The Dogfather to catch up on how she and Wilson have been getting on since their first training session, including talking about how different collars and harnesses have made a difference on their walks.
The second dog is being fed in the boot of the car in the hope of creating positive associations with the space. Is this the right thing to be doing to help the situation?
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
3/29/2022 • 24 minutes, 32 seconds
Episode 52 – Dogs With Strange Obsessions
Graeme Hall explains why finding our dogs behaviour funny at first could be paving a path for that behaviour to become a worrying obsession. On this week’s episode of TV’s Dogs Behaving Very Badly Graeme met sprocker Brodie who was obsessed with licking bald heads. Owners Carol and Kenny join Graeme to talk through how they stopped this behaviour. Plus, why do some dogs lick in the first place?
The Dogfather also comes to the aid of a listener whose spaniel’s obsession with chasing shadows and lights is affecting her quality of life.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
3/23/2022 • 20 minutes, 24 seconds
Episode 51 - Stubborn Dogs On Walks
Graeme Hall talks to owners of dogs that have very strong opinions about their walks. He catches up with Lisa and Linda from TV’s Dogs Behaving Very Badly whose German Shepherd cross Buddy would often just plonk himself down in the road on a walk and refuse to move. Graeme explains how he got Buddy moving again through the right body language, tone of voice, and clever use of the lead.
The Dogfather also gives advice to a listener whose Weimaraner refuses to come back to be put on lead at the end of a walk. The secret might just lie in some of his favourite treats...
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
3/16/2022 • 19 minutes, 32 seconds
Episode 50 – Greedy dogs
Graeme Hall explains how to make your dog understand the difference between human food and their own dog food. He recently met Ilana and cockapoo Bailey on TV’s Dogs Behaving Very Badly; Bailey used to snatch food out of people’s hands, steal food from picnics, and jump on tables hoping for some grub, but Graeme put some boundaries in place that mean Bailey can now calmly sit nearby when his family are at the dinner table.
The Dogfather also gives advice to a listener whose whippet constantly jumps up at kitchen counters in search of food.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
3/9/2022 • 20 minutes, 38 seconds
Episode 49 – Dogs at war
Graeme Hall catches up with a couple he recently met on TV’s Dogs Behaving Very Badly. Scott and Christy’s dogs Buzz and Roshi used to be the best of mates, but when they moved house the happy family dream became a nightmare. The dogs fought so much they had to be kept in separate areas of the house. Graeme began training by taking the dogs outside, so neither felt territorial...
The Dogfather also debunks whether it’s possible to know ahead of time if two dogs are going to get on or not, and what your dog’s body language might be trying to tell you about how comfortable they are with another dog.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com
3/2/2022 • 22 minutes, 20 seconds
Episode 48 – Dogs with Phobias
Graeme Hall talks through the principles behind helping get your dog over their phobia, regardless of what it is. To illustrate the point he catches up with Rachel, who he recently met on TV’s Dogs Behaving Very Badly. Her Newfoundland Bailey was afraid of walking on hard floors after slipping as a puppy. He’s also a therapy dog, so they chat through the wonderful benefits for Rachel’s therapy clients of having him at their feet to stroke.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
2/23/2022 • 21 minutes, 33 seconds
Episode 47 – Dogs, Sudden Movements, and Weird Noises
Graeme Hall explains what dogs might be thinking when they experience strange noises and sudden movements that we as humans consider entirely normal. He hears from a listener whose dog starts barking when they drive through puddles, and asks if the owners are accidentally praising the wrong moments.
The Dogfather also catches up with Annmarie who he met on TV’s Dogs Behaving Very Badly. Her terrier Buster hated the hoover, so they had to break down all the movements and noises involved in cleaning the house in order to let him understand they’re not a threat.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
2/16/2022 • 21 minutes, 38 seconds
Episode 46 – Extremely Reactive Dogs
Graeme Hall reckons German Shepherd Marvel was the most reactive dog he’s ever worked with. He lunged and barked at absolutely everything, both indoors and out. He met Marvel and owner Lorna for TV’s Dogs Behaving Very Badly, and now catches up with Lorna to find out whether the training he showed them has been fruitful.
