What The Bark - The RightPaw Podcast
By RightPaw
RightPaw is on a mission to help every dog and owner start off on the right paw. This podcast will see us provide dog breeders and owners with the latest education on health, behaviour, socialisation, the latest advocacy news, and much more! We'll also have special guests - both animal and human - coming along for the ride!
63. George enters the puppy phase
After the tragic loss of his beloved Charlie, George has (unexpectedly!) welcomed a new puppy into his life - the wonderful Brandy, the smooth-coated Griffon!
George and Nathan discuss re-entering the puppy phase, introducing a new pup to a senior dog, and some of the things George didn't expect about being a new puppy owner once again!
62. Crufts - an insider's look, with Dr. Samantha Van Buren
Ever wanted to know what happens on the ground at Crufts?
This week, we're joined by Dr. Samantha Van Buren, geneticist and Mudi breeder, who shares her experience at the world's most renowned dog show.
We hear about the glamour, the paperwork, and the shopping! Plus, George shares the new addition to his canine family!
61. Back for 2026 + Rare Breed Pools
What The Bark is back for 2026!
After a little paw-se over the summer break, Nathan and George catch-up on what’s happened over summer, the winners at the recent Canberra Royal, and how dog breeds start to become ‘rare’.
Have a topic you’d love to hear us discuss? Email in at info@rightpaw.com.au !
60. 2025's Most Googled Pet Genetics Questions
You googled, and we answered!
Nathan and Genetic George sit down to talk through the 10 most searched pet genetics questions of 2025, and offer our answers.
From dog ancestry, to DNA test reliability, and coat colour, we walk through what you were googling in 2025.
This is our last episode for the year, and we will be back in 2026, with more What The Bark!
59. Pet Insurance, with Dr. Steve Rose from Trupanion
This week, we're here to demystify a very complex topic in the animal world - pet insurance.
Nathan and George are joined by Dr. Steve Rose from Trupanion Australia, to break down the ins and outs of pet insurance, what all the different policies and terms mean, and the benefits for pets and their owners.
A quick disclaimer:Trupanion Pet Insurance is issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473, AFSL 241436, and distributed, promoted and administered by Trupanion Australia Pty Ltd (ABN 33626393628, AR 1268213) as an authorised representative of Hollard. Any advice provided is general only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to ensure this product meets your needs before purchasing. PDS and Target Market Determination and Privacy Policy available at Trupanion.com.au
58. Vale Charlie - Saying goodbye to a pet
This week, we celebrate the life of George's dog Charlie, the lovable Boston Terrier and an iconic figure in the Orivet journey.
Nathan and George talk about saying goodbye to a pet, the decisions around it, and coping with the grief that comes with such an irreplaceable loss.
57. Stem Cell Therapy in Dogs, with Paloma Newton from Elita
Have you ever wondered whether stem cell therapy could work in dogs, as well as humans?
We sat down with Paloma Newton, co-founder of Elita, a Melbourne start-up that is pioneering stem cell therapy and banking for dogs in Australia.
We discuss the science behind it, the impact it can have on older dogs, and the real case studies that already exist!
56. Inbreeding Coefficients Explained!
Ever heard of a COI? 🧬 It stands for Coefficient of Inbreeding – a measure of how closely related a puppy’s parents are.
This week, George and Nathan unpack this concept, and how breeders ensure genetic diversity in their breeding programs.
Rewind Ep - 7. Dog Temperaments with Ginette Loft
This week, we've dived into our back catalogue to bring you a What The Bark classic episode, all about Dog Temperaments!
Dogs have personalities too! This week, we discuss Dog Temperaments with RightPaw breeder and show-dog judge Ginnette Loft. We delve into how dogs develop their temperaments, how dogs even in the same breed group can be polar opposites, and how breeders can conduct 'temperament testing' on their pups to match them with the right families.
If you want to read more about Ginnette, you can visit her Emeraldcity Cairn Terriers profile on RightPaw.
55. Becoming a breeder, with Jessica from Hapapi Papillons
Ever wondered how someone first becomes a breeder? What's involved in getting started?
We sat down with Jessica from Hapapi Papillons, who shares how she started her breeding journey, and the many considerations along the way.
