Bow Wow Bill and Tom Rose Talk Dog

Step into a world of dog training greatness in this thrilling episode of the Talk Dog series on the Bow Wow Bill YouTube channel, where Bow Wow Bill sits down with the one and only Tom Rose—a name that’s practically synonymous with excellence in the canine world. With over five decades as a professional trainer since 1968, Tom has personally trained or supervised the training of more than 300 dogs a year, earning his place among America’s elite. He’s not just a trainer; he’s a trailblazer, with a trophy case full of firsts and a legacy that’s shaped the industry. From authoring three must-read books—Training the Competitive Working Dog, Dogs That Love and Protect, and his latest, Dog Training With the Touch—to founding the renowned Tom Rose School for Dog Trainers, Tom’s influence runs deep. Bow Wow Bill dives into the mind of this living legend, unpacking a career packed with innovation, grit, and a passion for dogs that’s as fierce as ever.

Tom Rose isn’t just about the numbers—though his record is jaw-dropping. He’s the first American trainer to ace an advanced tracking degree with a perfect 100-point score, beating his own previous high of 97. He coined the terms “Professional Dog Trainer” and “Imprinting” in training circles, and he introduced the Belgian Malinois to the U.S. as a top-tier police K9, forever changing the landscape of working dogs. Then there’s his competition record: five years with the highest-scoring “trained by exhibitor” dog in IPO III at the National Championships, wins in IPO I and II, and a staggering 298 out of 300 points—the highest score ever by an American in IPO history. Add to that his 1981 United States DVG IPO III Championship title and six “Top Trainer of the Year” awards, and you’ve got a resume that’s the stuff of legend. In this episode, Bow Wow Bill gets Tom to spill the secrets behind those wins and the drive that’s kept him at the top for over 50 years.

But it’s not all about accolades—Tom’s story is about pushing boundaries and sharing knowledge. He’s represented The German Shepherd Dog Club of America at the World Union Championship in Salzburg, Austria, earning the prestigious VDH Gold Trainers Medal for his extraordinary contributions. Through his books and his school, he’s mentored countless trainers, passing down techniques that blend precision with a deep understanding of canine instincts. Bow Wow Bill explores how Tom’s early days led to breakthroughs like importing the Malinois and refining competitive training methods that still set the standard today. Whether you’re a seasoned handler or just love a good dog story, this episode is a masterclass in dedication and innovation. Tune in to hear from a pioneer who’s not only trained dogs to perfection but redefined what it means to be a professional in the field—Tom Rose is a name you won’t forget!

[jeantemplemeyer]

Thank you for a great podcast video, live a few miles from Tom Rose School and have been always inspired by graduates and your videos!