2021 was a memorable year for Dog Works Radio, with episodes that combined heartfelt musher interviews, timely dog training advice, fascinating canine science, and seasonal safety tips. Whether you’re passionate about sled-dog culture, curious about canine cognition, or simply looking for practical advice to enrich your dog’s life, these ten episodes stood out as essential listens.
Ross Saunderson (December 30, 2021)
Hosts Robert Forto and KP Partow wrapped up the year with an interview featuring championship musher Ross Saunderson. This conversation highlights his family’s mushing legacy, race-winning insights, and lessons learned from years on the trail. It’s a must-listen for anyone fascinated by the culture of sled dogs.
New Year’s Resolutions for Your K9 Buddy (December 26, 2021)
Michele Forto offered dog owners timely and practical tips to start the year off right. From building exercise routines to setting up healthier feeding habits, this episode gave listeners simple resolutions to help their dogs thrive well into the new year.
Interview with Game Developer Paul Wells (December 23, 2021)
A unique episode in the 2021 lineup featured Paul Wells, a developer creating a sled-dog video game. This conversation bridged the gap between mushing history and interactive technology, offering listeners a fresh perspective on how canine culture is represented in modern media.
Christmas Dangers and Your Dog (December 19, 2021)
The holiday season brings joy but also hidden dangers for dogs. In this episode, Michele Forto shared critical advice on protecting pets from toxic plants, rich foods, and other seasonal hazards. It’s one of those evergreen episodes worth revisiting every December.
The Dogs Might Revolt! (November 28, 2021)
Dogs may understand us better than we realize. This intriguing episode explored recent research into canine cognition, showing how dogs process human cues in ways that reveal just how intelligent, and intuitive, they really are.
Interview with Musher Lindy Holoubek (November 25, 2021)
Another strong musher profile came with Lindy Holoubek, who joined Robert Forto and KP Partow to talk about her experiences on the trail. From European mushing influences to kennel life and racing strategies, this episode captures the heart of the sport.
Why It Is Important to Let Your Dog Sniff on Walks (November 21, 2021)
Dog owners often rush through walks, but in this episode Michele Forto reminded listeners why sniffing is essential. Sniffing provides mental enrichment, reduces stress, and strengthens the bond between dog and handler. Practical and science-driven, this episode resonated with everyday pet parents.
Interview with Dog Trainer and Podcaster Chelsea Murray (November 14, 2021)
Chelsea Murray joined the show to share her expertise in canine sports and training. She discussed socialization, the rewards and challenges of working with dogs professionally, and her path as a podcaster in the canine world. This episode was a favorite for trainers and aspiring professionals alike.
Is Your Dog Microchipped? (November 7, 2021)
A straightforward but vital episode, Michele covered the importance of microchipping. With clear explanations of why it matters and how it can reunite families with lost pets, this show served as a practical guide every dog owner should hear.
The Legacy of 9/11 Dogs (September 5, 2021)
One of the most moving episodes of 2021, this tribute honored the dogs who worked during and after the September 11 attacks. Sharing stories of service, sacrifice, and resilience, the episode highlighted the profound ways dogs continue to shape history.
Why These Episodes Shine
What makes this list special is the range of perspectives Dog Works Radio offered in 2021. Listeners could learn about advanced training and enrichment in one episode, explore musher culture and history in another, and then pause to reflect on the incredible legacies of working dogs. It was a year that blended practical wisdom with inspiration, history, and heart.
2021 proved that Dog Works Radio is more than just a podcast, it’s a community for anyone who loves dogs. These episodes continue to offer timeless lessons and unforgettable stories, whether you’re on the trail, at home, or just starting your journey as a dog owner.
If you’re ready to dive in, start with these highlights, and you’ll see why Dog Works Radio remains a trusted voice in the world of canine culture, training, and adventure.