Dog Training Truths No One Talks About with Melissa McCue McGrath
About this episode
In this episode of Dog Works Radio, Robert Forto sits down with professional dog trainer and author Melissa McCue McGrath about her new book, Misadventures of the World's Okayest Dog Trainer and also the real world of dog training, beyond the basics.
Melissa shares her journey from growing up with sled dogs in rural Maine to working in behavior cases and animal shelters. Along the way, we talk about the challenges dog trainers face, the misconceptions clients often have, and why communication with people matters just as much as working with dogs.
The conversation discusses:
- The impact of popular culture on dog ownership trends
- The gap between real training knowledge and public perception
- What dog owners should look for in a trainer
- The realities of working in shelters and behavior cases
- Why the dog training industry remains largely unregulated
Melissa also discusses her new book and the lessons behind the "misadventures" that shape every trainer's career.
If you are a dog owner, aspiring trainer, or someone curious about what really happens behind the scenes, this episode offers practical insight and honest perspective.
Buy the book: Misadventures of the World's Okayest Dog Trainer
Other Episodes You Will Love
This episode was recorded on the Shure SM7B and a Rodecaster Pro II
Like this episode? Share it with your dog training friends!
Love this episode? Say thanks in true dog training podcasting style by leaving a review.
FREE! Grab our 7-Day Real-World Dog Training Plan
Take our Understanding Drive Behaviors quiz to see exactly what drive your dog is in and how to begin to train for it.
Join the On-Air Dog Training Coaching waitlist for a chance to be coached on the air by Dr. Robert or Michele Forto and get your dog training questions answered in real time.
Sign up now for 20% off our Group Coaching Program and learn how to build the best relationship possible for your dog.
Take your dog training to the next level by enrolling in our Peak Performance membership.
Follow Dog Works Radio for more dog training tips: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn
©2009-2026 by Dog Works Training Company® All Rights Reserved.
Get every episode summarized
Each time Dog Works Radio publishes, we email you a written briefing from the transcript — the topics, who appeared, and any specific claims, with the ad reads skipped.
Email me new episodesFree for 3 shows. No card needed.
Hosts & guests
No transcript yet
This episode has not been transcribed. Request it and it moves to the front of the queue.
More episodes
More from Dog Works Radio
Stop Leash Pulling: Dog Training That Actually Works in Alaska
Dog Works Radio
Will Training Take Away My Dog's Personailty?
Dog Works Radio
Why is my dog reactive off leash? | Dog Works Radio
Dog Works Radio
Black and Tan Coonhound | The Daily Dog
Dog Works Radio