
DogSpeak: Redefining Dog Training
274 episodes — Page 3 of 6

Puppy Problems and Listener Questions
EGray joins Nikki to answer some listener questions and talk about some common puppy problems owners are running into this summer! [email protected]/dogspeakwww.familypethealth.com#dog #dogs #dogtraining #dogtrainer #reactivedog#positivedogtrainer #positivedogtraining #reactivedogtraining#reactivedogtrainer #familydogmediator #familydogmediation#nashvilledogtraining #nashvilledogtrainer #fearfree #fearfreetraining#fearfreetrainer #dogsofinstagram #dogofinstagram #dogtrainingpodcast#puppiesofinstagram #puppytraining #positiveReinforcement #forcefreetraining#DogBehavior #clickertraining #caninebehavior #trainingtipsMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Naughty Dog Behavior, Part 2
ENikki and Britteny finish up talking about the top five "naughty" things dogs do. Is your dog really being naughty, needy, or are they just offering behavior? Learn how to recognize your dog's motivation and understand at a deeper level why your dog may do the things he does. *This show is brought to you by our wonderful Patreon Members! If you would like to help support the show, please go here! DogSpeakInstagramFBMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Effects of spay and neuter on dogs' development with Daniel Shaw.
In this episode, Nikki is joined with Canine Behaviorist, Daniel Shaw, owner of Animal Behavior Kent in the UK. They discuss the issues with early spay and neuter on dogs and how the hormones play a role in a dog's ability to deal with stress, social engagement, trauma, and more. Find more information about DogSpeak www.dogspeak101.comwww.instagram.com/dogspeakFor more information on Daniel Shaw BSc (Hons), GMBPsS, CDBChttps://www.facebook.com/Animalbehaviourkent/https://abklearn.teachable.com/To find more information about studies that were discussed see below. McGreevy, P. D., Wilson, B., Starling, M. J., &Serpell, J. A. (2018). Behavioural risks in male dogs with minimal lifetimeexposure to gonadal hormones may complicate population-control benefits ofdesexing. PloS one, 13(5), e0196284.Starling, M., Fawcett, A., Wilson, B., Serpell, J.,& McGreevy, P. (2019). Behavioural risks in female dogs with minimallifetime exposure to gonadal hormones. Plos one, 14(12), e0223709.For more information on Sara Davies’ on pseudopregnancy in dogs - https://www.veterinary-practice.com/article/pseudopregnancy-in-spayed-bitches Mentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Naughty Dog Behavior, part 1
EIn this episode, Nikki and Britteny talk about a recent article talking about dog's "naughty" behavior. Nikki talks about the myths and how you can help your dog correct any "naughty" behavior you may see. Mentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