The Dogfather also explains why it’s so important to understand why your dog is reacting in the first place in order to train them out of it in the best way.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
2/9/2022 • 23 minutes, 30 seconds
Episode 45 – Difficult relationships with dogs
Graeme Hall recently helped an owner see the part he was playing in his deteriorating relationship with his dog. The Dogfather met Ray for an episode of TV’s Dogs Behaving Very Badly; Ray felt Welsh terrier Henry only had a problem with him, not his wife. He wouldn’t let him get out of doors and would nip at his shoelaces, but Graeme wondered whether Ray was acting differently around the dog and causing these reactions...
The Dogfather also hears from a listener who feels the family Labrador is scared of her, but no one else. What advice will he give to build the dog’s confidence around her?
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
2/2/2022 • 21 minutes, 22 seconds
Episode 44 – Dogs that snap
Graeme Hall gets back in touch with Steph, who he visited on TV’s Dogs Behaving Very Badly. Steph’s Chalkie Coco was snapping at visitors to the family’s coffee shop, driving vital business away. Hear how a play pen and affection at specific moments helped calm Coco down.
Plus, The Dogfather explains to a listener why a sudden death in a family might have caused their Dachshund to become snappy.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
1/26/2022 • 21 minutes, 7 seconds
Episode 43 – Clingy dogs
Graeme Hall met Leanne and her Weimaraner Tinkerbelle for the TV show – Dogs Behaving Very Badly. Tinkerbelle was incredibly clingy and affectionate; she had to be with her owner at all times ...Leanne even had to barricade the dog in the kitchen using chairs just to get some time alone in the shower!
Now, he catches up with them a couple of months later to find out how they’re getting on, and offer more advice if you’re in a similar situation with your dog. Plus, he helps a listener whose dog adores her, but is very nervous with other people. Can The Dogfather help make this dog more confident with others?
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com
1/19/2022 • 18 minutes, 50 seconds
Episode 42 – Calming excitable dogs
Graeme Hall catches up with Liane from TV show Dogs Behaving Very Badly. They reflect on how her boxer Woody used to behave – jumping all over visitors, darting out the front door, and stealing balls from her son when he was trying to play with friends in the garden. They talk through how they managed to calm this excitable dog by teaching him how to slow down and control his impulses.
The Dogfather also explains how similar principles might help a listener whose speagle gets very excited around her two young children.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com
1/12/2022 • 19 minutes, 22 seconds
Episode 41 – Dogs in water
Graeme Hall gets back in touch with John and Linda, a couple he helped on TV’s Dogs Behaving Very Badly. Their spaniel Harris’ love of water was putting his owners in danger as they regularly had to climb into rocky lakes to get him back out. Together they discuss how they taught Harris to wait for permission to dive in, as well as the unusual method Graeme suggested to recall him from the water.
At the other end of the spectrum, The Dogfather hears from a listener whose dog really doesn’t like water. Should he put the lab collie cross in at the deep end, or will a slowly slowly approach be more successful?
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com
1/5/2022 • 20 minutes, 50 seconds
Episode 40 – Raising a puppy, with Frank Skinner
Comedian Frank Skinner has a new cavapoo called Poppy. He and Graeme Hall chat through the realities of raising a puppy, as it’s turned out to be a little more difficult than Frank had expected. He explains what he found particularly challenging about toilet training, and impresses Graeme with the way he’s socialised Poppy. Plus, they debate whether getting some help by way of a dog walker or daycare is a good idea.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
8/31/2021 • 29 minutes, 41 seconds
Episode 39 – Guide dog training, with Amit Patel
Amit Patel is known as Blind Dad on social media, but it’s his guide dog Kika who’s the real star of the show. Amit uses his online presence to show how Kika helps him navigate the world – popping to the shops, taking him on airplanes, and even mothering his young children.
As Amit explains though, Kika is still a Labrador, and she’s very food driven, which has led to some very funny incidents of Kika leading Amit towards doughnuts and fish’n’chips... Plus, Graeme explores what all dog owners can learn from guide dogs, especially around reading their body language and being consistent in your commands.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
8/24/2021 • 35 minutes, 30 seconds
Episode 38 – Post-injury fear, with Storm Huntley
Storm Huntley is known for being a presenter on TV’s Jeremy Vine show, but she says being mum to five-year-old Shih Tzu Boo is the best job she’s ever had. She joins Graeme Hall to learn more about why Boo likes to have a pop at other dogs, as well as how to stop her eating dog poo on walks. Plus, The Dogfather gives advice to a listener whose Jack Russel has become fearful of traffic after being hit by a car six months ago.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
8/17/2021 • 35 minutes, 48 seconds
Episode 37 - Countryside Code
Graeme Hall recently had an encounter with some cows that got him thinking about how to safely walk a dog in the countryside around livestock. Plus, a couple of listeners have found themselves having to wrestle sticks away from their dogs, so The Dogfather gives his take on whether dogs should be playing with sticks at all, as well as how to train a ‘leave it’ command. Finally, what’s the best way to deal with your dog rolling in badger or fox poo...?
