The Dog Who Asked for More: Training, Enrichment, and Nutrition Support for a Calmer Life with Dogs

Is your dog anxious during fireworks, car rides, or when you leave the house—and you’re wondering if CBD could help?In this eye-opening episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em and Josh sit down with the team from Fat Sam’s for Pets to unpack the truth about using CBD for dog anxiety. From product safety to realistic expectations, they dig into what calming aids actually do—and how to choose the right one for your dog’s behavior, nervous system, and lifestyle.In this episode:Learn when CBD can be a helpful support tool for dog anxiety—and when it might not workDiscover how calming aids fit into a full pet wellness and behavior planGet expert guidance on choosing a transparent, pet-safe supplement you can trustPress play to feel empowered, informed, and ready to support your anxious pup with the right tools—and a whole lot of heart.Guest Info: Instagram: @fatsamsforpetsLearn more: urbanapothecary.shop/cbd-for-petsEducational Resource: Cannabinoids ExplainedSponsored by Fat Sam’s for PetsSave with code SUDT → urbanapothecary.shop/cbd-for-petsStraight Up Dog Talk Extras:Get a free copy of The Messy Middle: Getting Unstuck with your Big Feeling Dog⁠https://tinyurl.com/messymiddletdwafm⁠Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em⁠https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknow⁠Email ⁠thedogwhoaskedformore@gmail.com⁠ to get in touch with EmJoin the Community⁠https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmslack⁠This podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode contains graphic details and emotional discussion surrounding severe aggression, idiopathic rage syndrome, and humane euthanasia. It is not intended for children and may not be suitable for all environments. Please use headphones and care while listening.What if your dog’s aggression wasn’t behavioral—but neurological, unpredictable, and impossible to manage safely?In this raw and emotionally courageous episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em is joined by Lana to share their personal stories with idiopathic aggression, often called rage syndrome—a rare and devastating condition that affects some dogs without warning or cause. Together, they break the silence around this heartbreaking diagnosis and explore the emotional complexity of loving a dog you can’t save.In this episode:Understand what idiopathic aggression is—and what it’s notLearn about the emotional, behavioral, and safety struggles that come with managing this rare conditionHear how guardians navigate guilt, grief, and advocacy when the only humane choice is letting goPress play for an honest, compassionate conversation about one of the dog world’s most misunderstood realities—and why choosing peace is never a failure.Guest Info:Follow Lana & Ares:Instagram: @loki.the.maligator_Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:Get a free copy of The Messy Middle: Getting Unstuck with your Big Feeling Dog⁠https://tinyurl.com/messymiddletdwafm⁠Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em⁠https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknow⁠Email ⁠thedogwhoaskedformore@gmail.com⁠ to get in touch with EmJoin the Community⁠https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmslack⁠This podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Can you raise rescue dogs and houseplants—without chaos, stress, or giving up the things you love?In this lighthearted and inspiring episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em chats with Felicia about building a joyful, pet-safe life that blends houseplants, rescue dogs, and intentional living. From choosing the right plants to creating everyday enrichment for her pups, Felicia shares how honoring her personality and passions helped her create a calm, colorful home that works for everyone in it.In this episode:Learn how to safely raise houseplants in a dog-filled homeDiscover how enrichment shows up in small, daily routines—not just toys and trainingHear how dogs and plants have been powerful teachers in slowing down and creating a life that feels goodPress play to explore how building a pet-safe, enriched home starts with embracing your quirks—and designing a life that works for both paws and plants.Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:Get a free copy of The Messy Middle: Getting Unstuck with your Big Feeling Dog⁠https://tinyurl.com/messymiddletdwafm⁠Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em⁠https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknow⁠Email ⁠thedogwhoaskedformore@gmail.com⁠ to get in touch with EmJoin the Community⁠https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmslack⁠This podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Think rescue is just about saving a dog? What if that dog ends up saving you?In this emotional and eye-opening episode, Em celebrates Toby’s 12th Gotcha Day and sits down with Tracy Fosterling, a foster and rescue advocate who’s fostered over 60 dogs—many of them “unadoptable.” Together, they unpack the gritty, beautiful reality of what rescue really looks like: patience, partnership, training, enrichment, and second chances for dogs—and people.In this episode:Hear the real stories behind feral dogs, misunderstood behavior, and the power of trustLearn why training and enrichment—not punishment—are essential to a rescue dog’s recoveryDiscover how you can support rescue work, even if you can’t adopt or fosterPress play for an honest look at rescue, recovery, and what it truly means to show up for dogs when no one else will.The Dog Who Asked for More Extras:Get a free copy of the Mini Bowl Blueprinthttps://tinyurl.com/minibowltdwafmBook a FREE 15-minute call with Emhttps://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknowEmail thedogwhoaskedformore@gmail.com to get in touch with EmThis episode is POWERED by PetMatRxLooking to BOOST your pet’s daily meal? Try PetMatRx supplements, use code FITZ20, and save! https://petmatrx.com/?ref=tdwafmThis podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