We're Back!
EIn this episode, Amanda joins Nikki after a (too) long break to discuss what it feels like to recover from a spay, regulating our emotions to help our dogs, communication with a different species, and about digging deeper into the whole of a dog to understand the symptoms. It's a little bit of a hodge podge of information; but it feels great to be back talking to all of you DogSpeak Geeks! www.dogspeak101.comwww.instagram.com/dogspeakPodcast episode with Brené Brown. Mentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Listener Questions-May
EIn this episode, Nikki and Britteny answer a couple of questions from listeners, recap the trauma series, and talk about how a trip with the dogs created some interesting thoughts. NOTE: We may have a couple of weeks where we do not upload any new episodes due to Nikki being out for a medical procedure. But be sure to keep an eye out on Instagram to see if Nikki wears her cone better than Clark wore his! DogSpeakDogSpeak IGMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Understanding Trauma, Part Five
EThis is the final episode in the trauma series. Nikki and Britteny continue to share steps on how to assist your dog through trauma. www.dogspeak101.comwww.instagram.com/dogspeakMuch of Nikki's education for this trauma series came through Danielle Beck, a Clinical Animal Behaviorist in the UK. She has some wonderful information on her website for owners and professionals. Be sure you check her out at the link below. www.controlthemeerkat.com Mentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Understanding Trauma, Part Four
ENikki and Britteny get into the meat of what is expected by the dog owner when dealing with trauma. They really tried to do this in one episode but alas, there was too much to cover. So, you will be getting ONE more episode on trauma next week! dogspeak101.cominstagram.com/dogspeakMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Understanding Trauma, Part Three
ETW: Trauma, abuse, SHIn this episode, Nikki and Britteny finish up the effects of trauma to the brain. Knowing which state your dog's brain is in can help you build empathy and true understanding to how you should meet him where he is. This is a difficult episode. We highly recommend you have coping strategies put in place! Nikki's was a spicy margarita and Britt's was a bourbon drink. Afterwards, they stuffed their face with Crab Legs and Prime Rib while laughing at Nikki's dad's humor. Next week's episode will conclude our trauma series. We will be giving you directions on how to help your dog with his trauma and building resilience. http://www.dogspeak101.comwww.instagram.com/dogspeakIf you or anyone you know are in need of a trauma specialist for yourself, please use this link to find a professional near you. Psychology Today: Health, Help, Happiness + Find a TherapistMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Understanding Trauma, Part Two
ETW: This episode contains discussion on trauma and abuse. In this episode, Nikki and Britteny break down the specific parts of the brain that are affected by trauma. Understanding how your dog's brain struggles with basic requests and self-regulation can help build your empathy towards your dog. Trauma is a real challenge and the first step is understanding it. http://www.dogspeak101.comhttp://www.instagram.com/dogspeak101http://www.patreon.com/dogspeakIf you are struggling with trauma, use this link to find a specialist in your area. https://www.psychologytoday.com/usMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Understanding Trauma, Part One
Trigger Warning: This episode discusses trauma and abuse. In this first episode of our Trauma series, Nikki and Britteny dive into how trauma affects the different parts of the brain. Understanding how your dog's brain is affected is the first step in helping your dog to cope with their trauma as well as helping them to overcome it. Psychology today says this about trauma. Trauma is a person’s emotional response to a distressing experience. Few people can go through life without encountering some kind of trauma. Unlike ordinary hardships, traumatic events tend to be sudden and unpredictable, involve a serious threat to life—like bodily injury or death—and feel beyond a person’s control. Most important, events are traumatic to the degree that they undermine a person's sense of safety in the world and create a sense that catastrophe could strike at any time. Parental loss in childhood, auto accidents, physical violence, sexual assault, military combat experiences, the unexpected loss of a loved one are commonly traumatic events.If you, or someone you know is suffering from trauma, use this link to find a trauma specialist near you. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/trauma-and-ptsdhttp://www.dogspeak101.comhttp://www.instagram.com/dogspeak101http://www.patreon.com/dogspeakSupport the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Pattern Games
