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Housewolves: The Pet Dog Collective

Housewolves: The Pet Dog Collective

By: Melissa Major
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About this listen

Welcome to Housewolves: The Pet Dog Collective — the podcast for dog owners who want clarity, confidence, and a deeper connection with their dogs. Trainer Melissa Major brings you real-life training strategies, behaviour insights, meaningful interviews, and lifestyle conversations that help you truly understand your dog.


Whether you’re navigating life with a brand-new puppy or leveling up with an adult dog, you’ll get practical tools to create a calmer home, a stronger bond, and a well-trained companion you can take anywhere.


Rooted in working-dog principles but made for everyday owners, this show is all about real dogs, real training, and results that actually fit your life.

© 2026 Housewolves: The Pet Dog Collective
Episodes
  • Saving Lives: The Mission of Save Texas K9s
    Feb 17 2026

    Summary:
    In this episode, Melissa Major speaks with Judith and Jen from Save Texas K9s about the challenges of dog rescue in Texas, the overpopulation crisis in shelters, and the importance of community support. They discuss the organization's mission, the rescue process, and provide valuable tips for potential adopters. The conversation highlights the need for responsible pet ownership and the role of volunteers in making a difference in the lives of dogs in need.

    Where to find Save Texas K9s:

    Adoptable Dogs:

    https://www.petfinder.com/member/us/tx/sadler/save-texas-k-9-s-tx2775/#rescue-info

    Instagram:

    https://www.instagram.com/savetexask9s/

    Adoption Application:

    https://form.jotform.com/232547694860164

    Email : Info@savetexask9s.org

    Amazon Wish List:

    https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/8P3CF5K9IO6S?ref_=wl_share

    Takeaways:

    • Save Texas Canines is a volunteer-run organization focused on rescuing dogs from high-kill shelters in Texas.
    • The overpopulation crisis in Texas leads to the euthanasia of over 100,000 animals each year.
    • Dogs in shelters often face dire circumstances, with limited time for adoption before being put down.
    • Community support and awareness are crucial for improving animal welfare in Texas.
    • Adoption processes involve careful matching of dogs to potential owners to ensure successful placements.
    • New dog owners should allow their pets time to adjust to their new environment without overwhelming them.
    • Foster care is essential for the rescue process, providing temporary homes for dogs in need.
    • Education on responsible pet ownership can help reduce the number of strays and backyard breeding.
    • People can support Save Texas K9s through donations, volunteering, or adopting pets.
    • The organization encourages potential adopters to reach out for help in finding the right dog for their home.

    Chapters:

    00:00 Introduction to Save Texas K9s
    03:00 The Overpopulation Crisis in Texas Shelters
    06:54 Understanding the Role of Save Texas K9s
    16:58 The Rescue Process and Community Involvement
    31:01 The Role of Veterinarians in Animal Rescue
    34:02 Adoption Process and Resources
    35:58 Adopting Across Borders: Challenges and Solutions
    38:57 Integrating a Rescue Dog into Your Home
    45:07 Ways to Support Save Texas K9s
    49:07 Raising Awareness for Animal Welfare
    52:03 The Urgency of Animal Rescue in Texas

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    57 mins
  • From Whippet to Doberman: Lauren's Dog Training Odyssey
    Jan 27 2026

    Summary:

    In this episode of the Housewolves podcast, host Melissa Major welcomes Lauren, a passionate dog owner and competitor, to discuss her journey with her three dogs, particularly her Dobermans. Lauren shares her early experiences with dogs, starting with her first pet, a Whippet named Kissy, and how her love for dogs evolved into a competitive spirit. She recounts the challenges and joys of training her Dobermans, Cujo and Killer, and the various dog sports they participate in, including dock diving, barn hunt, and scent detection. Lauren emphasizes the importance of building a bond with dogs through training and sports, highlighting how these activities enrich both their lives and the lives of their owners.

    The conversation also delves into the complexities of owning multiple dogs, the financial and emotional commitments involved, and the significance of health testing for breeds like Dobermans, which are prone to specific health issues. Lauren's insights into the Doberman breed, including the differences between show and working lines, provide valuable information for potential dog owners. Ultimately, Lauren reflects on how her dogs have transformed her life, offering companionship, joy, and a sense of purpose.

    Takeaways:

    • "I always wanted a dog, but my parents thought it was going to be a shiny new toy that loses its shine."
    • "He changed my life. He is my once in a lifetime dog."
    • "The bond you create with your dog is amazing."
    • "I have met so many people because of this dog and I have learned so many things and skills because of this dog."
    • "Dobermans are one of those breeds that do have a lot of health issues."
    • "You can test for DCM, but even if you have a sire and a dam who have been normal, they can still produce it."
    • "I don't know how to teach a dog to settle, but I expect them to be able to do it."
    • "I think the Doberman community can be pretty harsh and nasty compared to other breed communities."
    • "It's important to find a dog that fits your lifestyle and needs."
    • "Life's really hard right now, but at least I have Kujo."

    Chapters:

    00:00 Introduction to Lauren and Her Dogs
    01:33 How Lauren Got Started with Dogs
    05:51 Transitioning to Dobermans and Dog Sports
    09:00 The Impact of COVID on Dog Training
    12:46 Exploring Dock Diving and Other Sports
    19:12 The Joy of Scent Detection
    23:15 Adding a Third Dog to the Family
    29:00 The Financial Commitment of Dog Sports
    37:23 Understanding Doberman Health Issues
    49:34 The Life-Changing Impact of Kujo

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    59 mins
  • From Dog Lover to Professional Handler with Mackenzie Pavkovich
    Jan 20 2026

    Summary:

    In this episode of the Housewolves podcast, Melissa Major interviews Mackenzie Pavkovich, a passionate dog handler and trainer. Mackenzie shares her journey from being a dog lover to becoming a professional handler, detailing her experiences with various breeds, her transition into dog sports, and the challenges of balancing motherhood with her career. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding dog behavior, the thrill of working with high-drive dogs, and the personal growth that comes from pursuing one's passion. Mackenzie also offers valuable advice for aspiring dog handlers and reflects on the impact of dogs on her life.

    Takeaways:

    • Mackenzie has always been a dog lover and caretaker.
    • Her journey into dog training began during the COVID lockdown.
    • She discovered balanced training to manage her rescue dog.
    • Mackenzie went all in on dog handling and training.
    • She learned a lot from her bond with working dogs.
    • Detection work gave her a sense of purpose.
    • Transitioning to IGP training was a significant step.
    • Handling different breeds taught her about their unique traits.
    • Aspiring handlers should gain hands-on experience with dogs.
    • Mackenzie and Eric built a life together centered around dogs.

    Chapters:

    00:00 Introduction to Mackenzie Pavkovich
    01:06 Mackenzie's Early Love for Dogs
    05:01 Transitioning to Professional Dog Handling
    11:03 Working with Detection Dogs
    16:15 Exploring IGP and New Training Opportunities
    20:20 Dog Breeds and Their Unique Traits
    24:04 Advice for Aspiring Dog Handlers
    28:01 Personal Journey and Life Changes
    33:55 The New Puppy Adventure
    37:02 Balancing Motherhood and Dog Training
    41:01 Future Aspirations and Inspirations

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    42 mins
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