32: Why Your Dog Reacts (And What It’s Trying to Tell You) with Mena Lopes

36: Limping But Not in Pain? Why Your Dog's Discomfort Is Easier to Miss Than You Think with Dr. Ellie Lederer

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Ellie Lederer, an ECVS board-certified small animal orthopedic surgeon, and the founder of MOVES, a free online orthopaedic journal club for vets across the Middle East. We get into the subtle signs that your dog might be in more pain than they're letting on, the most common orthopedic conditions in small dogs, what slippery floors are actually doing to your puppy's hips, when waiting is fine versus when you really need to see a vet, and, something that is incredibly close to my heart, why feeding posture matters so much more than most of us realise, especially for dogs already navigating joint issues. GUEST BIO: Our guest today is Dr. Ellie Lederer, an ECVS board-certified small animal orthopedic surgeon currently running a referral orthopaedic service at Umm Suqeim Veterinary Centre in Dubai. She specialises in joint replacements, fracture repair, cruciate disease, elbow disease, and all things bones and joints in dogs and cats. With two decades of veterinary experience, five years of training followed by fifteen years in practice, including a full residency in the UK Dr. Ellie holds one of the highest qualifications available in her field. She is also the founder of MOVES (Middle Eastern Orthopaedics Veterinary Excellence Society), a free online journal club designed to improve clinical outcomes for pets across the UAE by making the latest research accessible to vets in practice. Outside the operating theatre, she competed as a contender on the BBC reboot of Gladiators and is an avid bagpipe player, which, as it turns out, is excellent training for surgery. TAKEAWAYS: * "They're limping but they're not in pain" is almost never true. Dogs are hardwired to hide discomfort. Limping, lameness, or gait changes are pain signals 99% of the time. The 1% exception is a structural leg-length difference — everything else warrants investigation. * Pain shows up as behaviour change, not just limping. * Common orthopedic conditions such as luxating patella, hip dysplasia, and cruciate ligament injuries prevalent in specific breeds * The significance of early diagnosis and appropriate interventions to improve quality of life in senior and arthritic dogs * How breed, age, and body condition influence decisions around neutering timing and orthopedic health * The importance of proper feeding posture and how elevated bowls support joint health and reduce strain. * The role of scientific research, including MOVES, a veterinary orthopedics journal club, in advancing pet care * The benefits of collaboration and shared knowledge among veterinary professionals for better clinical outcomes RELEVANT LINKS MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: * Dr. Ellie Lederer: Instagram Dr. Ellie [https://www.instagram.com/orthovetellie/] USVetCentre [https://www.instagram.com/usvetcentre/]/ Youtube [https://www.youtube.com/@orthovetellie]/ Website [https://usvc.me/] * Review the podcast on Podchaser [https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/tails-and-tones-6086657] * Sign up to our Tails and Tones newsletter here [https://newsletter.tailsandtones.com/] * Sign up to our Tails and Tones waiting list for our first product (Elevated Food System) here [https://tailsandtoneselevated.carrd.co/] * Find Tails and Tones on our socials: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/tailsandtones/] / Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/tailsandtones/]/ TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@tailsandtones] / LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/tailsandtones/?viewAsMember=true] / Website [https://tailsandtones.com/] TIMESTAMPS TO RELEVANT POINTS WITHIN THE EPISODE: [00:00]-Intro [02:30] BBC Gladiators, bagpipes, and what they have in common with surgery [04:25] What does ECVS board-certified actually mean? Breaking down the credential [06:34] The difference between "specialist" in the UK vs UAE, and why it matters when choosing a vet [07:04] What drew Dr. Ellie to orthopedics, putting things back together and keeping pets pain-free [07:56] How do you actually know if your dog is in pain? The signs most owners miss [09:10] "They're limbing but they're not in pain", why this breaks Dr. Ellie's heart (and why it's almost never true) [11:22] More hidden pain signals: licking joints, reluctance to exercise, lying down on walks [12:47] Mariska's own story, Piper becoming snappy with dogs, and how pain was the real reason [13:35] Hip pain and behaviour at daycare, why irritability with other dogs is a common red flag [15:17] The most common orthopedic conditions in small dogs, luxating patella, cruciate disease, elbow disease [16:13] How luxating patella (dislocating kneecap) actually works, and why grade matters [17:58] Piper's grade 3 luxating patella — Mariska's story, the snap in the park, and the physio she wishes she'd prioritised [19:15] Traumatic vs developmental patella luxation, and "let dogs be dogs" (the guilt-free moment) [21:00] Community question: can running (zoomies) on tiles cause joint trauma or luxating patella? [21:13] The hip dysplasia + slippery floors study, and why runner rugs are a simple fix [23:37] Wait and see, when is it fine and when is it a problem? [25:18] "I'm the same", Dr. Ellie as a pet owner, and why going to the vet is never a waste [26:09] Which breeds walk through Dr. Ellie's door most? Labradors, French Bulldogs, Dachshunds, and more [28:42] Community question: does early neutering (7–8 months) negatively affect body development in Pomeranians? [29:08] How neutering affects calorie needs, hormones, joint development, and cancer risk, and why it's breed-specific [32:36] Chemical castration, the reversible implant option most people don't know about [33:43] MOVES: Dr. Ellie's free online orthopaedic journal club for vets across the Middle East [34:47] Feeding posture, what is actually happening in your dog's body when they eat from the floor? [35:08] Why Dr. Ellie recommends elevated feeding for dogs with osteoarthritis, neck pain, and disc disease [36:26] The French Bulldog head weight question, proportionally, how much pressure does that big head put on their front legs? [37:46] Elevated feeding for senior dogs, esophageal motility, aspiration risk, and why height helps [39:16] The 60/40 rule, how weight should be distributed across your dog's limbs at mealtime [40:48] How high should the bowl actually be? The ergonomic posture principle [41:38] "If your dog is getting into an extreme posture to eat, trying an elevated feeding bowl seems like a sensible step." [42:22] The one thing Dr. Ellie wishes every dog parent knew before their first orthopedic appointment [42:36] Biggest misconception revisited, "they're limbing but they're not in pain" and why early intervention changes outcomes [44:04] Quality of life with arthritis, body condition scoring, keeping dogs lean, and what's actually possible [46:41] Where to find Dr. Ellie, Instagram, YouTube, MOVES, and the new joint replacement program

