Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Behaviour Training, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs

Do you long to have a happy, confident dog you can take anywhere? Are you worried your reactive, fearful dog may hurt someone or something else? Do you have to “prepare” yourself to take your dog for a walk around the block? Hey there! I’m Tracy, a retired vet tech turned dog trainer, mom, wife and all-around dog lover. When I realized the key to building confidence in my dog was in understanding him and NOT just tossing treats and obedience my life changed! Now I have a pack of “just good dogs” I trust to take anywhere. And I am sharing it all here! So put down that leash & let's get to it!

51 |Start and End Right: How Predictability Transforms Your Fearful Dog’s Day

Hey Dog Lover! 🐾 Does your fearful dog struggle with the chaos of the day? The secret to a calmer, more confident dog might be simpler than you think: predictability. Even better, Pattern of Predictability (P.O.P.) This episode explores the power of “bookending” your dog’s day with consistent, comforting routines. By creating predictable patterns in the morning and evening, you help protect your dog from overwhelm and set them up for a positive day of learning and exploring. We’ll talk about: Why predictability matters for fearful dogs. How starting and ending the day right can reduce anxiety. Simple steps to build a routine and comfort zone If you’re ready to help your dog feel more secure and confident, grab your favourite beverage ☕ and tune in! ~ Tracy P.S. NEXT STEPS? Join our Living Beyond Obedience Facebook Group (www.facebook.com/groups/LivingBeyondObedience) for free resources and community. Or check out The Fearful Dog Student Community (www.beyondobedience.ca/fearless). 💻✨ 🎶 Music Credit: Special thanks to Shawn Trotter for our podcast music! (www.shawntrotter.com)

11-21
14:55

50 | Tiny Conversations, Big Impact: How to Avoid Fights in Multi-Dog Homes

Hey Dog Lover! 🐾 Have you ever wondered what your dog is really saying? Dogs are always having tiny conversations—with us, with other dogs, and even with the world around them. But here’s the catch: knowing when to butt in and when to butt out is key. 🐶💬 In this episode, we dive into the art of listening to canine conversations and how understanding these subtle cues can make a BIG impact. Did you know that while dogs don’t hold grudges, they do remember unfinished business? Taking the time to BE quiet, observe, and say "How interesting!" can transform your relationship with your dog. It reduces the chances of "toothy disagreements" 🦷 and deepens the bond between you and your dog as an intentional, observant leader. 🌟 So if you have multiple dogs or even if your dog plays with other dogs and you’ve ever wondered, "Is this too much? Should I step in?"—this episode is for you! Grab your favourite beverage ☕, and let’s get into it. ~ Tracy P.S. Want to learn more? Join us in {free}the Living Beyond Obedience Facebook Group for free resources and community! Or, if you're ready for more support, check out The Fearful Dog Student Community 🎶 Music Credit: Special thanks to Shawn Trotter for our podcast music! (www.shawntrotter.com)

11-18
22:33

49 | A Day in the Life with My Dogs. Toothy Disagreements and Pro-Social Packs

Hey Dog Lover! 🐾 Ever wonder what it’s like to live with a whole pack of dogs? In this episode, I’m giving you a peek into my day-to-day, from our feeding rituals 🍽️ to the unique personalities 🐕 that make life with a pack so rich and unpredictable. It’s not all sunshine and roses 🌞🌧️—lately, there have been some "toothy disagreements" between a few of my dogs, and I’ll share what is causing them and the steps I’m taking to keep the peace. Grab a notebook and pen 📝 to follow along; I’ll be sharing some good tactics along the way! Enjoy! Share! Review! ❤️ Tracy P.S. NEXT STEPS: Join the free Facebook group Living Beyond Obedience to connect with me and other dog lovers! 🐾

11-14
28:23

48 | Why Are So Many Dogs Reactive? Insights and Real Talk

Hey Dog Lover! 🐾 Do you ever wonder why it feels like more and more dogs are reactive lately? 🤔 Or maybe you’re dealing with reactivity yourself and wondering if there’s something you missed along the way. In this episode, I’m diving into real questions from reactive dog forums, where we explore why reactivity seems so common—especially in homes with multiple dogs. I’ll share two key insights: what it means for your dog’s behaviour if you have other dogs in the house, and whether the big changes during COVID might actually be affecting our dogs more than we realize. Do you think the pandemic played a role in anti-social behaviour? Let’s break it down and uncover what might really be going on. Grab your favourite treat for you and your dog, and let’s dig into it together! Enjoy!Share! Review! Tracy Next Steps; Join the Free Facebook group⁠ Living Beyond Obedience⁠ Want to partner with me to help you and your dog? Enroll in ⁠The Fearful Dog: Fearless Framework.⁠