From finding a mentor, to your foundation dogs, to planning the first litter - Jessica generously shares her experience becoming a breeder!
54. Season 5 Kick-Off, and Dog Trends in the US!
What The Bark is back for 2025, and raring to go!
Nathan and George share some of the important life events that put a short pause on the pod for a few months.
And George tells all about the US conferences he attended, and how the dog world is done differently in the US!
53. Breed ID Tests Explained
Have you ever wondered how Breed ID tests determine the make-up of your beloved pooch?
George and Nathan sit down to discuss Breed ID testing, how the tests works, and the watch-outs to know when interpreting your results.
52. Shiba Inu Breed Spotlight, with Lyne Browning (Kortmar Shiba Inu)
What breed is one of the oldest native breeds, and also the face of a cryptocurrency? Enter the Shiba Inu!
This week we are joined by Lyne from Kortmar Shiba Inu to discuss this much loved breed. We dive into the breed origins,"Shiba glitter", its history as a famous 'meme', and lots of fun facts along the way.
51. All about Worming, with Dr. Sooan from Drontal
Have you ever wondered why Worming is so important for dogs and puppies?
This week, Dr. Sooan Choi from Drontal (one of Australia's leading worming brands) joins us to dive into all things worming.
We learn all about the main types of worms, how dogs may pick these up, why puppies are more at risk, and how to ensure your dogs are best protected against parasites.
For more information, you can visit Drontal or Vetoquinol.
Label disclaimer: Always read the label for full claim details and directions.
50. Inside the Orivet Testing Laboratory
Have you ever wondered what goes on inside a DNA testing laboratory?
This week, Genetic George gives us an inside look into how a dog DNA test goes from a saliva sample to a fully fledged result!
49. "Adopt, Don't Shop" - An ethical discussion
We've all heard people say "Adopt, Don't Shop" for a dog, but is it really as simple as that?
Nathan and George dive into this controversial topic - discussing the ethics of buying vs. adopting, why adopting is not for everyone, and how buying from a responsible breeder can help reduce the burden on shelters.
48. Pomeranian Breed Spotlight, with Robyn Dodds (Pomfire Pomeranians)
We're joined by Robyn from Pomfire Pomeranians, in a special spotlight on this fiery little breed!
We discuss the breed's origins, how Poms were once much larger than what we know today, and how this is our first case of sibling guests on the podcast!
47. "Mythbusting" Breeding with DNA Carriers
There are a lot of myths out there about breeding with DNA disease carriers, so we asked the expert!
This week, Genetic George talks us through the safest way to breed with DNA carriers in your breeding program.
The great news - having a DNA carrier does not stop a dog from being part of a successful breeding program!
Also, we apologise for some of the audio in this episode - Nathan had some microphone issues, but we should be back to normal next week!
46. Staffy Breed Spotlight, with Kim Reeder (Gamester Staffords)
Did you know Staffies are nicknamed "the nanny dog", for their reputation for being great with kids?
We're spotlighting Staffies this week, with renowned breeder Kim Reeder of Gamester Staffords.
We dive into the history of the breed, their origins in dog fighting, how the breed changed during the world wars, and how they are the ideal family dog!
Kim is also part of her own podcast, The Dog Show Show.
45. Doggy Trends of 2024
This week on What The Bark, we get our crystal balls out to predict some dog trends for 2024!
Nathan and George give their Thumbs Up or Thumbs Down to trends such as pet holidays, doggy cooking, breed bans, and more.
44. Scottish Terriers, with Jason Rhodes (Dumbarton)
Did you know the Monopoly 'dog' is modelled off the Scottish Terrier?
This week on What The Bark, we talk all things Scotties with Jason Rhodes, from Dumbarton Scottish Terriers.
We dive into the breed history, why Scotties have a special relationship with US Presidents, and how Jason has built a near 20k following of Scottie lovers around the world.
You can learn more about Jason via his Linktree profile here.
43. The National Dog Show in Philadelphia
What The Bark is back for 2024!
And so is Genetic George - back from his visit to The National Dog Show, in Philadelphia USA!
He shares his observations into the US dog scene, how it differs from Australia, and some minor celebrities he met along the way!
42. Pet Cloning
Would you, or should you, clone your pet?
