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Dog Works Radio

904 episodes - English - Latest episode: 7 days ago - ★★★★★ - 42 ratings

Dog training experts and best-selling authors Robert and Michele Forto (A Musher's Dream) take the listener into the scruffy, curious, and sometimes heroic world of dogs.

What does it mean to "own" a dog? Can dogs teach us compassion? How do dogs learn? What are your breed's origins and what were they bred to do?

Dog Works Radio is an award-winning podcast that is a delightful and surprising look at the relationship we have with our K9 buddies.

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Episodes

Does a Completely Hypoallergenic Dog Exist?

September 26, 2021 12:00 - 11 minutes - 10.2 MB

Join host Michele Forto as she discusses Does a Completely Hypoallergenic Dog Exist on Dog Works Radio In recent years, several breeds have gained the “hypoallergenic” label. Given that up to 20% of western country populations are allergic to dogs, it’s no surprise that this label has grown in popularity. But, if you have been pinning all your hopes on one of these dogs being the perfect solution, don’t get too excited—this term is not as accurate as it sounds.

The Sport of Mushing | ISDRA Board

September 23, 2021 12:00 - 25 minutes - 23.3 MB

Join hosts Robert Forto and Kourosh Partow as they welcome the International Sled Dog Racing Association (ISDRA) board to the Dog Driver podcast to discuss the sport of mushing, new classes in the sport, and more. 

Puppies are Born to Communicate with Humans

September 19, 2021 12:00 - 11 minutes - 10.4 MB

Join host Michele Forto as she discusses if Puppies are Born to Communicate with Humans on Dog Works Radio. 

Interview with iditarod Musher Josh McNeal

September 18, 2021 12:00 - 33 minutes - 30.3 MB

Join host Robert Forto as he welcomes Iditarod musher Josh McNeal on Mushing Radio.  On this episode, Robert and Josh talk about running sled dogs in Alaska, the importance of a team in long-distance mushing, a favorite story about his dogs, and more. 

Interview with Musher Courtney Moore

September 16, 2021 18:02 - 23 minutes - 21.8 MB

Join hosts Robert Forto and Kourosh Partow as they welcome open class dog driver, Courtney Moore to the Dog Driver podcast on Dog Works Radio.  On this episode we talk to Courtney about growing up in mushing, her dogs, racing, and more. 

9 Breeds Perfect for the New Dog Owner

September 12, 2021 12:00 - 7 minutes - 7.27 MB

Join host Michele Forto as she discusses the nine breeds that are perfect for the new dog owner.  Are you searching for your first-ever dog? Once you’ve determined you’re ready for a puppy, one of the breeds below might be perfect for you and your family. Make sure you talk to responsible breeders to find out if the breed is a good fit for you.

Interview with Stage Musher Alexandra Rochat

September 09, 2021 16:29 - 20 minutes - 18.9 MB

Join hosts Robert Forto and KP Partow as they welcome stage musher Alexandra Rochat to the Dog Driver Podcast  

The Legacy of 9/11 Dogs

September 05, 2021 12:00 - 17 minutes - 16.2 MB

Join host Michele Forto as she discusses the legacy of the 9/11 dogs. We came together as a nation right after 9/11. A time like we never have in this country. One could argue that we may never be that strong again, but others see us stronger than before. A small part of what allowed us to heal after the attacks were the stories of the canine heroes that helped out after the disaster and how many of these dogs, and the jobs they performed changed how we think about working dogs today. That...

Interview with Musher Enrique Foedtke

September 02, 2021 12:00 - 24 minutes - 22.5 MB

Join hosts Robert Forto and Kourosh Partow as they welcome musher, Enrique Foedtke of Eifelrocker Running Dogs to the Dog Driver podcast.  On this episode we talk about mushing and racing in Europe, his dogs, training routine, nutrition, and more. 