11-11
25:43

47 | Frustrated with Dog Training Advice? My Guide to Understanding Relationship Styles Will Help

Hey Dog Lover! 🐾Have you ever wondered what it really means to have a strong, healthy relationship with your dog? Are you tired of being told what to do or not to do, without truly understanding your bond? Do you dream of a connection built on trust, understanding, and respect? In this episode, I’m sharing the key to unlocking your unique relationship style with your dog. We’ll dive into different types of relationships—whether it’s Parent/Child, Partners, Teacher/Student, or even Athlete/Coach—and discover what fits you and your dog best. You’ll get simple, thought-provoking questions to guide you in defining and strengthening your bond. If you’re ready to deepen your connection with your dog in a way that’s fair, realistic, and empowering, this episode is for you. Lean in, and let’s redefine what a meaningful relationship with your dog can be! Next Steps: Join our Free Facebook Community: Living Beyond Obedience 🐾 – A place to connect and grow with fellow dog lovers. Explore The Fearful Dog: Fearless Framework: Learn more here 🐾❤️ – Build a confident, connected bond with your dog. I hope this brings you and your dog closer! 💖 Enjoy! Share! Review! (please 💜)

11-07
31:27

46 | Why Leadership Is Not What You Think! The Truth About Leadership and Why the Dog Training Industry Is Failing You

Hey Dog Lover! 🐾 Leadership... It's a dirty word in the dog training industry, but in this episode, I'm breaking down the real meaning of leadership and why it’s absolutely essential for you and your dog. 🐕 I’m sharing my own story of facing pushback—and even bullying—in the dog training community over the word "leadership." Many trainers have it all wrong, equating leadership with outdated, force-based methods that do more harm than good. ❌ But true leadership? It’s about guiding with confidence, trust, and consistency—not control. 🐾💖 And guess what? YOU (not dog training influencers) get to decide your leadership style and qualities of a good Leader. Join me as we redefine what leadership means for dog guardians and why it’s the key to a balanced, happy relationship with your dog. 🐕🐾 We’ll also go through an exercise to help you claim your unique leadership style by creating a personal value list. 📋 I’ll share my own values and style to inspire you to show up as the calm, confident guide your dog needs. ❤️ Next Steps: Ready for more support? 👇 Join our Free Facebook Community: Living Beyond Obedience – a supportive space for dog lovers like you. 🐾🐶 Take the Next Step in Your Journey: Check out The Fearful Dog: Fearless Framework here 🌐, where we dive deep into building trust and confidence with your dog, step by step. 🐾❤️ Let’s transform the way you and your dog experience leadership—together! 🐾💖 Enjoy! Share And please leave me a comment of review! Talk to you later Tracy

11-04
34:19

45 | Inside the Mind of a Fearful Dog: Natural Way to Help Them Face Their Fear

Hey Dog Lover!🐾 Step inside the mind of a fearful dog and discover how they process fear naturally. In today’s episode, I’ll walk you through a gentle approach-and-retreat protocol designed to let your dog tackle fears at their own pace. Once you understand this natural process, you’ll be able to approach training from a place of understanding, helping to reduce frustrations and empower your dog to face challenges with confidence.💪 This episode offers a sneak peek into the Fearful Dog: Fearless Framework—perfect for anyone ready to help their dog build lasting resilience. If you’re ready to dive deeper, join us in the full Fearless Framework program at www.beyondobedience.ca/fearless I can't wait to walk this journey with you and your dog! Tune in to start helping your dog process fear in a way that feels natural and safe! Enjoy! Share! and Review! Talk later! Tracy

10-31
21:44

44 | Overcoming Setbacks: The Step-by-Step Plan to Keep You and Your Dog Moving Forward

