Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Body Language, Anxious Dogs, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs

Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Body Language, Anxious Dogs, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs

By Tracy Franken- Dog Trainer, Vet Tech, Dog Lover, 🐾Kids & FamilyPets & Animals
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Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Body Language, Anxious Dogs, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs episodes

  • 72 | How to Rebuild Trust After A Setback

    Hey fellow dog lover! 🐾

    Setbacks happen, and they can feel heavy—like you’re back at square one. But guess what? You’re never really starting over. The difference now is you.

    In this episode, we’re diving into how to rebuild trust after a setback—both with your dog and within yourself—so you can move forward with confidence and clarity. You’ll learn how to take small, intentional steps that strengthen your relationship and help you shake off that 'starting over' feeling.

    šŸ”„ Want to fast-track this process and help your dog feel calm and secure? šŸ”„

    Join me for 2 days of FREE live training in the Calm Down, Dog! Bootcamp on February 10 & 11!

    I’ll teach you exactly how to help your dog settle faster, stop overreacting, and trust you more—without force, frustration, or overcomplicating things. Because YOU are enough for your dog… or at least, you should be. šŸ˜‰ (I am going to keep telling you this until you believe me)

    šŸ• Save your free spot now: www.beyondobedience.ca/bootcamp

    Enjoy! Comment & Share!
    Cheers,
    Tracy

    šŸŽµ Music credit: Shawn Trotter (shawntrotter.com)

    PS. This episode got away from me. Trigger warning: I am talking about recently losing one of my dogs. 😢

    29 min
  • Special Invite for You


    Hey Dog Lover!

    I’ll be real with you—I seriously considered cancelling next week’s Calm Down, Dog! Bootcamp. With everything happening in the world, Everything just feels so heavy right now. I wondered, Is this even the right time?

    But then I realized… that’s exactly why this needs to happen. We need to connect more than ever over our shared love of dogs now!

    Because if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably felt:

    🐾 Frustrated that your dog’s anxiety or reactivity isn’t getting better, no matter what you try.

    🐾 Overwhelmed by all the advice out there (and still not sure what actually works).
    🐾 Exhausted from managing your dog’s emotions on top of your own.
    🐾 Alone—like no one really understands how hard this can be.

    And honestly? I don’t want you to feel that way anymore.

    This bootcamp isn’t about drilling more obedience or ā€œfixingā€ your dog. It’s about understanding them, leading them, and creating calm—for both of you. It’s about getting out of survival mode and finally feeling like you can breathe again.

    So no, I’m not canceling. And if you’re ready for a different approach—one that actually makes sense for you and your dog—I’d love for you to join me. Let’s figure this out together.

    Can’t wait to share this with you!

    Cheers!

    Tracy

    Sign up Today! and Let's Do This Together šŸ’ŖšŸ¾



    16 min
  • 71 | 3 Simple Ways to Deepen Your Bond Without Training

    Hey fellow dog lover! 🐾

    Are you ready to finally help your dog feel calmer and more secure—without relying on endless training drills? In this episode, I’m sharing three simple ways to deepen your bond and build trust, so your dog sees you as a safe and confident leader.

    Whether you have a fearful dog or just want to create a more peaceful, connected relationship, these strategies will help you move beyond obedience and into true partnership.


    And if you’re ready to take this to the next level… šŸŽ‰

    šŸ”„ Join me for the FREE Calm Down, Dog! Bootcamp on February 10 & 11! šŸ”„

    Over these 2 days of live training, you’ll learn exactly how to help your dog feel safe, settle faster, and stop overreacting—without force, frustration, or second-guessing yourself. Because you are enough for your dog… or at least, you should be. šŸ˜‰

    šŸ• Grab your free spot now: www.beyondobedience.ca/bootcamp

    Enjoy! Comment & Share!
    Cheers,
    Tracy

    šŸŽµ Music credit: Shawn Trotter (shawntrotter.com)

    27 min
  • 70 | The Power of the Pause – How Slowing Down Helps Your Dog Think

    Hey Dog Lover!

    Ever feel like your dog just isn’t listening fast enough? Or maybe they hesitate, and you’re tempted to push them along, because you know they know...you know?

    In this episode, we’re diving into The Power of the Pause and why giving your dog space to process their world can make all the difference. Whether you have a fearful pup or just want to strengthen your bond, this simple but powerful technique is a game-changer.

    🐾 What is the Power of the Pause? – How slowing down helps dogs move from reactive to thoughtful responses.

    🐾 Why Pausing is Crucial for Fearful Dogs – Understanding the brain’s fear response and how giving your dog time helps them shift from panic to problem-solving.

    🐾 Practical Ways to Use the Pause – How to incorporate this in walks, training, and everyday life to reduce stress and increase confidence.

    🐾 The Human Side of Pausing – How slowing down benefits you, making you a more patient, present, and effective leader for your dog.