What if the dog who needed the most healing was also the one who came to heal you?In this emotionally raw episode of The Dog Who Asked for More, we revisit the moment I met Toby—an emaciated, reactive bait dog on the brink of being forgotten. What followed was not just a rescue story, but a story of mutual transformation. This is about choosing each other, over and over, and learning what it really means to be safe, seen, and loved.In this episode:​Discover why emotional safety is more important than obedience when working with rescue dogs​Learn how reactivity, grief, and healing are all part of the deeper dog-human dialogue​Reflect on the one question every dog is quietly asking—and how to answer it, day by dayPress play to hear Toby’s story, and reconnect with what your own dog might be asking for—beyond behavior, beyond training, and straight from the heart.The Dog Who Asked for More Extras:Get a free copy of The Messy Middle: Getting Unstuck with your Big Feeling Doghttps://tinyurl.com/messymiddletdwafmBook a FREE 15-minute call with Emhttps://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknowEmail thedogwhoaskedformore@gmail.com to get in touch with EmJoin the Communityhttps://join.slack.com/t/thedogwhoaskedformore/shared_invite/zt-305kdyab7-y6eTWjbAeSwHItNmloLQUAThis podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Tired of living in a maze of baby gates, blocked rooms, and constant “no”? You’re not alone.Many dog parents rely on physical barriers or harsh corrections to manage indoor behavior—but these quick fixes can backfire, creating more confusion and stress. In this episode, Em teams up with Jesús from Pawport to explore a smarter way to teach boundaries inside your home—one that builds calm, clarity, and communication.In this episode:Understand why traditional indoor management often causes more stress than it solvesLearn how to teach boundaries using reinforcement—not restrictionGet real-world tips for building peaceful, predictable routines your dog can follow with confidencePress play to create a home environment where your dog knows what to do—without gates, yelling, or constant micromanagement.Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:Get a free copy of the Mini Bowl Blueprinthttps://tinyurl.com/minibowltdwafmBook FREE 15-minute call with Emhttps://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknowEmail straightupdogtalk@gmail.com to get in touch with EmLooking to BOOST your pet’s daily meal? Try PetMatRx supplements, use code FITZ20 and save!https://petmatrx.com/?ref=tdwafmThis podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