This week, Nathan visits George at the Orivet office to discuss the new practice of pet cloning - and the moral and ethical questions it raises. It's a growing trend, but it will cost you!
41. "Mythbusting" DNA Parentage
It's time for another of our "mythbusting" educational episodes, as What The Bark dives into DNA Parentage.
Genetic George from Orivet explains what parentage testing is, why breeders do it, parentage vs. ancestry, and the different methods of testing.
40. Dog Training Theory, with Dr. Imogen
On What The Bark this week, listeners have been asking for an intro to dog training theory - so here we are! With George away, Dr. Imogen has stepped in to give an overview into dog training 101. We dive into the research, different training methods, and how to find a reputable trainer.
And here are links to the APDT and to the Delta Institute, both mentioned on the podcast.
39. Dogs in the Digital Age
Do you know how many Aussies have uploaded a picture of their dog to social media?
In this episode, Nathan and Genetic George pull out the most fascinating stats from Orivet's 2022 survey of dog ownership in today's world.
From dog selfies, to breed choices, to home-cooked meals for dogs, you'll be amazed at the lengths we go to for our furry friends.
38. Puppy Owner FAQs, with Dr. Claire Stevens
We're super excited to have veterinarian, author, and RightPaw breeder Dr. Claire Stevens join What The Bark this week!
Dr. Claire joined us to unpack some of the most common new puppy owner questions that she encounters at the vet clinic.
We cover questions around feeding, biting, socialisation, and much more!
To learn more about Dr. Claire, you can visit her website: https://drclairestevens.com/ or follow her Instagram @drclairestevens
37. Dogs and Breeding Limits
An important podcast topic this week, after some recent welfare stories in the news around over-breeding dogs.
Nathan and Genetic George discuss the news stories, the importance of breeding limits, and how responsible breeders cater for this in their breeding programs.
A shout-out to podcast listener Wendy from Pitter Patter Cavoodles for her suggestion for this week's episode!
36. Dogs and Coat Type
After the great feedback to our series on "coat colour", we're excited to share another special episode - all about dogs and coat type!
Nathan and Genetic George dive into the genes that make up "coat type" in dogs - including the 'long-haired' gene, 'curly' gene, and 'improper coat' gene.
You can learn more on this - and view some great diagrams - in this great research paper here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19713490/
35. Dog Parks of the Future, with Jared Zabel
Ever wondered what the dog parks of the future could look like? Well, Jared Zabel from OpenPark does!
In this week's episode, Jared joins us to discuss his vision for OpenPark - a new US start-up, re-imagining how dog parks can provide holistic pet care. Think of it as a gym for dogs!
You can read more about OpenPark on their website - https://www.openpark.us/
34. Dogs and Coat Colour (Part 3)
Tune in for the final instalment in our series on dog coat colour! In Part 3, we discuss two of the most rare colour variations - piebald (pied) and merle - and delve into the health conditions owners and breeders of merle dogs need to be aware of.
You can read more here about the Langevin merle scale via the link here, and check out a great educational and visual resource for Dog Coat Colour here.
33. Dogs and Coat Colour (Part 2)
We're back with Part 2 in our special episode all about dog coat colour! In Part 2, we look at some of the more unusual colour variations, including sable, brindle, and black and tan - and what it means for dog owners of those breeds.
Here is the link to the great educational resource discussed in the episode, explaining coat colour with great visuals: http://www.doggenetics.co.uk/index.htm
32. Dogs and Coat Colour (Part 1)
Ever wondered how a black labrador can produce yellow puppies? In a special series of episodes, Genetic George guides us through how coat colour works in dogs! In Part 1, we dive into dog DNA; how all dog coats can be traced back to two base colours; and how different DNA variations produce all the colours we see today!
Here is the link to the great educational resource discussed in the episode, explaining coat colour with great visuals: http://www.doggenetics.co.uk/index.htm
31. Golden Retriever "Breed Spotlight", with Camuka Golden Retrievers
A whole podcast episode on the Golden Retriever? Sign us up!
This week on "What The Bark", we shone our 'Breed Spotlight' on one of the world's most popular breeds.
Joining us was Jane Hodges from Camuka Golden Retrievers, as we dive into the origins of the breed, their temperament and standard, important health concerns, and why they're so enduringly popular.
