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Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Behaviour Training, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs
Tracy Franken: Retired Vet Tech , Dog Trainer, Dog Lover, Dog Bond Specialist 🐾
134 episodes
1 day ago
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!
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All content for Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Behaviour Training, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs is the property of Tracy Franken: Retired Vet Tech , Dog Trainer, Dog Lover, Dog Bond Specialist 🐾 and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
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!
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Pets & Animals
Kids & Family
Episodes (20/134)
Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Behaviour Training, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs
130 | Dog struggle with guests? Help Your Dog Build Bravery (Not Just "Tolerate Visitors")

Hey Dog Lover 🐾
If your dog struggles when guests come over—whether it’s barking, hiding, or pacing—this episode is for you. Inspired by Jenee from the Living Beyond Obedience community, we’re digging into the Build Your Brave Protocol: Guest Edition so you can create a space where your dog feels safe and even starts to build confidence with each visit.

We’ll talk about:

  • Setting up a comfort zone before guests arrive

  • Responding based on your dog’s personality and needs

  • Prepping your guests so they’re part of the solution

  • Reading early signs of discomfort before things escalate

  • Knowing what “success” actually looks like for a fearful dog in guest situations

You’ll walk away with a step-by-step plan to help your dog move from just surviving visits… to feeling a little braver each time.

hope you enjoy this one! Tracy.

NEXT STEPS 👣🐾
🐶 Join the free Living Beyond Obedience Facebook community: www.facebook.com/groups/LivingBeyondObedience
🐾 Ready to go deeper? Check out The Fearful Dog: Fearless Framework at www.beyondobedience.ca/fearless

Special thanks for the music to Shawn Trotter — shawntrotter.com


Show more...
4 days ago
30 minutes 3 seconds

Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Behaviour Training, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs
129 | Why Quick Fixes Don’t Stick (and What Does)

Hey Dog Lover 🐾

We’ve all tried it—a new harness, a head halter, or that “miracle” tip from a midnight scroll. Sometimes, these quick fixes help… and that’s okay. But they’re not the full answer.

In this episode, we’ll explore:

  • How quick fixes can give you the breathing room to start real change

  • Why true progress comes from calm, consistent leadership—not just tools

  • The danger of staying “loud” in your communication with your dog

  • How to keep building connection and trust after the quick fix moment has passed

Your biggest takeaway? Quick fixes can open the door, but relationship and leadership are what build the house.

Hope you enjoy this one!

Tracy

NEXT STEPS 👣🐾🐶 Join the free Living Beyond Obedience Facebook community: ⁠www.facebook.com/groups/LivingBeyondObedience⁠🐾 Learn how to lead with clarity and confidence inside The Fearful Dog: Fearless Framework: ⁠www.beyondobedience.ca/fearless⁠

Special thanks for the music to Shawn Trotter — ⁠shawntrotter.com⁠


Show more...
1 week ago
32 minutes 56 seconds

Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Behaviour Training, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs
128 | "But I Have Tried EVERYTHING!"- When Everything is the Problem

Hey Dog Lover 🐾
Ever found yourself saying, “I’ve tried everything and nothing is working…”?

If your head is spinning and your dog still seems confused, you’re not broken—and neither is your dog.
You’re just stuck in the noise.

This episode is about why trying everything might actually be the thing holding you back… and how doing less can finally bring the calm and clarity you’ve both been craving.

Inside this episode:
🐾 Why system-hopping creates noise, not progress
🐾 How conflicting techniques confuse your dog (and rattle your own confidence)
🐾 What happens when we rush to do instead of slowing down to see
🐾 Why quiet observation is your most underrated leadership tool
🐾 A gentle practice to shift from chaos to connection—starting today

Spoiler alert: You don’t need to try more.
You need to see more.

Because real transformation isn’t about mastering a hundred training tools…
It’s about becoming someone your dog can count on—even when you’re doing nothing at all.

Hope you enjoy this episode. Be sure to rate, share and leave a comment!

