Can you really train your dog effectively—without punishment, dominance, or fear?

In this science-rich episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em and expert trainer Annie Grossman explore the truth about clicker training and positive reinforcement. Whether you're a first-timer or ready to leave outdated methods behind, this conversation will reshape your understanding of how dogs actually learn—and why trust-based methods work faster and better than old-school dominance techniques.

In this episode:

• Learn how clicker training builds behavior fluency and clarity

• Understand why positive reinforcement changes your dog’s brain and confidence

• Discover how to use emotionally supportive training tools that strengthen trust, not fear

Press play to upgrade your training toolbox with strategies that are humane, effective, and built on science—not shame.

Check out How to Train Your Dog with Love + Science by Annie Grossman

https://www.schoolforthedogs.com/book

Bonus: Annie references a video clip—watch it here for context: https://youtu.be/jgDzy8y7jDM

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

Get a free copy of Feeding without Fear for mealtime manners

https://tinyurl.com/fearfreetdwafm

Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em

https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknow

Email [email protected] to get in touch with Em

This podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training through the lens of a canine nutritionist, dog coach, and retired vet tech—diving into reactivity, dog obedience, dog health, dog food, dog habits, dog lifestyle, canine enrichment, pet enrichment, dog myths, and what it actually takes to support reactive dogs safely and calmly. Whether you’re a dog mom navigating reactivity, building the human–dog bond, choosing dog products, or just trying to create a calmer dog life with your canine, you’ll find grounded strategies to build trust, improve dog behavior, and help your dog feel safe, understood, and supported.