Jane has even written a book on how to raise a Golden Retriever puppy, which is a fantastic read for new GR parents! You can find out more at camuka.com
30. The ADAMTS3 Genetic Test, with Nathan and Genetic George
This week, we’re tackling one of the most commonly asked questions from breeders in the last 6 months…what is ADAMTS3?
This new genetic health test has raised a lot of questions and concerns, so we thought we would demystify the most frequent questions, and look at how this affects breeding programs.
Please note, the information in this episode is for general advice only, and we always recommend consulting with your vet on any health decisions.
29. What's My (Dog's) Age Again? with Dr. Andria Beal
The "What The Bark" podcast is back for 2023!
As we get a year older, it left us thinking about the age of our doggy friends - and the importance of caring for your dog based on how old they are.
So we invited Dr. Andria Beal - founder of EpiPaws - to talk about how their tests help determine a dog's age, and the study of epigenetics.
Psst - there are also Orivet and EpiPaws prize giveaways, so make sure you listen in!
You can learn more about EpiPaws at their website - https://www.epipaws.com/
28. Separation Anxiety, with Tiana from River City Puppies
For our last podcast episode of 2022, 'What The Bark' thought we'd tackle arguably the biggest challenge for dog owners during the last few years - separation anxiety!
We were joined by RightPaw breeder Tiana Karamihas of River City Puppies to unpack this common problem. Tiana is a "Cavoodle Coach", and has encountered this problem in her breed.
We discuss what causes separation anxiety, how to identify it, common mistakes to avoid creating an anxious puppy, and strategies you can put in place to combat this.
Tiana also has her own podcast - "The Cavoodle Coach" - with many other tips and tricks for current and future Cavoodle owners.
What The Bark will be back with new episodes in 2023!
27. Junior Handlers, with Zuleika Finnish Lapphunds
Have you ever dreamt of getting in the ring at a dog show?
This week on "What The Bark", we put on our best dog show attire to discuss Junior Handlers, with RightPaw breeder Rachael Holloway from Zuleika Finnish Lapphunds!
A topic close to Rachael's heart - starting as a junior handler herself - we discuss the importance of junior handlers, how other countries run their dog shows, and how we can encourage more young people to enter the dog world.
You can reach Rachael via her RightPaw profile below:
https://rightpaw.com.au/l/zuleika-finnish-lapphunds/5edf7ce8-58da-4a55-93be-ae51ca138fbb
26. Papillon "Breed Spotlight", with Emmoge Papillons
Did you know a Papillon is one of the world's most intelligent breeds?
This week on "What The Bark", we held another of our "Breed Spotlights", this time on the adorable Papillon!
We were joined by RightPaw breeder EmilyKate of Emmoge Papillons, and learned all about the the origins of the breed, how the breed got its name, the difference between a Papillon and a Phalene, and how to determine if this is the right breed for you!
You can learn more, and contact EmilyKate, on the Emmoge Papillons RightPaw Profile below:
https://rightpaw.com.au/l/emmoge-papillons/a4803d32-7fa6-4860-8945-9da6f6865e05
25. A Puppy's First Eight Weeks, with Waterhill Cavoodles
Genetic George is back! And we have a cracking episode to welcome him back.
This week, we sat down with RightPaw cavoodle breeder Sarah, from Waterhill Cavoodles, as we walk through a puppy's transformation in its first eight weeks of life.
Sarah talks us through the preparation and training that goes into that eight weeks (and even beforehand!) to produce a perfect, well-socialised family pet. It's a great listen, and super educational!
You can visit Sarah's RightPaw profile in the link below:
24. Puppy Preparation, with Dr. Imogen Tomlin-Game
What The Bark is back! After a little 'pawse', we're excited to be back on the air!
This week we were without Genetic George (don't worry, he's back next episode!), so we brought back one of our favourite guests - Dr. Imogen Tomlin-Game - to talk all things puppy preparation.
Imogen has developed RightPaw's Puppy Prep Program, and discusses the importance of puppy preparation, as well as key topics such as puppy-proofing your home, settling your puppy in, toilet training, crate training, socialisation, and much more!
