Still struggling with reactivity—even after years of structured walks, dog parks, and training plans?

In this raw and honest solo episode, Em shares the emotional turning point in her journey with Fitz, her reactive dog. Despite doing everything “right,” she was met with shutdowns, spirals, and stress—until she stopped pushing for obedience and started listening for connection.

In this episode:

• Why structured routines can sometimes backfire for sensitive, reactive dogs

• Discover 5 things your dog may be trying to communicate through reactivity

• Hear how slowing down and letting go of pressure led to emotional healing and behavioral shifts

Press play to hear what finally helped—and how you can support your reactive dog without pushing harder or blaming yourself.

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

Get a free copy of the Mini Bowl Blueprint

https://tinyurl.com/minibowltdwafm

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://tinyurl.com/PETMATRXtdwafm

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.