How to evaluate the scientific research on dogs and cats: A guide

How to evaluate the scientific research on dogs and cats: A guide

Author: Zazie Todd PhD and Kristi Benson CTC June 23, 2026 Duration: 34:58
Leave us a voicemail! New research on dogs and cats helps us to understand them better and give them better lives. But how do we know if the research is any good, and what about our feelings about the results? Zazie and Kristi chat about how to evaluate the science. We talk about: Taking an ethical stance on dogs and cats that recognizes that they are sentient beingsHow it can be tricky to assess research if you're not trained as a scientistThe research on training methods shows risks to usin...

Ever wondered what your pet is really thinking, or how the latest animal behaviour research might change your approach to a common challenge? That’s the kind of ground covered in The Pawsitive Post in Conversation. Hosts Zazie Todd and Kristi Benson bring their combined expertise-rooted in science and practical, hands-on training-into a series of discussions that feel more like a thoughtful chat with knowledgeable friends than a formal lecture. You’ll hear them unpack the nuances of dog and cat behaviour, offering actionable advice that always aligns with kind, reward-based methods. The conversation often extends beyond training tips to explore the fascinating science behind our pets' actions, helping to build deeper, more empathetic relationships. As avid readers, Zazie and Kristi also regularly share insights from the books on their nightstands, from animal-focused titles to broader works that inform their perspective. This Canadian-made podcast is a resource for anyone-whether you’re a parent teaching kids about animal kindness, a new pet owner, or a seasoned enthusiast-looking to cultivate a more thoughtful and harmonious life with their dog or cat. It’s a space where curiosity meets compassion, and where every episode aims to leave you with a clearer understanding of your companion animal.
Author: Language: en-ca Episodes: 50

The Pawsitive Post in Conversation by Companion Animal Psychology
Podcast Episodes
Fearful and Anxious Dogs with Zazie Todd, PhD, at Bark! Fest [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:00:19
Leave us a voicemail! Zazie Todd is at the forefront of the move towards positive animal welfare and kind, humane dog training methods. Her third book, Bark! The Science of Helping Your Anxious, Fearful, or Reactive Dog…
Animal Emotions with Marc Bekoff, PhD, at Bark! Fest [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:00:01
Leave us a voicemail! When The Emotional Lives of Animals was first published in 2007, it was a gamechanger for its exploration of animal emotions and cognition. Now, a second edition has been published to bring us up to…
More Than Just a Dog with Si Wooler [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 48:18
Leave us a voicemail! Zazie and Kristi talk to dog trainer Si Wooler about his new book, More Than Just a Dog. We talk about the big changes that people are willing to make for their fearful dogs, and why the dog's relat…