Confessions of a Dog Trainer

In this episode of Confessions of a Dog Trainer , I’m sharing the real story behind the book I didn’t plan on writing - and why e-collar training became the thing I couldn’t stop thinking about. After posting a few videos on Facebook and getting flooded with negative comments, I almost stopped sharing about e-collars altogether. But instead of getting defensive, something shifted. I got curious. T...

In this episode of Confessions of a Dog Trainer , Bethany answers an amazing owner email from Brooke - who did a Board and Train with her two dogs, Maggie and Ivy, back in January 2023 - and has been feeling off track lately. If you’ve ever had a season where walks feel daunting, your confidence dips, and your dog’s behavior starts getting louder (hello, yard barking, ball obsession, and fence dra...

In today’s episode of Confessions of a Dog Trainer , I’m bringing you behind the scenes with Hazel - a sweet, houndy little “Bambi body” dog who’s fearful of people and famous for one frustrating walk habit: putting on the brakes and refusing to move. I’m sharing what I expected when she arrived, what I actually saw, and the biggest game-changer in her training so far - including why the dial-up m...

In this episode, I’m walking you through week one with Azula - a 100+ lb Cane Corso in my 2-week board and train in Orlando, Florida - and what’s actually been making the biggest difference in her reactivity so far. A lot of owners focus on the big reactive explosion (barking, lunging, chaos on the walk) - but I’m sharing the other moments that quietly fuel reactivity every day: rushing thresholds...

In this episode, Bethany breaks down how e-collar training can look totally different depending on the dog in front of you - and why it’s not a one-size-fits-all tool. She shares what she’s currently working on with Nola (a pushy 9-month-old Frenchie), what she’s preparing for with her first-ever Cup of Joe Scholarship board + train (a big, powerful, highly reactive dog already e-collar trained),...

In this episode of Confessions of a Dog Trainer , Bethany dives into one of the most common (and stressful) challenges for dog owners - living in a multi-dog household when one dog is resource guarding. Using a real case study from her current board-and-train dog, Nola (a 9-month-old Frenchie navigating resource guarding with her housemate), Bethany explains what’s actually happening beneath the b...

Two reactive dogs. Two very different personalities. In this episode, I walk you through what I’ve been prioritizing with Toast and Ozzy during their first few days of training, how I use the e-collar for both reactivity and recall, and why understanding “pushy” moments matters more than where reactivity stems from. I’m sharing behind-the-scenes updates, breakthroughs with tone + stim, and how one...

Episode Description:  In this episode of  Confessions of a Dog Trainer , Bethany shares the inspiring story of Milo, a board and train dog whose sweet, sensitive personality made for a unique training journey. Bethany dives into how a dog's personality can drastically impact the pace and feel of their training, especially when introducing tools like the e-collar and prong collar. She explains:...

If you’ve got a little dog with  big energy , this episode is for you. I’m talking through real-life lessons from recent board and train dogs - including a spicy little Frenchie named Valentina - and what surprised me about her reactivity and E-Collar training. I’m also sharing a heartfelt update on the book I’m writing ( Dear Owner ), how grief shaped the timing, and why it feels more important t...

Is your dog’s reactivity keeping you from enjoying walks?  In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how I worked with Noelle, a highly reactive Australian Shepherd mix, and the game-changing approach that made all the difference using the e-collar. I’ll walk you through: ✅ The most common mistake owners make when correcting reactivity ✅ How I determine the right e-collar level for each dog ✅...

In this episode, Bethany discusses the training journey of Jax, an anxious Australian Shepherd. She shares insights on managing his whiny behavior, the effectiveness of the e-collar, and the importance of establishing calm routines. Bethany emphasizes the owner's role in continuing the training at home and offers practical advice for dog owners dealing with similar challenges. In this conversation...

In this episode of Confessions of a Dog Trainer, Bethany shares her experiences training a challenging dog named Jax, reflecting on personal loss and the importance of transparency in training. She discusses the use of e-collars, techniques for managing reactivity, and the significance of setting boundaries to improve dog behavior. Throughout the conversation, Bethany emphasizes the emotional jour...

