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In this client consult, Millie works with Sara and her 4½-year-old Bichon, Charlotte, to tackle a swirl of issues: leash reactivity toward dogs and people, door/window “bouncer” behavior, sock/paper eating, and an intense attachment that’s taken over daily life. We lay out a structure-first plan that replaces guilt-driven routines with fair, clear boundaries, so Charlotte can turn her brain off, and Sara can get her life back.

What we cover

• Why “more entertainment” isn’t the fix: the boredom myth vs. building distress tolerance
• Crate as bedroom, Place as off-switch: one uninterrupted hour of Place daily (tethered if needed), plus crate after every meal (20–30 min) and when home alone
• Furniture with rules: invitation-only up, handler ends the cuddle session—no self-appointing
• Walk mindset: neutral, non-negotiable structure beats mileage and hype
• Reactivity at windows/doors: remove the job, redirect to Place before the explosion
• Pica management: ruthless environmental control; vet-approved chew alternatives for a natural outlet
• Relationship > obedience: why true recall is a relationship test, not a cue trick
• Pack position reframe: Charlotte looks “alpha,” but she’s a back-of-pack dog forced into the front—no wonder she’s stressed
• Travel prep: how a sitter can kick-start overnight crating without emotional backsliding

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This episode of Think Like a Dog with Andreia and Millie focuses on senior dogs and the unique care they require. The discussion highlights why training remains valuable for them at any age, the medical considerations that come with growing older, and the ways their behavior may change over time.

It also covers how senior dogs adjust when new pets are introduced into the household and explores the emotional aspects of caring for them, including the difficult but necessary decisions surrounding end-of-life care.

The conversation emphasizes the importance of awareness, compassion, and proactive steps to ensure senior dogs experience comfort, stability, and love in their golden years.

• Attend the MIK9 Masterclass:  https://www.mirrorimagek9.com/mik9masterclass
• Sign up for Mirror Image K9 Extended: http://mirrorimagek9.com/extended

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In this episode of Think Like a Dog, Millie connects with Cece DeSimone to discuss her dog Mabel’s behavioral challenges, including resource guarding, jealousy, and walking difficulties. They explore effective training techniques such as crate training, structured feeding routines, and strategic socialization. The conversation highlights the importance of setting clear boundaries, reinforcing commands, and considering tools like e-collar training to improve Mabel’s quality of life and safety. This insightful discussion offers practical tips for dog owners facing similar challenges.

Takeaways

• Mabel is a rescue dog with behavioral challenges.
• Resource guarding is a significant concern for Mabel.
• Crate training has been effective for Mabel's routine.
• Impulse control during feeding is crucial for Mabel.
• Walking techniques for better control.
• Socialization at dog parks.
• Establishing clear commands for communication.
• E-collar training could enhance Mabel's safety and freedom.
• Understanding Mabel's jealousy is key to managing her behavior.
• Creating a positive environment for Mabel is a priority.
  
  

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In this episode of Think Like a Dog, Millie conducts a virtual consultation with Nancy, focusing on her dog Addy’s leash reactivity and overall behavior. The discussion covers Addy’s training background, current challenges on walks, and difficulties maintaining composure around other dogs.

Millie provides detailed guidance on improving leash walking skills, implementing impulse control exercises, and managing Addy’s mindset during outdoor encounters. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of consistent routines, clear communication between family members, and structured socialization to support long-term progress.

This episode is an informative resource for dog owners looking to address reactivity and promote calm, controlled behavior during daily walks.

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In this episode of Think Like a Dog, Andreia and Millie discuss the emotional and often misunderstood topic of rehoming pets. Whether it’s due to life changes, behavior challenges, or unexpected circumstances, they explore the valid reasons families may need to make this tough decision and how to do it responsibly.

They share practical tips for preparing dogs for a new home, from crate training and leash walking to addressing behavioral quirks. The conversation also touches on the importance of transparency when describing a pet’s personality, the role of microchipping in keeping pets safe, and how to access helpful resources for a smoother transition.

This episode is also incredibly helpful for fosters, whether you're preparing a dog for adoption or supporting a family through rehoming, these tools and insights can make all the difference.

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In this episode of Think Like a Dog, Andreia and Millie discuss one of the most important foundations of dog training, understanding the why behind your dog’s behavior. They explore how recognizing the root of behavior can shape more effective training strategies and help you build a deeper connection with your dog.

The conversation covers why structure, leadership, and clear communication are essential, and how to balance compassion for your dog’s past with the responsibility of guiding them toward positive change. They also talk about the power of trust in the human-dog relationship and the impact of having a supportive community through the training journey.

Whether you're a new dog parent or deep in the world of rescue and rehabilitation, this episode will leave you with insight, encouragement, and a reminder that you're not alone in the process.

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In this episode of the Think Like a Dog podcast, Millie and Andreia answer listener questions and share thoughtful guidance on common training challenges. They cover crate training, potty routines, communication with other dog owners, and ways to help dogs with fear or anxiety.

Throughout the conversation, they focus on what it means to truly understand your dog’s perspective, why structure matters, how to build trust, and the power of consistency. You’ll also hear tips on managing reactivity, creating safe spaces, and setting boundaries that help both dogs and humans feel more confident.

To wrap things up, Millie and Andreia announce an upcoming in-person workshop designed to bring the community together for hands-on learning and support.

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In this episode, Savanna Woodall consults with Millie about her dog Maya, a rescued German Shepherd mix navigating separation anxiety, behavioral struggles, and chronic health issues like kidney disease.

Together, they dive into Maya’s daily routine, the importance of setting clear boundaries, and how to create a calm, consistent environment to help her thrive. They discuss the emotional toll of dealing with anxiety in dogs, the role of structured crate training, and how to overcome guilt when leaving your dog alone. Millie also offers guidance on incorporating exercise, medication, and a reliable crate setup to support Maya’s progress.

Whether you're dealing with a similar situation or just want to understand the “why” behind anxious behavior, this episode is packed with actionable strategies and heartfelt conversation.

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In this episode of Think Like a Dog, we're joined by Ridge from Pack Leader University for a deep dive into one of the most misunderstood training tools out there: the prong collar. Ridge breaks down how prong collars actually work, when and how to use them properly, and why they’re often unfairly labeled as harsh. We explore key topics like proper fit, conditioning, and the responsibility of the handler in creating a safe and effective training experience. Ridge also shares real-life examples, highlights the importance of tool quality, and explains when prong collars might not be the right choice. Plus, we discuss the transition between tools, the role of mindset in training, and why taking a holistic, dog-and-human-centered approach always wins. Whether you’re skeptical or curious, this episode challenges assumptions and offers valuable insight for any dog lover.

Connect With Ridge Vogel: [email protected]
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ridgedogbehavior/

Pack Leader University:
https://www.packleaderuniversity.com/

Prong Collar Brand Recommendation: https://hermsprengerusa.com

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In this episode, we sit down with the Mirror Image K9 Extended family to tackle real-life training challenges. This conversation dives deep into prepping a dog for an upcoming move, managing crate anxiety, introducing a new impact crate, and helping dogs adapt to major changes like travel and new environments. We also explore topics like balancing crate and place training, handling dog-cat dynamics, and using tools like the e-collar thoughtfully. Most importantly, we talk about how a calm, prepared owner is key to a dog’s success. If you're navigating big transitions with your dog, this episode is packed with tips, strategies, and a reminder that patience and preparation go a long way.

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