Sinopsis
The Dog Works Radio Network is a collection of shows about our favorite canine companions. We host our flagship show, Dog Works Radio that gives dog training advice and interviews guests around the world. We also produce The Sibe Vibe with host Dorothy Wills-Raftery. The Gypsy Musher show is hosted by Iditarod veteran Hugh Neff. We also host Mushing Radio which interviews the top names in the sport of dog sledding along with our annual nightly coverage of the Iditarod each March. All shows are simulcast on KVRF 89.5 FM in Palmer, Alaska.
Episodios
-
The Bark: Q and A about the Six Weeks Won't Save You: The Myth of Quick-Fix Dog Training
18/09/2025 Duración: 14minIn this bonus Q&A episode of Dog Works Radio, Michele and Nicole Forto dives deeper into the myth of “quick-fix” dog training and why six-week classes set families up for frustration. Through candid insights and real client stories, she explains how membership-based coaching creates lasting transformation for both dogs and their owners. If you’ve ever wondered why training seems to “wear off,” this episode reveals the truth behind building results that actually stick. Have an idea for The Bark? Please submit it here: Dog Works Radio Episode Idea Products We Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment: • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro Recommended resources: • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link. Dog Works R
-
Six Weeks Won’t Save You: The Myth of Quick-Fix Dog Training
16/09/2025 Duración: 08minIn this episode of Dog Works Radio, Michele Forto breaks down the truth about why one-time obedience classes almost always fail and why families who commit to ongoing coaching see lasting results. Through real stories and examples, she shows how Alaska Dog Works’ Peak Performance Membership transforms not only dogs, but entire households, building confidence, consistency, and stronger bonds that last for years. If you’re tired of quick fixes that don’t stick, this conversation will open your eyes to what true dog training success really looks like. Products We Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment: • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro Recommended resources: • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link. Dog Works Ra
-
Canine Nutrition and Adventure with Jennifer Carter
09/09/2025 Duración: 31minIn this episode of Dog Works Radio, host Robert Forto speaks with Jennifer Carter, a canine nutritionist and founder of Harness. They discuss the importance of fresh ingredients in canine diets, Jennifer's journey in writing her first book about overcoming canine injuries, and her experiences in obstacle course racing with her dog, Luce. The conversation also covers tips for dog owners on nutrition and behavior, emphasizing the impact of diet on a dog's health and performance. Takeaways Fresh ingredients can significantly improve a dog's health. Jennifer Carter is the founder of Harness, focusing on canine potential. Writing a book can be a therapeutic process for pet owners. Canine injuries require a holistic approach to recovery. Luce, Jennifer's dog, is a hound mix with a strong athletic background. Obstacle course racing fosters teamwork between dog and owner. Canine nutrition varies for athletic dogs versus regular pets. Adding fresh ingredients can reduce cancer risks in dogs. Understanding ingredien
-
Unlocking Canine Behavior: The First Step to Change
05/09/2025 Duración: 04minJoin Nicole Forto as she delves into the essential first step in transforming your dog's behavior. Discover why understanding triggers and associations is crucial for lasting change. Key Points: The dual nature of dog behavior: inherent traits vs. learned responses. Importance of in-depth evaluations to identify behavior triggers. The concept of counter conditioning and its role in behavior change. Practical steps to rewire your dog's reactions to triggers. Consistency and rewarding calmness as keys to success.
