Think all dog breeders are profit-driven? You might be missing what truly ethical breeders are doing behind the scenes to protect dog health and behavior for a lifetime.
In this myth-busting and deeply educational episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em and Josh sit down with Carly from Dare to Dream Dahls to explore the world of ethical dog breeding—from genetic testing to long-term support. Whether you're pro-rescue, pro-breeder, or somewhere in between, this episode will give you the tools to make informed, responsible decisions rooted in compassion and clarity.

In this episode:

• Understand what true ethical breeding looks like beyond flashy websites and filtered puppy pics

• Learn how contracts, health testing, and lifetime support reflect a commitment to dog behavior and health

• Discover how ethical breeding and rescue can work hand-in-hand to improve welfare for all dogs

Press play to learn how responsible breeding protects your dog’s long-term health, supports better behavior outcomes, and empowers you to make ethical choices that go beyond the hashtag wars.

Guest Info:

Instagram: @dreamydahlhomestead

Learn more: daretodreamdahls.com

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

Get a free copy of Paws, Brains, and Fun Enrichment eBook

https://straightupdogtalk.com/programs-%26-freebies/ols/products/paws-brains-and-fun-the-ultimate-canine-enrichment-guide

Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em

https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknow

Email [email protected] to get in touch with Em

This episode is sponsored by PetMatRx

Looking to BOOST your pet’s daily meal? Try PetMatRx supplements, use code FITZ20, and save! https://petmatrx.com/?ref=tdwafm

This podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Still wondering why your dog is bouncing off the walls—even after long walks? You might be missing the most important part of their day.
In this empowering and practical episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em breaks down the real meaning of enrichment—and why it’s not a luxury, but a behavioral necessity. From mental stimulation and confidence-building to stress reduction and focus, you’ll learn how daily enrichment can completely shift your dog’s energy, behavior, and overall wellbeing.

In this episode:

• Learn why enrichment matters more than exercise when it comes to managing reactivity and anxiety

• Get time-saving, budget-friendly tips to incorporate enrichment into your daily routine

• Hear how the Mind Game of the Month box is helping overwhelmed dog parents ditch chaos and build connection

Press play to discover how simple enrichment practices can calm your dog’s mind, improve behavior, and make life easier—for both of you.

Guest Info:

Instagram: @mindgameofthemonth

Sponsored by Mind Game of the Month

Save 20% with code SUDT → mindgameofthemonth.com

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

Get a free copy of Paws, Brains, and Fun Enrichment eBook

https://straightupdogtalk.com/programs-%26-freebies/ols/products/paws-brains-and-fun-the-ultimate-canine-enrichment-guide

Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em

https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknow

Email [email protected] to get in touch with Em

Looking to BOOST your pet’s daily meal? Try PetMatRx supplements, use code FITZ20, and save! https://petmatrx.com/?ref=tdwafm

This podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Ever look back at how you used to train your dog—and cringe just a little?
In this vulnerable and insightful episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em reconnects with Angie from Pack Leaders Dog Training to revisit the early days of working with Fitz. Together, they unpack how much growth can happen when you stop chasing “perfect” training and start embracing evolution, mindset shifts, and more dog-centered choices.

In this episode:

• Hear the real story behind Fitz’s early reactivity training—and what’s changed since

• Learn how to let go of shame or guilt if your old training choices no longer feel aligned

• Get validation that changing methods (or trainers) is a sign of commitment—not failure

Press play to reflect on your own training journey, and discover why growth—for both you and your dog—is always worth celebrating.

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

Get a free copy of Paws, Brains, and Fun Enrichment eBook

https://straightupdogtalk.com/programs-%26-freebies/ols/products/paws-brains-and-fun-the-ultimate-canine-enrichment-guide

Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em

https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknow

Email [email protected] to get in touch with Em

Looking to BOOST your pet’s daily meal? Try PetMatRx supplements, use code FITZ20, and save! https://petmatrx.com/?ref=tdwafm

This podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Do you know the difference between a real service dog and one that’s just wearing a vest?
In this eye-opening episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em sits down with Jaime, a disability advocate and experienced service dog handler, to discuss what true service dog training involves—and how fake service dogs are creating dangerous consequences for those who rely on these animals every day. With her dogs Echo and Everest by her side, Jaime offers a first-hand look at task work, training, and the public misconceptions that make access harder than it needs to be.