35: Understanding Dog Behavior, The Hidden Link Between Pain, Emotions & Reactivity with Dr Julie Ashton

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Julie Ashton, an ABTC-certified veterinary behaviorist, to unpack what’s really going on behind common dog behavior challenges, from reactivity and anxiety to sudden changes like house accidents or obsessive ball play. We explore the powerful connection between physical health, emotional wellbeing, and behavior, and why many issues are often misunderstood as “bad behavior” rather than signs of stress, fear, or even pain. This conversation is packed with practical, science-backed insights to help dog parents better understand their pets, avoid common mistakes, and build a calmer, more supportive environment for their dogs. GUEST BIO: Our guest today is Dr. Julie Ashton, an ABTC-certified Veterinary Behaviourist who helps dogs and cats with complex behavioural challenges. Julie discovered her passion for behaviour while studying at Bristol Vet School, where she graduated in 2009 as both a veterinarian and with a degree in Animal Behaviour and Welfare. After working in London and later Sydney, she now runs her behaviour practice from rural Essex, supporting pet owners through referral behaviour consultations both online and in person. TAKEAWAYS: * Behavior problems are often rooted in pain, fear, or emotional distress, not disobedience * Always rule out medical issues first when behavior changes suddenly * Reactivity is a symptom, not a diagnosis, understanding the cause is key * Overexposure to fears (like forcing socialization) can make anxiety worse * Proper play should include balance, breaks, and mutual engagement * High-arousal activities (like excessive ball play) can increase stress and physical strain * Dogs need rest, structure, and safe environments to regulate behavior * Early puppy socialization (done correctly) is critical for long-term behavior * Many “bad behaviors” are actually dogs struggling, not misbehaving RELEVANT LINKS MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: * Life on four legs vet: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/lifeonfourlegsvet/] / Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/lifeonfourlegs]/ Website [https://lifeonfourlegs.co.uk/] * Review the podcast on Podchaser [https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/tails-and-tones-6086657] * Sign up to our Tails and Tones newsletter here [https://newsletter.tailsandtones.com/] * Sign up to our Tails and Tones waiting list for our first product, Élevé (Elevated Food System) here [https://tailsandtoneselevated.carrd.co/] * Find Tails and Tones on our socials: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/tailsandtones/] / Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/tailsandtones/]/ TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@tailsandtones] / LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/tailsandtones/?viewAsMember=true] / Website [https://tailsandtones.com/] TIMESTAMPS TO RELEVANT POINTS WITHIN THE EPISODE: [00:00]-Intro [04:08] The biggest misconception about dog behavior [07:26] What “reactivity” actually means [09:54] Why sudden behavior changes = check health first [14:30] The #1 mistake dog owners make with anxious dogs [18:12] Why play can turn into aggression [23:59] Obsession with ball play explained [28:39] Why dogs suddenly pee inside the house [35:26] Why behavior changes should always be checked by a vet [41:07] How to prevent behavior problems in puppies [46:24] “They’re not giving you a hard time…” mindset shift

