🐕 What does it really mean when a dog is labeled “aggressive”? In this powerful episode, Em sits down with internationally recognized aggression expert Michael Shikashio to explore the nuance behind canine aggression—what it is, what it isn’t, and how to approach it with clarity and compassion.

💡 In this episode, you’ll learn:

• What aggression really means in dogs

• Why labels can oversimplify complex behavior

• How environment, history, and context shape aggression

• What to consider when approaching a new aggression case

  
  

🐾 Em and Mike talk about the realities of working with dogs who struggle, why every dog is different, and how both pet parents and professionals can move beyond fear into understanding.

🎧 Whether you're feeling stuck, judged, or unsure where to turn—this episode will help you feel seen, supported, and better equipped to help your dog.

Guest Info:📲 Learn more about Michael’s work and courses: aggressivedog.com📸 Follow Michael on Instagram: @michaelshikashio

Stay Connected:
💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

#dogaggression #michaelshikashio #caninebehavior #dogtrainingeducation #straightupdogtalk

🧬 What’s really in your dog’s supplements—and how do you know they’re working? In this episode, Em sits down with Will, CEO of PetMatRx, to break down the science, transparency, and impact behind quality pet nutrition.

💡 In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How to read supplement labels and what to avoid

• The mission behind PetMatRx’s science-backed products

• Why proactive wellness matters in a dog’s longevity

• What makes a supplement truly effective

  
  

🐾 Em and Will also get real about the pet industry, the challenges of building trust with consumers, and how education is at the heart of lasting health for our dogs.

🎧 Whether you're new to supplements or ready to upgrade your dog’s wellness routine, this episode is packed with practical advice and honest insights.

Guest Info:📲 Follow Will on Instagram: @will_leaddog📲 Learn more about PetMatRx: @petmatrx🛍️ Explore science-backed supplements: petmatrx.com

Stay Connected:
💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

#petnutrition #dogsupplements #petmatrx #healthydogs #straightupdogtalk

This episode is proudly sponsored by our partnership with PetMatRx.
Use code SUDT20 to save 20% on your first order: petmatrx.com
Affiliate purchases through this link help fuel Em’s RV journey to bring the Straight Up Dog Talk podcast on the road—sharing real stories and connecting with dog lovers nationwide. 🚌💛

This one’s personal.

In 2019, I made a decision I thought would help my dog Fitz—something I believed would make his reactivity better. But instead, it changed both of our lives in ways I never saw coming.

This episode isn’t about chaos. It’s about what came after—the guilt, the overwhelm, and the quiet belief that I had somehow failed my dog.

That’s where this podcast was born.

Because I couldn’t find a judgment-free space when I needed one—so I created it.

You’ll hear:

• The decision I made for Fitz that didn’t go the way I hoped
• How the storm shaped the mission behind Straight Up Dog Talk
• Why solo episodes like this exist—and who they’re here for
• A reminder that you’re not alone, no matter where you are in the process

If you’re feeling discouraged, tired, or unsure of what’s next… this space is for you.

You’re not failing. You’re learning. And I’m so glad you’re here.

🎙️ Solo episodes drop every other Monday

🎧 Guest video episodes launch July 23

Stay Connected:

Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook.

💛 If this episode resonated, please share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more pet parents find support that actually feels good.

📍 Want personalized support with your dog?

Schedule a free consult with Em here:

👉 Book Now

#reactivedog #dogpodcast #dogbehavior #bigfeelingdogs #dogparentlife

🐾 What if your daily dog walk could help build a kinder, safer community? In this episode, Em chats with Laura—professional dog walker and creator behind Curious Snoots—about how thoughtful walking practices and mutual respect between pet guardians can transform neighborhoods.

💡 In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why how we show up on walks matters

• How to handle off-leash dogs and boundary-pushing situations

• Tips for navigating awkward encounters with other pet parents

• The power of kindness, consistency, and communication

🌎 Laura shares how her work in dog walking fosters connection, safety, and compassion in the pet space—and how you can be part of that shift too.