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com
8/10/2021 • 16 minutes, 52 seconds
Episode 36 - Stealing Food
Graeme Hall knows you’ll likely be getting outside for a picnic this summer, but what should you do if you’re worried your dog will be running up to everyone else’s picnic and stealing food? A good recall and ‘drop’ command will come in handy. Plus, what’s the best way to cope with a dog that gets excited about human food when you’re cooking or sitting down to eat at home?
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
8/3/2021 • 17 minutes, 11 seconds
Episode 35 - Territorial Dogs
Graeme Hall helps a listener who wants to make moving house as calm and happy an experience for his German Shepherd as possible. Plus, do you need to be mindful of your dog trying to get back to their old house...? The Dogfather also gives advice to two listeners whose dogs have become territorial when people enter what they consider to be their domain.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
7/27/2021 • 20 minutes, 22 seconds
Episode 34 - Obsessions
Graeme Hall hears about a number of dogs who all have strange obsessions with random items, or are exhibiting obsessive behaviours. How can you get a dog to drop a ball he’s obsessed with? What is it about mops and hoovers that dogs love? And why might a cocker spaniel be licking walls and chasing shadows?
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
7/21/2021 • 21 minutes, 17 seconds
Episode 33 - Reactivity
Graeme Hall helps a number of listeners who have reactive dogs. He talks through how to spot when your dog is about to ‘boil over’ by reading their body language, how to use your own body to block your lunging dog, and how to ultimately de-sensitise your dog to the dog, man, or small child they’re reacting to. Plus, is reactivity down to nature, or nurture...?
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
7/13/2021 • 21 minutes, 9 seconds
Episode 32 - Socialisation
Graeme Hall explains why ‘socialisation’ doesn’t necessarily mean letting your dog run up to every other dog they see... it’s actually more about getting your dog to be calm – almost indifferent – around other dogs. He also helps listeners with opposite problems – one whose dog is fearful around other dogs, and one who can’t wait to excitedly bound up to them. Plus, why is it never ok to shout across the field “it’s ok, he’s friendly!”
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
7/6/2021 • 20 minutes, 6 seconds
Episode 31 - Jumping Up
Graeme Hall explains why dogs like to jump up and why, cute as it may be, it needs to be discouraged as soon as possible. The Dogfather helps two listeners whose dogs jump up at people, both in the house and out on walks, while another asks how to stop her German Shepherd jumping up at kitchen surfaces to steal food.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
6/29/2021 • 20 minutes, 25 seconds
Episode 30 - Aggressive Biting
Graeme Hall helps a number of listeners who can’t work out what’s triggering their otherwise lovely dogs to suddenly bite aggressively. There are lots of points to think about, from understanding the breeding, to thinking about what had been happening in the minutes, even hours, before the bite. Plus, what should you do if another dog has a pop at yours?
Vote for Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly at the TV Choice Awards: https://awards.tvchoicemagazine.co.uk/vote
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
6/22/2021 • 23 minutes, 34 seconds
Episode 29 – Settling
Graeme Hall explains why your dog knowing when and how to settle is so important; dogs need a lot more sleep than you might think. With the help of a couple of listeners, he talks through how to teach your dog to settle in different places – a crate, a pen, a bed, or even at the pub. Plus, how is teaching a ‘settle’ command different to teaching an obedience command like ‘sit’ or ‘down’?
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
6/15/2021 • 20 minutes, 25 seconds
Episode 28 – Over - Excitement
Graeme Hall asks how you know when your dog is happy… Do you associate ‘excitement’ – maybe a waggy tail – with happiness? Actually, a calm dog is a happy dog, and most of the behavioural issues Graeme deals with come back to the dog being over-excited. The Dogfather helps a listener whose terriers get too excited just before walk time, and another whose cockapoo is chaotic when his owners return from the shop.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
6/8/2021 • 19 minutes, 3 seconds
Ep 27 - Advanced Recall
Graeme Hall tackled the basics of recall last week, so this week he’s upping the ante! In this advanced recall training session he helps listeners whose dogs have great recall… apart from in very specific scenarios, like if they catch a great scent on the ground, or spot another dog in the distance. Plus, how can you get your off-lead dog to stay relatively close to you during your walk, so that you can actually enjoy your time together?
