エピソード
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Hey Dog Lover,
Apollo wasn’t the easiest dog to live with. He had a massive prey drive, a fearless attitude, and a knack for chaos — and honestly, there were days I didn’t even like him.
But behind all that intensity… was one of the most fiercely loyal, deeply devoted dogs I’ve ever known.
In this episode, I’m telling the story of Apollo — the dog who made me question everything I thought I knew about leadership, love, and what it means to accept the whole dog, not just the easy parts.
We’ll explore:🐾 How I learned to stop “managing” Apollo’s intensity and start honouring it
🐾 Why the traits that frustrate us most are often signs of something deeper
🐾 What it looks like to lead a strong-willed, big-hearted dog with structure and respectIf you’ve ever had a dog who made you feel like a failure… or tested your patience more than you care to admit… this story is for you.
Because sometimes, the dog who challenges you the most is the one who loves you the hardest.
Next Steps:
Got a bold, high-energy dog like Apollo? Take the Dogonality™ Quiz to discover how to guide them with confidence — no treats or tricks required.
👉 www.beyondobedience.ca/quizBe sure to share your quiz results with other dog lovers in our Free Facebook Community Living Beyond Obedience
Music credit: Shawn Trotter of shawntrotter.com
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Hey dog lover! 🐾
Have you been unintentionally denying your dog’s cultural identity?
In this episode, we explore the surprisingly overlooked world of honouring your dog’s roots—whether that’s through themed meals, heritage-based enrichment, or just a deeper understanding of who they really are. Because maybe the reason your dog is ignoring you… is cultural.
Or maybe—it’s something else entirely. 😉
Hope you enjoy,
TracyNEXT STEPS:
✨ Want to understand your dog’s Dogonality™? Take the free quiz: www.beyondobedience.ca/quiz
💬 Ready to connect on a deeper level? Book a coaching session: www.beyondobedience.ca/session🎶 Special thanks to Shawn Trotter for the music – www.shawntrotter.com
(P.S. You might want to check the calendar... 😉)
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エピソードを見逃しましたか？
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Hey Dog Lover,
What do you do when your dog couldn’t care less that you exist?
Jayce was one of the most confident, independent dogs I’ve ever worked with — and for the first few days we lived together, I was just the dope at the end of the leash. He didn’t want my attention, my approval, or my connection.
But one weird little moment — involving a frog and a puddle — shifted everything.
In this episode, I’m sharing the full story of my time with Jayce and the powerful lesson he taught me about relevance, leadership, and the quiet magic that happens when we stop trying to matter… and start showing up.
You’ll hear:🐾 What it’s like to live 24/7 with a dog who couldn’t care less about you
🐾 How I stopped chasing connection and started earning it
🐾 Why being invited into your dog’s world is more powerful than any command or cueThis one’s for every dog lover who’s ever felt ignored, invisible, or unimportant in their dog’s eyes. You are not alone — and this story might just change how you see your dog forever.
Next Steps:
Not sure what kind of dog you’re living with? Start by taking the Dogonality™ Quiz to better understand your dog’s unique personality and how to connect on their terms.
👉 www.beyondobedience.ca/quizMusic credit: Shawn Trotter of shawntrotter.com
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Hey Dog Lover,
If you’ve ever wondered, “Why isn’t my dog listening?” or felt like you’re doing all the right things but still struggling to connect—this episode is for you.
Because treats and tricks can only take you so far.
The leadership style your dog really needs isn’t about obedience cues or bribery. It’s about trust, relevance, and understanding who they are at their core.
And that’s where your dog’s Dogonality comes in.
In this episode, I’m breaking down how to lead your dog based on their unique personality—without treats or gimmicks—just trust, understanding, and a whole lot of love. You’ll learn:
🐾 How to lead a Sensitive Soul (RB/I) who needs safety and gentle encouragement.
🐾 Why an Overwhelmed Runner (RB/E-U) needs you to handle threats and create calm.
🐾 How to become part of the adventure for a Fearless Explorer (RB/E-C).
🐾 How to guide a Life of the Party (LB/E) with structured fun.