34: If I Got a Puppy Tomorrow, I’d Do THIS Differently

Our French Bulldog, Piper is almost six. And looking back, there's a list of things Mariska would do differently from day one. In this solo episode, she shares everything, the daily routines, the health habits, the equipment, and the medical prep, that she wishes someone had told her before Piper came home. TAKEAWAYS: * Why a consistent daily rhythm matters more than any individual training technique * The feeding setup most owners miss, and why how your dog eats matters as much as what they eat * Teeth cleaning alternatives when brushing just isn't happening (drops, foam, enzymes) * How to get your dog comfortable taking medicine, the cheese ball method and the decoy trick * Why you should introduce shoes, ramps, and strollers before you ever need them * The midday rest most dog parents skip, and why it changes everything * The non-negotiables Mariska would never go without RELEVANT LINKS MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: * Enzyme tooth gel, dental drops, dental foam that we use or ask your vet or local pet store * Frenchie vs Everybody [https://frenchiesvsplaque.carrd.co/]dental toppers * Episode 32: [https://podcast.tailsandtones.com/episode/32] Why Your Dog Reacts with Mena Lopes * Episode 33: [https://podcast.tailsandtones.com/episode/33] The Hidden Cause of Dog Allergies with Amanda Smith * Sign up to our Tails and Tones waiting list for our first product (Piper's Founders Pack, Elevated Food System) here [https://tailsandtoneselevated.carrd.co/] * Sign up to our Tails and Tones newsletter here [https://newsletter.tailsandtones.com/] * Review the podcast on Podchaser [https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/tails-and-tones-6086657] * Find Tails and Tones on our socials: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/tailsandtones/] / Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/tailsandtones/]/ TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@tailsandtones] / LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/tailsandtones/?viewAsMember=true] / Website [https://tailsandtones.com/] TIMESTAMPS TO RELEVANT POINTS WITHIN THE EPISODE: [00:00] Intro + product update [02:18] Why routine is the foundation (and what causes anxiety in dogs) [03:20] The morning routine that sets your dog up for success [06:05] The feeding setup, how Piper’s physio changed everything [09:35] Dental health, the parent fail and what actually works [18:45] Getting your dog ready for medicine (before you actually need it) [25:10] Equipment habituation: shoes, ramps, harnesses, strollers [30:05] Midday rest, - why your dog might be overtired (not under-stimulated) [31:55] The afternoon sniff walk (“sniffari”) and why it matters [34:05] Evening routine and wind-down [35:50] What I’d never skip (the non-negotiables) [39:05] Outro

33: The Hidden Cause of Dog Allergies Most Owners Miss with Amanda Smith

In this episode, we dive into one of the most overlooked root causes of common dog health issues: gut health. From itchy skin to ear infections and low energy, we explore how what goes into your dog’s bowl directly impacts their wellbeing. Joined by functional canine nutritionist Amanda Smith, we unpack simple, realistic ways to start improving your dog’s health without overwhelm. GUEST BIO: Amanda Smith is a functional canine nutritionist with over 20 years of experience in the veterinary field. After working across multiple roles in clinical practice, she shifted her focus to nutrition and gut health. Today, she helps dog parents identify the root causes of health issues and guides them in transitioning from processed diets to more balanced, whole food approaches. TAKEAWAYS: * The inside-out connection: most issues like itching, behavior changes, and immunity start in the gut * It’s not just “allergies”, signs like licking, stress, and even poop changes can point to gut imbalance * You don’t need to overhaul everything, start by adding simple foods like sardines, eggs, and blueberries * Rotation matters more than perfection when it comes to nutrition * Overfeeding and lack of variety are some of the biggest mistakes dog parents make * Testing can give direction, but your dog’s behavior and stool already tell you a lot * There’s no one-size-fits-all, everything from food ratios to bowl setup should suit your dog RELEVANT LINKS MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: * Canine Gut Solutions: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/canine_gut_solutions_/] / Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/caninegutsolutions/#]/ Website [https://caninegutsolutions.com/] * Animal Biome (gut health testing kit) [https://www.animalbiome.com/products/doggybiome-gut-health-test] * Glacier Peak (pet intolerance test [https://glacierpeakholistics.com/products/pet-intolerance-test]) * Dr. Karen Becker & Rodney Habib [https://insidescoop.pet/] * Review the podcast on Podchaser [https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/tails-and-tones-6086657] * Sign up to our Tails and Tones newsletter here [https://newsletter.tailsandtones.com/] * Sign up to our Tails and Tones waiting list for our first product (Elevated Food System) here [https://tailsandtoneselevated.carrd.co/] * Find Tails and Tones on our socials: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/tailsandtones/] / Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/tailsandtones/]/ TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@tailsandtones] / LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/tailsandtones/?viewAsMember=true] / Website [https://tailsandtones.com/] TIMESTAMPS TO RELEVANT POINTS WITHIN THE EPISODE: [00:00] - Intro and product update [02:28] - Meet Amanda Smith [03:14] - Amanda’s journey from vet tech to nutritionist [05:37] - Why dogs need whole, fresh foods [07:13] - Where to start without feeling overwhelmed [09:45] - Why gut health is the root of many issues [11:04] - Gut testing and how it works [13:44] - Signs your dog has gut imbalance [15:13] - The “poop police” discussion [16:15] - Common feeding mistakes [19:22] - Easy ways to upgrade your dog’s bowl [22:32] - Keeping it simple and realistic [25:50] - Bowl height and posture [30:52] - Preparing for allergy season [32:51] - What improvements look like [35:42] - First steps to take today