Bye for now!

Tracy

🐾 NEXT STEPS — Choose Your Own Adventure 🐾

🎉 Join the Free Facebook Group
Surround yourself with people who get it.
The Living Beyond Obedience community is full of curious, committed, and kind-hearted dog lovers just like you.
Come share your wins, your “How interesting!” moments, and your questions—we're better together.
👉 facebook.com/groups/LivingBeyondObedience

🐕 Take the Dogonality™ Quiz
Wondering why your dog does that thing?
Want to understand their unique wiring so you can finally reach them—not just teach them?
Take the quiz and discover your dog’s Dogonality™ (it's more accurate than your zodiac sign 😉)
👉 www.beyondobedience.ca/quiz

💛 Step Inside the Fearless Framework
Okay, real talk:
Are you actually ready to make life with your dog easier, calmer, and (dare we say) enjoyable again?
Then why aren't you already inside the Fearless Framework?!
Inside, you'll learn how to:

  • Connect with your dog on their level (not ours)

  • Build trust without bribes, tools, or shouting

  • Reach your dog where they are, so everything else gets easier

You’ll stop second-guessing and start showing up as the calm, clear leader your dog already believes you can be.

Interested? Let’s do this.
👉 www.beyondobedience.ca/fearless
👉 Already know you want to BE in the Student community?

Enrol HERE

Special thanks to Shawn Trotter of shawntrotter.com for the music 🎶

Show more...
1 week ago
32 minutes 13 seconds

Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Behaviour Training, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs
127 | Leadership Isn't Loud: Why Quiet Confidence Works

Hey Dog Lover 🐾
Have you ever felt like you’re just not the “leader type”?
Maybe you’re not loud enough. Not confident enough. Not “trainer-y” enough.

Here’s the tail-wagging truth:
You don’t need to be loud. You don’t need to be dominant.
You just need to be clear. Calm. Trustworthy.

In this episode, we’re redefining leadership—not as something you do, but something you be.
Because your dog isn’t looking for perfection... they’re looking for someone who won’t crumble when things get messy.

Inside this episode:
🐾 Why “loud” doesn’t equal “leader” (and what actually builds trust)
🐾 What calm, quiet confidence really looks like—plus stories of Wellington and Nigel
🐾 How to use The Leadership Score Card™ to guide—not control—your dog
🐾 Why quiet, observant people often make the best leaders
🐾 And how to stop second-guessing and start showing up with grounded clarity

Your dog doesn’t need a boss. They need a guide.
This is your invitation to step into that role—with steadiness, not shouting.

Hope you enjoy this episode. Be sure to rate, share and leave a comment!

Tracy

NEXT STEP 🐾👣
If you're ready to take this whole living in harmony with your dog on a whole new level then you have to be inside:

The Fearless Framework, a 3-step process to build trust and confidence in both you and your dog.
💛 Learn how your dog learns
💛 Build calm routines that rebuild trust
💛 And walk through the world together—without bribes, tools, or overthinking.

Let's do this thing together!

Special thanks to Shawn Trotter of shawntrotter.com for the music 🎶



Show more...
2 weeks ago
33 minutes 3 seconds

Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Behaviour Training, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs
126 | Your Dog Isn't a Fur Baby- But You are Still A Parent

Hey Dog Lover! 🐾

Okay… so I don’t love the term “fur baby.” 🙃
But you know what? If you’re showing up, leading, loving, and learning alongside your dog—you are still parenting. Just not in the “let’s dress up for brunch” kind of way.

In this episode, I’m sharing a story about the time a parenting coach absolutely went off on me for suggesting that dog leadership and parenting might have something in common. Spoiler alert: her own story accidentally proved my point.

We’ll talk about:

  • Why “pet parenting” gets a bad rap (and how to do it better)

  • The 5 principles of parenting (from expert Dr. Aliza Pressman) that directly apply to dogs

  • How to lead your dog without dominating—or disappearing

  • Why repair matters more than perfection (yep, even with your dog)

This one isn’t about raising “obedient” dogs—it’s about becoming the person your dog feels safe to follow.