🐾 And why a Calm Thinker (LB/I) needs to know why you're worth following.Because leadership isn’t about controlling your dog. It’s about meeting them where they are and showing them you’re worth trusting, every single day.
I hope you enjoy this episode!
❤️ Tracy
P.S. Next Steps:
Not sure what kind of leadership your dog needs? The Dogonality Quiz will show you exactly how they’re wired—so you can lead with calm confidence and build a bond that feels natural and effortless. 👉 www.beyondobedience.ca/quizAnd once you’ve taken the quiz, join the Living Beyond Obedience Group and share your results. Let’s celebrate those lightbulb moments together!
🎵 Music Credit: Shawn Trotter – shawntrotter.com
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Hey Dog Lover,
Have you ever looked at your dog and thought, “Why are you doing that?” Maybe they freeze, ignore you, or even react in ways that leave you feeling frustrated or confused. It’s easy to assume they’re being stubborn, ignoring you, or just plain difficult. But what if it’s none of those things?
What if it’s a misunderstanding?
In this episode, I’m sharing the 3 most common signs that you might be misunderstanding your dog—and how a simple shift in perspective can change everything. We’ll talk about:
🐾 Why some dogs seem “stubborn,” when really, they’re feeling confused or unsure.
🐾 Why your dog might be ignoring you—and why it’s not personal.
🐾 How stress and uncertainty can look like aggression (and what to do instead).Because the truth is, every behavior is communication. And when you know how to really listen—through the lens of your dog’s Dogonality—you stop trying to fix behavior, and you start building trust.
I hope you enjoy this episode!
❤️ Tracy
P.S. Next Steps:
Want to know how your dog naturally thinks, reacts, and connects? Take the Dogonality Quiz and discover how they’re wired—so you can meet them where they are and build a bond that feels easy and effortless. 👉 www.beyondobedience.ca/quizAnd once you’ve got your results, join the Living Beyond Obedience Group and share what you’ve learned. Let’s celebrate those lightbulb moments together!
🎵 Music Credit: Shawn Trotter – shawntrotter.com
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Hey Dog Lover! 🐾
You love your dog—that part is easy. But the deep, beautiful bond where you just get each other? That kind of connection doesn’t happen by chance. It happens when you understand who your dog really is at their core.
Because here’s the truth: love is simple, but understanding is transformational.
In this episode, we’re digging deep into what it really takes to build a bond that feels effortless and unshakable. We’ll explore:
🐾 Why training, treats, and time aren’t enough to create true connection.🐾 How to move beyond surface-level bonding and connect on a deeper level.🐾 How understanding your dog’s unique Dogonality can change everything—because when you know how your dog is wired, you stop fighting against their instincts and start working with them.🐾 Why understanding your dog's Dogonality is the first step in learning how to be the reason and the reward in their life—creating a bond built on trust, leadership, and true connection.💡 Whether your dog is a Sensitive Soul (RB/I), a Fearless Explorer (RB/E-C), or the Life of the Party (LB/E), this episode will help you uncover what they really need to feel safe, understood, and deeply connected to you.
🎯 Next Steps:
Not sure how your dog is wired? That’s exactly why I created the Dogonality Quiz—to help you understand your dog’s unique personality and how to build a bond based on true trust and understanding. 👉 www.beyondobedience.ca/quiz🐾 And once you’ve taken the quiz, join the conversation in the Living Beyond Obedience Group and share your results! Let’s talk about how understanding your dog changes everything.
Because when you truly see your dog for who they are, you don’t just change their world—you change yours too.
✨ Hope you enjoy this episode!
Tracy
🎵 Music Credit: Shawn Trotter – shawntrotter.com
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Hey Dog Lover!
Ever feel like your dog is straight-up ignoring you? You call their name, and they keep sniffing. You ask them to sit, and they stare off into the distance. Frustrating, right? But what if the problem isn’t that they’re ignoring you… what if it’s that you’re ignoring who they really are?
In this episode, we’re diving deep into how understanding your dog’s unique personality is the key to better communication and a stronger bond. Because once you know why your dog behaves the way they do, you can stop fighting against their instincts and start working with them.