What if your dog’s reactivity, barking, or resistance isn’t a problem to fix—but a plea to be heard?In this raw and vulnerable solo episode, Em shares why the podcast is changing names—and why that shift reflects a much deeper evolution in how we understand and support our dogs. Through her own journey with Fitz, Em invites you to reconsider what your dog’s behavior is truly trying to communicate.You'll Learn:Hear how training burnout became an invitation to build trust and restLearn how enrichment—not obedience—transformed Em’s relationship with her reactive dogDiscover the deeper meaning behind the new podcast name, and how it reflects your story tooPress play to step into a more compassionate, curiosity-driven way of living and learning with your dog—starting with this moment of reflection and realignment.The Dog Who Asked for More Extras:Get a free copy of The Messy Middle: Getting Unstuck with your Big Feeling Doghttps://tinyurl.com/messymiddletdwafmBook FREE 15-minute call with Emhttps://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknowEmail straightupdogtalk@gmail.com to get in touch with EmJoin the Communityhttps://join.slack.com/t/thedogwhoaskedformore/shared_invite/zt-305kdyab7-y6eTWjbAeSwHItNmloLQUAThis podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Tried all the protocols, bought every tool, and your dog’s still not improving?If you're stuck in a cycle of reactivity, barking, or anxiety despite following expert advice, it might be time to rethink the way you're approaching your dog’s behavior. This episode flips the script on traditional training with a skill few talk about: curiosity.In this episode:​Discover how curiosity (not control) unlocks lasting change in dogs​Learn the top 3 red flags when choosing a trainer—and how to spot them early​Hear how Josh’s background in corporate investigations reshaped his entire approach to working with reactive dogsPress play to explore a new, empowering perspective on training that builds trust, not tension—and finally helps you move forward with your big-feeling dog.Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:Get a free copy of Paws, Brains, and Fun Enrichment ebookhttps://tinyurl.com/enrichmenttdwafmBook FREE 15-minute call with Emhttps://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknowEmail straightupdogtalk@gmail.com to get in touch with EmLooking to BOOST your pet’s daily meal? Try PetMatRx supplements, use code FITZ20 and save!https://petmatrx.com/?ref=tdwafmThis podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Think Halloween is just “one fun night” for your dog? Think again.For anxious, reactive, or aging dogs, Halloween can feel like a full-blown sensory attack—from loud doorbells and chaotic costumes to unfamiliar visitors and unpredictable energy. This episode explores how those “fun traditions” can trigger overwhelm and dysregulation in even well-loved dogs.In this episode:Understand why Halloween is not a healthy training opportunity for sensitive dogsLearn how to use enrichment, safe spaces, and environmental setup to reduce your dog’s stressGet practical, shame-free alternatives to help your dog feel calm and safe—without missing out on the spirit of the seasonPress play for a grounded plan to protect your dog’s emotional well-being this Halloween—without guilt, stress, or pressure to conform.Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:Get a free copy of The Messy Middle: Getting Unstuck with your Big Feeling Doghttps://tinyurl.com/messymiddletdwafmBook FREE 15-minute call with Emhttps://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknowEmail straightupdogtalk@gmail.com to get in touch with EmJoin the Communityhttps://tinyurl.com/tdwafmslackThis podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Is your dog still itching, stinking, or acting off—even after regular baths?Most dog parents don’t realize that frequent bathing can actually make things worse. Overbathing disrupts your dog’s skin barrier, triggering inflammation, behavioral issues, and even gut health problems.In this episode:Learn the hidden signs of skin imbalance often mistaken for "bad behavior"Discover a low-stress, holistic skin care routine that supports full-body wellnessGet expert-backed product recommendations for sensitive, anxious, or reactive dogsHit play to learn how less bathing—and smarter care—can help your dog feel and behave better from the inside out.Special Offer:Use code EMILY15 to save 15% on your order at DOG by Dr. Lisa — Em’s go-to for gentle, effective skin care products.https://us.dogbydrlisa.com/pages/dog-supppliesStraight Up Dog Talk Extras:Get a free copy of The Messy Middle: Getting Unstuck with your Big Feeling Doghttps://tinyurl.com/messymiddletdwafmBook a FREE 15-minute call with Emhttps://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknowEmail straightupdogtalk@gmail.com to get in touch with EmJoin the Communityhttps://tinyurl.com/tdwafmslackThis podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.Affiliate Disclosure:This episode includes affiliate links. If you purchase through them, Em may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Supporting partner brands helps keep this podcast free and accessible.

Can’t get your dog out for a walk—but they’re still bouncing off the walls?You’re not alone. For many reactive, anxious, or high-energy dogs, traditional exercise isn’t always possible—or even helpful. In this solo episode, Em shares 7 indoor enrichment games built for real-life, emotional regulation, and nervous system support.In this episode:Get 7 practical games that help your dog burn energy without overstimulationLearn why stillness and sniffing might help more than fetch or runningDiscover how to meet your dog’s behavioral needs—without draining yourself in the processPress play to discover calming enrichment tools for the hard days, rainy days, and everything in between.Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:Get a free copy of Paws, Brains, and Fun Enrichment ebookhttps://tinyurl.com/enrichmenttdwafmBook FREE 15-minute call with Emhttps://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknowEmail straightupdogtalk@gmail.com to get in touch with EmLooking to BOOST your pet’s daily meal? Try PetMatRx supplements, use code FITZ20 and save!https://petmatrx.com/?ref=straightupdogtalkThis podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

There’s so much pressure to “move on” after losing a pet.But real grief doesn’t follow a timeline—and it doesn’t need to be fixed.In this heart-centered episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em is joined by Anne-Marie Farage-Smith, grief educator and author of Healing Wisdom for Pet Loss. Together, they explore the complex and often misunderstood world of pet loss grief—including anticipatory, disenfranchised, and complicated grief. If you’ve ever felt like your sadness was “too much” or unsupported, this conversation will validate your pain and offer a more compassionate path forward.You’ll learn:• Why pet loss grief is so intense—and why society often misses the mark• How to identify the type of grief you’re experiencing• Small but powerful ways to honor your pet’s memory without “moving on”This episode is a safe space for anyone in the thick of pet loss—or walking alongside someone who is.Press play for grounded, gentle insight—and learn how to move forward with your pet’s memory, not away from it.Guest Info:Website: farage-smith.comBook: Healing Wisdom for Pet Loss Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:Get a free copy of The Messy Middle: Getting Unstuck with your Big Feeling Doghttps://tinyurl.com/messymiddletdwafmBook a FREE 15-minute call with Emhttps://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknowEmail thedogwhoaskedformore@gmail.com to get in touch with EmJoin the Communityhttps://tinyurl.com/tdwafmslackThis podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