Important Female Dogs in History

August 29, 2021 12:00 - 14 minutes - 13.2 MB

Join host Michele Forto as she discusses some of the most famous and important female dogs in history on this episode of Dog Works Radio.  On this episode, we pay homage to service dogs, astro-dogs, disaster response dogs, and more. And do you know what? They are all female!

Interview with Musher Alberto Vollweiler

August 26, 2021 12:00 - 22 minutes - 20.5 MB

Join hosts Robert Forto and Kourosh Partow as they welcome musher, Alberto Vollweiler to the Dog Driver podcast.  On this episode they discuss mushing and racing in Europe, training, his dogs, nutrition and more. 

Our Fascination with Dogs

August 22, 2021 12:00 - 35 minutes - 32.4 MB

As the COVID-19 pandemic first swept through the United States a year ago, dog adoptions skyrocketed. One estimate from PetPoint, which keeps statistics on the number of animals currently in the American shelter system, found that adoptions were up more than 12% in 2020 — after years of declining numbers. Anecdotal reports from breeders suggest demand for new puppies followed this trajectory as well. On today’s podcast we are examining the changing face of “America’s dog” — and what it says ...

Interview with Sprint Musher Emilie Entrikin

August 19, 2021 12:00 - 24 minutes - 22.9 MB

Join hosts Robert Forto and Kourosh Partow as they welcome sprint musher Emilie Entrikin to The Dog Driver podcast. On this episode the guys talk to Emilie about her time as a dog musher and her job as an adventure guide in the backcountry of Alaska. 

Position Statement on Humane Dog Training

August 15, 2021 12:00 - 9 minutes - 8.64 MB

Join host Michele Forto as she discusses the recent position statement on humane dog training by the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior.  The ASVB supports evidenced based dog training methods and suggests that dog trainers use rewards-based training methods for all dogs. 

The Daily Dog: Labrador Retriever

August 15, 2021 02:41 - 10 minutes - 9.38 MB

Join host Michele Forto as she profiles the Labrador Retriever on this edition of The Daily Dog on Dog Works Radio. The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular dogs in the United States. Known for its personality, easy trainability and willingness to work, the Lab the perfect family dog. 

Interview with Stage Musher Rachel Courtney

August 12, 2021 12:00 - 21 minutes - 20 MB

Join hosts Robert Forto and Kourosh Partow as they welcome stage musher, Rachel Courtney of Manitoba, Canada to The Dog Driver Podcast.  On this show we talk to Rachel about her introduction to the sport of mushing, her dogs, training, nutrition and running in the Pedigree Stage Stop race. 

15 Unique Jobs Only Dogs Can Do

August 08, 2021 12:00 - 16 minutes - 14.8 MB

Join host Michele Forto as she discusses 15 Unique Jobs that Only Dogs Can Do on Dog Works Radio.  On this podcast, we talk about firehouse dogs, lobster hunters, disease detectors, and much more!

Interview with sprint musher Johnn Molburg

August 05, 2021 12:00 - 32 minutes - 29.8 MB

Join hosts Robert Forto and Kourosh Partow as they welcome sprint musher and sled builder, Johnn Molburg to The Dog Driver Show. On this podcast the guys talk about mushing history, building wooden dog sleds and more.

Heartprints in the Snow | Robert Michael

August 01, 2021 12:00 - 32 minutes - 30.1 MB

Join host Robert Forto as he welcomes Robert Michael, the writer, and director of a new documentary, Heartprints in the Snow on this episode of Mushing Radio.  Heartprints in the Snow is a feel-good story about the trust and bond between mushers and their dogs. The film follows those involved in the sport and a must-watch for any dog lover. 

Interview with Sprint Musher Destinee Kiel

July 29, 2021 17:00 - 26 minutes - 24.3 MB

Join host Robert Forto as he welcomes sprint musher Destinee Kiel to The Dog Driver Show.  On this episode we talk about growing up in a mushing family, getting her own dogs, and racing in Michigan. 

What Is a Crisis Response Dog?