In this episode, Nikki discusses the use of teaching pattern games. Pattern games are great to use in changing environments, for reactivity, and more. Check out these great videos for teaching pattern games. 1,2,3ScatterUp/DownTwo Cookiehttp://www.dogspeak101.comhttp://www.instagram.com/dogspeak101Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

The Cohabitation of Cats and Dogs
In this episode, Britteny joins Nikki to discuss ways to help cats and dogs live harmoniously within the home. Don't miss Nikki on the Dog Owners' Summit starting March 21st at 9 am PST! https://dogownerssummit.com/nikkiiveySupport the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Managing a Career, New Baby, Marriage, and Dogs with Julie Roberts
In this episode, Nikki talks with country music recording artist, Julie Roberts, about how she manages all the moving parts of her life without losing sight of her dogs’ needs. Julie made her debut in 2004 with the release of her top 20 single, "Break Down Here." Here latest album, "Ain't in No Hurry" was released in October ‘22 was produced by Shooter Jennings and features songs with Jamey Johnson and Randy Houser, as well as a co-write with legend Waylon Jennings. Look for Julie's music anywhere you stream music and purchase her music on her website, julieroberts.com. Listen for a special announcement about a new podcast, hosted by Nikki! http://www.dogspeak101.comhttp://www.instagram.com/dogspeak101http://www.patreon.com/dogspeakSupport the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Holistic Veterinarian, Dr. Neely North is in the HOUSE!
In this episode, Nikki has a conversation with Dr. Neely North, Nashville Holistic Veterinarian about the advantages of Chinese Medicine. Acupuncture, spinal manipulation, gut health, and Chinese herbs can make a difference in your dog's life even before they need medical care. Pet owners should know the benefits of having a holistic veterinarian as a part of their dog's natural care. https://nashvilleholisticvet.com/https://www.instagram.com/nashvilleholisticvet/https://www.ahvma.org/holistic-veterinary-organizations/http://www.dogspeak101.comhttp://www.instagram.com/dogspeak101http://www.patreon.com/dogspeakSupport the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Listener Questions and Other Rants
In this episode, Nikki takes on two listener's questions that lead her into a small rabbit hole. Without Britteny to pull her back she's somewhere underground doing who knows what. While we go and look for her, enjoy this episode about resource guarding and leash manners for a deaf dog. Oh, and our DogSpeak™ Geek Membership launches today! http://www.dogspeak101.comhttp://www.instagram.com/dogspeak101http://www.patreon.com/dogspeakhttp://www.instagram.com/_pennygrace_Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Behavior Consults and Training Opportunities-Mini Episode
In this episode, Gray joins Nikki to talk about how she approaches behavior cases as well as talk about the new training opportunities in 2023. http://www.dogspeak101.comhttp://www.instagram.com/dogspeak101http://www.patreon.com/dogspeakSupport the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Loyalty? What's the real motivation?
In this episode, Nikki and Britteny talk about loyalty. Are dogs loyal for the wrong reason? Do we need to redefine what that looks like? This is a deep conversation about when it's good to be loyal and when we need to question the motivation behind loyalty? www.dogspeak101.com Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Comparing Dog Ownership in Other Countries
In this episode, Nikki talks with Amanda after she returns from her trip to Ireland. Her and Clark and some wonderful adventures but what she took away from her vacation was that dogs in Ireland are a little different than our dogs in the US. She also discusses the details on traveling with a dog that eats a home-cooked diet and how to do it simply, even when it's international travel. We can learn a lot from other countries, and I think that the US needs to catch up to the progressiveness of other countries when it comes to our pets. http://www.dogspeak101.comhttp://www.instagram.com/dogspeak101http://www.patreon.com/dogspeakSupport the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

