What if your dog’s progress isn’t about doing more training—but unlearning what’s no longer working?

In this emotional and deeply validating solo episode, Em shares the breaking point that led her to completely rethink how she approached dog training—especially with her reactive dog, Fitz. After years of doing everything “right,” she realized the only way forward wasn’t more structure—it was more trust. This episode is for every dog parent who’s ever felt defeated, confused, or like they’re failing—when the truth is, they’re just being asked to listen differently.

In this episode:

• Learn why overtraining can lead to burnout—for both you and your dog

• Hear how starting over created emotional safety and behavior change

• Discover how to rebuild trust through presence, patience, and unlearning

Press play to give yourself and your dog a reset—and explore a training path rooted in clarity, compassion, and connection.

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

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Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em

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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.