Service Dog Training Secrets Most Handlers Never Learn

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In this episode, I sit down with professional service dog trainer Heather Lowell, whose deep expertise in genetics, early development, and advanced training methods has helped shape some of the most reliable service dogs working today.

We dive into what most people get wrong about selecting and raising a service dog — from critical socialization windows and temperament testing to task reliability, motivation, and effective management strategies.

Whether you’re starting with a puppy, considering a rescue, or working with a dog you already own, Heather lays out a clear and honest roadmap to success. This episode is packed with real-world experience, no-nonsense advice, and training concepts few others are teaching.

🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
The most important traits to look for when selecting a service dog

How genetics, epigenetics, and early development shape long-term success

What most people misunderstand about service dog laws and certification

Step-by-step systems for crate training, potty training, and early socialization

How to build reliable task behaviors using timing, pressure, and reward

Advanced proofing strategies for high-distraction environments

🎓 Learn More from Heather Lowell:
🌐 Website: https://www.thek9advocate.com/
📺 YouTube: @TheK9AdvocateLLC
📸 Instagram: @k9advocateheather
💡 Patreon:   / thek9advocatellc  
📘 Facebook: Heather Lowell on Facebook

🎥 Related Resource:
▶️ What Is Operant Conditioning?
Understanding the four quadrants and how they apply to dog training:
   • NePoPo® Reinforcement and Operant Conditio...  

⏱️ Timestamps:
00:00 – Traits of an Ideal Service Dog
07:24 – Critical Period: Socialization Secrets
10:00 – Choosing the Right Breeder: Red Flags
12:26 – Service Dog Laws: Myths vs. Reality
15:00 – Selecting Older Dogs for Service Work
17:50 – Managing Environmental Changes for Puppies
23:45 – Crate Training and Puppy Supervision
28:10 – Crate Training Solutions for Whining Puppies
37:00 – Management Tools: Playpens and Feeding
39:10 – Building Food and Play Drives
46:25 – Controlled Socialization for Service Puppies
49:45 – Consistent Reward Systems for Training
01:00:30 – Training Service Tasks with Consistency
01:05:45 – Back-Chaining and Handling Mishaps
01:12:45 – E-Collar as a Reward Signal
01:17:40 – Changing the E-Collar Stigma
01:27:40 – Service Dog Proofing: Beating Distractions
01:31:15 – Unseen Canine Detection Abilities
01:34:45 – Proofing with E-Collar and Negative Punishment
01:43:15 – Training Dogs for Odor Detection
01:47:35 – Operant Conditioning: Tools and Terms
01:52:00 – Training Possums: Unique Challenges
01:54:55 – Closing Tips and Resources

⚠️ If you enjoyed the episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more high-level dog training interviews and insights.

Thanks again for your support — let’s keep helping dogs and people thrive, together. 🐶

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