July 25, 2021 12:00 - 10 minutes - 9.61 MB

Join host Michele Forto as she discusses What is a Crisis Response Dog on Dog Works Radio. On this episode, we talk about the differences between therapy, emotional support, service, and crisis response dogs. 

Interview with Sprint Musher Kriya Dunlap

July 22, 2021 19:10 - 30 minutes - 27.5 MB

Join hosts Robert Forto and Kourosh Partow as they welcome sprint musher and researcher Kriya Dunlap to The Dog Driver Show. Dunlap grew up in the sport of mushing and today she is taking her passion and knowledge of the sport and sled dogs and using it in her career as a professor. 

The Top 5 Rules of Dog Training

July 18, 2021 12:00 - 20 minutes - 19.2 MB

Join host Michele Forto as she discusses the top 5 rules of dog training on Dog Works Radio.  On this podcast episode, Michele talks about why dog owners should resist repeating themselves, pay the sticker price and much more. 

Dog Musher Randy DeKuiper

July 15, 2021 19:05 - 25 minutes - 23 MB

Join hosts Robert Forto and Kourosh Partow as they welcome dog musher Randy DeKuiper to The Dog Driver Show, recorded at the Great Lakes Sled Dog Association's expo in Michigan.

Summer Iditarod Update

July 14, 2021 12:00 - 40 minutes - 36.9 MB

Join hosts Robert, Alex, and Toni as they present their Summer Iditarod update on Dog Works Radio.  On this podcast, the hosts talk about the early sign-ups for the 2022 Iditarod at the annual Iditarod Volunteer picnic, the Kink 200 update, Mount Marathon Race, and their picks for next year's race. 

5 Summer BBQ Tips for Dog Owners

July 11, 2021 12:00 - 14 minutes - 13.3 MB

Join host Michele Forto as she discusses five BBQ Safety Tips for Dog Owners on Dog Works Radio Warm weather means cookouts, pool parties, and long days spent outdoors. While most dogs love to spend time outside, there are safety precautions to keep in mind before planning your next backyard BBQ bash. Keep these five tips in mind to ensure you and your dog will have a stress-free summer cookout.

Sprint Musher Scott Maruskie

July 08, 2021 19:11 - 27 minutes - 25.1 MB

Join hosts Robert Forto and Kourosh Partow as they welcome sprint musher Scott Maruskie of Chugiak, Alaska to The Dog Driver Show. On this podcast, the guys talk to Scott about being a president in a mushing club, junior mushing, his dogs, nutrition, and much more. 

James Jacobson of the Dog Podcast Network

July 04, 2021 12:00 - 33 minutes - 30.8 MB

Join host Robert Forto as he welcomes fellow podcaster, James Jacobson of the Dog Podcast Network to the Dog Works Radio Show.  On the podcast we talk about how James got started in business, writing books, podcasting, living in Hawaii and more. We also discuss the importance for educating dog owners about canine cancer and what is upcoming on the Dog Podcast Network's family of shows. 

A Music Tribute to a Special Dog: Raegan of Team Ineka

July 02, 2021 19:47 - 1 hour - 79.5 MB

Join host Robert Forto as he provides a music tribute to a special dog, Raegan of Team Ineka who passed away recently. If you have been a fan of Dog Works Radio over the years you have heard us talk about Raegan.  Please take a moment to listen and hope that it can help you in a special way If you know a family member or friend who may have lost a beloved dog, please share this podcast with them too.  EPISODE NOTES and SONG LIST: A Music Tribute to Raegan

Interview with Sprint Musher Todd Whitcomb

July 01, 2021 18:13 - 26 minutes - 24.1 MB

Join hosts Robert Forto and Kourosh Partow as they welcome sprint musher, Todd Whitcomb of Knik, Alaska to The Dog Driver Show.  On the podcast, we talk to Todd about the Fur Rondy sled dog race, racing sled dogs, nutrition, training, and more. 

