DogSpeak: Redefining Dog Training

Nikki Ivey

Understand your dog better with DogSpeak founder, Nikki Ivey--a professional Canine Behavior Specialist, trainer and Family Dog Mediator. Learn why it's not about just fixing your dog's behavior but about understanding why the behavior is occurring. Nikki often shares the mic with wife and DogSpeak manager, Britteny, along with other fantastic guests. Whether the discussion is about real life manners, inappropriate behavior or nutrition, this podcast has it all. We focus on building relationships, not dictatorships. Learn more about DogSpeak and Nikki Ivey by checking out www.dogspeak101.com. Become a Patreon member by visiting www.patreon.com/dogspeak

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283 episodes
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Episodes283

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Sep 9, 2025 · 54 min
From Frustration to Flow: Troubleshooting Training Without Losing Trust
Training doesn’t always go as planned—and that’s okay. In this episode, we explore how to troubleshoot common dog training challenges without letting frustration get in the way. You’ll learn how to shift your mindset, identify what’s really blocking progress, and keep the bond with your dog at the center of the process. By focusing on trust, communication, and adaptability, you can move from tension to flow and create a smoother training journey for both you and your dog. dogspeak101.com dogspeakgeek.thinkific.com
Sep 2, 2025 · 1 hr 20 min
Calming the Storm: Regulating the Nervous System in Humans and Dogs with The Infinite Unfolding
In this episode, Lisa, from The Infinite Unfolding joins Nikki as they explore how the central nervous system shapes our ability—and our dogs’ ability—to feel safe, calm, and connected. Just like people, dogs can become dysregulated when stress overwhelms their nervous system, leading to reactivity, fear, or shutdown. We’ll break down the science of regulation, discuss the signs of nervous system imbalance in both species, and share practical strategies for restoring balance. From breathing techniques and movement for humans, to choice, predictability, and enrichment for dogs, you’ll learn how small changes can create big shifts in nervous system health. Whether you’re healing from trauma yourself or supporting a dog with a history of stress, this episode will help you build resilience, trust, and calm—together. dogspeak101.com dogspeakgeek.thinkific.com Find Lisa HERE! Find Lisa's Podcast here!
Aug 26, 2025 · 43 min
Resource Guarding: Protecting, Not Possessing
Resource guarding is one of the most misunderstood dog behaviors. Many guardians see growling or guarding as dominance or defiance, but in reality, it’s a deeply rooted survival instinct. In this episode, we explore what resource guarding really means, why dogs display it, and how you can respond in ways that build trust rather than conflict. You’ll learn the difference between normal protective behaviors and true guarding issues, common myths that lead to frustration, and simple strategies to prevent and manage guarding in daily life. From trade games to safe spaces, we’ll cover practical approaches that respect your dog’s needs while keeping your home peaceful. We’ll also dive into the emotional side for guardians—how to move past fear or frustration and reframe guarding as communication instead of aggression. By the end of this episode, you’ll walk away with a new perspective: resource guarding isn’t about power, it’s about protection. And when you learn to listen, you can strengthen the bond with your dog. dogspeak101.com dogspeakgeek.thinific.com The Herbal Dog Event
Aug 19, 2025 · 40 min
Calm Amid the Chaos: Helping Your Dog Thrive at Outdoor Events
Fall means football games, tailgates, BBQs, and outdoor gatherings—but for your dog, these events can be overwhelming. In this episode, we’ll explore how to prepare your dog for noisy, crowded environments, reduce stress, and build calm confidence. You’ll learn what important skills you need, like “place,” “leave it,” and recall before the event, what essentials to pack to keep your dog comfortable, and how to spot early signs of stress. Whether you’re headed to a tailgate, a backyard party, or a local festival, this guide will help you set your dog up for success so you both can enjoy the season stress-free. dogspeak101.com dogspeakgeek.thinkific.com Herbal Dog Event
Aug 12, 2025 · 32 min
Mixed Signals: How We Accidentally Confuse Our Dogs
In this episode, we break down the subtle — and not-so-subtle — ways humans miscommunicate with their dogs. From snapping commands to overusing the leash, to being inconsistent with rules, these habits can create stress, anxiety, and frustration for your pup. Learn how your dog is reading your body language, tone, and patterns, and discover practical ways to replace mixed signals with clear, consistent communication. Your dog will thank you with calmer, more confident behavior. dogspeak101.com dogspeakgeek.thinkific.com Herbal Dog Event The Infinite Unfolding - Empowerment Coaching, Soul Transformation, 1 on 1 Coaching, Coaching and Empowerment