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
6/1/2021 • 15 minutes, 44 seconds
Episode 26 - Recall 101
Graeme Hall explains why it’s absolutely vital that your dog has good recall. In this back-to-recall-basics episode The Dogfather talks through how to successfully use clear commands and a long line to get your dog to reliably come back to you when you call them. Ever wondered how to get your dog to learn their name? You’ll find top tips for that in this episode too.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
5/25/2021 • 22 minutes, 10 seconds
Episode 25 - Dogs And Kids
Graeme Hall gets a voice note from a listener who’s expecting a baby very soon; he wonders how he should prepare his Labrador for the new arrival. Graeme explains how to get the dog used to the idea in advance, as well as how to introduce her to the baby for the first time. Plus how should you train children to be good with dogs? What is it they need to understand about how to approach dogs, and how to make sure they’re sending the dog the same signals as the rest of the family?
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
5/18/2021 • 18 minutes, 37 seconds
Episode 24 - Grooming
Graeme Hall helps a number of listeners whose dogs all make a fuss when they’re being groomed. The Dogfather talks through how to very slowly get your dog used to various grooming tools, as well as to being handled. However, do we actually need to be clipping our dogs nails at all? And does your dog need a minty fresh toothpaste, or is chicken flavour a better idea…?
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
5/11/2021 • 23 minutes, 44 seconds
Episode 23 – Lunging At Traffic, With Candice Brown
Great British Bake Off winner Candice Brown might feel in control in the kitchen, but when she’s out and about walking her dogs it’s a very different story. She asks for Graeme Hall’s advice about how to cope with rescue pug Albus’ habit of lunging and barking at everything that moves - from birds, to artic lorries. Graeme wonders if Albus’ history of potential abuse plays a part, but perhaps Candice mollycoddles him a little too much too. Plus, a listener has a similar problem as she walks a dog who isn’t a fan of cyclists and joggers.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
5/4/2021 • 32 minutes, 38 seconds
Episode 22 – Doggy Dementia, With The Yorkshire Vet
Some questions Dogfather Graeme Hall gets asked are a little above his pay grade as a dog behaviour specialist, so he’s invited his vet mate Julian Norton onto the podcast to answer some of your questions that need a medical answer. Alongside The Yorkshire Vet, Graeme explores what to do when your older dog gets dementia, great alternatives to the dreaded cone, and how the colours in your vet’s waiting room could affect your dog’s experience.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
4/27/2021 • 28 minutes, 8 seconds
Episode 21 – Destroying Furniture, With Joanna Scanlan
Today is a special treat for fans of Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. In the first of a mini-series of Talking Dogs celebrity specials, Graeme Hall meets Joanna Scanlan. Not only is she the much loved actor in movies including Girl With A Pearl Earring, and TV shows like The Thick of It and No Offence, she’s also the narrator of Graeme's TV show! The Dogfather hears about the problems Joanna’s having with her rescue staffie Millie. Millie likes to chew both hands and chair legs! A listener also has a similar problem with her Czech wolf dog destroying any furniture he can get his teeth around. Plus, do dogs understand what’s happening when we’re on our phones…?
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
4/20/2021 • 31 minutes, 37 seconds
Episode 20 - Weird and Wonderful Behaviours
It’s the series finale of Talking Dogs, so Graeme Hall has a bit of fun by answering some of the more bizarre questions to have landed in his inbox. What should you do if your dog is eating its own poo? Why is your dog reacting strangely to the Amazon Echo? And how should you deal with your dog’s odd obsession with helicopters?
