The Canine Paradigm

The Canine Paradigm


Episode 295: Reward placement and the importance of play

April 10, 2024

In our latest podcast episode, we dove into the fascinating world of canine behaviour, focusing on the concept of ‘play’ and its multifaceted role in the lives of our dog. Addressing two insightful listener requests, we explored the intricacies of reward placement and the nuanced differences between direct and indirect rewards, shedding light on how these elements can enhance the play experience and training efficacy for both working dogs and pets.


Further, we delved into the vital importance of play, not just as a leisure activity, but as a cornerstone of healthy development and emotional well-being for dogs. The discussion illuminated the stark contrasts between working dogs, who often engage in play as a form of job-related training, and pet dogs, whose playtime is more centred around bonding and recreational activities.


Understanding the role of play in a dog’s life is crucial for pet owners and trainers alike, offering insights into how play can be used as a tool for learning, bonding, and maintaining physical and mental health. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of their canine companions and make the most of their playtime together.


Further details

looking for great dog trainers and supporters of the canine paradigm? Below is a vast array of people and business’s who stand by us, donate to our running costs and do great things for the canine community.


Glenn runs and has almost everything canine related at, Canine Evolution or Pet Resorts Australia


Pat has a full range of coaching and dog training services at Operant Canine


You can support our show and get extra content right here on our Patreon page. Everything goes into keeping the show running and we love all the wonderful people who are part of that community. If you’re not sure how, just ask us.


You can get our full range of our Merch at our Teespring store here


You can help us by spreading the word amongst the canine community or even suggesting a special guest to interview.


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If you enjoyed the podcast, please review us on Itunes, spotify and any other podcast directory


Details on joining the IACP can be found here. If you’re not in it you should be! Understand?


Check out Dogs Playing for Life! A rescue process changing dogs lives across the USA


For more details on how to help our friends at Peggy’s Promise, you can find all the details on how to do that on their website. They are our rescue charity of choice.


Support our supporters

Narelle Cooke’s raw feeding guide for dogs here. Narelle has her own podcast on all podcast directories called Natural Health for people and pets. Check it out in person.


Looking for the best, human grade supplement range for your dogs? Check out Canine Ceuticals. Now available in the USA. SHOW SPONSOR


Jason Firmin Einzweck Dog quip SHOW SPONSOR


The motorcycle dog kennel by Rowdy Hound SHOW SPONSOR


Professional dog training services DanKroft K9 SHOW SPONSOR


Daycare and training from the heart dog training SHOW SPONSOR


Dog training all styles in Adelaide Dog Club SA SHOW SPONSOR


Our beloved friend and regular contributor, Birdy O’Sheedy can be found at birdyosheedy.com


HUGE thanks to all our contributing artists. Please support their works


Jane Stuart
Avery Keller
Zoie Neidy