  • “Am I messing this up?”

  • “Will my dog ever forgive me?”

  • “Why is this SO hard sometimes?”

Then press play. You’re not alone—and you’re doing better than you think.

Come check out the Fearless Framework—the relationship-first way to lead your fearful or reactive dog with heart, not just habits.
Hope you enjoy this one!

Tracy

Be sure to like, share and rate the show!

NEXT STEPS 👣🐾

Join the Free Facebook Group Living Beyond Obedience for a like-minded fun community!


Ready to take this dog thing to the next level?

Join the Fearless Framework Student Community. Learn how to reach your dog so that everything else gets easier!


Special thanks to Shawn Trotter for the music. 🎶


Links:

Mels Robbins Episode with an interview with Dr Aliza Pressman

Show more...
2 weeks ago
25 minutes 9 seconds

Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Behaviour Training, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs
125 | Feeling Exhausted: Having a Dog Isn’t Supposed to Be This Much Work

Hey Dog Lover 🐾

You love your dog.
But if you're feeling frustrated, short-tempered, or just plain tired—this episode is for you.

Because here’s the truth:
You were told to train more. Socialize more. Enrich more.
But what happens when you don’t have anything more to give?

If having a dog is starting to feel like a full-time job... how interesting.

In this episode, we explore why the relationship might feel heavier than it should:

  • Why constant cueing means you’re always leading the dance (and that’s exhausting)

  • How micromanaging your dog signals a lack of trust

  • Why bribery might feel like connection—but isn’t

  • And how over-correcting chips away at your dog’s confidence and your own

This isn’t about trying harder.
It’s about trying differently.

Let’s trade control for connection.
Let’s shift from obedience to leadership.
And let’s build a relationship that feels sustainable—for both of you.

Hope you enjoy this episode. Be sure to leave a rating, review, or a comment to let me know you're enjoying this.

NEXT STEPS 🐾👣
If you’re ready to stop micromanaging and start mentoring—
The Fearless Framework helps you:
🐾 Build a relationship rooted in trust, not transactions
🐾 Let go of constant correcting and managing
🐾 Lead with calm, confident clarity—without burning out

Learn more: beyond-obedience.thrivecart.com/fearless

Special thanks to music composer Shawn Trotter at shawntrotter.com


Show more...
3 weeks ago
23 minutes 14 seconds

Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Behaviour Training, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs
124 | Help A Fearful Dog Out. Don't Make it Weird

Hey Dog Lover 🐾

You see a scared dog—and your heart jumps in to help.
So you crouch down, soften your voice, toss out a “hi sweetie”… and maybe even offer a little face-level fist bump of encouragement.

You know... "smell my hand, I am a good person"

And yet... the dog shrinks back even more.
Yikes.

Here’s the truth:
When dogs are feeling uncertain, we often get weird. We shrink ourselves, change our energy, or turn into a Disney side character trying to soothe a fear that actually needs leadership, not pity.

This episode is your reminder that being calm, clear, and normal is often the best thing you can offer a fearful dog.

We’ll unpack:

  • Why your tone, posture, and energy matter more than your words

  • How well-meaning “comforting” behaviours can actually confuse and pressure your dog

  • What dogs really need in moments of uncertainty (hint: not a squeaky-voiced cheerleader)

  • How to show up as steady—instead of shrinking down

When in doubt, don’t overdo it. Don’t over-emote.
Just lead. And don’t make it weird.

Hope you enjoy this episode. Be sure to leave a rating, review, or a comment to let me know you're enjoying this.