🎧 Tune in for an honest, heartfelt conversation about responsibility, advocacy, and building stronger communities through everyday actions.

Guest Info:📲 Learn more about Curious Snoots and follow Laura's mission: @curioussnoots

Stay Connected:
💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

#dogwalkingetiquette #offleashdogs #communitykindness #responsibledogparenting #straightupdogtalk

🐾 Ever wondered what it takes to get started in dog sports—or how they benefit your dog’s mind and body? In this fun and educational episode, Em chats with ⁠@katherinek9trainer⁠, a multi-certified trainer and behaviorist, about agility, rally, enrichment, behavior, and why doing things differently matters.

💡 In this episode, you'll learn:

• How dog sports build confidence, trust, and focus

• Why enrichment is more than just puzzle toys

• How behavior and training are connected

• Tips for getting started in sports like rally and agility

🎧 Whether you're brand new to dog sports or a seasoned handler, this episode is full of insight, encouragement, and joy.

Guest Info:📲 Follow Katherine on Instagram: @katherinek9trainer

Stay Connected:
💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

#dogsports #agilitydogs #dogtrainingtips #enrichmentideas #straightupdogtalk

✨ This episode is proudly sponsored by our partnership with PetMatRx.
Use code SUDT20 to save 20% at petmatrx.com
Follow PetMatRx on Instagram: @petmatrx

Affiliate links may provide a small commission at no extra cost to you. Every partnership helps support our RV journey to bring real conversations and resources to pet parents across the country.

💛 Saying goodbye is the hardest part of loving a pet. In this deeply heartfelt episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em sits down with Dr. Benson and Courtney from Paws Into Grace to explore how we can provide comfort, dignity, and love during our pets' final chapter.

💡 In this episode, you’ll learn:

• What in-home end-of-life care looks like and why it matters

• How to prepare emotionally and logistically for your pet’s passing

• What options exist for aftercare and honoring your pet’s life

• How Dr. Benson is changing the narrative around pet loss with grace and compassion

This episode offers support, insight, and reassurance to any pet parent navigating grief or anticipating a goodbye.

Guest Info:
📲 Follow Paws Into Grace on Instagram: @pawsintograce🌐 Learn more about their compassionate services: https://pawsintograce.com

Stay Connected:
💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

#petloss #endoflifecare #pawsintograce #petparentcommunity #straightupdogtalk

🐶 Ever wondered what life as a dog trainer is really like? In this fun and unfiltered episode, Em hangs out with Zoë from The Dreaded Trainer to talk about the highs, lows, and downright hilarious moments of working in the dog world.

🎙️ What’s in this episode?
✔️ Relatable stories about their own dogs 🐾
✔️ The unexpected (and often ridiculous) realities of trainer life
✔️ A lighthearted, laughter-filled conversation you won’t want to miss

This shop talk-style episode is packed with humor, real talk, and moments every dog lover or pet professional can relate to. Whether you're in the field or just obsessed with dogs, you’ll feel right at home.

🎧 Grab your headphones and get ready to laugh!

Stay Connected:
💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
📲 Follow Zoë from The Dreaded Trainer for more dog training tips and behind-the-scenes fun: @thedreadedtrainer

#dogtrainerlife #funnydogstories #petprofessionals #shoptalk #straightupdogtalk

🐶 What does it really take to run a rescue? In this episode, Em sits down with Crystal from Dogs Forever Rescue, a local organization doing BIG things for the community while raising awareness around responsible adoption and fostering.

💡 Em and Crystal talk through the realities of rescue work—from burnout and big wins to the heart behind every foster placement. They share what potential adopters and volunteers need to know, and why small rescues can have a huge impact when people show up and support.

🎧 Whether you're thinking about fostering, adopting, or just want a behind-the-scenes look at how rescues operate, this episode is full of honest insight and heartwarming moments.

Stay Connected:
💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
📲 Learn more about Dogs Forever Rescue and support their mission: @dogsforeverrescue

#dogrescue #adoptdontshop #rescuevolunteer #fosterdogs #straightupdogtalk