

DogSpeak: Redefining Dog Training
Nikki Ivey
Understand your dog better with DogSpeak founder, Nikki Ivey--a professional Canine Behavior Specialist, trainer and Family Dog Mediator. Learn why it's not about just fixing your dog's behavior but about understanding why the behavior is occurring. Nikki often shares the mic with wife and DogSpeak manager, Britteny, along with other fantastic guests. Whether the discussion is about real life manners, inappropriate behavior or nutrition, this podcast has it all. We focus on building relationships, not dictatorships. Learn more about DogSpeak and Nikki Ivey by checking out www.dogspeak101.com. Become a Patreon member by visiting www.patreon.com/dogspeak
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 14, 2025 • 29min
Biting and Chewing Doesn't Go Away
In this episode, Nikki discusses dealing with puppy biting and chewing and how you can set your dog up for success. Join our Patreon for exclusive reaction videos. Follow us on Social Media! 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!

Jan 7, 2025 • 30min
Puppy Series: Housebreaking
In this episode, Nikki discusses the steps and mistakes of housebreaking. With her new puppy, Willow Amara Moon, she has been reminded of what puppy owners go through in the first couple of months. Come along on this educational adventure where Nikki raises her pup along with yours. Have you checked out our on-demand Prepared Puppy Course? Follow us on social media! 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!

Nov 13, 2024 • 26min
Preparing for the Holidays
In this episode, Nikki gives advice on preparing your dog for the upcoming holiday season. Whether you are hosting or traveling, there are many things you can do to help your dog feel as little stress as possible. Support our podcast through Patreon. www.patreon.com/dogspeakwww.dogspeak101.comhttps://dogspeakgeek.thinkific.com/ for our Online Content. 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!

Oct 23, 2024 • 1h 10min
Dogs and Toddlers with Bethany and Gray, Part 2
In this episode, Bethany Cunningham of Family Paws chats with Gray and I about dealing with dogs and toddlers. There are so many points to consider when bringing a child into your home with dogs and Bethany gives us great advice on the safest way to do so. Check out all the great information Family Paws has to offer at familypaws.com. Be sure to check out our new online content and upcoming webinars by visiting https://dogspeakgeek.thinkific.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!

Sep 17, 2024 • 28min
How to Motivate Your Dog without Food
In this episode, Nikki discusses the lack of food motivation in dogs. Is a lack of food motivation a real issue or is your dog suffering from poor gut health? In the rare instance your dog is motivated at a lower level when using food, Nikki gives you ideas on how to work using rewards in your environment. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter and follow us on social media so you don't miss out on upcoming events. dogspeak101.comClick here for Online ContentMentioned 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!

Sep 3, 2024 • 1h 8min
Preparing Your Dog for Children with Special Guest, Bethany Cunningham, CPDT-KA with Family Paws
In this episode, Nikki and Gray talk with Family Paws expert, Bethany Cunningham, CPDT-KA on preparing Gray to the TWINS he and his wife are expecting in November. Family Paws provides specialized programs and support for new and expecting parents with dogs. Family Paws Parent Education | Dog Training for Baby InteractionsSince 2002, their goal has been to increase safety and reduce stress in homes with young children and family dogs. They help to answer the question “How can we prepare our dog for life with baby/children?”Jennifer Shryock, owner and founder of Family Paws, saw a need for resources and information to support new and expecting families with dogs. While answering calls for a German Shepherd rescue Jennifer heard firsthand the concerns, challenges, and heartache families experienced. From fearing how their dog would accept a new addition to a serious bite to a toddler, families needed more support and resources. Recognizing this need led Jennifer down the path to developing this very important niche, dog and baby/toddler dynamics and safety through Family Paws. We strongly believe that education empowers, and our goal is to increase safety and decrease stress for all family members through education and realistic expectations.Bethany is Family Paws Program Development & Educator Program Co-Instructor. She is a mom, professional dog trainer, and professional photographer. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Animal Science from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, and is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer with a focus on behavior modification in pet dogs.Bethany has a deep love of animal behavior, child development, and visual arts, and is delighted by the fact that her multiple roles with Family Paws Parent Education bring all of those passions together. Bethany finds great joy in helping families succeed through relationship-building, empathetic practices for both dogs and children alike, and brings that enthusiasm to Family Paws both in her role with program development and as a co-instructor for the Family Paws Educator course. To learn more about Bethany, you can go to www.trainingbyconnection.com, or can view her portfolio at www.bethanyrosephoto.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!

Aug 22, 2024 • 50min
Completing the Stress Cycle with the DogSpeak Geek Team
In this episode, Nikki, Gray, and Alicia review the book, "Burnout" by Emily Nagoski, PhD and Amelia Nagoski, DMA. The discussion gets personal about how each member works on completing their stress cycle as well as how the book helped to understand others in their lives, and how we can take this information to help us with our dogs. Join us on our new Book Club adventure where we pick a book for every month. September's book is "Your Dog is Your Mirror" by Kevin Dehan. Recommended BooksDogSpeak WebsiteDogSpeak Geek Online CoursesMentioned 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!

Jul 30, 2024 • 45min
Life Hacks in Dog Training
In this episode, Nikki and Britt give three hacks you can use to help your dog navigate this world and to make things a little easier on you. There are so many hacks but this episode we cover three that you can start using today. Mr. Rogers HackOff-duty HackKarl Hackdogspeak101.comdogspeakgeek.thinkific.com (ONLINE CONTENT)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!

Jul 17, 2024 • 59min
Using Ethology and the L.E.G.S. Model When Working with Dogs. Part 2
In this second part talking LEGS, we discuss the Genetics and Self aspect of your canine best friend. dogspeak101.comThe Dog Key Canine Genetic Heritage TestThe Dog's Truth (thinkific.com)ON-demand ContentMentioned 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!

Jul 5, 2024 • 59min
Using Ethology and the L.E.G.S. Model When Working with Dogs. Part 1
Dive into the fascinating world of canine ethology and the innovative L.E.G.S. model of dog training. Discover the reasons behind dog digging behaviors, influenced by genetics and instincts, especially in breeds like the Great Pyrenees. Explore how understanding a dog’s learning history and environment promotes a stronger human-animal bond. The conversation also challenges fear-based training techniques and emphasizes creating safe, comforting spaces for our furry companions. Join the journey of redefining positive dog training!