NEXT STEPS 🐾👣
Want to know how to respond in a way that builds trust—even in hard moments?
Inside the Fearless Framework, you'll learn how to:
🐾 Read your dog’s signals without second-guessing
🐾 Build calm confidence without coddling
🐾 Lead in a way that feels safe—for both of you

Join us at: beyond-obedience.thrivecart.com/fearless

Special thanks to music composer Shawn Trotter at shawntrotter.com


Show more...
3 weeks ago
28 minutes 11 seconds

Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Behaviour Training, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs
123 | When Your Dog Training Isn’t Working: 3 Signs It’s Not a Training Problem


Hey Dog Lover,🐾

If you’ve ever looked at your dog and thought, “But you know this… why aren’t you doing it?” — I see you. And I promise, you’re not alone.

In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on what’s really going on when your training isn’t landing—and why it might not be about training at all. 🤯

We’ll unpack 3 signs that your dog’s behaviour has less to do with disobedience and everything to do with trust, leadership, and nervous system overwhelm.

Here’s what we dig into:

  • Why your dog knows it—but doesn’t do it when it counts

  • How treat-bribing and over-cueing can quietly erode trust

  • What your dog needs instead of more reps or louder commands

We’ll also talk about that “I feel like a treat-dispensing robot” vibe—because the goal isn’t constant managing. The goal is calm, connected leadership that actually works in real life.

💭 What if it’s not about getting your dog to listen louder… but helping them feel safer to follow?

Let’s get curious (you know I love a good “How interesting!” moment), and gently shift from control to connection—one paw print at a time.

Hope you enjoy this one,
Tracy 🐾
Be the reason and the reward in your dog’s life.


NEXT STEPS 🐾👣

Are you inside our free Facebook community?
Come join us in Living Beyond Obedience—where we talk all things trust, relevance, and relationship-first dog life.
www.facebook.com/groups/LivingBeyondObedience

🐾 Ready to Do This Thing?

If you're tired of doing all the things and still not seeing the shift...
✨ Let's make living with your dog so much easier.
Join Fearless Framework—and build lasting confidence for you and your dog!
www.beyondobedience.ca/fearless

Show more...
4 weeks ago
16 minutes 33 seconds

Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Behaviour Training, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs
122 | The Answers to Questions You Never Asked: Helping a Fearful Dog Trust Again

Hey Dog Lover 🐾
What if your biggest goal right now wasn’t “get the dog outside”—
but build enough trust that they want to go with you?

In this episode, I share a real-life story from one of our new Facebook group members: Wendy, whose 6-month-old shelter pup is afraid to even step outside.
No walks. No potty. Just pads and a whole lot of uncertainty.

Sound familiar?

Here’s the truth:
Fearful dogs don’t need to be forced into bravery.
They need someone to believe in first.

We’ll explore:

  • Why trust is more important than “getting outside”

  • The power of daily patterns to calm a nervous system

  • How to stop pushing and start following your dog’s curiosity

  • What “BE With” looks like in real life

  • Why comfort zones aren’t a problem—they’re a starting point

This isn’t about “training through fear.”
It’s about becoming someone your dog can lean into, not away from.

Hope You Enjoy This One!

Cheers

Tracy

🐕 Next Steps:

If your dog shuts down, resists going outside, or just doesn’t feel safe in the world yet—this is exactly why I created the Fearless Framework.

Inside, you’ll learn how to:
✅ Break the fear cycle
✅ Build real trust (before asking for more)
✅ Create a calm, predictable rhythm
✅ Go from “potty pad only” to peaceful, connected walks

🎉 This isn’t obedience.
It’s the foundation for everything that comes after.

👉 beyond-obedience.thrivecart.com/fearless


Special Thanks:

🎵 Music by Shawn Trotter


Show more...
1 month ago
27 minutes 29 seconds

Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Behaviour Training, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs
121 | He’s Just Not That Into You (Yet): Why Your Dog Ignores You

Hey Dog Lover 🐾
Ever feel like you’re head-over-heels for your dog… but the feeling’s not exactly mutual?

You’re bringing the snacks, the snuggles, the “who’s a good boy” energy—and he’s over there sniffing dirt like you don’t even exist.
Yeah. We’ve all been there.