Hey Dog Lover! Do you feel stuck with your fearful dog? In this episode, we're diving into how to handle setbacks and plateaus with patience, grace, and a step-by-step plan to keep you moving forward. Learn why setbacks are not failures but valuable feedback, and how hidden triggers can help you better understand your dog's thresholds. We’ll discuss practical strategies, including my favourite mindset trick to help you reframe challenges and support your dog through their most fearful moments. Want to connect with other dog lovers who are navigating similar challenges? Join us in the Living Beyond Obedience Facebook Group for support and guidance: Join Here. For those ready to make real progress, explore the Fearful Dog Program, a complete guide to building confidence in your dog at www.beyondobedience.ca/fearless. Enjoy!, Share! Write a Review! Cheers Tracy

10-28
25:13

43 | When Reactivity Isn’t Fear: 5 Surprising Reasons Behind Your Dog’s Reactivity

Hey Dog Lover!Do you think your dog’s reactivity might be fear-based? You might be surprised to learn that there are several other reasons why dogs can act out. In this episode, I’m breaking down 5 surprising causes of reactivity that go beyond fear, and I’ll share how you can recognize these behaviours and manage them more effectively. Here’s what we’ll cover: Why overstimulation might be overwhelming your dog—and how to help them stay calm. The frustration that comes from unmet needs and how to bring more balance into your dog’s life. What your dog’s territorial instincts are really about—and why your own energy could be playing a big role. How prey drive might be making your walks more challenging than they need to be. Why sudden changes in behaviour might not be fear, but actually a sign of health issues. Understanding the real cause behind your dog’s behaviour is the first step to managing it effectively. Tune in to explore these surprising reasons and learn simple, actionable tips to help your dog stay calm and balanced! 🎧 Hit play now and uncover the truth behind your dog’s reactivity. Next Steps: Join the Facebook community to share your experiences Ready for more? Check out my Fearful Dog Online Program

10-24
32:03

42 | The Secret to a Happy Dog: 3 Steps to Build Confidence and Trust Without Commands

Hey Dog Lover! Ever wonder what it takes to be happy? Happiness can seem elusive—even for us humans! But when I talk to fellow dog lovers dealing with fearful or reactive dogs, I often ask them, “What’s the number one thing you want for your dog?” The answer is almost always the same: “I just want my dog to be happy.” So what truly makes a dog happy? Spoiler: It’s not their favourite treat or toy! In this episode, we’re diving deep into what it really takes to create a confident, joyful dog. I’ll be sharing 3 key strategies that will help you build a stronger bond with your dog, boosting their confidence and trust along the way. You’ll learn: Why leadership matters for a happy dog (and it’s not about control). How giving your dog the right kind of freedom can be a game-changer for their confidence. The secret to reinforcing positive behaviours that help your dog feel more secure. These strategies will unlock the secret to a happier, healthier dog—no commands required! If you’ve been longing to see your dog live their best life, this episode is for you. Hit play now and discover how to create lasting happiness for your dog! NEXT STEPS: Join the Facebook community to share your progress: Ready for more? Check out my Fearful Dog program: www.beyondobedience.ca/fearless

10-21
27:03

41 | Stop Your Dog’s Window Barking: Breakdown the Behavior and Be a Part of the Solution

Hey Dog Lover! 🐾 Is your dog "freaking out" at the window? Tried treats to distract and still nothing? Today, I’m taking you behind the scenes of my thought process on how to decode your dog's barking.(ooohhh scary! 😳) We’ll explore what's really going on when your dog reacts to what's outside, and how you can BE a part of the conversation. From my "go see and thank you" protocol to understanding why your dog might be barking in the first place, I’ll walk you through how to break down the behaviour and be a part of the solution. 🐕 Hope you enjoy this episode! Talk later Tracy P.S. Want more help understanding your fearful dog's behaviour? Consider joining the Fearful Dog Fearless Framework. (www.beyondobedience.ca/fearless) Lots of support and Q&A inside the community. OR Do you want me to help you decode your fearful dog's behaviour? Let’s connect! Head over to beyondobedience.ca and sign up for the Canine Chronicles. ✨

10-17
25:03

40 | Is Your Partner Undermining Your Fearful Dog’s Training? Here’s What You Can Do

