DogSpeak: Redefining Dog Training

The hosts discuss using your dog's natural motivators to teach alternate behaviors. They emphasize the importance of reinforcing behaviors and using positive verbal cues. They also discuss managing and supervising your dog's behavior to prevent dangerous situations.

In this episode, Nikki and Britteny talk about how to handle when your dog's trigger lives inside the home. It is a very difficult situation that is very hard on all involved when your dog is severely afraid of someone living inside your home. Nikki gives steps that must be put in play to have any hope of success. 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 fan girls out with Certified Cat Behavior Consultant and best-selling author, Pam Johnson-Bennett. These two ladies are self-proclaimed "Behavior Nerds" and spend an hour talking about homes with both dogs and cats. Enrichment, communication, interaction are just a few of the hot topics in this episode! Find Pam at www.catbehaviorassociates.com, on FB and IG. Find Nikki at www.dogspeak101.com as well as FB, IG, and now TikTok. 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 talks about dog training videos found on TikTok. Are you following the right account to get accurate and up-to-date information? Nikki breaks down some myths and down right lies she's seen and heard and how she's doing what she can to spread the right information. TW: Mental HealthMentioned 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 and Britteny give their opinion of the Netflix series, "Muster Dogs." Hear their takeaways on the dogs, the breeder, and the trainers. You do not have to watch the show to get something out of this episode! www.dogspeak101.comSupport the Podcast!InstagramMentioned 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!

Kim Brophey joins Nikki this week to talk about how their mindset of "training" dogs has changed over the years. Kim talks about Monk, her massive Great Pyr/Golden Retriever mix, who is on par to reach about 170lbs. Nikki talks about Myers and how her interaction and expectations have changed drastically from what they once were! Find Kim Brophey and Monk here! Kim's Business in Asheville, NC. Asheville Dog Training & Dog Behavior Experts - The Dog Door (dogdoorcanineservices.com)Family Dog Mediation CourseFamily Dog Mediation – Education CenterFor pet parents to learn more about legs, click here! www.dogspeak101.comwww.instagram.com/dogspeak#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!

Gray joins Nikki to answer some listener questions and talk about some common puppy problems owners are running into this summer! www.dogspeak101.cominfo@dogspeak101.comwww.instagram.com/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!

Nikki 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!

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!

In 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!