In this episode, Nikki explores how many common behavior concerns are actually natural canine behaviors—not signs that a dog is being “bad.” By understanding your dog’s genetics, instincts, desires, and unmet needs, you can build a more appropriate and trusting relationship. This knowledge helps your dog develop the skills they need to successfully navigate life in captivity and adapt to their environment with confidence.

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When stress becomes chronic, both dogs and humans can get stuck in a constant state of vigilance. In this episode, we explore how stress impacts the brain across species—changing behavior, learning, emotional regulation, and our ability to feel safe. By understanding the shared neurobiology of stress in dogs and people, we can shift away from blame and toward compassion, regulation, and healing.

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Britteny joins the episode to share what it’s really like living with a large Rottweiler puppy deep in the throes of adolescence. From big emotions in an even bigger body to impulse control struggles and testing boundaries, we talk honestly about the challenges that can make this stage feel overwhelming for dog owners.

Canine adolescence is often one of the most frustrating phases of raising a dog—but it’s also temporary. When you understand what your dog’s brain and nervous system are going through during this developmental stage, it becomes easier to replace frustration with patience. This episode explores how awareness, realistic expectations, and supportive strategies can help you guide your dog through adolescence without damaging the relationship you’ve worked so hard to build.

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Mentioned in this episode:

Decoding Your Dog: A Live Behavior Support Session

Join me for a live virtual Q&A designed to help you make sense of your dog’s behavior and get clear, actionable guidance you can apply immediately. Whether you’re navigating reactivity, fear, stress-related behaviors, or everyday challenges, this session gives you the opportunity to ask direct questions and receive expert support in real time. You’ll walk away with a better understanding of what drives your dog’s behavior and practical steps you can start using the same day. Open to all dog guardians—bring your questions. January 8th, 2026 https://dogspeakgeek.thinkific.com/products/live_events/dog-behavior-live-event

This is a REPLAY of Nikki's interview for the KIENO Conference.

Training doesn’t have to feel like a constant battle. When we stop pushing against our dog’s nervous system and start listening to what their behavior is communicating, everything changes

In this episode, we explore what it truly means to meet your dog where they are — emotionally, physically, and neurologically. We’ll talk about why resistance shows up in training, how stress and past experiences shape behavior, and how choosing the path of least resistance leads to deeper trust, faster learning, and more sustainable change.

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Decoding Your Dog

Mentioned in this episode:

Decoding Your Dog: A Live Behavior Support Session

Join me for a live virtual Q&A designed to help you make sense of your dog’s behavior and get clear, actionable guidance you can apply immediately. Whether you’re navigating reactivity, fear, stress-related behaviors, or everyday challenges, this session gives you the opportunity to ask direct questions and receive expert support in real time. You’ll walk away with a better understanding of what drives your dog’s behavior and practical steps you can start using the same day. Open to all dog guardians—bring your questions. January 8th, 2026 https://dogspeakgeek.thinkific.com/products/live_events/dog-behavior-live-event

What if the stars could tell you more about your dog—who they are, what they need, and why you click (or clash) in certain moments? In this playful yet surprisingly insightful episode, we explore the world of canine astrology and how your dog’s zodiac sign can illuminate their personality, preferences, and quirks.

From fiery Aries pups with endless energy to sensitive Cancer dogs who never want to leave your side, we dive into how star signs might shape your dog’s temperament—and how your own sign influences the partnership.

Whether you’re astrology-obsessed or simply curious, you'll walk away with a fun, heartwarming perspective on your relationship and a deeper understanding of what makes your dog uniquely them.

To hear a full description of astrological signs and how they impact your dog, check out our Patreon membership!

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Traveling with my teen dog taught me more than I expected—not just about logistics and snacks, but about patience, communication, and being a better partner on the road. In this episode, I share the lessons I learned, the mistakes I made, and how I’m becoming a more mindful tour guide for my dog’s adventures. A journey of growth, chaos, and connection awaits!

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Decoding Your Dog: A Live Behavior Support Session

This episode explores how a dog’s genetics (“nature”) and environment (“nurture”) work together to shape personality, behavior, and emotional health. Understanding both sides helps us meet our dogs where they are—without frustration or unrealistic expectations.

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Coupon Code: "Thanksgiving" for 50% off online courses.

"Intro to Nervous System Regulation via Somatic Movement Practices"

Dec. 14th, 2pm EST

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In this episode, Nikki sits down with Canine Physical Therapist Amanda Stephens of 615 Canine PT. Amanda shares how preventative care and targeted strengthening can help prepare dogs for potential future injuries, and she explains why physical therapy plays a critical role in supporting behavior work.

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