This episode is your loving-but-honest wake-up call:
If your dog only checks in for treats, ghosts you in new places, or forgets you exist on walks—it’s not because they don’t love you. It’s because they’re not into you… yet.

We’ll cover:

  • Why dogs aren't loyal to feelings—they're loyal to experiences

  • The “He’s Just Not That Into You” dating metaphor that explains so much

  • How to stop begging for attention and start earning curiosity

  • The “Play Hard to Get” strategy to make yourself magnetic again

  • How connection → curiosity → leadership (in that order)

This isn’t about obedience.
It’s about relevance.
And it starts with you becoming the most interesting thing in your dog’s world.

Hope you enjoy!

Tracy

P.S.

Next Steps 🐶

Want your dog to want to be with you—even when life is distracting?
Inside the Fearless Framework, you’ll learn how to:

✅ Build relationship-driven relevance that sticks
✅ Flip “meh” into “wow” using curiosity-based strategies
✅ Guide your dog’s focus—without begging, bribing, or barking
✅ Become someone your dog chooses to follow, even in hard places

No more chasing. No more clinging.
Just a calm, confident connection that changes everything.


Special Thanks:

🎵 Music by Shawn Trotter

Show more...
1 month ago
31 minutes 9 seconds

Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Behaviour Training, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs
120 | Vet Visits Hit Different: Your Dog's Worst Day

Hey Dog Lover 🐾
Does your dog panic the moment you pull into the vet clinic parking lot?
Do you start sweating before the car's even in park?

Vet visits with a fearful or reactive dog can feel like emotional combat.
You’re doing your best—but somehow it still ends in trembling, barking, and that deep, gnawing feeling: “Why is this so hard?”

Here’s the truth no one tells you:
You’re not failing.
Your dog’s not broken.
You’re just both navigating a world that doesn’t understand how safety is built.

In this episode, we’ll unpack:

  • Why vet visits overload your dog’s nervous system

  • How trauma sticks—and shows up in places you least expect

  • What calm leadership actually looks like in the chaos

  • A practical survival guide for tough vet days

  • A story of one very shaky car ride (and the lessons it taught me)

If you’ve ever wished the vet visit could just be less dramatic, this episode is your go-to plan for calm, clarity, and connection—even in the hard stuff.


Hope You Enjoy!

Tracy

Next Steps 🐾

If your dog spirals at the vet—and you spiral right along with them—you don’t need more treats. You need a better way to lead.

Inside the Fearless Framework, you’ll learn how to:

  • Build trust before the crisis hits

  • Handle high-stress moments without shutting down

  • Walk into the clinic like you’ve got a plan (because you do)

  • Be the calm in the chaos—even when your dog is losing it

This isn’t about “fixing” your dog.
It’s about becoming someone they can follow through the hardest stuff.

Come and be a part of an incredible community of dog lovers like you! I can't wait to start this journey with you.

SPECIAL THANKS:

🎵 Music by Shawn Trotter


Show more...
1 month ago
31 minutes 59 seconds

Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Behaviour Training, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs
119 | Love Isn’t Enough: Why You Still Can’t Trust Your Fearful Dog

Hey Dog Lover 🐾
You’ve done everything right.
You’ve loved hard. You’ve tried training, treats, supplements—even energy work.
But your dog still barks at strangers. Still panics on walks. Still can’t be trusted with guests or grandkids.

So what gives?

This episode is for the dog people who are holding heartbreak in one hand and a leash in the other—wondering why nothing’s working, and what to do next.

We’ll dig into:

  • Why obedience and affection aren’t enough for fearful dogs

  • What it actually means to be relevant (hint: it’s not dominance)

  • The leadership shift that changes everything: “How interesting.”

  • A simple “BE With” practice to rebuild trust—no commands, no food

  • A story from the barn that shows what real leadership looks like when it matters most

If you’ve ever whispered “I just want to trust my dog again…”
This conversation is your starting point.