How to Successfully Transition a New Dog into Your Home
In this episode, Nikki and Britteny discuss the top do's and don'ts when bringing a new dog into your home. What are the most important tasks of owners to ensure their dog feels comfortable and is set-up for success? These tips can also work for dogs who have been in the home for years. http://www.dogspeak101.comhttp://www.patreon.com/dogspeakhttp://www.instagram.com/dogspeak101Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Canine Characteristics and What We Can Learn for 2023
In this episode, Nikki and Britteny talk about a few specific characteristics of dogs that we can learn from going into a new year. Really taking in that odor, taking a minute to see the details of the tree in your front yard or simply learning how to be silly; there's a lot we can learn from our canine companion.Don't forget to sign up for our new membership program! Free DogSpeak CrackPack, private FB page and more for all DogSpeak Geek Members! www.dogspeak101.com Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Canine Herbalism with Rita Hogan
In this episode, Nikki talks with Canine Herbalist, Rita Hogan. Rita has been working with people and their pets for over 20 years. Her practice has grown throughout the years encompassing the use of food energetics, western herbs, phytoembryonic therapy (plant bud medicine), spagyrics, homeopathy, essential oils, flower / crystal / mineral essences and energy work. Nikki and Rita talk about the different herbs you can use to help your dog with fear, anxiety, and arthritis. Learn what you can do to help your dog by getting to the root of the problem instead of just dealing with symptoms that only provides temporary relief.Click here to learn more about Rita and her products! calendy..com/canineherbalist COUPON CODE: NATURALDOG (ALL UPPERCASE) FOR 15% OFF!! Click here to join Rita's course on Canine Energetics! Find Rita's Podcast HERE! Dogs Are Individuals PodcastBooks discussed in this episode: Forever Dog by Rodney Habib and Dr. Karen Shaw Becker Holistic Anatomy by Pip Waller Websites Mentionedhttps://adoredbeast.com/https://farmdognaturals.com/https://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Discussing Behavioral Euthanasia
TW: Discussions on animal abuse, hoarding, dog aggression and euthanasia. In this episode, Nikki is joined by DogSpeak trainer, Alicia and Animal Rescue Corps, Director of Animal Welfare, Kim Rezac. Behavioral Euthanasia is a topic no one wants to talk about. The adage of "it's all in how you raise them" is unfortunately untrue. Dogs are individuals and they often have traumas that they are unable to overcome and for the safety of humans and other animals, behavioral euthanasia is the most humane choice. Regardless of which side of the discussion you are on, this episode will give you the view from a behavior specialist dealing mostly with pets, an animal welfare director who works with dogs from hoarding/abusive situations, and a former dog foster that had to make the most difficult decision with her foster. Find more information on Kim Rezac and Animal Rescue Corps at the link below. www.animalrescuecorps.org To learn more about Goofy Foot Rescue, click here! For resources and support check out the links below. Behaviour Euthanasia- decision and support | Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/losinglulu/Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Understanding the Dynamics of Play
In this episode, Nikki and Britteny discuss the different styles of play and how to understand your dog's play preference. They also answer a listener question on Pibbles! Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Favorite Products of 2022
Join Nikki and Britteny as they discuss, not only their favorite products of 2022 but Amanda, Alicia's, Gray's and Tiffany's favorite products. From toys to treats you will find something your dog can't live without! Including an item from one of our listeners! www.dogspeak101.com www.instagram.com/dogspeak101https://thrivemarket.biz/www.tripmutts.com Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Listener Questions: November
Nikki and Britteny discuss reactivity, collars and that time Isabella ran through the neighborhood.Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Adopting an Adult Dog
Nikki and Britteny discuss what to look for when adopting an adult dog. *Ignore Britt's phlegmy noises*And, hey! Nikki's adolescent stat was partly correct (See study. Note--it does mention euthanasia.): https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-87649-2Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Is the Reward Really Rewarding to Your Dog?
In this episode, Nikki and Britteny discuss reinforcements and rewards. There are a variety of reinforcements and rewards dog guardians can use, however, do dogs really find them rewarding? How rewarding is your dog's favorite treat when you are out in public versus at home? Do you know what motivates your dog? Listen now to better understand how motivation plays into reinforcement and reward and learn that what you think is a high value reward to your dog really isn't. #dog #dogs #dogsintraining #dogtraining #dogtrainer #nashvilledogtrainer #familydogmediator #familydogmediation #positivedogtraining http://www.dogspeak101.comhttp://www.instagram.com/dogspeak101Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Personalities and Puppies
In this episode, Amanda joins Nikki to talk about a 2019 study from MSU on dog personality and some common mistakes new puppy owners make during the first few weeks. www.instagram.com/dogspeak101Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Family Counseling: Part 2
Part 2 is here! This week, Nikki and Britt continue to take listener comments about what their dogs would say to them in therapy. They also talk about.. a testicle festival in Arkansas...? Links mentioned:PPG's class action lawsuit against Radio Systems: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1HmTCdf_F8vKWOgltVAsCssZeoG4J5POP/viewMichael Shikashio's podcast, "The Bitey End of the Dog" (w/Kim Brophey): https://open.spotify.com/episode/4ZNarHzVoHeB0QfwsazcPd?si=6828c978bb1947caSupport the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Family Counseling, Part 1
In this episode, Nikki and Britteny discuss listeners' submissions regarding what their dogs would say if they were in family therapy; from spending quality time together to rebuilding trust. www.dogspeak101.com www.instagram.com/dogspeak101Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Talking Adolescence with Dr. Kathy Murphy
In this episode, Dr. Kathy Murphy joins the podcast to talk about dogs' brains and how they process information during adolescence. Adolescence can be a difficult stage for both dogs and their humans but having better knowledge on what an adolescent dog is going through can make this stage little more bearable. Dr Kathy Murphy (BVetMed, DPhil, CVA, CLAS, MRCVS) is a veterinary surgeon and neuroscientist. She graduated from the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons UK in 1999, initially working in mixed clinical practice before studying for two post graduate clinical qualifications with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, in Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia, and Laboratory Animal Science.Dr Murphy founded, and is now Director of, Barking Brains Ltd (a neuroscience outreach platform for the animal behavior and training community), which focuses on translating neuroscientific information into practical and useful information for people interested in animal behavior. In order to maximize the impact of her diverse interests and skill set, Dr Murphy teamed up with Behavior Vets LLC in 2022 when she took up the position of Chief Scientific Officer.She is now able to focus on her newfound passion for science communication and providing evidence based, up to date, accessible, scientific information to clinicians, animal professionals and their clients, about subjects related to pain, behavior, neurobiology and the many interrelated factors.Barking Brains | FacebookBehavior Vets | FacebookDog behavior training by specialists - NYC Behavior Vets (behaviorvetsnyc.com)Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Mythbusters: Nutrition Edition
In this episode, Nikki has special guest, Tiffany from Thrive Market at The Farm at Natchez Trace. They break down 8 myths that are found around canine nutrition. Should you feed your dog human food? Does kibble really clean your dog's teeth? Are all expensive foods equal? Don't miss out on this eye-opening [email protected] Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Canine Compulsive Disorder
In this episode, Gray is back to talk Canine Compulsive Disorder with Nikki. They discuss what CCD really is, what symptoms you may see and how to go about diagnosing and dealing with it. Canine Compulsive Disorder describes a repetitive or sustained behavior that does not change much from one situation to another, and which is not a normal part of the ethogram of the organism within the given context (Mills, D. 2010)Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Dogs, Dolphins and Walruses, OH MY!
Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