We’ll explore:
🐾 Why some dogs seem to ignore commands (and why it's not personal)
🐾 How your dog’s Dogonality shapes how they respond to you
🐾 Simple ways to become more relevant to your dog and finally get their attention🎯 Next Steps:
Want to know how your dog is really wired? Take the Dogonality Quiz and discover how to work with your dog’s natural instincts, not against them! 👉 www.beyondobedience.ca/quiz🐾 And don’t forget to post your quiz results in the Living Beyond Obedience Group—I’d love to hear what Dogonality your dog falls into and how it’s changing the way you see them!
Comment, Share & Enjoy!
See you next time!
Tracy
Special thanks to Shawn Trotter for the music. Check out more at www.shawntrotter.com.
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Hey Dog Lover~
Got dog behavior questions?
We’ve got answers! 🎤🐾
In this special Q&A episode, (Paisley is jumping on the mic with us today!) we tackle some of the most common (and quirky) dog training questions from our Living Beyond Obedience Facebook group and past bootcamps.
We’re diving into questions like:
✅ What are subtle but powerful ways to boost my dog’s confidence at home?
✅ How do I help my dog feel safe and calm around cars?
✅ My dog got spooked by a loud noise—now they’re terrified of certain areas. What should I do?
✅ How do I handle my reactive dog when a threat comes out of nowhere?
✅ Is my dog really protecting me, or is there something else going on with their barking at visitors?And much more! If you’ve ever wondered, “Am I handling this the right way?”—this episode is for you.
Hope you enjoy this one!
Tracy and Paisley
🎙 Got a question for a future Q&A? Drop it in the free Living Beyond Obedience Facebook group or message us!
🎵 Music Credit: Special thanks to Shawn Trotter for the music. Check out more of his work at shawntrotter.com.
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Hey Dog Lover,
“Sit!” It’s the go-to command, the first thing we teach our dogs, the magic word that’s supposed to mean they’re well-behaved and under control. But have you ever stopped to ask why we make our dogs sit in certain situations?
What if, in some cases, asking your dog to sit is actually making them feel more insecure?
Today, we’re diving into why obedience isn’t always the answer—and how sometimes, the very thing we think is helping is actually working against our dogs.
In this episode, we’ll talk about:
Why obedience should serve a purpose—not just be about compliance.How forcing a sit in uncomfortable situations might be making your dog feel more trapped.The way a leash can interfere with your dog’s natural communication.What to do instead—so your dog feels safe, understood, and supported.Next time you instinctively tell your dog to sit, take a moment and ask yourself why. Are you helping your dog feel more secure, or are you unknowingly making them more vulnerable?
Let’s shift the way we think about obedience—because a “good dog” isn’t just an obedient one, but a confident one.
See you inside the episode!
🐾 Tracy
Next Steps
Want to chat more about this? Send me a DM or join my free Facebook group Living Beyond Obedience to dive deeper into trust-based training.
Need one-on-one support? Book a coaching call and let’s create a plan that works for you and your dog.
🎵 Special thanks to Shawn Trotter of shawntrotter.com for the music!
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Hey Dog Lover,
Does the thought of having guests over send you into a panic—not because of your guests, but because of your dog? Maybe they bark like a maniac, hide under the table, or pace like they’re planning an escape route. Sound familiar? You’re not alone.
Let's talk about what we can do to set our dog up for success and actually enjoy having friends over again.
In this episode, we’ll dive into:
Why dogs struggle with house guests (hint: it’s not just “stranger danger”).How to set your dog up for success before guests arrive.The do’s and don’ts of first greetings (spoiler: no talking, no forcing, just space!).What to do if your dog freaks out when a guest stands up.How to build your dog’s confidence over time so they don’t just tolerate guests, but actually feel safe around them.This approach is part of my Build Your Brave Protocols inside the Fearful Dog Fearless Framework program. When you join, we can create a step-by-step plan specifically for your dog and your home—because no two dogs are the same!
So take a deep breath, and let’s talk about how to make having guests over a whole lot less stressful—for both of you.
See you inside the episode!