Hope you enjoy!

Tracy🐾

Be sure to pop into the free Facebook group and say hi!

Living Beyond Obedience

Want to stop managing behaviour and start leading with confidence?
Come join the Fearless Framework—a relationship-first roadmap to help you and your dog build calm, trust, and resilience—naturally.
Because you already love your dog.
Now it’s time to become someone they can rely on.

🎵 Music by Shawn Trotter


Show more...
1 month ago
25 minutes 4 seconds

Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Behaviour Training, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs
118 | Your Dog Can Smell Your Stress-Now What?

Hey Dog Lover 🐾

Did you know your dog can smell your stress?
Not just sense it—literally smell it. Cortisol has a scent, and our dogs pick up on it long before we say a word.

In this episode, we’re unpacking how your dog reads your nervous system, why different Dogonalities™ respond in unique ways, and how to shift from reaction to calm, connected leadership.

You’ll walk away with a fresh understanding of why obedience isn’t the answer—and what to focus on instead to build real trust and safety.

Hope you enjoy!
~ Tracy

Your next steps 🐾
🌀 Take the Dogonality™ Quiz – Discover your dog’s unique personality so you can meet them where they are.
💬 Join the free community: Living Beyond Obedience Facebook Group – A place for curious, kind, dog-loving humans like you.
✨ Ready to take the next step? Want to work with me and hang out with some truly incredible dog lovers?
Come join us in the Fearless Framework—a relationship-first program designed to help you and your dog build calm confidence, mutual trust, and a life you both love living together.

Special thanks to Shawn Trotter for the beautiful music 🎶


Show more...
1 month ago
27 minutes 46 seconds

Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Behaviour Training, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs
117 | 4 Reasons Your Reactive Dog Was a Dream on Vacation (and What That Really Tells You)

Hey there, Dog Lover🐾

You packed the treats, braced for meltdowns, and hoped your reactive dog wouldn’t unravel the moment you left your driveway. But surprise! On vacation, your fearful dog was calm, confident, even easy.
What gives?

In this episode, I’m diving into what I call the vacation effect—and why a change of scenery can reveal a whole new side of your reactive or anxious dog. We’ll talk about how triggers, habit loops, and environmental pressure can influence your dog’s behavior way more than you think. And how trust-based leadership, not treats or obedience drills, is what helps your dog truly relax—even away from home.

You’ll walk away understanding:

  • Why fewer reactive triggers can lead to better behaviour

  • How your own nervous system impacts your dog’s regulation

  • What travel success tells us about trust, confidence, and relationship-based training

This isn’t about romanticizing vacation—it’s about recognizing what’s possible when your dog feels safe, supported, and seen.

NEXT STEPS:
Ready to step into a calm confident role for your dog. Learn to be who your dog needs you to be so you can start enjoying life again. 👉 Join the Fearless Framework: beyond-obedience.thrivecart.com/fearless
👉 Connect in our free Facebook group, Living Beyond Obedience: facebook.com/groups/livingbeyondobedience

Music by Shawn Trotter

Show more...
1 month ago
20 minutes 56 seconds

Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Behaviour Training, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs
116 | No Time? No Problem. What Your Dog Really Needs From You Today

Hey Dog Lover,🐾

Ever feel like you're never doing enough for your dog? Like your to-do list is longer than your leash, and somehow the walk still didn’t happen?

You’re not alone. In this episode, we’re talking about the pressure to “do more” and why that mindset might be getting in the way of the meaningful connection you and your dog both crave.

From stories about juggling dogs and real life (hello summer chaos 🥵) to a surprising lesson I learned from a teacup during Toastmasters, we’ll unpack:

  • Why the word “more” can feel like a mental brick wall 🧱

  • How guilt and shame sneak into our leadership (and how to send them packing)

  • The surprising power of being over doing

  • Why a 10-minute connection can mean more than a 2-hour checklist

  • And how to start replacing "more" with "meaningful"—starting today

You'll hear from real dog lovers just like you, explore the psychology behind the overwhelm, and get practical tools to find fulfillment without the frenzy.

