Barks to Basics

Do you have a French Bulldog, English Bulldog, Pug, Boston Terrier, or another short-nosed (brachycephalic) breed? These dogs have some unique needs that every owner should understand! In this episode of Barks to Basics, we sit down with Dr. Boaz Man to discuss the health challenges that can come with owning a short-nose dog. We explore brachycephalic breeds, their anatomy, breathing difficulties,...

On this episode of Barks to Basics, Jamie focuses on senior dogs and the changes they experience as they get older, from mobility and sensory changes to shifts in behavior and daily routines. She explains how pain, medical conditions, hearing or vision loss, and changes in cognitive function can affect the way an older dog behaves and communicates. Jamie shares practical ways to make life easier f...

On this episode of Barks to Basics, Jamie discusses the challenges and rewards of living with multiple dogs and why adding another dog to the household requires more than simply hoping they will get along. She covers communication between dogs, resource guarding, individual needs, boundaries, feeding, play, and the importance of giving each dog their own space and attention. Jamie explains how own...

On this episode of Barks to Basics, Jamie tackles the chaos that can happen when dogs rush the door, jump on guests, bark, or become overly excited when someone arrives. She explains why these behaviors happen and how excitement, anticipation, and reinforcement can all contribute to the problem. Jamie shares practical strategies for teaching dogs calmer door greetings and creating a more manageabl...

Description: On this episode of Barks to Basics, Jamie dives into the adolescent stage of a dog’s life and explains why some dogs suddenly seem to “shut down” after previously making great progress. She discusses how fear periods, hormonal changes, new experiences, and changes in confidence can affect adolescent dogs and their behavior. Jamie explains what owners can do during this stage to suppor...

On this episode of Barks To Basics, Jamie dives into the AVSAB position statement on choosing a dog trainer. She discusses what pet parents should look for when selecting a trainer, why education and experience matter, and the importance of using humane, science-based training methods. Jamie also shares some common red flags to watch for so you can feel confident choosing the right trainer for you...

On this episode of Barks to Basics, Jamie explains the different professional associations and certifications dog owners should know when choosing a trainer. She discusses why credentials matter, what certifications can tell you about a trainer’s education and experience, and how to research the person you’re trusting with your dog. Jamie also explains the importance of understanding a trainer’s m...

On this episode of Barks to Basics, Jamie breaks down what it really means to have a reactive dog and how to recognize the difference between excitement, frustration, fear, and true reactivity. She discusses common triggers, early body-language signals, and why punishment and corrections can make reactive behavior worse. Jamie shares practical strategies for managing triggers, creating positive as...

On this episode of Barks to Basics, Jamie discusses resource guarding and what dog owners can do when their dog becomes protective of food, toys, bones, or other valuable items. She explains why confronting or punishing a dog for guarding can make the behavior worse and shares practical, force-free strategies for creating positive associations and building trust. Jamie also discusses management, r...

On this episode of Barks to Basics, Jamie takes a closer look at 10 common myths surrounding some of the most popular dog breeds. From Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds to Pit Bulls, Labradors, and more, Jamie breaks down the stereotypes and misconceptions that can shape how people view these breeds. We explore how genetics, individual temperament, training, socialization, and environment all...

On this episode of Barks to Basics, Jamie breaks down 10 common myths about dog breeds and challenges the stereotypes and assumptions that often influence how we understand different dogs. From misconceptions about breed-specific behavior and temperament to myths about energy levels, trainability, aggression, and what certain breeds are “supposed” to be like, Jamie separates fact from fiction and...

On this episode of Barks to Basics, Jamie breaks down 10 of the most common dog training myths and explains why so many of these ideas continue to circulate. From outdated training methods and misconceptions about dominance to misunderstandings about rewards, behavior, socialization, and what dogs actually learn, Jamie separates fact from fiction and explains what experience and modern training pr...

On this 100th episode of Barks to Basics, Jamie sits down with Dr. Megan Petroff to discuss one of the most important topics for every new puppy owner: socialization. They explain what proper socialization really means, why it’s about creating positive experiences rather than simply exposing puppies to everything, and how the critical socialization window between 8 and 16 weeks of age plays a majo...