    🐾 Overcoming the Urge to Rush – How shifting from frustration to curiosity (hello, How Interesting!) can help both you and your dog navigate challenges together.

    Slowing down doesn’t mean stopping progress. It means allowing space for real learning and trust to happen. So, if you’ve ever felt the need to hurry up your dog—this episode is for you.

    šŸŽ§ Grab your leash, take a breath, and let’s dive in!

    šŸ”„ Join the Calm Down Dog Bootcamp! šŸ”„

    Ready to turn your anxious, reactive dog into a calm and confident companion? Spend two immersive days with Tracy learning real-world techniques to help your dog settle, trust, and thrive. No gimmicks, just practical, life-changing strategies that will transform your daily walks, training sessions, and overall bond.

    🐶 Claim your spot now: www.beyondobedience.ca/bootcamp

    šŸŽµ Music Credit: Special thanks to Shawn Trotter for the amazing music! Check out more of his work at www.shawntrotter.com.


    22 min
  • 69 | How Can I Tell if My Dog Is Overwhelmed?

    Hey, fellow dog lover! 🐾

    Have you ever wondered if your dog is feeling overwhelmed but weren’t quite sure how to tell? Dogs are constantly communicating through subtle body language and behaviour—and learning to recognize these signs and to move into action to help them feel safe and supported.

    In this episode, we’re diving into:

    The telltale signs of an overwhelmed dog (spoiler: it’s not always what you think!).
    How stress builds up and why recognizing overwhelm early can prevent reactive behaviours.
    What to do when your dog is feeling overstimulated—without adding to their stress.
    Real-life examples (like what happens at the vet clinic) to help you spot overwhelm in action.

    The more you understand your dog’s stress signals, the better you can show up for them with confidence and calmness.

    Big NEWSšŸŽ‰

    šŸ‘‰ Join us for the Calm Down, Dog! Bootcamp happening AGAIN!

    February 10th & 11th!

    It’s two days of clarity, confidence, and connection with your dog.(Oh and it's super fun!)

    šŸ“… Sign up here: www.beyondobedience.ca/bootcamp

    Enjoy, comment & share!
    – Tracy

    Next Steps:





    🐾 Need personalized support? Book a Calm Confident Coaching Call and let’s create a plan that works for you and your dog.
    🐾 Join our amazing community for more support: www.facebook.com/groups/LivingBeyondObedience

    šŸŽµ Music by Shawn Trotter www.shawntrotter.com


    27 min
  • 68 | The #1 Thing You Can Do to Help Your Dog Feel Safe

    Hey Friend! 🐾

    Want to know the secret to helping your dog feel truly safe? It’s not just about food, water, or treats—it’s about YOU showing up as a calm, consistent leader. In this episode, we’re talking about why being that steady presence in your dog’s life makes all the difference.

    Here’s what we’re diving into today:

    What It Means to Be a Calm, Consistent Leader

    • Leaders "go first"—your energy and actions set the tone.

    • Why being the center of your dog’s world creates security and trust.

    • Why This Approach Works

      • Dogs thrive on predictability—consistency reduces stress and anxiety.

      • How your calm leadership helps ease their worries.

      • Building trust through clear and steady communication.

      • Practical Ways to Be That Leader

        • Create routines that bring stability and comfort.

        • Use clear communication—both canine and human styles.

        • Gain confidence by knowing what to do in tricky situations.

        • Need Help? You’re Not Alone

          • It’s okay to need guidance—everyone starts somewhere.

          • If you’re feeling stuck, I’m here to help with my Calm Confident Coaching Call šŸ‘Š.

          • Hope you enjoy this episode!

            Cheers,

            Tracy

            Next Steps:

            1. Book a Calm Confident Coaching Call šŸ‘Š at www.beyondobedience.ca/session.

            2. Focus on predictability and communication with your dog this week.

            3. Join the Living Beyond Obedience Facebook group for support and inspiration: www.facebook.com/groups/LivingBeyondObedience.

            4. Tune in now and start building that calm, confident connection with your dog!

              Music Credit:

              Huge thanks to Shawn Trotter for the amazing music šŸŽµ. Check him out at www.shawntrotter.com.

              25 min
            5. 67 | Be What You Want the Dog to Be. Emotional Mirroring

              Hey Friend! 🐾

              You ever notice how your dog seems to pick up on your vibes? Like, if you're stressed, they’re stressed... but if you're chill, they start to relax too? In this episode, we’re diving into emotional mirroring—how your mood directly shapes your dog’s behaviour.

              Let me tell you about Lexi, a rescue who had a tough time with reactivity on walks, and I had a rough time dealing with her intensity. With some patience,(which I struggled with) understanding, and this game-changing advice—"Be what you want your dog to be"—Lexi taught me so much!

