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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:
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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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In this episode of Think Like a Dog, Andreia and Millie take on the complex and often misunderstood topic of dog bites. They explore why dogs bite, how to prevent it, and what to do if it happens—all through the lens of compassion, education, and real-life experience.

From decoding dog body language to recognizing early warning signs, they break down how human behavior can impact canine reactions. You'll hear personal stories, expert insights, and practical advice on how to create safer, more respectful environments for dogs—whether you're dealing with a reactive pup, introducing a new baby to the home, or simply trying to understand your dog better.

They also discuss:

• Common misconceptions about “aggressive” dogs
• Why startle responses aren’t “bad behavior”
• The importance of safe spaces for overwhelmed dogs
• Best practices when approaching unfamiliar dogs
• How to support rescue dogs through training and structure

This episode is a must-listen for dog lovers, rescue advocates, and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of dog behavior. Because most dog bites are preventable—and it all starts with learning to listen.

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In this episode of the Think Like a Dog podcast, Andreia and Mirror Image K9 delve into the intricacies of dog training commands, emphasizing the importance of consistency, enforcement, and the mindset behind commands. They discuss the significance of the 'place' command, how it differs from 'stay', and the role of treats and toys in training. The conversation also covers the use of release words and the expectations associated with commands like 'heel' and 'let's go'. They emphasize the importance of follow-up commands to reinforce recall and the use of leash pressure to teach these commands effectively. 

The discussion also covers the significance of structured play in dog training, highlighting how it can enhance impulse control and strengthen the bond between the dog and owner. They discuss techniques for managing play intensity, the meaning of commands like 'easy' and 'enough', and the critical nature of the 'drop it' command for safety. The conversation also touches on commands that may not be beneficial, such as 'watch me', emphasizing the need for organic eye contact and respect in the human-dog relationship.

Whether you're just getting started or looking to level up your training, this episode will help you fine-tune your communication and set clearer expectations with your pup.

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