-
The Bark: Q & A about Owners and Chaos
04/09/2025 Duración: 22minThe Bark! Bite-sized episodes offer behind-the-scenes insights, practical tips and tricks, and approachable science. On this episode, Michele and Nicole Forto conduct a Q&A about dog owners and the chaos they may cause in their relationships with their dogs. Listen to uncover the lady's take and see how this might help you on your dog training journery. Like what you are hearing? Be sure to check out the full-length episodes of new releases every Tuesday. Have an idea for The Bark? Please submit it here: Dog Works Radio Episode Idea Products We Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment: • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro Recommended resources: • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link. Dog Works Radio is a p
-
Extra! Extra! The Pack Membership is LIVE
03/09/2025 Duración: 06minIn this bonus episode, Michele Forto introduces our The Pack membership program. It is truly allowing you to take your dog trainining to the next level for the cost of less than one Starbucks coffee a month. Learn more at The Pack at Dog Works Radio Have an idea for The Bark? Please submit it here: Dog Works Radio Episode Idea Products We Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment: • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro Recommended resources: • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link. Dog Works Radio is a podcast education show brought to you by Dog Works Radio and is hosted by Michele Forto. If you enjoy the show, I'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app! And please let your friends a
-
The Hard Truth: Your Dog Isn’t the Problem, You Are
02/09/2025 Duración: 09minWhen the Anderson family brought home their Labrador, Scout, they never imagined dog training would transform more than his behavior, it would transform them as a family. In this episode of Dog Works Radio, we share how consistency, communication, and our Peak Performance Membership Program turned daily chaos into calm, lasting connection. If you’ve tried quick fixes without success, this story will show you why real dog training is about much more than “sit” and “stay.” Products I Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment: • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro Recommended resources: • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link. Dog Works Radio is a podcast education show brought to you by Dog Works Radio and is hosted b
-
8 Everyday Habits Your Dog Secretly Hates
31/08/2025 Duración: 12minYou may adore your dog, but are you unknowingly irritating them every day? In this episode of Dog Works Radio, Michele Forto breaks down the 8 most common ways owners annoy their dog, like hugging too tight, rushing walks, and relying on words instead of cues. Learn how small changes can strengthen your bond, reduce stress, and create a happier, more cooperative canine companion. Hosts: Robert and Michele Forto Products I Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment: • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro Recommended resources: • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link. Dog Works Radio is a podcast education show brought to you by Dog Works Radio and is hosted by Michele Forto. If you enjoy the show, I'd love it if you co
-
College Life and Pet Separation: A New Challenge
24/08/2025 Duración: 12minIn this episode, we explore the emotional challenges faced by college students leaving their beloved pets behind. Discover insights from a recent study on pet separation anxiety and hear from students who share their personal experiences. Learn how universities are addressing this issue and what steps can be taken to ease the transition for both students and their furry friends. Key Points 75% of first-year college students experience pet separation anxiety. Students with dogs report higher levels of attachment and anxiety. Universities are implementing pet visitation programs to help students cope. Hosts: Robert and Michele Forto Products I Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment: • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro Recommended resources: • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing Note: these may contain affiliate links, s
-
How to Create a Positive First Impression of the Crate
22/08/2025 Duración: 03minHow to create a positive first impresssion with a crate on One Minute Dog Training Tips with Nicole Forto Here's how to decide. Products I Use for One Minute Dog Training Tips My equipment: • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuiteComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro Recommended resources: • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link. One Minute Dog Training Tips is a podcast education show brought to you by Dog Works Radio and is hosted by Nicole Forto. If you enjoy the show, I'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app! And please let your friends and other podcasters know they can listen for free on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, as well as their preferred podcast app.
-
PTSD Service Dogs are not Just for Veterans
21/08/2025 Duración: 18minJoin host Michele Forto as she discusses why PTSD service dogs are not just for veterans on this episode of Dog Works Radio Products I Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment: • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro Recommended resources: • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link. Dog Works Radio is a podcast education show brought to you by Dog Works Radio and is hosted by Nicole Forto. If you enjoy the show, I'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app! And please let your friends and other podcasters know they can listen for free on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, as well as their preferred podcast app.
-
Therapy Dog Burnout
19/08/2025 Duración: 17minJoin host Michele Forto as she discusses the signs of therapy dog burnout on this episode of Dog Works Radio Products I Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment: • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro Recommended resources: • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link. Dog Works Radio is a podcast education show brought to you by Dog Works Radio and is hosted by Nicole Forto. If you enjoy the show, I'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app! And please let your friends and other podcasters know they can listen for free on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, as well as their preferred podcast app.
-
If Your Trainer Promises a ‘Perfect Dog’ Overnight, Run!
17/08/2025 Duración: 12minJoin us for an insightful episode with lead trainer Michele Forto of Alaska Dog Works and co-host of Dog Works Radio, where we uncover why responsible, evidence-based training isn’t just about obedience, it keeps dogs and families safe. We also dig into the red flags of scammy training programs and share Michele’s expert tips on finding reputable, humane trainers who prioritize science-backed methods over flash and hype. Key Points The importance of responsible dog training for safety and behavior. How to spot scammy dog training practices. Tips for finding reputable trainers and avoiding scams. The significance of evidence-based, humane training methods. Episode Links: Check out Michele on LinkedIn Connect with Michele: Website | Instagram Other Episodes You Will Love: Benefits to Hiring a Professional Dog Trainer Support the show Liked this episode? Please share it with a fellow dog owner Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review Products I Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment: • SHURE SM7
-
Overnight Dog Training Promise?
15/08/2025 Duración: 03minIf a dog trainer promises overnight results, run. This is the topic today on One Minute Dog Training Tips with Nicole Forto Here's how to decide. Products I Use for One Minute Dog Training Tips My equipment: • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuiteComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro Recommended resources: • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link. One Minute Dog Training Tips is a podcast education show brought to you by Dog Works Radio and is hosted by Nicole Forto. If you enjoy the show, I'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app! And please let your friends and other podcasters know they can listen for free on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, as well as their preferred podcast app.