You can learn more about preparation through RightPaw in the link below:
https://pages.rightpaw.com.au/puppy-parent-club
23. Breeder Social Media, with Spencer's Dachshunds
With more breeders being found online, social media is becoming an important way for breeders to share their breeding program with the world.
We sat down with RightPaw breeder Teghan from Spencer's Dachshunds, to learn the tips and tricks of running social media as a breeder. We discuss the different social media platforms, what content works best, and strategies to boost your following.
You can learn more about Spencer's Dachshunds on their RightPaw profile, or follow their Instagram and Facebook.
22. German Spitz "Breed Spotlight", with Fyreburst Spitz
Did you know a German Spitz, Pomeranian, and Keeshond are all in the same family?
Well, this week, we held another of our "Breed Spotlights", this week on the feisty German Spitz!
We were joined by RightPaw breeders Di and Niki of Fyreburst Spitz, and learned all about the German Spitz, the origins of the breed, the different personalities of the Spitz family, and how to determine if this is the right breed for you!
You can learn more on the Fyreburst Spitz RightPaw Breeder page.
21. Ask Me Anything (Live!) with Genetic George
If you missed our recent Facebook Live "Ask Me Anything", with Genetic George, you can now listen to the official recording!
This episode was all about the listeners, who messaged in with their genetic, health, and DNA questions live on the show - and we answered them in real time! Featuring our special guest moderator Andrew, from the RightPaw team.
Thanks to all of our fantastic fans for sending in their questions, and tuning in to the episode!
20. Dog Photography, with Ffiona Erskine
Everyone wants to take great photos of their dogs! But how do you get them just right?
This week, we sat down with dog show photographer Ffiona Erskine of Ffire Photography, to understand what makes a great pooch pic! Ffiona shares her tricks of the trade - including positioning, angles, lighting, and how to get their attention - as well as some amazing stories of where dog photography has taken her around the world.
And you might just hear a little blooper from George along the way!
You can reach out to Ffiona at the Ffire photography website: https://ffirephotography.net/
Join our Facebook Live Podcast on Tuesday May 17th!
Join us on Tuesday May 17th at 6pm (AEST) for a special live podcast recording on Facebook! We'll be recording live on Facebook, with a special 'Ask Me Anything' episode with Genetic George. You'll be able to message in with all your genetic and health questions, and we'll answer them live on the air!
Click here to RSVP to the event on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1926380704231676
Or like the RightPaw Facebook page and you'll be notified when we go live: https://www.facebook.com/rightpawpets
What The Bark will be back from our Easter break with more episodes soon.
19. Assistance Dogs, with Pauline Gill from Tapua Labradors
Prepare to have your mind blown, as we delve into the amazing world of assistance dogs.
We are joined by renowned service and assistance dog breeder Pauline Gill, who has spent decades breeding her labradors to be "dogs with jobs".
We learn about what is required to become a service dog, the different accreditations, the 18-month training program involved, and some of the amazing feats that these service dogs can do (including diabetes detection!).
You can learn more about Pauline via her Tapua Labrador Retrievers RightPaw profile.
18. Live at the Canberra Royal Dog Show
We're coming to you live from the Canberra Royal Dog Show!
George and Nathan travelled to Canberra to record our first ever live episode.
Hear what it's like to be ring-side at a dog show, with live commentary on the show, and pop-ins by a few guests along the way, including Paul Grebert of Marsanchow Chows, and Don Mahoney, recently voted Australia's favourite dog show judge!
17. Norway's Breeding Ban, with Dr. Imogen Tomlin-Game
Did you know Norway has recently banned the breeding of the British Bulldog and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?
It caused a big stir, and had a lot of the dog world asking... 'What The Bark'?!
We welcome back Dr. Imogen Tomlin-Game - Chief Vet at RightPaw - to unpack the ban, why it happened, whether it is reasonable, and what it means for breeders around the world.
16. Dog Poop and DNA, with J Retinger from Poo Prints
Be warned - in this episode, we're talking s**t!
It's the dirty side of the dog world, but dog poop is a real environmental and social problem. We sat down with J Retinger from Poo Prints, who use DNA to identify the owners leaving behind dog waste left in public spaces, and improve responsible pet ownership!
You can read more about Poo Prints on their website here: https://www.pooprints.com/