Hey Dog Lover!Feeling like your bond with your fearful dog has been slipping, especially since others in the household aren’t following the training rules? If you’re worried that inconsistent boundaries are affecting your dog's behaviour and connection with you, you’re not alone. In this episode, we tackle the frustration of seeing all your hard work unravel because someone else isn’t on the same page. We’ll discuss why this inconsistency is especially tough on fearful dogs and what steps you can take to restore harmony and rebuild the bond with your dog—even when you feel like throwing in the towel. But you don't have to do it alone! Are you looking for a supportive group coaching program and an amazing community? Check out my new online program Fearful Dog: Fearless Framework program here: www.beyondobedience.ca/fearless We would love to welcome you and your dog to join us! Cheers,Tracy

10-14
24:16

39 | Dreaming of a Peaceful Thanksgiving, Try These Simple Tips for You and Your Dog

Hey, my Fellow Dog Lover! Thanksgiving is this Monday for us Canadians, 🇨🇦🦃 So we need to talk about holidays, family and your fearful dog. If you’re worried about how your dog will handle all the family and friends' gatherings, this episode is for you. We’ll discuss why Thanksgiving isn’t the best time for training and how to support your dog by allowing it to retreat to its comfort zone. We'll also provide some rules for your guests to follow to ensure your dog feels safe and everyone enjoys the holiday stress-free. Tune in for helpful tips, and to all my Canadian dog lovers... Have a Happy Thanksgiving! Talk later Tracy Oh and P.S. Don’t forget to join me in The Canine Chronicles at beyondobedience.ca! (wait on the page for the pop up and stay connected) 🇨🇦🦃

10-10
17:34

38 | Why Halloween is Truly Scary for Fearful Dogs: How to Help Your Dog Through the Spooky Season

Hey there, dog lover! 🐾🎃 In this episode, we discuss why Halloween can be a truly spooky time for our fearful dogs. From strange costumes to eerie decorations, this season disrupts your dog's senses, making it harder for them to feel safe and recognize familiar people or environments. So while some may use this as a "training opportunity", if we have a less than confident dog, this can be a nightmare! So fearful dog friends this is your permission to give your dog and yourself the night off! (and I will give you some suggestions on how to do that!) I also give you practical tips, like how to create a safe space for your dog during trick-or-treating and how to gently expose them to decorations without overwhelming them. By the end, you’ll be ready to help your dog through the spooky season with less stress and more confidence! 🎃👻 I hope you enjoy this special season episode! Talk to you soon Tracy PS Let’s be pen pals! ✉️🐾 Head over to Beyondobedience.ca and sign up for the Canine Chronicles to stay in touch!

10-07
26:31

37 | 3 Reasons Your Fearful Dog May Still Be Reactive (and What to do about it)

Hey there Dog Lover, Today, we’re getting real about why your fearful dog may still be reactive, even after you’ve tried all the training tricks in the book. The truth is, it’s not just about what your dog is doing—it’s about mindset, communication, and yes, even the equipment you’re using. Here’s what we’ll break down: Mindset: Are you focusing on ‘fixing’ your dog or paying attention to how you’re feeling about it? (Spoiler: Your mindset might be the missing key.) Clear communication: It’s not just about what you don’t want your dog to do—does your dog even know what you want them to do? Equipment: The right tools make all the difference. Are you unknowingly using gear that’s making things worse? Buckle in... I am talking about the controversial reality of dog training equipment😳 Let’s figure out what’s really going on and get you and your dog on the path to a calmer, more confident life together. Hope you enjoy it! Let me know your thoughts! Tracy Are we pen pals yet? Be sure to join the Canine Chronicles for more tips and updates at beyondobedience.ca!

10-03
28:40

36 | 5 Things that May be Blocking Confidence and Weakening Your Bond With Your Dog

Hey there Dog Lover! In this episode, we tackle 5 sneaky actions that might block your dog’s confidence and weaken the bond you’re trying to build. (Spoiler alert: You might be doing some of them without even realizing it!) From leash pulling to communication mishaps, we’ll cover the common mistakes that are holding your dog back. Here’s what we’ll dig into: Leash pulling: Are you worth hanging out with, or are you just the dope at the end of the rope? Training time: Is it really just about sit and stay, or is your dog picking up on your daily vibes? Yes and no: We can't live in the fantasy world of yes or the dull drum of no—balance is everything. Accountability: Do you mean it when you say no? (Your dog might not think so!) Talking too much: Your dog’s not your therapist (jk but also for real 😉)—less chat, more action! Ready to boost your dog’s confidence and strengthen your bond? You’re in the right place. Hope you enjoy! Tracy P.S. Are we pen pals? For more tips and updates, join the Beyond Obedience Canine Chronicles at beyondobedience.ca and let’s get your dog living their best life!