🐾 Tracy
Next Steps
Want more guidance? Check out my Fearless Framework program to break the fear cycle and build trust in a way that feels natural and stress-free. Join here.
Got questions or need support? Join my free Facebook group Living Beyond Obedience for real talk and practical training tips.
🎵 Special thanks to Shawn Trotter of shawntrotter.com for the music!
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Hey Dog Lover~
Spring break is here, and while you're planning your getaway, your dog might not be as excited about the change! 🐾 Should they come along for the adventure, or would they be happier staying home with a sitter or at a boarding facility? The key to making the right decision lies in the Three Stages of Trust-Building from the Fearless Framework.
In this episode, we’ll help you determine:
✅ The three stages of trust-building and how they affect travel readiness
✅ Why trust, not obedience, determines your dog’s ability to handle new experiences
✅ How to evaluate sitters and boarding facilities to match your dog’s needs
✅ The one question every dog owner should ask: Will I actually enjoy this trip if my dog isn’t comfortable?No one wants a vacation filled with stress and worry—for you or your dog! Tune in to learn how to set both of you up for success.
🎙 Need help deciding? Book a Calm & Confident Coaching Call where I’ll help you create a stress-free travel or sitter plan based on YOUR dog’s trust level.
🎵 Music Credit: Special thanks to Shawn Trotter for the music. Check out more of his work at shawntrotter.com.
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Hey Dog Lover,
Some people say, “Never let your dog on the couch—it’ll ruin your leadership!”
Others say, “My dog is my baby! Of course, they’re on the furniture!”
Me? I say, have your cake and eat it too! 🍰💪But here’s the thing—it’s not just about saying yes or no to dogs on the furniture. It’s about understanding how dogs use space, levels, and positioning as part of their communication.
In this episode, we’re digging into:
Why the real question isn’t “Can my dog be on the couch?” but “Do I understand what access to space means to a dog?”How dogs use height and positioning as part of their natural social dynamics.Why a no-furniture rule can be a helpful leadership reset (and why it doesn’t have to be forever).How to create clear and consistent rules so your dog doesn’t feel entitled to the couch—but invited when it makes sense.This isn’t about dominance or control. It’s about clarity, structure, and making intentional choices that support leadership, trust, and a peaceful home.
So whether your couch is already covered in dog hair or you're wondering if your dog’s furniture privileges are affecting their mindset, this episode is for you.
See you inside!
🐾 Tracy
Next Steps
Feeling unsure about your leadership and boundaries with your dog? Let’s work through it together. Book a Calm & Confident Coaching Call and get personalized guidance for you and your pup.
🎵 Special thanks to Shawn Trotter of shawntrotter.com for the music!
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Hey Dog Lover,
We love putting labels on things—especially our dogs. She’s dominant. He’s stubborn. She’s independent. He’s needy. But here’s the thing: those labels don’t tell the whole story. They carry all of our preconceived ideas about what our dog is rather than allowing us to see their behaviour for what it truly is—just information.
Behaviour isn’t a fixed personality trait; it’s a response to the environment, experiences, and emotions. It’s how your dog communicates what’s going on inside.
Is your dog really “stubborn,” or do they just not understand what’s being asked?Are they actually “nervous,” or have they just learned that the world can be unpredictable?Could they be more confident and adaptable than you ever imagined?In this episode, we’re breaking down how to look past the labels and start seeing behaviour as a window into your dog’s experience. Because when you stop defining your dog by their reactions and start understanding why they behave the way they do, everything changes.
And guess what? I have something exciting coming soon! I’m working on the Dogonalities Quiz—a fun and insightful way to help you better understand your dog’s unique way of interacting with the world. Stay tuned!🎉
So grab your coffee (or leash) and let’s talk about it.
See you inside the episode!
Comment & Share!
Cheers!
🐾 Tracy
Next Steps
Want to keep the conversation going? Join my free Facebook group Living Beyond Obedience for real talk, support, and training tips that actually work.
Need personalized help? Book a coaching call and let’s create a plan for you and your dog!
🎵 Special thanks to Shawn Trotter of shawntrotter.com for the music!
