You followed the rules. Used the tools. Did the training. So why does your dog still feel overwhelmed—and why do you?

In this powerful solo episode, Em shares the pivotal moment she took off her dog’s E-collar—and started listening instead of controlling. After months of obedience-focused training, real progress didn’t come through structure—it came through presence, trust, and emotional regulation. This episode challenges the pressure to "perform" and invites you to reimagine what progress really looks like with a reactive dog.

In this episode:

• Learn how strict obedience training can unintentionally amplify reactivity

• Discover what helped Em and Fitz finally feel safe, connected, and calm

• Understand how enrichment and regulation can often do more than tools ever could

Press play for a grounded, honest reframe of reactive dog training—one that centers emotional safety over performance, and connection over control.

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

Get a free copy of Feeding without Fear for mealtime manners

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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.