Because guess what?
Your dog doesn’t need your perfection. They need your presence.
So take a breath, be the reason, be the reward… and maybe today, just be.

Hope you enjoy this one!

Tracy


NEXT STEPS🐾👣

  • Join the Living Beyond Obedience community for support from like-minded dog lovers

  • Discover your dog’s unique Dogonality Take the Quiz: www.beyondobedience.ca/quiz

  • Ready to truly shift your dog’s confidence? Check out the Fearless Framework: Fearless Framework


💬 And P.S.—I mention my Toastmasters speech “The Break Up” in this one.

The Break-up

https://youtu.be/bda1PZK8AfQ?si=kjMznpG22BQm54Xl



Show more...
1 month ago
25 minutes 33 seconds

Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Behaviour Training, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs
115 | Want A Deeper Bond with Your Dog? Ask, Don't Tell

Hey Dog Lover 🐾

What if the problem isn’t your dog’s behavior… but how we’re communicating?

In this episode, I share a powerful moment that shifted the way I think about leadership, clarity, and connection with our dogs. It's all about learning to ask instead of tell—and why that one shift makes such a big difference.

We’ll explore how your posture, tone, and intention shape the way your dog responds—and why asking with curiosity builds trust, while telling often creates tension.

Whether your dog is bold, sensitive, or somewhere in between, this conversation will help you lead in a way that feels better for both of you.

Hope you enjoy!
~ Tracy

Your next steps 🐾
🌀 Take the Dogonality™ Quiz – Discover your dog’s unique personality so you can communicate in a way that truly lands.
💬 Join our free community: Living Beyond Obedience Facebook Group – Connect with other like-minded dog lovers on the same journey.
✨ Ready to take the next step? Want to work with me and hang out with some incredible dog lovers?
Join us in the Fearless Framework—a relationship-first program designed to help you and your dog build calm confidence, mutual trust, and a life of connection over correction.

Special thanks to Shawn Trotter for the music 🎶

Let’s lead with curiosity, not commands, and give our dogs a reason to say yes with confidence.


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1 month ago
15 minutes 5 seconds

Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Behaviour Training, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs
114 | Fireworks Freakouts: Helping Your Fearful or Reactive Dog Stay Calm

Hey there Dog Lover! 🐾

It’s fireworks season!
And while we humans love the festivities... our dogs? Not so much.

If your fearful dog hides under the bed or your reactive dog goes into full panic mode at every boom, this episode is for you.

In today’s chat, we’re diving into why loud noises like fireworks trigger fear-based behaviours—and how you can start building a more confident, resilient dog without relying on obedience commands, endless treats, or outdated training methods.

We’ll talk about:

  • What’s really happening in your dog’s nervous system during stressful events

  • Why relationship-based training works when traditional obedience doesn’t

  • How to build trust and relevance so your dog sees you as someone worth following

  • The difference between managing fear vs. leading your dog through it

If you’re ready to step into calm, connected leadership, I’m here to show you it’s possible—without dominance, distractions, or “just let them bark it out” nonsense.

✨ Let’s replace confusion with clarity—and fear with confidence.

Ready for Next Steps:
👉 Join the Fearless Framework: a 3-step, trust-building system to help your fearful or reactive dog gain confidence and calm—naturally. beyond-obedience.thrivecart.com/fearless
👉 Come hang out in our free Facebook community Living Beyond Obedience: facebook.com/groups/livingbeyondobedience

Music by Shawn Trotter

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2 months ago
28 minutes 17 seconds

Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Behaviour Training, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs
113 | Driven by Instinct: How to Build Connection with Your Adventure Dog {Dogonality™ Series}

Hey Dog Lover 🐾


Ever feel like everything else in the environment is way more interesting than you?
The wind, a leaf, a squirrel 300 yards away—all have your dog’s full attention. You? Not so much.