-
What It's Like to Live with a Trained Service Dog
14/08/2025 Duración: 19minJoin hosts Robert and Michele Forto as they explore the transformative experience of living with a trained service dog. Discover how these skilled companions perform life-changing tasks for individuals with PTSD, mobility challenges, medical alerts, and autism support. Learn about the balance of freedom and responsibility, the importance of consistent training, and the profound bond between handler and dog. Key Points: The role of service dogs in enhancing independence and confidence. Daily routines and responsibilities of living with a service dog. The difference between service dogs and emotional support animals. Insights from over 20 years of training and placing service dogs. Products I Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment: • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro Recommended resources: • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and e
-
Faith & Fur: How Churches Are Integrating Therapy Dogs into Ministry
12/08/2025 Duración: 15minHello and welcome to Dog Works Radio. I am your host, Michele Forto. I am also the lead trainer of Alaska Dog Works, where we help you and your dog build the best relationship possible. Speaking of relationships, did you know that I have been training therapy dog teams for more than 15 years? That’s right, our DAWGs program was built on the foundation of dog teams serving in a ministry. Products I Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment: • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro Recommended resources: • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link. Dog Works Radio is a podcast education show brought to you by Dog Works Radio and is hosted by Nicole Forto. If you enjoy the show, I'd love for you to leave a rating or review o
-
Training for Real Life: Ensuring Your Dog Behaves in Public
10/08/2025 Duración: 13minDiscover the joys and challenges of owning a dog, and the importance of training them for real-life scenarios. Key Topics The significance of public behavior training for safety, legal compliance, and social harmony. Fundamental training principles: Basic obedience commands, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Step-by-step guide to teaching public behavior, including leash training and controlled exposure. Addressing common behavior challenges like pulling, jumping, and reactivity. The role of socialization in public behavior and tips for effective socialization. With patience and positive reinforcement, transform your dog into a well-behaved, confident companion ready to enjoy the world alongside you. Products I Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment: • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro Recommended resources: • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hi
-
How Professionals and Volunteers Can Benefit from a Therapy Dog
08/08/2025 Duración: 02minJoin Nicole from Dog Works Radio as she explores the surprising benefits of therapy dogs in professional and volunteer settings. Discover how these gentle companions bring calm, connection, and comfort to high-stress environments like hospitals, schools, and counseling offices. Therapy dogs help lower anxiety and encourage communication. They create a welcoming atmosphere for kids, seniors, and those in tough situations. Even those afraid of dogs can find healing and trust through therapy dogs. Therapy dogs can be powerful tools for emotional breakthroughs. Here's how to decide. Products I Use for One Minute Dog Training Tips My equipment: • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuiteComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro Recommended resources: • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any produc
-
How We Train Autism Assistance Dogs in Real World Scenarios
07/08/2025 Duración: 17minJoin us as we explore the intricate process of training autism assistance dogs at Alaska Dog Works. From temperament selection to advanced task training, discover how we prepare dogs to support autistic individuals in real-world scenarios. Key Topics: Choosing the right breeds for autism assistance work. Foundation Training: Building obedience and public access skills. Specialized Tasks: Teaching deep pressure therapy, crowd control, and more. Handler Training: Empowering families to work effectively with their dogs. Real-World Exposure: Preparing dogs for diverse environments and challenges. Enhanced independence and safety for autistic individuals. Improved quality of life and community engagement. If you're interested in learning more about autism assistance dogs, visit our website at alaskadogworks.com for a free strategy consultation. Connect with Us: Follow us on Instagram at @AKADogWorks and join the conversation. Support Us: If you enjoyed this episode, please give us a five-star rating and share it
-
The History of Therapy Dogs: How Canine Companions Became Integral to Mental Health Practices
05/08/2025 Duración: 16minIntroduction: Join us on Dog Works Radio as we explore the fascinating journey of therapy dogs and their vital role in mental health practices. Discover how these canine companions have evolved from beloved pets to respected partners in emotional and psychological care. Key Topics: The ancient roots of animal companionship and its emotional benefits. Historical figures like Florence Nightingale and Sigmund Freud who recognized the therapeutic potential of dogs. The story of Smokey, the war dog, and her impact on therapy dog history. The rise of animal-assisted therapy in the 1960s and 1970s. Modern therapy dog programs and their role in mental health today. Special Offer: Visit alaskadogworks.com and use promo code DOGWORKS to save 20% on your training program. If you have a friendly, well-mannered dog and a desire to serve your community, consider joining the proud tradition of therapy dog work. Contact Alaska Dog Works to start your journey. Thank you for listening to Dog Works Radio. Subscribe on Apple P