Housewolves: The Pet Dog Collective
Welcome to Housewolves: The Pet Dog Collective — the podcast for dog owners who want clarity, confidence, and a deeper connection with their dogs. Trainer Melissa Major brings you real-life training strategies, behaviour insights, meaningful interviews, and lifestyle conversations that help you truly understand your dog.
Whether you’re navigating life with a brand-new puppy or leveling up with an adult dog, you’ll get practical tools to create a calmer home, a stronger bond, and a well-trained companion you can take anywhere.
Rooted in working-dog principles but made for everyday owners, this show is all about real dogs, real training, and results that actually fit your life.
Housewolves: The Pet Dog Collective
From Corporate to Canine: A Trainer's Transformation
Summary:
In this episode of the House Wolves podcast, Melissa Major interviews Julia Major, a dog handler and trainer, who shares her transformative journey into the world of dog training. Julia discusses her experiences with rescue dogs, the challenges of training high-drive breeds, and the importance of building a strong bond with dogs. She emphasizes the need for consistency in training, the impact of social media on expectations, and the rewarding nature of dog sports. Julia also reflects on the mental health benefits of working with dogs and offers advice for aspiring handlers, encouraging them to embrace their unique journeys and focus on personal growth.
Takeaways:
- Julia Major shares her journey into dog training.
- The importance of building a connection with dogs.
- Transitioning from a corporate job to dog training changed her life.
- Rescue work provides valuable experience with different dog behaviors.
- Training high-drive dogs requires patience and understanding.
- Social media can create unrealistic expectations for dog handlers.
- Every dog handler's journey is unique and should be celebrated.
- The bond between a handler and their dog is built through trust and experience.
- Consistency in training is key to success in dog sports.
- Finding the right dog for the right purpose is crucial.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Julia Major and Her Journey
03:00 The Impact of Dogs on Life Choices
05:57 Transitioning from Corporate to Dog Training
08:49 The Importance of Dog Training and Rescue Work
11:59 Building Relationships with Dogs
14:57 The Journey into Dog Sports
17:54 Finding the Right Dog for the Right Purpose
21:01 The Challenges of Training High-Drive Dogs
24:03 The Role of Dogs in Mental Health
26:57 The Importance of Consistency in Training
29:55 The Journey of Self-Discovery through Dog Training
33:00 The Reality of Dog Sports and Competitions
36:06 Advice for Aspiring Dog Handlers
38:53 The Importance of Trust in Dog Training
41:58 The Journey of Building a Connection with a New Dog
44:55 The Life of a Dog Trainer
47:57 The Future of Dog Training and Competing
51:00 Parting Thoughts and Reflections