How to Keep Your Dog Calm During Fourth of July Fireworks

June 27, 2021 12:00 - 13 minutes - 12.2 MB

Join host Michele Forto as she discusses how to keep your dog calm during the Fourth of July fireworks on Dog Works Radio.  Michele offers tips and tricks to keep your dog safe during the Fourth of July and all the festivities including a very important call to action on how you can make a difference during this holiday weekend. 

Sled Dog Genetics with Dr. Heather Huson

June 24, 2021 12:00 - 28 minutes - 25.8 MB

Join hosts Robert Forto and Kourosh Partow as they welcome Dr. Heather Huson of Cornell University to talk about her sled dog genetics research.  This interview was recorded at the sled dog expo and conference for the Great Lakes Sled Dog Association. On the podcast we talk about Dr. Huson's work, a canine aging study and the importance of understanding genetics in dogs. 

10 Questions Every Dog Owner Should Ask Their Vet

June 20, 2021 16:00 - 34 minutes - 31.3 MB

Join host and lead trainer of Alaska Dog Works, Michele Forto as she discusses the 10 questions every dog owner should ask their vet on Dog Works Radio Being proactive about preventative health is one of the best ways to ensure that your dog enjoys a long and happy life. But what questions should you be asking your veterinarian to ensure that you’re doing your part to keep your dog healthy and lower the risk of illness, disease, and injury? We’ve put together this list of the 10 most impor...

Interview with Sprint Musher Didier Ozel

June 17, 2021 16:00 - 20 minutes - 18.9 MB

Join hosts Robert Forto and Kourosh Partow as they welcome sprint musher, Didier Ozel from France to talk about mushing with his Siberian Huskies.  In this interview we do our best with translating from French to English to talk about world class racing, training, nutrition and more. 

The AKC Working Dog Group

June 13, 2021 16:00 - 21 minutes - 19.9 MB

Join host Michele Forto as she discusses the 31 dogs breeds in the American Kennel Club's Working Dog Group. These dogs are intelligent, strong, watchful and alert. Bred to assist man, they excel at jobs such as guarding property, pulling sleds and performing water rescues. These dogs make wonderful companions but because the are large, and naturally protective, prospective owners need to know how to properly train and socialize these dogs.

Interview with Sprint Musher Pam Richards

June 10, 2021 16:00 - 26 minutes - 24.4 MB

Join hosts Robert Forto and Kourosh Partow as they welcome sprint musher, Pam Richards to The Dog Driver Show.  On this episode of the Dog Driver the guys talk to our guest about sprint mushing, sled dogs, nutrition, favorite races and more. 

A.K.C. STAR Puppy Program

June 06, 2021 16:00 - 17 minutes - 15.6 MB

Join Michele as she discusses the American Kennel Club's S.T.A.R. Puppy Program on Dog Works Radio. Did you know that starting your new pup in training is one of the most important things you can do to set them up for success? At Alaska Dog Works we offer the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy program as a stand-alone course as well as part of our Peak Performance Puppy Program. This podcast will help get you started on a road to success with your new puppy!

Interview with Stage Musher Bruce Magnusson

June 03, 2021 16:00 - 24 minutes - 22.3 MB

Join Robert and KP as they welcome sprint musher, Bruce Magnusson to The Dog Driver Show. On this episode we talk about stage racing, traveling to Alaska with sled dogs, and much more. 

Pandemic Puppies are now Problem Dogs

May 30, 2021 16:00 - 20 minutes - 18.5 MB

On this episode of Dog Works Radio, Michele discusses how pandemic puppies are now becoming problem dogs for many owners.  Social distancing which kept many people healthy during the pandemic has been a disaster for some of they dogs they adopted as companions to comfort them during the pandemic. Owners are calling for help as obedience classes are filling up across the country. 

Interview with Stage Musher Austin Forney

May 27, 2021 16:00 - 25 minutes - 23.7 MB

On this episode Robert and KP interview stage musher and tour operator, Austin Forney of Leadville, Colorado. They talk about the world-famous Pedigree Stage Stop Race, running a sled dog tour business high in the Colorado mountains, and much more. 