Welcome to life with the Fearless Explorer—those bold, independent dogs who chase the world like it’s their job… and forget you’re even holding the leash.

In this episode, we’re unpacking:

  • Why your dog isn’t ignoring you—they’re just deeply invested elsewhere

  • How prey drive and independence show up as disconnection

  • What it really takes to become relevant in your dog’s eyes

✨ If this sounds like your dog, then you belong inside the Fearless Framework.
It’s the online program that helps you become the partner your bold explorer actually wants to follow—without bribing, begging, or battling for attention.
Enroll before July to get special bonuses, including lifetime access to all the goods we create moving forward.
www.beyondobedience.ca/fearless

🎶 Special shoutout to Shawn Trotter for the episode music—check out his work at shawntrotter.com

Hope you enjoy,
Tracy

P.S. Still not sure what your dog’s Dogonality™ is?
Take the free and freakishly accurate quiz at www.beyondobedience.ca/quiz



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2 months ago
25 minutes 43 seconds

Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Behaviour Training, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs
112 | When Your Dog’s Always in Flight Mode: How to Create Calm and Trust {Dogonality Series}

Hey Dog Lover 🐾
Is your dog always ready to bolt at the drop of a leaf?
Skittish, jumpy, hyper-alert—and constantly scanning for the exit?

That’s not just a “nervous temperament.” That’s flight mode. And for these dogs, the world feels like too much, too fast, too loud… all the time.

In this episode, we’re diving into what it really means to live with an overwhelmed runner and how you can help them slow down, stay longer, and start to feel safe in their own skin.

You’ll learn:

  • Why your dog can’t “just calm down”—and what to do instead

  • How to create safe, repeatable moments of pause

  • Why comfort zones aren’t just cozy—they’re crucial

✨ If this is your dog, we want you with us inside the Fearless Framework.
It’s where overwhelmed dogs find confidence, and where you learn to become the calm, steady presence they’ve been waiting for.
Join us before July to access exclusive bonuses—including lifetime access to all materials and future content.
www.beyondobedience.ca/fearless

🎶 Music in this episode by Shawn Trotter – check him out at shawntrotter.com

Hope you enjoy,
Tracy

P.S. Not sure what your dog’s Dogonality™ is yet?
Take the free quiz—it’s quick, fun, and freakishly accurate.
www.beyondobedience.ca/quiz

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2 months ago
22 minutes 49 seconds

Beyond Obedience | Dog Training, Dog Behaviour Training, Scared Dogs, Reactive Dogs
111 | Stuck in Stillness: How to Help Your Fearful Dog Move with Confidence {Dogonality Series}

Hey Dog Lover 🐾
Does fear stop your dog in their tracks?
No barking. No bolting. Just frozen—staring, trembling, unable to take a single step forward.

That’s not stubbornness. That’s survival mode. And for these sensitive souls, the stillness isn’t calm—it’s fear.

No treat in the world will get your dog to move if their brain is locked in freeze mode. And no amount of “it’s okay” will convince them it is.

In this episode, we’re digging into:

  • Why your dog won’t move (and why forcing it doesn’t help)

  • How to gently lead your dog out of the freeze and into trust

  • Why stillness is a red flag—and what real progress actually looks like

✨ If you’re living with a sensitive soul, you need to be with us inside the Fearless Framework.
This program is built specifically for fearful, shut-down, or reactive dogs—and the humans who love them.
Enroll before July to grab exclusive bonuses, including lifetime access to everything we create inside.
www.beyondobedience.ca/fearless

🎶 Special thanks to Shawn Trotter for this episode’s music. Check him out at shawntrotter.com

Hope you enjoy,
Tracy

P.S. Not sure about your dog’s Dogonality™ yet?
Take the quiz—it’s free, fun, and freakishly accurate.
www.beyondobedience.ca/quiz

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2 months ago
30 minutes 26 seconds

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!