Think Like a Dog

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Think Like a Dog, Andreia and Millie discuss the emotional and often misunderstood topic of rehoming pets. Whether it’s due to life changes, behavior challenges, or unexpected circumstances, they explore the valid reasons families may need to make this tough decision and how to do it responsibly. They share practical tips for preparing dogs for a new home, from...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Think Like a Dog, Andreia and Millie discuss one of the most important foundations of dog training, understanding the why behind your dog’s behavior. They explore how recognizing the root of behavior can shape more effective training strategies and help you build a deeper connection with your dog. The conversation covers why structure, leadership, and clear comm...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Think Like a Dog podcast, Millie and Andreia answer listener questions and share thoughtful guidance on common training challenges. They cover crate training, potty routines, communication with other dog owners, and ways to help dogs with fear or anxiety. Throughout the conversation, they focus on what it means to truly understand your dog’s perspective, why...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Savanna Woodall consults with Millie about her dog Maya, a rescued German Shepherd mix navigating separation anxiety, behavioral struggles, and chronic health issues like kidney disease. Together, they dive into Maya’s daily routine, the importance of setting clear boundaries, and how to create a calm, consistent environment to help her thrive. They discuss the em...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Think Like a Dog, we're joined by Ridge from Pack Leader University for a deep dive into one of the most misunderstood training tools out there: the prong collar. Ridge breaks down how prong collars actually work, when and how to use them properly, and why they’re often unfairly labeled as harsh. We explore key topics like proper fit, conditioning, and the...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we sit down with the Mirror Image K9 Extended family to tackle real-life training challenges. This conversation dives deep into prepping a dog for an upcoming move, managing crate anxiety, introducing a new impact crate, and helping dogs adapt to major changes like travel and new environments. We also explore topics like balancing crate and place training, handlin...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Think Like a Dog , Andreia and Millie take on the complex and often misunderstood topic of dog bites. They explore why dogs bite, how to prevent it, and what to do if it happens—all through the lens of compassion, education, and real-life experience. From decoding dog body language to recognizing early warning signs, they break down how human behavior can impact...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Think Like a Dog podcast, Andreia and Mirror Image K9 delve into the intricacies of dog training commands, emphasizing the importance of consistency, enforcement, and the mindset behind commands. They discuss the significance of the 'place' command, how it differs from 'stay', and the role of treats and toys in training. The conversation...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Think Like a Dog Podcast , Millie and Andreia take a deep dive into the dog adoption process from a rescue organization’s perspective. They tackle common misconceptions about adoption requirements, the role of structured walks in setting up a dog for success, and the adopter's responsibility in ensuring a strong match. The discussion emphasizes the importan...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Think Like a Dog , Millie and Andreia dive into the crucial role of structure in dog training and why clear rules, boundaries, and routines are essential for a well-balanced dog. They break down common misconceptions about dog behavior, the importance of crate training, and why providing clarity and direction prevents behavioral issues before they start. Millie...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Think Like A Dog , hosts Andreia and Millie dive into key aspects of dog training and behavior. They explore how to address puppy whining, the importance of early exposure and socialization, and managing different rules for guest dogs. The discussion also covers emotional responses in dogs, cobbing behavior, and when to intervene in interactions. With a focus on...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Think Like a Dog , Andreia and Millie are joined by Kaitlyn, an Ozzie Albies Foundation adopter, who adopted Dennis through the Best Chance Program . Together, they dive into Dennis' journey—from his rough start as a scared, anxious pup to his transformation into a confident and happy dog. Kaitlyn shares the challenges she faced bringing him home, how she h...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Think Like a Dog, hosts Andreia and Millie welcome special guest Amy Creaven to dive into the crucial role of muzzles in dog training and behavior management. Together, they unpack the mission behind Trust Your Dog, break down the stigma surrounding muzzles, and highlight the benefits of custom-fit options. The conversation sheds light on the importance of prope...

Send us Fan Mail In this conversation, Maisie MacKnight shares her journey with her dog Jingle, focusing on the transition from physical health to mental well-being. They discuss the challenges of dog training, the importance of establishing a structured routine, and the relationship dynamics between owner and dog. The conversation emphasizes the need for coping mechanisms, assessing progress, and...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Think Like a Dog podcast, Andreia and Millie delve into the intricacies of leash training, emphasizing the importance of leash pressure as a communication tool between dog and owner. They discuss various techniques for teaching dogs commands, the role of the loop in training, and how to effectively condition dogs to understand leash pressure. The conversatio...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Millie and Lucey discuss how to prepare Atlas, a reactive dog, for a big transition to apartment living in Chicago. Lucey shares their current routines, challenges, and strategies, including leash training, muzzle conditioning, and creating calm moments of connection during walks. Together, they explore practical tips like using commands such as "place"...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Think Like a Dog podcast, hosts Andreia and Millie, along with trainer Ridge Vogel , discuss the importance of understanding the reasons behind getting a dog, the significance of compatibility, and the necessity of education in dog training. The conversation also covers fostering dogs, establishing structure and boundaries, and the role of clarity and leader...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Ridge Vogel , the founder of Pack Leader University , discusses his journey into dog psychology and the importance of becoming a better human to create a better dog. He emphasizes the need for dog owners to understand the psychology of dogs and take responsibility for their dogs' behavior. Ridge also talks about his 90-day dog psychology and human training me...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Andreia and Millie are joined by Ryan Melnyk , the co-owner of Open Oaks Pet Grooming in Toledo, Ohio. They discuss the importance of finding a groomer who can handle and groom pets in a less stressful manner. Ryan shares his journey into grooming and his passion for working with rescue dogs. They also talk about the unique challenges of grooming difficult dogs an...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Andreia and Millie discuss the difference between rescues and shelters and how to help homeless pets. They emphasize the importance of education and understanding the guidelines and processes of rescues and shelters. They also highlight the benefits of adopting from a rescue, such as individualized support and information about the dog's background. The hosts...

Send us Fan Mail In this conversation, Millie and Kathy discuss the progress of crate training and the challenges they face with resource guarding. They also explore how to improve the relationship between Jen and Kelsey, and how to set boundaries during activities like dock diving. They discuss the importance of eye contact and impulse control, and provide strategies for teaching these behaviors....

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Jenzi Langley, founder of Get K9 Training, discusses service dog training and the process of getting a service dog. She emphasizes the importance of being disabled and having a need for a service dog in order to start the training process. Jenzi explains that service dogs need to have neutrality and adaptability, but there is flexibility in terms of breed and temp...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Andreia and Millie discuss the importance of muzzle training for dogs. They highlight the various reasons why muzzle training is beneficial, including reactivity, eating dangerous objects, and preventing bites. They also address the stigma surrounding muzzle training and the judgment that dog owners often face. The hosts emphasize the need for muzzle training to b...

Send us Fan Mail Dr. Patrick Singletary, the founder of Good Dog Veterinary Care, discusses the importance of addressing medical conditions in dogs that can manifest as behavioral challenges. He emphasizes the need for collaboration between veterinarians and trainers to ensure a comprehensive approach to a dog's well-being. The conversation covers common medical conditions in rescue dogs, suc...

Send us Fan Mail Kathy has two dogs, Kelsey and Zoe, who have been exhibiting behavioral issues. Kelsey, a black lab mix, has fear insecurity and acts out in fear, while Zoe, an Australian cattle dog mix, has high energy and often overwhelms Kelsey. The two dogs have gotten into fights, primarily over resource guarding. Kathy has been crate training Kelsey but has struggled with her barking at nig...