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
4/7/2021 • 20 minutes, 25 seconds
Episode 19 - Barking To Make Things Go Away
Graeme Hall tackles a very common problem – dogs barking at things they want to make go away. Does your dog bark incessantly at the postman? At animals on the TV? At passing traffic? Graeme explains the psychology behind why your dog is acting this way, which will make it easier for you to understand how to deal with the problem.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
3/3/2021 • 22 minutes, 1 second
Episode 18 - Barking for Attention
Graeme Hall talks through how to determine whether your dog is barking to tell you something (more on that next week) or if it’s just to get your attention. If you’re sure it’s the latter, there’s one method that’ll work best: you have to ignore the dog. You have to act as though the dog has completely ceased to exist. Graeme explains the psychology behind this method, as well as giving some advice on other techniques to try if, for whatever reason, ignoring the dog isn’t an option for you.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
2/17/2021 • 21 minutes, 4 seconds
Episode 17 - How to be a Leader
Graeme Hall explains how to let your dog know that you’re the leader of the household. This doesn’t mean bullying or being aggressive, it means setting clear boundaries so your dog knows what’s expected of them. Your body language and tone of voice play a part too.
He also helps three listeners with their leadership-related problems, including one woman whose dog only seems to respect her, whilst acting aggressively towards her partner.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
2/10/2021 • 21 minutes, 46 seconds
Episode 16 - Living with Two Dogs
Graeme Hall gives advice to two listeners whose dogs really don’t get on with the other dogs in the house. One is obsessed with humping the pug he sometimes stays with, and the other is a puppy determined to be the boss of two older dogs.
He also explores the questions you’re likely to be asking yourself when you have (or are considering having) more than one dog; does it matter what breeds I’m putting together? How should I introduce them to each other? Is it ever a good idea to get two puppies at the same time? And what should I expect when one dog sadly dies?
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
2/3/2021 • 23 minutes, 21 seconds
Episode 15 - Nuisance Nipping
Graeme Hall explains why dogs – in particular puppies – are likely to nip at everything they can …the sofa, your slippers, your hand…! They’re exploring and learning about the world in the same way we would with our hands! However, it can be incredibly frustrating, so with the help of two listeners, Graeme talks through techniques to help nip the problem in the bud, including rewarding with toys and putting the pup in time out.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
1/27/2021 • 15 minutes, 10 seconds
Episode 14 - Puppy to Teenager
Graeme Hall ambitiously covers a whole year of a dog’s life in this episode. He begins by tackling the most common problems you might have with a little puppy, from how long you should take off work, to confusion over vaccinations, and toilet training. He then explains why your puppy suddenly seems to forget all their training from about six months old… they’ve become an unruly teenager!
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
1/19/2021 • 19 minutes, 50 seconds
Episode 13 - Walking Your Dog: part two
Graeme Hall tackles dogs that pull on the lead. He explains his ‘invisible box’ technique, which helps teach your dog to walk to heel, as well as how to execute the perfect ‘lead flick’. He also hears from an owner whose retriever is petrified of traffic, and talks her through how to desensitise the dog to the noise so they can enjoy walks together.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
1/13/2021 • 17 minutes, 9 seconds
Episode 12 - Walking Your Dog: part one
Graeme Hall answers your pressing questions about walking your dog. Is a harness or a collar better? How long should the lead be? And does it matter which side of me my dog walks on? Plus, he helps a listener whose Labrador likes to stubbornly plonk herself down on the pavement because she knows it means she’ll get love and attention from strangers.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
1/6/2021 • 19 minutes, 40 seconds
Episode 11 - Dogs at Christmas
It’s a festive special! Graeme Hall talks through what he thinks about special doggy chocolate, the best presents you can buy to keep your dog mentally stimulated throughout the day, and how to make sure your dog isn’t overwhelmed by extra (energetic!) people in the house. Plus, he explains how to teach the ‘leave’ command ahead of Christmas just in case your dog starts to get curious about picking decorations and food off the floor…
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
12/9/2020 • 16 minutes, 5 seconds
Episode 10 - Bullying and Neutering
Graeme Hall helps a listener who feels her puppy is a bit of a bully when he plays with other dogs. Is this just puppy behaviour, or is the aggression something to be concerned about? She and another listener also wonder if neutering is the answer to some behavioural issues. Graeme explains when he would, and wouldn’t, get a dog neutered. Plus, with fireworks night fast approaching, Graeme talks through how to keep your dog calm.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
11/4/2020 • 17 minutes, 36 seconds
Episode 9 - Rescue Dogs
Graeme Hall talks through everything you need to think about before rehoming a rescue dog. What should you ask the rescue centre? How long should you spend with the dog before bringing them home? And should you expect them to have particularly bad behavioural issues? Plus, he advises a listener whose Bosnian street dog refuses to have a harness put on her.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
10/28/2020 • 14 minutes, 50 seconds
Episode 8 - Visitors
Graeme Hall helps two listeners whose dogs both have issues with visitors arriving at the house. One is incredibly scared, and hides under the sofa and barks, while the other gets over-excited and jumps at anyone who walks through the door. Graeme talks through tips including implementing strong command words, and even ignoring the dog entirely.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
10/20/2020 • 18 minutes, 42 seconds
Episode 7 - Sleeping Arrangements
Graeme Hall talks through how to implement a bedtime routine for your dog, including walking and feeding them at the same time, as well as creating a lovely cosy den in their crate. He also hears from a listener who’s soon bringing home a rescue from Portugal – what advice does he have to help the dog settle in her new bed? Plus, what does Graeme think about dogs getting up on furniture…?