              Here’s what we’re chatting about today:

              🧠 The Science of Emotional Mirroring:

              How your emotions rub off on your dog.
              Some cool research from Psychology Today that links heart rate changes between dogs and their humans.
              What the University of Bristol discovered about how dogs react to human stress smells.

              šŸ” Creating a Chill Home Environment:

              Why simple routines and calm interactions make all the difference.
              Easy things you can do to help your dog feel safe and curious.

              šŸ‘€ Seeing Things from Your Dog’s Point of View:

              Your dog’s reactivity isn’t about you—it's about how they see the world.
              Why swapping frustration for curiosity can change everything ( "How interesting!" If you know you know šŸ˜‰).

              🌿 Simple Ways to ā€˜Be What You Want Your Dog to Be’:

              Quick breathing exercises to keep yourself grounded.
              Staying cool and confident when things get tricky.
              Fun enrichment ideas to keep your dog happy and engaged.

              Hope you enjoy this one!

              Cheers,

              Tracy

              Next Steps:

              Book a

              Join the free Facebook Community

              Tune in now and let’s do this!

              Music Credit:

              Big thanks to Shawn Trotter for the awesome tunes. Check him out at www.shawntrotter.com.

              38 min
            6. 66 | Understand Your Dog’s Love Language: When Affection Isn’t Always Welcome

              Hey fellow dog lover! 🐾

              Does your dog bite or nip every time you try to show them affection? It might be time to rethink how you’re connecting with your dog. In this Q&A episode, I tackle the tough question: "My dog bites me every time I pet him—how do I prevent that?"

              The answer might surprise you: stop petting the dog. 😧

              While this isn’t the answer most dog lovers want to hear, respecting your dog’s love language is essential rather than teaching them to tolerate ours.

              Not all dogs enjoy physical affection, and understanding what makes your dog feel safe and loved is key to building a stronger bond.

              If you’ve ever felt confused about how to show affection to a dog that doesn’t like being squished, this episode is for you.

              Wanna talk one-on-one?
              šŸ‘‰ Book your Leadership Coaching Call today! www.beyondobedience.ca/session

              NEXT STEPS:
              šŸ‘‰ Join the free Facebook community for more support and encouragement: www.facebook.com/groups/LivingBeyondObedience
              šŸ‘‰ Learn more about The Fearful Dog: Fearless Framework: www.beyondobedience.ca/fearless

              Music credit: Shawn Trotter, shawntrotter.com

              Enjoy! Comment & Share!
              Tracy

              28 min
            7. 65 | The Mindset Shift That Changes Everything for You and Your Dog

              Hey fellow dog lover! 🐾

              Are you stuck judging your progress based on an unattainable ideal? In this episode, I’ll help you flip the script and focus on your real accomplishments by looking at how far you’ve come—not just how far you think you have to go.

              This mindset shift isn’t just for you—it can make all the difference in how you show up for your dog. Together, we’ll explore why celebrating incremental progress is essential for building confidence and trust, both for you and your dog.

              Wanna talk one-on-one?
              šŸ‘‰ Book your Leadership Coaching Call today! www.beyondobedience.ca/session

              NEXT STEPS:
              šŸ‘‰ Join the free Facebook community for more support and encouragement: www.facebook.com/groups/LivingBeyondObedience
              šŸ‘‰ Learn more about The Fearful Dog: Fearless Framework: www.beyondobedience.ca/fearless

              šŸŽ¶Music credit: Shawn Trotter, shawntrotter.com

              Enjoy! Comment & Share!
              Tracy

              15 min
            8. 64 | The #1 Mistake Dog Lovers Make When Handling Fearful Behaviour.

              Hey, fellow dog lover! 🐾

              Are you ready to step up for your dog with confidence? In this episode, I’m sharing why having a plan is the number one thing you need to help your dog feel safe and secure. The best part? Your plan doesn’t have to be perfect—it just needs to include what you want your dog to do and how you’ll guide them to success.

              I’ll dive into tools and techniques that can make a big difference, like my personal example of door etiquette when repair people visit. These small strategies can create massive shifts in how your DOG sees you handling challenging situations.

              ✨ I’m also thrilled to introduce something NEW: my Leadership Coaching Calls! šŸŽ‰ These one-on-one sessions are designed to help you uncover your unique leadership style, build a plan tailored to your dog, and step into 2025 with clarity and confidence.

              āž”ļø Be among the first to book your call and take advantage of this special introductory offer: www.beyondobedience.ca/Session. I’m so excited to work with you and your dog!

              Enjoy! Comment & Share!

              šŸ’› Tracy

              NEXT STEPS:

              šŸŽÆ Book your Leadership Coaching Call: www.beyondobedience.ca/Session
              šŸ’¬ Join our free Facebook community: www.facebook.com/groups/LivingBeyondObedience

              Music Credit:

              šŸŽµ Shawn Trotter - shawntrotter.com


              31 min

            About Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Body Language, Anxious Dogs, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs

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