"Tired Dog" Does Not Mean "Good Dog"
In this episode, Nikki and Gray discuss the importance of ensuring your dog gets quality rest regardless of their age. Just like humans, if your dog doesn't get enough downtime, without the distractions of a busy home, behavior issues will occur. Excessive barking, reactivity, and chewing are just a few of the symptoms you may see. Listen now to learn how to help your dog regulate emotions through restful sleep. www.dogspeak101.com www.instagram.com/dogspeak101Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Smells Like Teen Spirit: Dealing with Dog Adolescence
In this episode, Nikki and Britteny talk about the woes of adolescence in dogs. Learn how to recognize the signs of adolescence and how to successfully navigate your way through with your dog. www.dogspeak101.com www.messymutts.com Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

The Evolution of our Dog Trainer, Nikki Ivey
In this episode, Amanda is back to ask Nikki about how she has changed over the years in terms of dog training. As a trainer, it's important that you continue to educate yourself and stay up to date on new scientific research. Dog training has come a long way in the past decade and it's important that our listeners know what to look for when searching for their own dog trainer. www.dogspeak101.comwww.instagram.com/dogspeak101Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

The Importance of Advocating For Your Dog
In this episode, Nikki is joined by fellow colleague Gray. They discuss the importance of advocating for your dog when there is fear or pain involved. Since your dog can't speak about their feelings it is our job as pet parents to do whatever is necessary to ensure the welfare and health of their canine companion. TW: Mention of guns, use of shock collars and prong collars. Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Listener Questions
In this episode, Nikki and Britteny tackle listener questions on breed-specific enrichment, fence-fighting and Small Dog Syndrome. Tumbo Outdoor TuggerTether TugSupport the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

This Episode Went to Shit with Steve and Heather!
In this episode, Nikki is joined by two of her favorite podcast co-hosts, Steve and Heather. Open conversation about having a multiple dog household, learning your dog isn't going to eat children and of course, poo! (Trigger Warning: sexual violence)Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Stubborn Vs. Strong-Willed: Why Words Matter
Nikki is finally back in the podcast chair after dealing with COVID. She and Britteny talk about why and how the words you use to describe your dog frame the way you actually treat and feel about your dog. *Explicit Language* Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Walking the Dog: Common Issues Dog Humans Face with Leash Manners
*Explicit*In this episode, Nikki and Britteny discuss common issues dog guardians run into when walking their dogs. Since they haven't recorded together in a while (and are drinking wine), this one is just a tad longer than usual. Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

How to Deal with Dogs Fighting Within the Home
In this episode, Nikki talks with her client, Heather, about her experience with altercations between her dogs. Heather recently joined us to discuss living with seven dogs, but today she talks about the struggles and lessons learned handling two dogs who don’t get along. Whether you have cohesiveness or animosity in your household, this episode will bring you a lot of insight into how you can avoid issues in the future or how to give yourself some grace by knowing you are not alone. Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Common Mistakes when Teaching Recall
In this episode, Nikki and Britteny discuss the common mistakes owners make with using and teaching recall command. Is teaching your dog to come the most important behavior? If so, what mistakes do you need to avoid in order to have success? Listen now and see if you've made any of these common mistakes. Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Exploring the Correlation Between Teaching Dogs and Kids
In this episode, Nikki talks with Parent Coach, Anna Skates, about the similarities between dogs and kids when it comes to teaching them how to navigate this world. It is the job of the human adult to act as a tour guide to provide needed tools to be successful in their development. Learn the connectivity between raising a child and raising a dog. We had a great time discussing how they are both very much intertwined. If you're local, be sure you check out Anna's free workshop on May 25th! "Respectful Parenting Workshop"Brentwood Public Library| Brentwood, TNMay 25 at 5:30pm-6:30pmNo registration required. Free to the public.Get in touch with Anna! www.annaskates.cowww.instagram.com/anna_skates Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Understanding Genetics and Prey Drive
In this episode, Britteny and Nikki discuss how to identify and handle prey drive in dogs. Brought to you by Spurrier's Gridiron Grille in Gainesville, FL. TW: hunting and death of small animals by dogs. Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Managing a Multiple Dog Household
In this week's episode, Nikki is joined by her client, Heather, who has 7 dogs. They discuss the in's and out's of having multiple dogs, why routines are important and how to meet the needs of multiple dogs in a home. Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

Reactivity, Energy and How Britt Almost Got in a Fight with a Pet Parent
In this week's episode, Nikki and Britteny talk dog reactivity, human energy and how it can affect your dog, and why Britt almost punched a fellow pet parent. Artist mentioned in the show: @jacoboldsart Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!

The Reformed Dog Parent (*Explicit Content)
In this episode, Nikki speaks with her client, Steve, about how positive dog training has changed his relationship with his dogs. They also discuss training myths and what it took for Steve to change his thought process on them. Warning: Explicit Content Support the showMentioned in this episode:2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitIf you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!