DogSpeak: Redefining Dog Training

Remember that sweet little puppy who used to hang on your every word? Yeah… they’ve been replaced by a moody teenager with selective hearing and way too much energy. Welcome to canine adolescence! In this episode, we’re talking all about the “teen phase” of dog hood—the chaos, the confusion, and the comical moments that come with it. We’ll break down what’s happening in your dog’s brain, why they suddenly act like they’ve forgotten everything, and how to survive it with your sanity (mostly) intact. Spoiler alert: snacks and patience help. A lot.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!

In this episode, Nikki answers a listener’s question about impulse control and shares practical tips for helping your dog develop better self-regulation. She also dives into the often-overlooked importance of having fun with your dog. Tune in for a thoughtful blend of behavior insights and playful encouragement!dogspeak101.comdogspeakgeek.thinkific.com"Alpha" Dog VideosMentioned 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!

Missed Nikki’s KIENO Conference Interview? Catch It Here!If you didn’t catch Nikki’s online interview with Holly Tett from Paws Up Dogs at the KIENO Conference, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.In this episode, Nikki revisits the concept of the Path of Least Resistance—a theme she’s touched on before, but one that’s always worth repeating. She dives into how true success in building a relationship with your dog comes from a personalized approach—one that honors the unique needs of both the human and the dog.Tune in for thoughtful insights and practical guidance that can transform how you connect with your canine companion.dogspeak101.comdogspeakgeek.thinkific.comMentioned 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!

Does your dog treat your backyard like a construction site? In this episode we’re laying down the ground rules—literally! Learn how to channel your pup’s natural digging instincts in a fun and positive way by creating designated dig zones. We’ll dig into why dogs love to excavate, how to build a dig-friendly space in your yard, and training tips to help your dog understand where it’s okay to go paws-deep. Whether you’ve got a garden destroyer or a sandbox superstar, this episode is packed with playful solutions to turn digging from a problem into enrichment. Let’s get dirty (the good kind)!dogspeak101.comdogspeakgeek.thinkific.comMentioned 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!

Ness Jones is a Certified Separation Anxiety Pro Behavior Consultant (​Cert. SAPBC) and runs an international program successfully working remotely with clients around the world.Ness has a number of other qualifications, but it is the separation anxiety certification that means the most to her, knowing there are many dog trainers attempting to resolve this issue without the proper information or the latest methods and techniques. She understands the importance of furthering education to achieve optimal results.Ness is also a Canine Behaviour Practitioner and has a Diploma in Canine Behaviour from the renowned International School for Canine Psychology & Behaviour (ISCP.Dip.Canine.Prac), is Certified in Applied Canine Ethology (CACE) from the Ethology Institute and a CPDT (Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Ethology Institute).She is a Canine Myofunctional Therapist (dog masseur), Small Animal Nutritionist and holds a Diploma as a Small Animal Naturopath (Dip.NatSA). She believes wholeheartedly in providing a raw food diet to dogs and cats.Ness is also the co-host of podcast Tails From The Dog House: Separation Anxiety Explained (available on all good listening apps and on YouTube)www.nessjones.comdogspeak101.comdogspeakgeek.thinkific.comMentioned 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!

In this episode, Nikki introduces the clicker, along with the rules she likes to follow, and how you can use it to train your dog. Follow along on our social media channels to watch videos of Nikki using the clicker with Willow. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter so you don't miss out on exclusive offers to DogSpeak Geeks. Sign up here. dogspeak101.comdogspeakgeek.thinkific.comMentioned 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!

Nikki breaks down the individual components of LEGS for your dog. When looking at behavior, we must take in consideration every dog's individual LEGS. This allows for appropriate management, meeting your dog where he is, and finding the right solution. If you are unsure of the genetic aspect of your dog, check out The Dog Key to narrow it down through physical traits. To learn more about LEGS for pros, click here. To learn more about LEGS for pet owners, click here for The Dog's Truth. DogSpeak Geek Community and Online CoursesDogSpeak websiteMentioned 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!

Gray joins Nikki to explore how to build a strong relationship with your dog by finding the path of least resistance. That path can be rough and full of obstacles—or it can be smooth and natural, like butter. But remember, the path that works for one person might not work for another. Tune in to discover how to find your unique path forward.dogspeak101.comdogspeakgeek.thinkific.comtinyurl.com/decodingyourcaninetinyurl.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!

In this episode, Nikki discusses your dog's brain and how the pathways are similar to an interstate. Interstates have off-ramps, or they would get gridlocked. Does your dog's interstate brain have off-ramps or rest and renewal or is he constantly fighting the enormous amount of traffic flowing nowhere? dogspeak101.comdogspeakgeek.thinkific.comDecoding Aggression and Reactivity SummitSign up for our newsletter. 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!

Nikki talks about Willow's zodiac sign and compares her current personality with the traits of a Scorpio. Understanding that many behavior traits are genetic and not learned can help you find the path of least resistance in creating a relationship with your dog. Find your dog's zodiac sign and let us know if your dog matches the traits listed. dogspeak101.comdogspeakgeek.thinkific.comMentioned 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!