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Pod to the Rescue

The Science of Behavior: How Dogs Actually Learn with Dr. Susan Friedman

February 24, 2026·1h 11m
Episode Description from the Publisher

What do we really mean when we say “behavior”?In this powerful kickoff to Season 6 of Pod to the Rescue, we’re joined by world-renowned behavior scientist Dr. Susan Friedman, Professor Emeritus of Psychology at Utah State University and founder of Behavior Works.Together, we explore:Why behavior is an evolved adaptationThe truth about reinforcement and punishmentWhy “scolding” isn’t necessary for learningHow to build a “trust account” with your dogThe ABC model (Antecedent-Behavior-Consequence)Why confidence is a label—and what it actually looks likeErrorless learning and how to reduce mistakes in trainingHow positive reinforcement builds resilienceWhether you're a new adopter, foster, shelter professional, or trainer, this episode will fundamentally change the way you see behavior.Because rescuing the dog is just the first step.Follow Dr. Friedman’s Behavior Works page on Facebook and check out her website: https://behaviorworks.org/Connect With Us:Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for weekly behavior insightsWebsite: https://www.podtotherescue.com/Emily Wolf, Brilliant Pup Behavior: https://www.brilliantpupbehavior.com/Jenni Pfafman, Elevated Dog Training: https://www.elevateddogtraining.com/Libby Felts, Bolder Dog and Bolder Dog Media: https://www.bolder.dog/

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