

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
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 26, 2025 • 43min
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.comdogspeakgeek.thinific.comThe Herbal Dog Event

Aug 19, 2025 • 40min
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.comdogspeakgeek.thinkific.comHerbal Dog Event

Aug 12, 2025 • 32min
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.comdogspeakgeek.thinkific.comHerbal Dog EventThe Infinite Unfolding - Empowerment Coaching, Soul Transformation, 1 on 1 Coaching, Coaching and Empowerment

Aug 5, 2025 • 25min
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.comdogspeakgeek.thinkific.comHerbal Dog EventWebinar: How Dogs Use Body Language to Avoid Conflict

Jul 30, 2025 • 35min
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.comdogspeakgeek.thinkific.compatreon.com/dogspeak

Jul 22, 2025 • 39min
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.comdogspeakgeek.thinkific.comtheherbaldog.com

Jul 15, 2025 • 45min
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.comdogspeakgeek.thinkific.com

Jul 8, 2025 • 32min
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 • 41min
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.comdogspeakgeek.thinkific.com

Jun 24, 2025 • 41min
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.