Aug 5, 2025 · 25 min
Reliable Recall: Teaching Your Dog to Come Every Time
In this episode, we dive into one of the most essential behaviors for any dog: recall. Teaching your dog to come when called isn’t just convenient—it can be life-saving. But building a reliable recall takes more than just calling their name and hoping for the best. Nikki walks you through the foundational steps, common mistakes, and how to turn recall training into a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your dog. Whether you're starting from scratch or trying to strengthen an existing recall, this episode will help you create a dog who runs to you with joy—every single time. dogspeak101.com dogspeakgeek.thinkific.com Herbal Dog Event Webinar: How Dogs Use Body Language to Avoid Conflict
Jul 30, 2025 · 35 min
Raising Resilient Dogs: Confidence Over Control
In this episode, we’re diving into what it really means to raise a resilient dog—one who can handle life’s unpredictability without shutting down or reacting out of fear. You’ll learn why emotional recovery matters more than obedience, how to support your dog through stress without suppressing behavior, and practical ways to build confidence in dogs of all ages. Whether you're raising a puppy or helping a reactive adult dog, this episode will give you the tools to help your dog not just survive—but thrive. 🐾 Let’s raise dogs who bounce back, not break down. dogspeak101.com dogspeakgeek.thinkific.com patreon.com/dogspeak
Jul 22, 2025 · 39 min
The Path to Recovery: Helping Your Dog Heal from Suppressed Behavior
Is your dog “well-behaved” but oddly disconnected—or do they shut down in new situations instead of reacting? In this episode, we’re diving into how to help your dog recover. You’ll learn how to rebuild trust, encourage natural expression, and create a safe environment where your dog can begin to communicate freely again. We’ll also explore holistic tools to support emotional healing and why honoring your dog’s timeline is the key to lasting progress. Whether you're just beginning to recognize the signs of suppression or you're already walking the path toward healing, this episode offers practical steps and compassionate insight for supporting your dog’s emotional well-being. dogspeak101.com dogspeakgeek.thinkific.com theherbaldog.com
Jul 15, 2025 · 45 min
Suppression ≠ Success: Rethinking What 'Better Behavior' Means
In this episode, we break down the difference between true behavior change and simple behavior suppression. Learn why shutting down a dog’s reactions might look like progress—but often hides emotional distress, confusion, or fear. We’ll talk about the long-term fallout of using suppression-based training and what to do instead if you want a dog who feels safe, confident, and connected. dogspeak101.com dogspeakgeek.thinkific.com
Jul 8, 2025 · 32 min
From Chaos to Calm: Life Hacks for Dog People
In this episode, Nikki shares practical life hacks you can start using today to help your dog navigate tough situations—like greeting guests, encountering scary objects, and decompressing after a stressful day. She also explains how talking to your dog like you would a three-year-old can make a big difference.
Jul 1, 2025 · 41 min
Toothless & Tail-Waggers: What Dragons Teach Us About Dogs
What does a fire-breathing dragon have in common with your sock-stealing dog? More than you’d think! In this episode, we dive into the surprisingly deep dog training wisdom hidden in How to Train Your Dragon. From building trust to working with fear and frustration, Toothless and Hiccup show us that successful relationships—whether with dragons or dogs—are built on understanding, patience, and a little bit of humor. Grab your leash (and maybe a saddle), because we’re about to explore the wild world of taming our tail-wagging beasts! dogspeak101.com dogspeakgeek.thinkific.com
Jun 24, 2025 · 41 min
Teenage Mutts: Hormones, Havoc & Growing Pains
In this episode, Nikki and Britteny dive into the rollercoaster ride of canine adolescence. From sudden selective hearing to explosive energy and emotional outbursts, we explore how hormones shape your young dog’s behavior—and how to survive it with your sanity (and bond) intact. Learn what’s normal, what’s not, and how to guide your pup through this critical growth stage without losing your cool. Whether you're raising a 6-month-old wild child or preparing for what’s ahead, this episode is packed with practical tips and reassurance for dog guardians in the thick of the teenage phase.
