Ep. 41 - The Mindset That Turns Struggling Dogs Into Confident Companions

From Marine Corps discipline to professional dog training, Steven Hueston’s journey shows how structure, patience, and purpose can transform both people and dogs. In this powerful episode, Nate Schoemer sits down with Steven Hueston —Marine infantry veteran, professional dog trainer, and host of the Dogs of War Podcast —to explore how lessons from military life shaped his approach to balanced dog training, behavior modification, and helping veterans heal through canine companionship. If you’ve ever wondered how the mindset of a Marine translates to calm, confident, reliable dogs, this episode breaks it all down. How military structure and timing translate directly into effective dog training The difference between sport protection dogs and true working dogs Why service dogs can both help and harm veterans—and the long-term emotional risks few discuss How to build confidence in fearful dogs without coddling or over-correcting The truth about “force-free” training and why many trainers use punishment without realizing it What balanced training really means and how Steven tailors it to each dog and owner Why patience and timing matter more than tools The biggest mistakes dog owners make (and how to fix them quickly) The story of Dobby, a Dogo Argentino who went from reactivity to off-leash freedom How working with dogs provides veterans with purpose, healing, and connection Steven Hueston is a Marine infantry veteran turned professional dog trainer. He brings real-world structure, discipline, and emotional intelligence to every dog he trains. He is the founder of Oracle K9 Training in Avon, Colorado, and host of the Dogs of War Podcast , where he interviews top trainers, handlers, and veterans on life, healing, and training. Website: https://oraclek9training.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083883048752 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oracle_k9_training Podcast: https://pod.link/1532993707 From Novice to Pro: The Ultimate Guide to Dog Training https://sitstaylearn.com/collections/instructional-videos/products/from-novice-to-pro-the-ultimate-guide-to-dog-training-by-nate-schoemer?rfsn=8100182.cd38c94&variant=50148621582625 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NateSchoemer Podcast: https://pod.link/1804414647 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nateschoemer TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nateschoemer Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NateSchoemer Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NateSchoemer Sit Stay Learn: https://sitstaylearn.com