In this episode:

• Understand what separates trained service dogs from emotional support or pet dogs

• Learn how fake service dogs impact the safety and dignity of real handlers

• Hear Jaime’s lived experience with behavior training, access issues, and public interactions

Press play to learn how you can advocate for true service dog awareness—and become a better ally to disabled dog handlers everywhere.

Guest Info:

Instagram: @embracingecho

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

Get a free copy of Paws, Brains, and Fun Enrichment eBook

https://straightupdogtalk.com/programs-%26-freebies/ols/products/paws-brains-and-fun-the-ultimate-canine-enrichment-guide

Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em

https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknow

Email [email protected] to get in touch with Em

Looking to BOOST your pet’s daily meal? Try PetMatRx supplements, use code FITZ20, and save! https://petmatrx.com/?ref=tdwafm

This podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Think living with four dogs sounds wild? Now imagine doing it off the grid, in the desert heat—with no neighbors, no fence, and no backup plan.
In this light-hearted and inspiring episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em chats with Laurel and Rob, who share their real-life experience raising four rescue dogs (Eden, Freya, Athena, and Thor) in an off-grid desert homestead. They unpack how structure, enrichment, and laughter are the cornerstones of keeping their pack grounded—even when the landscape is unpredictable.

In this episode:

• Learn how to build sustainable enrichment routines for multiple dogs in any living situation

• Discover how behavior and trust evolve when dogs live with minimal external structure

• Get inspired by the joy, humor, and intentionality behind this off-grid pack’s daily life

Press play to hear how four rescue dogs, one desert, and a whole lot of heart come together to create a multi-dog life that’s grounded in enrichment, love, and dust-covered joy.

Guest Info:

Instagram: @mythologicaldogs

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

Get a free copy of Paws, Brains, and Fun Enrichment eBook

https://straightupdogtalk.com/programs-%26-freebies/ols/products/paws-brains-and-fun-the-ultimate-canine-enrichment-guide

Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em

https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknow

Email [email protected] to get in touch with Em

This episode is sponsored by PetMatRx

Looking to BOOST your pet’s daily meal? Try PetMatRx supplements, use code FITZ20, and save! https://petmatrx.com/?ref=tdwafm

This podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Do you love a blocky-headed dog—but feel judged before they even get to say hello?

In this emotional and empowering episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em highlights the story of Sweet GiGi and her guardian, showing how one rescue bully breed is helping change minds and hearts. From behavior challenges to community support, they share what it really takes to raise a dog that many people wrongly fear—and why that fear has nothing to do with the dog.

In this episode:

• Understand how stigma still affects bully breed owners—even when the dogs are well-trained and loving

• Learn why training, enrichment, and representation are crucial in changing public perception

• Hear real-life strategies for supporting your dog—and creating safer, more informed communities

Press play to meet Sweet GiGi, challenge breed bias, and learn how behavior support and community care can shift the conversation around bully breeds—one story at a time.

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

Get a free copy of The Messy Middle: Getting Unstuck with your Big Feeling Dog

https://straightupdogtalk.com/programs-%26-freebies/ols/products/the-messy-middle-getting-unstuck-with-your-big-feeling-dog

Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em

https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknow

Email [email protected] to get in touch with Em

Join the Community

https://join.slack.com/t/thedogwhoaskedformore/shared_invite/zt-305kdyab7-y6eTWjbAeSwHItNmloLQUA

This podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Ever felt like your dog changed your life—then left a hole no one else could fill?

In this raw, reflective episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Josh interviews Em about the story that started it all: the disability that paused her plans, the soul dog who cracked her heart open, and the grief that made space for a mission. If you've ever felt like your journey with dogs is more emotional than anyone talks about—you’re not alone.

In this episode:

• Hear the story of Cajun, the rescue who helped Em slow down, feel deeply, and change course

• Learn how disability and dog loss shaped a deeper commitment to health, enrichment, and advocacy

• Discover the heart behind this show—and why it was made for overwhelmed, emotional dog parents

Press play to connect with the story that started Straight Up Dog Talk—and feel held in your own journey through grief, growth, and dog parenting that goes way beyond the surface.