You’ve followed the rules, tried the tools, and still feel stuck with your dog. Sound familiar?In this myth-busting episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em unpacks 10 outdated dog training “truths” that may be doing more harm than good. From dominance-based techniques to rigid obedience expectations, you’ll learn why some of the most common advice might be keeping both you and your dog from real progress.You'll Learn:Identify which dog training myths are stalling your growth and confidenceLearn why obedience ≠ regulation or trust—and what actually creates calm, connected behaviorDiscover how to rebuild your training approach so it works for your dog, not someone else’s rulebookPress play to shift your mindset, drop the myths, and start making training progress rooted in clarity, compassion, and real connection.Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:Get a free copy of Feeding without Fear for mealtime mannershttps://tinyurl.com/fearfreetdwafmBook a FREE 15-minute call with Emhttps://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknowEmail thedogwhoaskedformore@gmail.com to get in touch with EmThis podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Is your dog still bouncing off the walls after walks—or ripping through puzzle toys with zero chill?Most enrichment toys are marketed as magic solutions—but for many dogs, they’re either too simple, too repetitive, or used in isolation. In this episode, Em teams up with Aina from Pawzler to unpack a smarter approach: enrichment stacking—a way to combine different activities to help dogs regulate their energy and behavior more effectively.You'll Learn:Understand why modular puzzles outperform traditional toys in engagement and mental stimulationLearn how to scale enrichment difficulty to reduce boredom and frustrationDiscover a real-world enrichment stacking sequence (play → puzzle → chew) that helps calm overstimulated or anxious dogsPress play to stop guessing and start building a daily enrichment routine that leaves your dog calm, confident, and fully satisfied—without relying on endless walks or toy clutter.Explore Pawzler puzzles: https://us.pawzler.com (Use code SUDT10 for 10% off)Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:Get a free copy of Paws, Brains, and Fun Enrichment eBookhttps://tinyurl.com/enrichmenttdwafmBook a FREE 15-minute call with Emhttps://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknowEmail thedogwhoaskedformore@gmail.com to get in touch with EmLooking to BOOST your pet’s daily meal? Try PetMatRx supplements, use code FITZ20, and save! https://petmatrx.com/?ref=tdwafmThis podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Feel like you're doing everything right but still burning out behind the scenes?In this raw, solo episode, Em shares the emotional truth most dog trainers and pet parents never talk about: the exhaustion, the overwhelm, and the pressure to keep showing up when everything feels too heavy. From the dream of RV life to the real struggles behind the mic, this isn’t a highlight reel—it’s a lifeline for anyone feeling emotionally stretched. You'll Learn:Hear what burnout really looked like behind the growth of Straight Up Dog TalkLearn why the RV story became a metaphor for belief, loss, and starting overGet validation if you're in the “messy middle” of dog training, parenting, or building something that mattersPress play for a grounded, honest conversation that reminds you—you’re not behind, you’re just human. And your dog (and your vision) are still worth it.Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:Get a free copy of The Messy Middle: Getting Unstuck with your Big Feeling Doghttps://tinyurl.com/messymiddletdwafmBook a FREE 15-minute call with Emhttps://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknowEmail thedogwhoaskedformore@gmail.com to get in touch with EmJoin the Communityhttps://tinyurl.com/tdwafmslackThis podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Did you know that—legally—your pet is still considered property?That outdated legal status isn’t just offensive—it’s dangerous. It affects everything from shelter euthanasia policies to divorce custody disputes and rehoming decisions. In this powerful episode, Em sits down with animal law expert Suzana Gartner to uncover the root legal issue holding back progress—and what her A-CAP framework offers as a new path forward.In this episode:Learn how “property” status directly impacts shelter outcomes and animal welfare policyHear how Suzana’s A-CAP philosophy is building legal models based on compassion, agency, and protectionDiscover real ways everyday dog parents can contribute to meaningful change—from education to advocacyPress play to understand the hidden legal systems affecting the animals you love—and how to help shift the status quo from property to partnership.Learn more and take action: suzanagartner.comStraight Up Dog Talk Extras:Get a free copy of Feeding without Fear for mealtime mannershttps://tinyurl.com/fearfreetdwafmBook a FREE 15-minute call with Emhttps://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknowEmail thedogwhoaskedformore@gmail.com to get in touch with EmThis podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

