Get A Calm Dog

If your dog has separation anxiety, you've probably been told over and over: “don't say goodbye, don't say hello — it just reinforces their fear.” But is that actually true? Plus, J explains how to shift your separation anxiety dog’s association with goodbye cues so they signal safety and predictability rather than panic, and why the energy YOU bring to departures and returns matters m...

What does the dog play bow mean? Is it always a sign that everything is fun and friendly? Or can it sometimes mean a dog is stressed? This episode breaks down the dog play bow and its role in dog body language. Learn how to spot play bows vs play bows with jumps (“forefoot stabs”), and the healthy pauses that dogs give when they’re play bowing to check-in with another dog or their owner. You’ll le...

📥 Get your FREE eBook to The Reasons Your Dog Humps & How to Stop It If your dog humps your leg, other dogs, guests, or even furniture out of nowhere, you probably get pretty embarrassed and want to stop your dog from humping. First, let’s debunk: dog humping is NOT about asserting "dominance" or being the "alpha." So then what is your dog communicating when they hump? In...

While training a puppy or new dog with treats is essential for dog / puppy training basics, you don't have to rely on food forever. In this episode, I break down the best way to reward your dog without treats by leveraging environmental rewards and intrinsic motivation. Whether you are looking for essential puppy training tips, figuring out how to train a new dog without food during walks, or want...

We delve into the complexities of treating dog aggression with our guest guardian, Kate, and her dog, Walter. Together, they've navigated through various trainers and training programs, witnessing progress but lacking a sustainable outcome.   "In the world of dog training, progress is not just about managing behaviors; it's about creating a sustainable, positive transformation that lasts. It'...

Embark on a journey of resilience and transformation with two remarkable dog companions from Recover Rover Membership  as we uncover the harrowing challenges and triumphant victories that have defined their path to recovery.   In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journeys of two Recovering Rovers: Risk and Fiona. Join us as we explore the transformative experiences of these dogs and their...

Join us in a gripping episode as we delve into dog separation anxiety.   How do you determine if your dog's separation-related issues are severe enough to warrant intervention and formal dog training?   "When it comes to treating separation issues in dogs, the answer isn't black or white; it's in understanding the shades of your dog’s stress."   From dogs excessively following you around the house...

When your dog starts demonstrating reactivity to triggers, a trainer says, “Just walk him around the park. Expose him to the triggers. And he’ll get over it.”   So you’ve been doing this ‘exposure to the triggers’ method for some time, only to realize it’s still not working.   This episode breaks down why not.   "Exposing your dog to triggers without a strategic approach is like expecting a[n artw...

Did you know that dogs waking up to triggers in the middle of the night can impact their sleep quality? In a recent discussion by Team Tilly, it was revealed that dogs exhibiting this behavior, especially reactive ones, may experience disrupted sleep patterns up to 3, 4, 6, or even 7 times a night.   In this insightful discussion from Team Tilly and the Recover Rover guardians, the spotlight is on...

Ever seem like your dog is scared or anxious about a trigger, but still going up to them and sniffing? In other words, does it seem like your dog is anxious or worried about an event, but still demonstrating brave signals?   This episode talks about dogs who experience anxiety attacks while simultaneously demonstrating behaviors associated with bravery. The discussion originated from a coaching ca...

Is your dog barking at the window when neighbors, dogs, and triggers go by?   Kaylee from Team Marnie shares her experiences and challenges in managing her one-and-a-half-year-old German Shepherd and Golden Retriever mix, Marnie, who exhibits window barking behavior.   "The dog will tell us what it needs if we allow it to acknowledge and process feelings. Decoding these needs becomes crucial… for...

How can I manage my dog's reactive behavior?   Today, we have a listener, Lorena, who reached out with a question about her dog, Scooby. A curious and social pup, Scooby still faced reactivity during his puppy training days. In fact, he ultimately got kicked out of Puppy School for his overwhelming desire to play with other dogs.   "In dog training, tackling every issue at once is like deciding to...

Is there a real difference between prey drive activation and reactivity, and how do emotions play a role in this distinction? Distinguishing between prey drive activation and reactivity in dogs, especially around small animals triggering their instincts is the question for today that comes from Christine with Team Gigi.   "Behavior is always tied back to the essential needs of any animal—finding a...