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
10/13/2020 • 19 minutes, 31 seconds
Episode 6 - Resource Guarding
Graeme Hall explores the origins of resource guarding; it likely starts as attention seeking, but there could be a genetic element too. Does your dog snarl when you come close to their precious item? Ignoring them entirely might just be the best thing you can do.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
10/13/2020 • 17 minutes, 37 seconds
Episode 5 - Transport
Graeme Hall helps two listeners whose dogs aren’t fans of the car. One refuses to get in at all, while the other barks incessantly while they’re driving. Graeme explains how to make your dog feel comfortable in the car by feeding them, spraying dog appeasing pheromones, and strapping them in with a harness. Perhaps you don’t drive but would like to take your dog on public transport – he’s got tips for you too!
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
9/30/2020 • 23 minutes, 27 seconds
Episode 4 - Toilet Training
Graeme Hall goes back to basics giving toilet training tips. What’s the best way to tell your puppy not to go in the house? If the door’s shut, how can they tell you they want to go out? And why might it be easier to toilet train puppies in the winter than the summer?
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
9/23/2020 • 17 minutes, 18 seconds
Episode 3 - Fearfulness
Graeme Hall talks through the different ways fear can manifest in dogs: flight, fight, freezing, and fawning. He helps a listener whose chihuahua’s fear presents as aggression, as well as explaining how you can praise the moments of curiosity and calm rather than panicking in the height of the fearful state.
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
9/21/2020 • 15 minutes, 41 seconds
Episode 2 - Benefits of Exercise
Graeme Hall explores how to work out how long your dog needs walking for, if it’s possible to over-exercise your dog, and behavioural issues that can be affected by exercise levels. Walks are also incredibly important for mental stimulation, sniffing, and socialising, so it’s not just about physical activity!
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
9/8/2020 • 14 minutes, 40 seconds
Episode 1 - Separation Anxiety
Graeme Hall helps a listener whose young dachshund has severe separation anxiety. He explores how creating a smaller environment and practising leaving the room for just a few seconds can make a real difference. Webcams are often used to keep an eye on unsettled dogs, but are they all they’re cracked up to be? Plus, when is apparent separation anxiety actually just attention seeking behaviour?
Do you have a question for The Dogfather? Send Graeme a voice note and a video of your pesky pooch to talkingdogs@avalonuk.com.
9/1/2020 • 20 minutes, 44 seconds
Pilot - Talking Dogs with Graeme Hall
Graeme Hall is one of the country’s best known and loved dog trainers, and now he is sitting down to chat about his biggest dog-related challenges in his brand new podcast. Having spent years travelling the country helping owners with badly behaved dogs, he is now being inspired by questions in his inbox to bring as many answers as possible about the nation’s problem pooches.
Graeme will bring his no-nonsense, practical advice while telling tales of his biggest professional challenges, he’ll help to solve everyday problems with simple tips and tricks, and each time will give information on a hot topic about doggy care.
7/9/2020 • 23 minutes, 31 seconds
Talking Dogs with Graeme Hall Trailer
Graeme Hall is one of the country’s best known and loved dog trainers, and now he is sitting down to chat about his biggest dog-related challenges in his brand new podcast coming to you next week.
Having spent years travelling the country helping owners with badly behaved dogs, he is now being inspired by questions in his inbox to bring as many answers as possible about the nation’s problem pooches.
Graeme will bring his no-nonsense, practical advice while telling tales of his biggest professional challenges, he’ll help to solve everyday problems with simple tips and tricks, and each time will give information on a hot topic about doggy care.