What if the one thing you’re told every dog needs—daily walks—is actually keeping your dog stuck?If your reactive, anxious, or overstimulated dog seems worse after walks—not better—you’re not failing them. You might just be following a model that doesn’t fit their nervous system. In this honest solo episode, Em shares why she stopped forcing daily walks with Fitz—and how that shift finally created the calm, connected progress she’d been chasing for years.In this episode:Learn how to tell the difference between dysregulation and true high energyDiscover practical, sustainable walk-free enrichment alternativesUnderstand how to regulate your dog’s nervous system—and your own—without guilt or pressurePress play to release outdated rules and start building a calmer, more connected life with your dog—one that works for both of you, not just what social media says.Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:Get a free copy of Feeding without Fear for mealtime mannershttps://tinyurl.com/fearfreetdwafmBook a FREE 15-minute call with Emhttps://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknowEmail thedogwhoaskedformore@gmail.com to get in touch with EmThis podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

What if the most powerful dog training lessons came from the last place you’d expect—inside a prison?In this deeply moving episode, Em sits down with Mattison Skoog-Simpson, founder of Freed By Training, to share what she learned from working inside a prison dog program. This is about more than obedience—it’s about building trust, emotional healing, and training that meets both dogs and humans with compassion and grace. In this episode:Learn how prison dog programs foster trust-based training for lasting resultsDiscover why connection > control in both reactive dog parenting and self-leadershipGet inspired to shift from shame or guilt into partnership, empathy, and emotional healingPress play to explore a powerful reframe on dog training—one rooted in second chances, slower timelines, and deeper trust.👉 Connect with Mattison + get free resources:Instagram: @freedbytrainingWebsite: freedbytraining.coStraight Up Dog Talk Extras:Get a free copy of Feeding without Fear for mealtime mannershttps://tinyurl.com/fearfreetdwafmBook a FREE 15-minute call with Emhttps://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknowEmail thedogwhoaskedformore@gmail.com to get in touch with EmThis podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Ever feel like you're giving everything to your dog, your dreams, your life—and still coming up empty?You’re not alone. Burnout hits hard when you're balancing dog parenting, purpose, and pressure to keep it all together. In this honest solo episode, Em opens up about the quiet breakdowns behind the brand, and what it’s really like to keep showing up when you’re not sure how much longer you can.In this episode:Hear what success actually looks like behind the scenes of a dog-centered businessLearn how burnout affects your ability to train, connect, and support your dogGet a grounded reframe on what progress, purpose, and dog parenting really mean in the messy middlePress play to feel seen, supported, and reminded that you—and your dog—deserve compassion, not perfection.Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:Get a free copy of Feeding without Fear for mealtime mannershttps://tinyurl.com/fearfreetdwafmBook a FREE 15-minute call with Emhttps://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknowEmail thedogwhoaskedformore@gmail.com to get in touch with EmThis podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

What if your dog could do more than bark or sit—what if they could talk?In this mind-expanding episode, Em sits down with Molissa, dog parent to Tilda the Talking Dog, to explore the world of button training and canine communication. From simple cues to emotional expression, their journey challenges everything we think we know about how dogs learn, feel, and connect with us.In this episode:Learn how to introduce your dog to button communication using positive trainingUnderstand the cognitive enrichment that happens when dogs are empowered to “speak”Get real insights into what’s hype—and what’s truly transformational—about the “talking dog” movementPress play to discover how button training could unlock a deeper, richer bond with your dog—and reveal just how much they’ve been trying to tell you all along.Use code Tilda at FluentPet.com to save on button kits. This episode is sponsored by PetMatRx!Looking to BOOST your pet’s daily meal? Try PetMatRx supplements, use code FITZ20, and save! https://tinyurl.com/PETMATRXtdwafmStraight Up Dog Talk Extras:Get a free copy of Paws, Brains, and Fun Enrichment eBookhttps://tinyurl.com/enrichmenttdwafmBook a FREE 15-minute call with Emhttps://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknowEmail thedogwhoaskedformore@gmail.com to get in touch with EmLooking to BOOST your pet’s daily meal? Try PetMatRx supplements, use code FITZ20, and save! https://tinyurl.com/PETMATRXtdwafmThis podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.