Episode Details

Training your dog for the outdoors means a lot more than sit and stay, and most people find that out the hard way.

Take the recall command. If a grizzly bear encounters your off leash dog on the trail, the dog often runs straight back to you, bear following. It's one of the most overlooked dangers of hiking with dogs, and it's just one of many things people rarely think to prepare for before heading outdoors together.

In this episode, Em talks with Halie from The Fishing Mutts about what it actually takes to train dogs for real outdoor adventure: fly fishing, whitewater rafting, backcountry hiking, and everything in between. From teaching a reliable recall to introducing dogs to boats safely, to packing a dog-specific first aid kit for the backcountry, Halie shares what years of trial and error have taught her about keeping dogs safe outdoors.

You'll hear:

• Why a reliable recall might be the single most important command for outdoor safety
• How to introduce a dog to a raft or boat without overwhelming their nervous system
• What real river hazards, wildlife encounters, and backcountry emergencies actually require you to prepare for

Press play if you've ever wanted to bring your dog on real outdoor adventures and want to do it safely.

Guest Info:

Instagram: @thefishingmutts & TikTok: @thefishingmutts

Resources:

American Whitewater

Swiftwater Safety Institute

US Geological Survey Water Data

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📧 em@thedogwhoaskedformore.com

This podcast explores life with dogs — including dog behavior, dog anxiety, reactive dogs, dog reactivity, dog training, and the relationship with your dog. It's for dog parents navigating overwhelm, chronic stress, burnout recovery, and the challenges of life with a dog who asks for more. Episodes cover dog nutrition, canine nutrition, pet nutrition, dog food, dog enrichment, dog body language, dog communication, emotional healing, healing with dogs, self-trust, personal growth, and building a deeper connection with your dog. Whether you're raising a reactive dog, feeling discouraged, or