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Hey Dog Lover!
Ever feel like your dog has selective hearing? You ask them to “come,” “sit,” or “leave it,” and they look at you like you’re speaking another language (spoiler: you kinda are!). The truth is, words often muddy the waters when it comes to communicating with your dog.
In this episode, we’re breaking down why talking less actually helps your dog understand you more. You’ll learn:
🐾 Why too much talking turns into background noise for your dog
🐾 How movement, body language, and energy create real engagement
🐾 The simple mindset shift that makes your dog naturally check in with you
🐾 How to play the Be Quiet Game—a challenge to improve your dog’s focus (and your leadership!)NEXT STEPS
Your challenge: Try the Be Quiet Game and let me know how it goes inside our free Facebook group, Living Beyond Obedience! 🐶✨
Wanna work with me? Book a Calm & Confident Coaching Call at www.beyondobedience.ca/session.
🎶 Music Credit: Shawn Trotter | shawntrotter.com
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Hey, Dog Lover!
If you’re living with a fearful dog, you know how tough it can be. You’re doing your best, but sometimes it feels like no matter what you try, your dog is still anxious, reactive, or struggling to feel safe. What if some of the things you’ve been told to do… are actually making life harder?
In this episode, we’re breaking down the top mistakes dog owners make when living with a fearful dog—and, more importantly, what to do instead.
🐾 We’ll cover:
✔️ Why you can’t train fear away— and what actually builds confidence
✔️ How saying “it’s okay” might be making your dog more anxious
✔️ Why avoiding everything scary keeps your dog stuck
✔️ The truth about treats (hint: they don’t replace trust)
✔️ How to slow down, build connection, and work at your dog’s paceYour dog doesn’t need a quick fix. They need a leader—someone who understands, guides, and supports them. And that? That starts with you.
Hope you enjoy!
Comment/Review and share!
Tracy
NEXT STEPS:
If you’re ready to break the fear cycle and build confidence with your dog, join the Fearful Dog Program! Inside, you’ll get the tools, guidance, and support to help your dog feel safe and secure—while building the trusting relationship you both deserve.
🐾 Join here: The Fearful Dog Fearless Framework Online Program
And as always, special thanks to Shawn Trotter of shawntrotter.com for the music.
🎧 Hit play and let’s dive in!
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Hey Dog Lover! 🐾
We hear all the time that dogs need a leader—but what does that actually mean? Leadership isn’t about control; it’s about being someone worth following…to a dog. And here’s the catch: your dog doesn’t follow just anyone. They follow someone who truly understands them.
In this episode, we’re breaking downfour key ways to be a leader your dog actually wants to follow—by learning who they really are, what fulfills them, and how to show up in a way that makes them feel safe, seen, and understood.
✅Know Thy Dog → Leadership starts with understanding.
✅Meet Their Needs, Not Yours → True leadership means fulfilling whatthey need, not what’s convenient for us.
✅Communicate in a Way They Understand → Dogs follow energy, movement, and clarity—not words.
✅Be Worthy of Their Trust → Trust is earned through consistency, advocacy, and reliability.You’ll learnhow to shift from ‘owner’ to true leader, how to make yourself more relevant to your dog, and how to build the kind of trust that makes them WANT to follow you. No more bribing, micromanaging, or relying on obedience tricks—just real, meaningful connection.
Hope you enjoy this episode!
— TracyNext Steps:
🐶Ready to help your fearful dog build confidence? Check outThe Fearful Dog: Fearless Framework →www.beyondobedience.ca/fearless
🐾 Join the freeLiving Beyond Obedience Facebook group →www.facebook.com/groups/LivingBeyondObedience🎵Music Credit: Shawn Trotter (shawntrotter.com)
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Hey Dog Lover! 🐾
Does your dog's anxiety turn every walk into a stressful event? If your dog is lunging, freezing, or constantly on edge, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to dread walks forever.
In this episode, we’re diving into theC.A.L.M. method—a simple yet powerful framework to make walks more predictable, less stressful, and (dare I say) even enjoyable for both of you!