On this episode of Barks to Basics, Jamie dives into the fascinating world of dog body language and communication. She explains how dogs use subtle signals—from their ears, eyes, tail, and posture to facial expressions and movement—to communicate how they’re feeling. Learning to recognize these cues can help prevent misunderstandings, strengthen your relationship, and create safer, more effective...

On this episode of Barks to Basics, Jamie breaks down the hierarchy of rewards and explores what truly motivates your dog. She explains why every dog is different, how to identify your dog’s highest-value reinforcers, and why understanding motivation is the key to successful training. Whether your dog is driven by food, toys, play, praise, or access to the environment, this episode will help you u...

On this episode of Barks to Basics, Jamie discusses how to successfully integrate dogs and cats into the same household through safe, structured introductions. She shares practical strategies for reading body language, managing early interactions, and preventing common mistakes that can create tension between pets. Whether you’re bringing home a new puppy, kitten, or introducing an adult dog and c...

On this episode of Barks to Basics, Jamie sits down with Jennifer Solano-Thieme for an honest conversation about fighting dogs and behavioral euthanasia. Together, they discuss the heartbreaking realities of severe aggression, the difficult decisions owners and rescues sometimes face, and the importance of putting safety and quality of life first. They also explore the emotional impact these cases...

On this episode of Barks to Basics, Jamie sits down with Jennifer Solano-Thieme to discuss whether fostering a dog is the right fit for you. They dive into the realities of fostering, including the rewards, challenges, and the life-changing impact it has on both dogs and the families who open their homes. Jennifer shares valuable insights into the fostering process, common misconceptions, and how...

On this emotional and compassionate episode, Jamie Diaz discusses the difficult decision of euthanasia and the important questions pet owners should ask when evaluating their dog’s quality of life. She talks about pain management, mobility, appetite, comfort, daily happiness, and whether a pet is still able to enjoy the things they once loved. Jamie encourages owners to focus on their dog’s dignit...

On this episode, Jamie Diaz breaks down the most common mistakes dog owners make during potty training and how to avoid them. She covers the importance of consistency, supervision, routines, crate training, and rewarding good behavior at the right time. Jamie also explains how mixed signals, punishment, and unrealistic expectations can slow progress and confuse puppies. This episode is packed with...

On this episode, Jamie Diaz breaks down the most common mistakes dog owners make during potty training and how to avoid them. She covers the importance of consistency, supervision, routines, crate training, and rewarding good behavior at the right time. Jamie also explains how mixed signals, punishment, and unrealistic expectations can slow progress and confuse puppies. This episode is packed with...

On this episode, Jamie Diaz shares creative and practical ways to keep your dog happy, active, and mentally stimulated during the summer months. From swimming, beach trips, and hiking to frozen treats, scent games, and backyard activities, Jamie explains how enrichment and exercise help prevent boredom and strengthen the bond between dogs and their owners. She also shares important summer safety t...

On this episode of Barks to Basics, Jamie Diaz sits down with Dr. Megan Petroff for an informative conversation covering all things babies, kids, and dogs. Together, they discuss how to safely introduce dogs to growing families, common behavioral changes pets may experience around infants and young children, and how parents can create a calm, positive environment for both kids and pets. Dr. Petrof...

On this episode of Barks To Basics, Jamie Diaz breaks down the ultimate breed checklist and what every future dog owner should consider before choosing the right breed. Jamie explains why selecting a dog should go far beyond looks or popularity and instead be based on lifestyle, temperament, energy level, drive, grooming needs, health predispositions, and long-term compatibility. Throughout the ep...

On this episode of Barks To Basics, Jamie Diaz dives into one of the most important questions future dog owners can ask: when is the right time to get a dog? Jamie breaks down what people should realistically consider before bringing a dog home, including lifestyle, schedule, finances, living arrangements, travel, and whether you truly have the time and consistency a dog needs to thrive. Throughou...