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

Get a free copy of The Messy Middle: Getting Unstuck with your Big Feeling Dog

https://straightupdogtalk.com/programs-%26-freebies/ols/products/the-messy-middle-getting-unstuck-with-your-big-feeling-dog

Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em

https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknow

Email [email protected] to get in touch with Em

Join the Community

https://join.slack.com/t/thedogwhoaskedformore/shared_invite/zt-305kdyab7-y6eTWjbAeSwHItNmloLQUA

This podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Does your dog destroy every toy the second you leave the room—and you’re not sure if it’s boredom or something deeper?
In this vulnerable and refreshingly honest episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em and Josh sit down with Erika to unpack the true story of Jax and Wyatt—two rescue dogs navigating separation anxiety, shredded toys, and real emotional growth. What begins with playful destruction turns into a meaningful conversation about how behavior expresses unmet needs, and how small shifts in structure and enrichment can make a big difference.

In this episode:

• Understand the behavior behind toy destruction and what it may be signaling

• Learn how structure, enrichment, and consistency help anxious dogs feel safer

• Feel seen and supported in your own messy, beautiful journey with a high-needs pup

Press play to reframe your dog’s behavior with empathy, insight, and practical tools that support anxiety and emotional regulation—one shredded toy at a time.

Guest Info:

TikTok: @jaxandwyatt

Instagram: @jaxandwyatt2023

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

Get a free copy of Paws, Brains, and Fun Enrichment eBook

https://straightupdogtalk.com/programs-%26-freebies/ols/products/paws-brains-and-fun-the-ultimate-canine-enrichment-guide

Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em

https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknow

Email [email protected] to get in touch with Em

Looking to BOOST your pet’s daily meal? Try PetMatRx supplements, use code FITZ20, and save! https://petmatrx.com/?ref=tdwafm

This podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Thinking about hiring a dog trainer—but not sure how to know if they’re actually the right fit for you and your dog?
In this unique and eye-opening episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em and Josh host a real-time blind Q&A between professional trainer Mattison (Freed By Training) and dog mom Madisyn, who brings her honest, unfiltered questions to the table. Together, they unpack what actually happens during a first training consult—and how dog parents can feel empowered from day one.

In this episode:

• Learn how professional trainers assess behavior concerns during the first session

• Discover key questions every dog guardian should ask before hiring a trainer

• Understand why trust, clarity, and communication matter more than fancy credentials

Press play to gain confidence, clarity, and tools for building a training relationship that actually works—for you and your dog.

Sponsored by Freed by Training

Explore resources + programs → freedbytraining.com/unleash

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

Get a free copy of Paws, Brains, and Fun Enrichment eBook

https://straightupdogtalk.com/programs-%26-freebies/ols/products/paws-brains-and-fun-the-ultimate-canine-enrichment-guide

Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em

https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknow

Email [email protected] to get in touch with Em

Looking to BOOST your pet’s daily meal? Try PetMatRx supplements, use code FITZ20, and save! https://petmatrx.com/?ref=tdwafm

This podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Is your dog anxious during fireworks, car rides, or when you leave the house—and you’re wondering if CBD could help?
In this eye-opening episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em and Josh sit down with the team from Fat Sam’s for Pets to unpack the truth about using CBD for dog anxiety. From product safety to realistic expectations, they dig into what calming aids actually do—and how to choose the right one for your dog’s behavior, nervous system, and lifestyle.

In this episode:

• Learn when CBD can be a helpful support tool for dog anxiety—and when it might not work

• Discover how calming aids fit into a full pet wellness and behavior plan

• Get expert guidance on choosing a transparent, pet-safe supplement you can trust

Press play to feel empowered, informed, and ready to support your anxious pup with the right tools—and a whole lot of heart.

Guest Info: Instagram: @fatsamsforpets

Learn more: urbanapothecary.shop/cbd-for-pets

Educational Resource: Cannabinoids Explained

Sponsored by Fat Sam’s for Pets

Save with code SUDT → urbanapothecary.shop/cbd-for-pets

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

Get a free copy of Paws, Brains, and Fun Enrichment eBook

https://straightupdogtalk.com/programs-%26-freebies/ols/products/paws-brains-and-fun-the-ultimate-canine-enrichment-guide

Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em

https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknow

Email [email protected] to get in touch with Em

Looking to BOOST your pet’s daily meal? Try PetMatRx supplements, use code FITZ20, and save! https://petmatrx.com/?ref=tdwafm

This podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.