Episode 310: Dog trainers and the Olympics

In Episode 310 of The Canine Paradigm, we discuss the dog training Rachael Raygun Olympic scandal and its implications for both the sports world and our industry. The controversy surrounding Rachael Raygun’s performance highlights a troubling trend: the perceived privilege of those with academic credentials, particularly PhDs, as the sole authorities on complex issues.

However, this bias isn’t limited to sports. In dog training, the divide between those with formal academic qualifications and those with extensive practical experience continues to grow. The dog training Rachael Raygun Olympic scandal shows that assuming PhDs alone hold all the answers is misguided. Moreover, this mindset creates rifts within our industry and undervalues the real-world expertise that experienced trainers bring to the table.

Furthermore, we’re concerned about the ongoing narrative that unfairly targets balanced trainers. Labelling these professionals as “punishment trainers” relies on emotional misinformation, which only serves to divide the community. This kind of gas lighting is exhausting and does nothing to improve dog training quality or the well-being of the dogs we care for.

Therefore, it’s time for a more balanced approach—one that respects both academic knowledge and practical experience. By fostering a more inclusive and open-minded discussion, we can create better outcomes for everyone, whether in the sports arena or within the dog training field.

Further Details

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• Glenn Cooke oversees a wide range of canine-related services at Canine Evolution and Pet Resorts Australia.
• Pat Stuart offers a full suite of coaching and dog training services through Serious dog business

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Special Thanks

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• Jane Stuart
• Avery Keller
• Zoie Neidy