In this reactive dog podcast episode, Em shares 3 lessons from training Fitz—why walks made things worse and how regulation matters more than obedience.

💭 I thought I was doing everything right.
But nothing was working—because I was starting from the wrong place.

Reactivity training can feel like a full-time job. And when you’re doing all the things but your dog is still barking, lunging, or spiraling… it’s easy to feel like you’re failing.

In this episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, I’m sharing the 3 biggest things I wish I knew before I ever started training with Fitz—and why understanding his emotional world changed everything.

💡 You’ll learn:
• Why daily walks were making things worse• How regression is often a sign of growth• Why emotional regulation matters more than obedience• What helped us slow down, reconnect, and start seeing real progress

🛑 This one’s for the pet parent who’s doing their best and still feels like it’s not enough.
You’re not failing. You’re just in the messy middle—and your dog is still learning, too. 💛

🕒 Episode Breakdown:00:00 I Didn’t Fail My Dog—I Just Didn’t Know00:40 Welcome to Straight Up Dog Talk01:15 Why This Episode Matters01:50 Lesson 1: Walks Are Not Always the Answer03:25 The Turning Point: Connection Over Control04:30 Lesson 2: Progress Doesn’t Always Look Pretty06:00 The Scatter Feeding Breakthrough06:30 Lesson 3: Regulation Over Obedience07:30 Final Thoughts & Where to Get Support

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🌐 Website + Free Resources: straightupdogtalk.com
🆓 Book your free training or nutrition consult: straightupdogtalk.hbportal.co/schedule/668856198dc476001953809b
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💛 If this episode hit home, share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more pet parents find support that actually works.

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