Jun 17, 2025 · 31 min
The Enrichment Equation: More Than Just Toys
In this episode, we dive into what truly makes enrichment meaningful for dogs. It’s not just about keeping them busy—it’s about meeting their mental, emotional, and physical needs in a thoughtful way. We explore how to go beyond squeaky toys and food puzzles to create activities that align with your dog’s instincts, personality, and breed traits. Whether you’re a pet parent or a trainer, this episode will help you understand how to strike the right balance in the “enrichment equation” to support a more fulfilled and well-behaved dog. dogspeak101.com dogspeakgeek.thinkific.com patreon.com/dogspeak
Jun 3, 2025 · 37 min
From Pup to Punk: Growing Pains in Dogs
Remember that sweet little puppy who used to hang on your every word? Yeah… they’ve been replaced by a moody teenager with selective hearing and way too much energy. Welcome to canine adolescence! In this episode, we’re talking all about the “teen phase” of dog hood—the chaos, the confusion, and the comical moments that come with it. We’ll break down what’s happening in your dog’s brain, why they suddenly act like they’ve forgotten everything, and how to survive it with your sanity (mostly) intact. Spoiler alert: snacks and patience help. A lot.
May 27, 2025 · 26 min
Paws and Play: Strengthening Your Bond Through Fun
In this episode, Nikki answers a listener’s question about impulse control and shares practical tips for helping your dog develop better self-regulation. She also dives into the often-overlooked importance of having fun with your dog. Tune in for a thoughtful blend of behavior insights and playful encouragement! dogspeak101.com dogspeakgeek.thinkific.com "Alpha" Dog Videos
May 20, 2025 · 27 min
Building Better Bonds: Nikki Talks Dog Training & the Path of Least Resistance – KIENO Conference Replay
Missed Nikki’s KIENO Conference Interview? Catch It Here! If you didn’t catch Nikki’s online interview with Holly Tett from Paws Up Dogs at the KIENO Conference, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. In this episode, Nikki revisits the concept of the Path of Least Resistance—a theme she’s touched on before, but one that’s always worth repeating. She dives into how true success in building a relationship with your dog comes from a personalized approach—one that honors the unique needs of both the human and the dog. Tune in for thoughtful insights and practical guidance that can transform how you connect with your canine companion. dogspeak101.com dogspeakgeek.thinkific.com
May 13, 2025 · 19 min
Ground Rules: Dig Zones for Dirt-Loving Dogs
Does your dog treat your backyard like a construction site? In this episode we’re laying down the ground rules—literally! Learn how to channel your pup’s natural digging instincts in a fun and positive way by creating designated dig zones. We’ll dig into why dogs love to excavate, how to build a dig-friendly space in your yard, and training tips to help your dog understand where it’s okay to go paws-deep. Whether you’ve got a garden destroyer or a sandbox superstar, this episode is packed with playful solutions to turn digging from a problem into enrichment. Let’s get dirty (the good kind)! dogspeak101.com dogspeakgeek.thinkific.com
May 6, 2025 · 54 min
Special Guest: Ness Jones discusses Separation Anxiety
Ness Jones is a Certified Separation Anxiety Pro Behavior Consultant (Cert. SAPBC) and runs an international program successfully working remotely with clients around the world. Ness has a number of other qualifications, but it is the separation anxiety certification that means the most to her, knowing there are many dog trainers attempting to resolve this issue without the proper information or the latest methods and techniques. She understands the importance of furthering education to achieve optimal results. Ness is also a Canine Behaviour Practitioner and has a Diploma in Canine Behaviour from the renowned International School for Canine Psychology & Behaviour (ISCP.Dip.Canine.Prac), is Certified in Applied Canine Ethology (CACE) from the Ethology Institute and a CPDT (Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Ethology Institute). She is a Canine Myofunctional Therapist (dog masseur), Small Animal Nutritionist and holds a Diploma as a Small Animal Naturopath (Dip.NatSA). She believes wholeheartedly in providing a raw food diet to dogs and cats. Ness is also the co-host of podcast Tails From The Dog House: Separation Anxiety Explained (available on all good listening apps and on YouTube) www.nessjones.com dogspeak101.com dogspeakgeek.thinkific.com
May 1, 2025 · 24 min
Is Clicker Training the Way to Train Your Dog?
In this episode, Nikki introduces the clicker, along with the rules she likes to follow, and how you can use it to train your dog. Follow along on our social media channels to watch videos of Nikki using the clicker with Willow. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter so you don't miss out on exclusive offers to DogSpeak Geeks. Sign up here. dogspeak101.com dogspeakgeek.thinkific.com
Apr 22, 2025 · 25 min
Understanding Your Dog's L.E.G.S.
Nikki breaks down the individual components of LEGS for your dog. When looking at behavior, we must take in consideration every dog's individual LEGS. This allows for appropriate management, meeting your dog where he is, and finding the right solution. If you are unsure of the genetic aspect of your dog, check out The Dog Key to narrow it down through physical traits. To learn more about LEGS for pros, click here. To learn more about LEGS for pet owners, click here for The Dog's Truth. DogSpeak Geek Community and Online Courses DogSpeak website