I have a very special guest for you today. She’s retired after over 5 decades of teaching people how to better understand dogs, the magnificent creatures by our side.

But the lovely Lisbeth Borg de Waard from the Nordic Education Centre for Ethical Dog Trainers (listen to her podcast episode here) offered to make an introduction and she said Yes 👏 Turid Rugaas.

“The worst thing modern dog owners do is micromanage their dogs,” she says.

“We underestimate our dogs. They’re a lot smarter than humans. They understand us better than we understand ourselves but many humans don’t even speak the basics of their language.”

This week’s Pawsome Human: Turid Rugaas - Your Dog Is Smarter Than You

In this enlightening episode, Turid shares invaluable insights about fostering natural and healthy relationships with dogs.

We delve into cultural differences in dog ownership, emphasizing the importance of allowing dogs to live naturally and freely.

Turid challenges conventional dog training methods and stresses the significance of letting dogs develop their natural abilities and social skills.

Key takeaways include the benefits of giving dogs freedom, the importance of slow-paced walks, and debunking the myth of imposing control and commands on dogs. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on nurturing a dog's true potential and wisdom.

Grab a cuppa and join us (and yes, please like and subscribe to help the baby YouTube channel grow 🙏)

To find out more and connect with Turid:

Website: http://en.turid-rugaas.no/

Bio: Turid Rugaas is a legend in the dog world. Based in Norway, she’s been working with dogs for over 50 years and is best known for discovering and popularizing what she calls "calming signals" - he subtle ways dogs communicate to avoid conflict and keep the peace. If you've ever seen a dog yawn or turn their head and wondered why - they're not just tired, they're talking. And Turid helped us understand what they’re saying.

She’s the author of the international classic On Talking Terms with Dogs: Calming Signals, along with other go-to guides like My Dog Pulls. What Do I Do? and Barking: The Sound of a Language. Her work has helped dog lovers all over the world better understand and connect with their pups - without force, fear, or frustration.

Turid has taught trainers and pet parents in over two dozen countries, founded the Pet Dog Trainers of Europe, and even received the King’s Badge of Honour in Norway for her contributions to animal welfare.

She’s all about respectful, kind, and science-backed ways of working with dogs, and it was an honor to have her on the show.

Social media links:
https://www.facebook.com/T.Rugaas/

Book: Get a copy of On Talking Terms with Dogs: Calming Signals

If you prefer to listen ... subscribe to the PODCAST

It’s on Apple podcasts and everywhere else, so you can access it from your favourite podcast app.

If you enjoy listening, please consider leaving a rating and review so other dog lovers can find the show and join the doggie fun.

If you’re not using Apple podcasts, GoodPods is a great app that makes that easy.

It’s not too late … for anyone raising a puppy (or helping clients raise theirs)

The live Q&A call is over but the full course is still available (until March 31) for just one payment of $50 - an absolute steal considering how much wisdom Dr. Laura Donaldson and Annie Phenix packed into it to help you be the puppy parent your pup deserves.

Coming up …

Join us for

"Reactivity Recovery - Where the Heck do I start?" with Julia Hawkins and Barbara Paterson

3rd April, 6:30pm Europe (5:30pm UK, 12:30pm ET, 9:30am PT)

(HERE is what time that is for you)

If you've ever felt overwhelmed by your dog's reactive behavior and wondered where to begin, you're not alone. Understanding and addressing reactivity can be challenging, but with the right guidance, transformative change is possible.​

How?

That's what renowned dog behavior experts Julia Hawkins and Dr. Barbara Paterson, founders of Barking Up The Right Tree will talk about during this online masterclass. They specialize in helping dog owners like you navigate the complexities of reactivity with compassion and effective strategies.

During this session, Julia and Barbara will introduce their holistic CHASE model, designed to guide you through the initial steps of managing and improving your dog's reactive behavior.

Key topics include:​

• What is reactivity?​

• Why is my dog reactive?​

• Is there a quick way to fix reactivity?​

• Should I expose my dog to lots of triggers?​

If you're dealing with a reactive dog, or want to be prepared for when you might have to in the future, you'll love this session.

Found at https://www.facebook.com/dogsdisclosed

This week’s product pick:

"Great Around Dogs, Snappy Around People" T-Shirt

Let’s be real ... your social skills peak when you're surrounded by dogs, not people. If you’re the type who lights up at the sight of a wagging tail but goes full resting grump face in crowded human spaces, this tee was made for you!

Crafted from ultra-soft, high-quality cotton, this shirt keeps you comfy whether you’re chilling with your pup, dodging small talk, or making a quick escape to the dog park. It’s the perfect way to let the world know where your true loyalties lie because let’s face it, dogs are way more fun anyway.

Why You’ll Love It:
Hilariously Relatable – Perfect for dog lovers with selective social energy.
Soft & Comfy – Premium cotton for all-day wearability.
Versatile & Fun – Great for walks, dog park outings, or just avoiding people.
Unisex Fit – A classic, easygoing style for every dog enthusiast.

Wear it. Own it. And if someone asks about it? Just point to the nearest dog and walk away.

Grab yours here (different colors available)

FREE worldwide shipping for ALL products.

15% off your first order (enter coupon code STBD15 during checkout) as an exclusive thank you for being a Soul Touched by Dogs subscriber.

Since we’re an international bunch with me in Spain and you most likely in the US, UK or somewhere else, I chose a supplier that produces in different places around the world so you won’t have to wait weeks to receive your order.

And yes, 25% of the profits will be donated to a Pawsome human or non-profit (details to be announced).

Are you a canine professional?

A trainer, coach, behaviorist, nutritionist, holistic vet, or other canine expert with a holistic, kindness-first approach?

Would you like to be a guest on the podcast? Do you know someone you think would make a great guest?

Is your business ready for an online revenue stream that has you covered when you can’t or don’t want to offer 1:1 or in-person consults?

Go (or send them) to https://soultouchedbydogs.com/pros

And as always ..

If you know another Soul Touched by Dogs, please send them to https://soultouchedbydogs.com 🙏🙏🐾🐾

Until next week,

Anke