Behavior is nuanced and multilayered for our dogs, and working to accept and get help with that behavior can bring up a lot of feelings in us humans! For this episode, trainer Mallory Kratimenos joined me to talk about the emotional journey she has been on with her own behaviorally complex dogs. We talk about the shame and guilt that can come along with having a dog who needs additional behavior support, especially in a society that has certain views about how a "normal" dog should behave. We also share how accepting our dogs for who they are can help us learn a lot about ourselves, and the importance of finding a support network that will meet you and your dog with compassion and kindness.

About Mallory

Mallory is the owner and sole trainer at Engineering Optimism Dog Training. She specializes in all things small dogs, but has experience with dogs of all sizes. Mallory works with clients to help mediate the relationship between human and dog with the goal of engineering a little optimism and joy on both sides of the equation. Mallory holds two Bachelor of Science degrees from Purdue University and is a Victoria Stilwell Academy Certified Dog Trainer, Fear Free Certified Professional Trainer, a Certified Trick Dog Instructor, and a licensed Family Dog Mediator. She is also the parent of two small terriers, Gracie - a 12 y/o Russell mix, and Ollie - a 7 y/o Rat Terrier mix. You can follow Mallory and her dogs on Instagram at @the.reactive.dog.blog

Download the transcript for this and all of our other episodes here.