"In this episode, Jenna coaches dog guardian, Jo, through how to navigate her dog's hyperarousal towards other dogs and his resource guarding. We'll meet Tanner, a three-year-old small breed dog, who has big reactions towards other dogs when he feels threatened."   Jo talks about Tanner's playful, intelligent, and communicative nature, yet his journey is marked by anxiety-driven behaviors. Tanner...

Let’s dive into the story of Tara and Sully, a one-year-old dog who, after a traumatic attack at 13 weeks old, now exhibits fear and anxiety during walks. Sully freezes up, whines, pulls, and refuses food, making walks a challenging experience for both Sully and his mom.   Our live coaching session with Tara troubleshoots the issues Sully faces and establishes an actionable training plan. If you h...

How can we move beyond obedience commands and foster a more organic, enjoyable relationship with our dogs?   "I look at dog training like a very objective experience. It's just information. When I'm working with a dog, it's just information. I'm just learning from them. I'm just seeing what they see. I'm just experiencing what they experience."   Drawing parallels between dog training and experime...

Discover the importance of setting realistic goals and expectations for both yourself and your canine companion during the recovery process. Jenna breaks down the concept of reasonable expectations into short-term, medium-term, and long-term goals, emphasizing the significance of prioritizing learning and resource-building in the initial stages.   “Setting reasonable expectations and goals for you...

Just like humans, dogs also benefit from a balanced approach that integrates training with adequate rest and recovery. Join us as we discuss the significance of maintaining a consistent training routine while ensuring your dog's physical and mental well-being.   "If you want to reach your long-term goals, you must culminate a series of days, months, and years of consistency. Even on days when you...

Is loving your dog actually enough to recover your dog’s mental health, particularly anxiety?   "In the journey to help your dog overcome anxiety, motivation is like a roller coaster. What brings you back to action is not just love but discipline and commitment to the end game."   Jenna explores this vital question prompted by a conversation with Tara from Zen Dog Fearless Grooming. We appreciate...

In this episode featuring Matt Beisner, star of Dog: Impossible on Disney+ and a certified professional dog trainer, we unraveled the intricacies of finding the right canine instructor and maximizing the training experience. Discover why searching for a dog trainer is a crucial factor, with a hint that the internet may not prioritize your dog's well-being. "When you're looking for a coach, one of...

Unlock the secrets of canine behavior with us today as we tackle the prevalent issue of resource guarding among our dogs. Resource guarding, a behavior normal to all animals, not just dogs, can strain the human-canine relationship if not trained methodically.   "We need to think about what our dog tells us they need. What is the thing that our dog has taken that the dog is saying, 'Hey, this is wh...

Every dog is unique, and that means individualizing their training plans. But that does not mean there isn’t a formula for dog training.    Yes, there is indeed a formula to train dogs. And we’re unpacking that formula for you in today’s episode.   “I don't do basic skills, I don't do puppies, and that's for several reasons. But one main reason is that most of the stuff that is put in those progra...

Welcome to the Dog Liaison Podcast! I’m your host, Jenna, and I’m a professional dog trainer. If you’re ready to go deep into conversation about all things dog anxiety, then you’re in the right place. So make sure you subscribe and follow the show.   Check out my website https://www.getacalmdog.com/ to learn more Subscribe to my Dog Liaison Channel on Youtube  And follow me on Instagram @dog_liais...

Is that your dog refuses to do what you asked? Or is it that your dog is so aroused that he can’t perform the behavior, even if he wants to?   In this episode, we talk to Cash’s guardian, Maya, as Jenna coaches her through unpacking Cash’s leash reactivity on walks.   On top of uncovering the top techniques to support Cash and prevent his reactivity on walks, the discussion centers around the intr...

"What do I do if my partner is too clingy or codependent with my dog?" That was a question a dog guardian submitted to our show. Listen in as Jenna unpacks what steps to take and how to handle an unhealthy, clingy relationship between a dog and their owner. Learn how to work with Jenna & Team Dog Liaison here https://www.getacalmdog.com/ FREE Separation Anxiety FAQ Guide https://mailchi.mp/12af031...