32: Why Your Dog Reacts (And What It’s Trying to Tell You) with Mena Lopes

Have you ever felt your stomach tighten the moment another dog appears on a walk? This episode is for you. We sat down with dog behaviorist Mena Lopes to talk about reactivity, what it actually is, why it happens, and why it’s so often misunderstood. What we kept coming back to is this: it’s not about having a “bad dog.” It’s about understanding what’s going on underneath the behavior. We also get into potty training, regression (because yes, that happens), and how to stay kind to yourself on the harder days, the ones where nothing seems to be working. GUEST BIO: Mena Lopes is a dog trainer and behaviorist, and the founder of Ginger’s Way in Dubai. Originally trained in conservation biology, her work today focuses on helping dogs and their humans navigate things like reactivity, anxiety, and everyday challenges, in a way that feels practical, supportive, and realistic. TAKEAWAYS: * Reactivity isn’t random, it’s often rooted in fear, stress, or uncertainty * Your dog isn’t doing it on purpose (even when it feels like it) * Progress takes time, much longer than most people expect * Understanding your dog changes how you respond * Small signals matter more than the big reactions * Potty training isn’t linear (and regression is part of it) * You can work on behavior while still accepting your dog as they are * Not every dog needs to be social, and that’s okay * “Good behavior” often goes unnoticed (until it changes) * Management and training are two different things, and both matter * Sometimes the biggest shift is helping the human feel less like they’ve failed * Context matters, behavior isn’t one-size-fits-all * You don’t need a perfect dog, just a better understanding of your own RELEVANT LINKS MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: * Ginger's Way: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/itsgingersway/?hl=en] / Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/itsgingersway/]/ Website [https://www.itsgingersway.com/] * Leash Explorer: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/leash.explorer.uae/?hl=en] / Website [https://www.leashexplorer.ae/] * Review the podcast on Podchaser [https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/tails-and-tones-6086657] * Sign up to our Tails and Tones newsletter here [https://newsletter.tailsandtones.com/] * Piper's Founders Pack - Sign up to our Tails and Tones waiting list for our first product (Elevated Food System) here [https://tailsandtoneselevated.carrd.co/] * Find Tails and Tones on our socials: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/tailsandtones/] / Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/tailsandtones/]/ TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@tailsandtones] / LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/tailsandtones/?viewAsMember=true] / Website [https://tailsandtones.com/] TIMESTAMPS TO RELEVANT POINTS WITHIN THE EPISODE: [00:00]-Intro [02:22] – Mena’s story + how Ginger changed everything [05:06] – What people misunderstand about dog behavior [06:25] – What reactivity actually looks like day-to-day [07:41] – Where to start with a reactive dog [09:14] – Why we often need to train the human first [12:26] – How reactivity becomes a pattern [13:03] – When behavior changes later on (and what to do) [16:01] – The myth around “rewarding bad behavior” [17:55] – Can reactivity really be fixed? [22:29] – The subtle signs we often miss [27:02] – The idea behind Leash Explorer [30:46] – Potty training expectations vs reality [35:08] – Why accidents happen (even later on) [37:33] – What training looks like on hard days [38:28] – Stories that stay with you Notes Pipers Founders Pack: [https://tailsandtoneselevated.carrd.co/] Mention it is the first 100 but we extended it to the first 150 people.