Show Notes: Go Home Guide Template Coaching Sessions (aka Reassurance Calls) The Trainer In You Mastermind- Apply for the next one in May! I hope this episode inspires you! - Bethany

In this episode of Confessions of a Dog Trainer, Bethany shares her personal journey and reflections on dog training, particularly focusing on the joys of working with small dogs. She discusses effective training routines, calming techniques for dogs, and insights into crate training. Throughout the conversation, Bethany emphasizes the importance of creating a structured environment for dogs and h...

Use code CUPOFJOE to get 30% off any guide or bundle through 11/29 - - - shop linked here In this episode of Confessions of a Dog Trainer, Bethany discusses the fundamentals of e-collar training, addressing common misconceptions and providing insights into how to effectively use e-collars for dog training. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the technology behind e-collars, the necessit...

In this episode of Confessions of a Dog Trainer, Bethany discusses the significance of follow-up visits after a board and train program, emphasizing the importance of owner involvement in dog training. She shares insights on e-collar training, addressing common misconceptions and providing practical advice for managing dog reactivity. Through a real-life case study, Bethany illustrates how to effe...

In this episode of 'Confessions of a Dog Trainer', Bethany and Kait discuss the complexities of dog behavior, training, and the expectations of dog owners. They reflect on personal experiences, including high school reunions, and delve into the importance of understanding individual dog needs, setting boundaries, and recognizing that not all dogs are suited for every social situation. The conversa...

In this episode of Confessions of Dog Trainer, Bethany discusses the essential aspects of bringing a new dog or puppy home, including the importance of crate training, managing puppy behavior, and insights into e-collar training. She shares personal experiences, coaching session takeaways, and practical tips for new dog owners, emphasizing the significance of structure and routine in dog training....

I love hanging out with my best friend Kait! I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did. SHOW NOTES: Follow Kait on Instagram @kane9dogtraining Kait's training resources: https://www.kane9dogtraining.com/ecourse Kait's puppy guide: https://www.kane9dogtraining.com/shop/p/kaits-guide-for-all-things-puppy Chapters in this episode: 00:00 Catching Up: A Friendship Reconnection 02:56 Navigatin...

In this episode of Confessions of a Dog Trainer, Bethany is joined by Heather and Kuryne from Pawsitively Calm. They discuss their experiences in dog training, the importance of vulnerability, and how to find joy in the work. The conversation touches on the challenges of training difficult dogs, the significance of mindset, and the empowerment of dog owners. They also share personal anecdotes abou...

In this episode, the host addresses common struggles with using e-collars for reactivity in dogs. The main themes discussed include timing, levels, and knowing when to use the e-collar. The host emphasizes the importance of using meaningful levels and being consistent with corrections. She also suggests addressing pushy behavior with the heel command and using the e-collar to interrupt excitement...

In this episode, Bethany addresses common struggles and questions about using e-collars for reactivity in dogs. She emphasizes the importance of timing and using meaningful levels to interrupt reactive moments. Bethany also discusses the challenges of staying calm as a handler and offers tips for managing adrenaline and anxiety. She dispels the misconception that e-collars escalate reactivity, exp...

In this episode, Bethany shares her biggest lessons learned as a board and train trainer. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship and support for new trainers and owners. Bethany also discusses the process of introducing a new dog to an existing pack and the importance of prioritizing one-on-one time with each dog. She highlights the need for clear expectations and the understanding that some...

In this episode, Bethany shares her experience and tips for introducing a new dog to existing dogs in the household. She discusses the importance of taking it slow, setting boundaries, and using movement during introductions. She also talks about the role of temperament and how to recognize signs that the introduction is not going well. The host emphasizes the need to trust your gut and take your...

In this episode, the host shares her recent experience of adopting a new dog and the reasons behind it. She discusses her struggles with grief and loss, and how getting a new dog has helped her find joy and purpose again. She talks about the process of choosing the dog and the initial challenges she faced, including the adoption blues. She also shares her plans for introducing the new dog to her e...