✅C – Check the Environment → Spot potential stressors before your dog does.
✅A – Assess the Situation → Read your dog’s body language—thinking mode or reacting mode?
✅L – Lead with Confidence → Be the calm, decisive leader your dog can trust.
✅M – Move with Purpose → Keep things flowing, whether that means pausing, redirecting, or pushing forward.You’ll learnhow to reduce your dog's fear-based reactions, make proactive choices on walks, and build the trust that transforms your outings. Plus, I’ll share real-life examples of how small shifts in leadership can make a BIG difference for a fearful dog.
Hope you enjoy this episode!
— TracyNext Steps:
🐶 There’s still time to join theCalm Down, Dog! Bootcamp →www.beyondobedience.ca/bootcamp
🐾 Join the freeLiving Beyond Obedience Facebook group →🎵Music Credit: Shawn Trotter www.shawntrotter.com
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Hey fellow dog lover! 🐾
Setbacks happen, and they can feel heavy—like you’re back at square one. But guess what? You’re never really starting over. The difference now is you.
In this episode, we’re diving into how to rebuild trust after a setback—both with your dog and within yourself—so you can move forward with confidence and clarity. You’ll learn how to take small, intentional steps that strengthen your relationship and help you shake off that 'starting over' feeling.
🔥 Want to fast-track this process and help your dog feel calm and secure? 🔥
Join me for 2 days of FREE live training in the Calm Down, Dog! Bootcamp on February 10 & 11!
I’ll teach you exactly how to help your dog settle faster, stop overreacting, and trust you more—without force, frustration, or overcomplicating things. Because YOU are enough for your dog… or at least, you should be. 😉 (I am going to keep telling you this until you believe me)
🐕 Save your free spot now: www.beyondobedience.ca/bootcamp
Enjoy! Comment & Share!
Cheers,
Tracy🎵 Music credit: Shawn Trotter (shawntrotter.com)
PS. This episode got away from me. Trigger warning: I am talking about recently losing one of my dogs. 😢
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Hey Dog Lover!
I’ll be real with you—I seriously considered cancelling next week’s Calm Down, Dog! Bootcamp. With everything happening in the world, Everything just feels so heavy right now. I wondered, Is this even the right time?
But then I realized… that’s exactly why this needs to happen. We need to connect more than ever over our shared love of dogs now!
Because if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably felt:
🐾 Frustrated that your dog’s anxiety or reactivity isn’t getting better, no matter what you try.
🐾 Overwhelmed by all the advice out there (and still not sure what actually works).
🐾 Exhausted from managing your dog’s emotions on top of your own.
🐾 Alone—like no one really understands how hard this can be.And honestly? I don’t want you to feel that way anymore.
This bootcamp isn’t about drilling more obedience or “fixing” your dog. It’s about understanding them, leading them, and creating calm—for both of you. It’s about getting out of survival mode and finally feeling like you can breathe again.
So no, I’m not canceling. And if you’re ready for a different approach—one that actually makes sense for you and your dog—I’d love for you to join me. Let’s figure this out together.
Can’t wait to share this with you!
Cheers!
Tracy
Sign up Today! and Let's Do This Together 💪🐾
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Hey fellow dog lover! 🐾
Are you ready to finally help your dog feel calmer and more secure—without relying on endless training drills? In this episode, I’m sharing three simple ways to deepen your bond and build trust, so your dog sees you as a safe and confident leader.
Whether you have a fearful dog or just want to create a more peaceful, connected relationship, these strategies will help you move beyond obedience and into true partnership.
And if you’re ready to take this to the next level… 🎉
🔥 Join me for the FREE Calm Down, Dog! Bootcamp on February 10 & 11! 🔥
Over these 2 days of live training, you’ll learn exactly how to help your dog feel safe, settle faster, and stop overreacting—without force, frustration, or second-guessing yourself. Because you are enough for your dog… or at least, you should be. 😉
🐕 Grab your free spot now: www.beyondobedience.ca/bootcamp
Enjoy! Comment & Share!
Cheers,
Tracy🎵 Music credit: Shawn Trotter (shawntrotter.com)
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