DogSpeak: Redefining Dog Training

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.

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

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.

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.comdogspeakgeek.thinkific.compatreon.com/dogspeak

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 Yeah… they’ve been replaced by a moody teenager with selective hearing and way too much energy.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.

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.comdogspeakgeek.thinkific.com"Alpha" Dog Videos

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.comdogspeakgeek.thinkific.com

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.comdogspeakgeek.thinkific.com

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.comdogspeak101.comdogspeakgeek.thinkific.com

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.comdogspeakgeek.thinkific.com