AKC Community Canine

May 23, 2021 16:00 - 20 minutes - 27.6 MB

On this episode, Michele discusses the Community Canine program offered through the American Kennel Club.  AKC Community Canine is the third and most advanced level of the Canine Good Citizen Program. In AKC Community Canine, dogs can earn the CGCA (Advanced CGC) title. The goal of AKC Community Canine is to test the dog’s skills in a natural setting. For example, rather than the dog being tested in a ring, in AKC Community Canine, the “walks through a crowd” test item will involve the d...

Interview with Sprint Musher Martin Vrtel

May 20, 2021 16:23 - 21 minutes - 20 MB

Join hosts Robert and KP as they welcome sprint musher Martin Vrtel from the Czech Republic. On this episode, they talk to Martin about training, nutrition, and racing in Europe with sled dogs. 

Is Owning a Dog Good For Your Health?

May 16, 2021 16:00 - 21 minutes - 30.2 MB

On this episode of Dog Works Radio, Michele answers the question: Is Owning a Dog Good for Your Health?  Ever wondered why dogs are so important in our lives? Maybe you already suspected owning a dog has palpable benefits for her humans. Turns out it’s true, and some of them are actually measurable. There’s strong evidence it is. A study in Sweden revealed 23% fewer deaths from heart disease and a 20% lower risk of death by any cause. This and much more...

Interview with Sprint Musher Rune Haugmo

May 13, 2021 16:00 - 27 minutes - 25.5 MB

Join hosts Robert Forto and KP as they welcome sprint musher Rune Haugmo to The Dog Driver Show.  Sponsors Alaska Dog Works  First Paw Coffee Company

Interview with Canine Trainer Nicole Forto

May 09, 2021 16:00 - 43 minutes - 39.4 MB

On this episode of Dog Works Radio, Robert is joined by canine trainer, Nicole Forto of Alaska Dog Works. Nicole is a pro trainer and specializes in building a better relationship between pet parents and their dogs.  They discussed the dog training world, tips, and tricks for pets owners, and more. 

Interview with Sprint Musher Eddie Dayton

May 06, 2021 16:00 - 18 minutes - 17.3 MB

Join hosts Robert Forto and KP as they welcome sprint musher Eddie Dayton to The Dog Driver Show.  Sponsors Alaska Dog Works  First Paw Coffee Company

Are Board and Train Programs Right for my Dog?

May 02, 2021 16:00 - 13 minutes - 17.9 MB

Join Robert Forto as she discusses Are Board and Train Programs Right for my Dog?  If you haven't already, please review us on Apple Podcasts! It's an important way to help new listeners discover the show. Say hello on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram, and sign up for our weekly newsletter. If you would like to introduce friends or family to podcasts, we created a How to Listen guide based on frequently asked questions. Take the Survey.

Interview with Sprint Musher Annie Grenier

April 29, 2021 16:56 - 25 minutes - 23.2 MB

Join hosts Robert Forto and KP as they welcome sprint musher Annie Grenier to The Dog Driver Show.  Sponsors Alaska Dog Works  First Paw Coffee Company

Interview with Canine Trainer Michele Forto

April 25, 2021 16:00 - 55 minutes - 75.6 MB

Join Robert Forto as he welcomes canine trainer Michele Forto to Dog Works Radio. If you haven't already, please review us on Apple Podcasts! It's an important way to help new listeners discover the show. Say hello on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram, and sign up for our weekly newsletter. If you would like to introduce friends or family to podcasts, we created a How to Listen guide based on frequently asked questions. Take the Survey.

Interview with Sprint Musher Érick Laforce

April 22, 2021 16:00 - 19 minutes - 17.9 MB

Join hosts Robert Forto and KP as they welcome sprint musher Érick Laforce to The Dog Driver Show.  Sponsors Alaska Dog Works  First Paw Coffee Company

Guests

Robert Forto
2 Episodes

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