09-30
26:09

35 | You Don’t Want Your Fearful Dog to Be Social: What You Actually Want Instead

Hey dog lover! Have you ever been told that your dog needs to be more social? What if I told you that’s not always the case—especially for fearful dogs? (It's true!) Earlier this week I hinted at the idea of fostering a "pro-social relationship with your dog. This week I’ll explain why being "social" isn’t the ideal goal for your dog, and what you should be aiming for instead. We’ll explore the differences between social, a-social, anti-social, and pro-social behavior, and why pro-social is what you really want. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clearer understanding of how to support your fearful dog and encourage healthier interactions. And if you want to dive even deeper, my Fearful Dog: Fearless Framework program is now open for enrollment! This course will help you build your dog's confidence and sharpen your communication skills, so you can guide them through fear and foster trust without relying on traditional training methods. Not sure if this program is the right fit for you and your dog? Reach out, and we can chat to find out together! To learn more, head over to beyondobedience.ca/fearless. Enjoy! Please be sure to share and if you haven't already please leave a comment (Spotify) or 5 Start written review on Apple It really does make a difference! See you next week! Tracy

09-26
18:16

34 | Why Leash Position Matters: The Key to Leading Your Fearful Dog with Confidence

Hey dog lover! Have you ever wondered if your dog should always be walking behind you? Does it matter? And what about sniffing? In this episode, I’m breaking down the truth about leash position. Does it really matter if your dog walks behind you? The answer is yes, but maybe not in the way you think. I’ll explain the dynamics between you and your dog and when it's important to take the lead. You’ll learn how your position on the leash impacts your fearful dog’s ability to handle perceived threats and why being in the right spot is crucial. Discover how positioning yourself "in-between" can help build your dog's confidence and allow you to guide them through tough situations. And If you would like to explore this topic further with me by your side, then I’ve got great news! The Fearful Dog: Fearless Framework is now open for enrollment. In this program, we’ll dive deep into building your dog's confidence and developing your communication skills—without relying on traditional training methods. You’ll learn how to guide your dog through fear, rebuild trust, and create lasting change in both your mindset and your dog's behavior. To get all the details and join me, head over to beyondobedience.ca/fearless. See you Thursday! (oh yeah! we are also going to hang out 2x/week now! yay!🎉) Tracy

09-23
21:29

33 | Why Muzzling is Not What You Think: The Truth About Building Trust and Confidence

Hey dog lover! In this episode, I'm diving into the often misunderstood topic of using muzzles in reactivity training. I'll share why muzzles can actually be a powerful tool for building trust and confidence between you and your dog. Adding a muzzle can help you become a calmer, more confident guardian, allowing you to safely test trust-building exercises. If you've ever felt unsure about using a muzzle, this episode is for you. I'll explain why muzzling is not what you think—and how it can make a real difference in your relationship with your dog. Enjoy! Tracy PS: The Calm Down, Dog! BootCamp was amazing, and I want to extend a huge thank you to everyone who joined! If you missed it and want more info about the new and improved Fearful Dog: Fearless Framework program, it's now open for enrollment! If you’re struggling with a fearful or reactive dog and looking for a solution that goes beyond traditional training methods, (some might say Beyond Obedience 😉) this program is for you. Visit www.beyondobedience.ca/fearless to learn more.

09-16
22:32

32 | Stop Distracting Your Fearful Dog: The Key to Building Confidence

Hey dog lover! Is your dog trapped in a cycle of fear? In today’s episode, we break down the fear cycle to help you step inside the mind of a fearful dog. Instead of avoiding their fear or distracting them from it, learn how to truly support your dog as they work through it. Discover why embracing these challenging moments can help your dog build lasting confidence and finally break free from their fear. Join me for practical insights and strategies to guide your dog toward a more fearless life! Also! It's not too late to join us in the CALM DOWN, DOG! BOOTCAMP! Happening Sept 9th and 10th at 12pm ET Sign up today, www.beyondobedience.ca/bootcamp (Don't worry there will be replays if you can't make it live) Cheers, Tracy

09-09
21:18

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