In Episode 18, we start with Mel being back on her bullsht*—thanks to an orchid rescue that turned into a truly unhinged slap-bet situation (no worries… Cory refuses to slap “a baby,” so the punishment becomes verbal roasting and threatened hugs).

Then we get into the real heart of the episode: a diagnosis isn’t destiny—and you have to train the dog in front of you, not the one in the paperwork.

We share two current camp cases:

• Pippa, a chihuahua mix with a long list of behavior diagnoses that terrified her owner into five years of “bubble wrap” living

• Bean, a golden mix with a bite history and anxiety—who’s now learning confidence, structure, and real-world coping skills

We talk about the gap between clinical labels and everyday life, why “comforting” can accidentally reinforce fear, and the moment Cory told a cardiologist: “You’re your dog’s French fry.” 😅

Bottom line: your dog can make huge progress—with the right plan, the right support, and a whole lot of consistency.

Want help with a dog who’s anxious, reactive, or “too much”? Follow along on Instagram: @dogtrainingcampusalouisville

Season 2 is officially here — and we’re kicking it off by looking back, looking ahead, and having a little fun along the way.

After a big 2025 (new podcast, biggest year ever at Dog Training Camp, and plenty of lessons learned), we’re starting 2026 with our dog training Ins & Outs list — the trends, habits, and choices we’re loving… and the ones we’re absolutely leaving behind.

In this episode, we talk about:

• Why feeding schedules are in (for health, behavior, and sanity)

• The importance of researching your dog’s breed and purpose

• Why DNA testing your dog can be a game-changer

• Getting one puppy instead of two (trust us on this one)

• Hot girl walks, slow walking, and actually connecting with your dog

• Why transparency matters when choosing a dog training company

• Clear leash communication vs. just “watching your dog do stuff”

• Why retractable leashes, littermates, backyard-only exercise, and “it’s okay, he’s friendly” are officially out

We also manage to cover birding updates, staff competitions, Northern Flickers, Sandhill Cranes, and yes… why chicken salad is apparently in for 2026.

If you’re a dog owner trying to do better, a trainer navigating trends, or just here for the laughs and real talk — welcome to Season 2 of Love ’Em & Lead ’Em. We’re glad you’re back with us.

We open with a quick bird-nerd update (hi, northern flicker 👋), then dive into a viral NYC foster moment that shook the rescue world: a severely underweight, sweet-as-pie pup who suddenly redirected on a passing dog during a city walk. No villains here—just real life with real animals.

In this episode we unpack: • Why an emaciated dog can seem angelic…until health returns and true preferences show up • Dog-to-dog communication you never see (scent, posture, micro-signals) • The 3-3-3 Rule for rescue transitions—and why “the dog you bring home” isn’t the dog you’ll know in 3 months • Leash proximity and handling that reduce surprise moments in busy environments • Balancing heart and head in rescue work, with human safety as priority #1 • Shout-outs to ethical rescues with trainers on staff (like our local partners) and why thoughtful matchmaking matters

Not anti-rescue, not anti-breeder—just pro-education and pro-grace. Listen in for practical takeaways you can use on your very next walk.