Confessions of a Dog Trainer

If you've ever found yourself staring at your e-collar remote wondering if you should dial up, this episode is for you.

Today I'm walking you through three reactive dogs I've recently worked with—Sevro, Ru, and Shyam—and sharing the different e-collar levels, training decisions, and adjustments I've made along the way.

We're talking about why some dogs respond differently to the same levels, what I've learned about correcting intense staring versus barking and lunging, and why I'm always willing to change my approach when something isn't working.

I also share why giving your dog guidance after a correction is such an important part of the process, and why I want owners to feel more confident instead of constantly second-guessing themselves.

My hope is that hearing about these real training experiences helps you better understand how much nuance there is when working with reactive dogs.

Mentioned in this episode:

Reactive Dog Bundle: Get 10% off with discount code PODCAST.

Shop the Reactive Dog Bundle: WalkingDogTraining.com

Follow along on Instagram @walkingdogtraining to see training footage and highlights from the dogs discussed in this episode.

We got a puppy ♥️

After unexpectedly losing Theo and then saying goodbye to Charlie just a few days later, life has felt really heavy around here. And somehow, in the middle of all that grief, we found Stanley.

In this episode, I’m sharing a little about losing our boys, why getting another dog felt right for us, and what it’s been like bringing a nine-week-old puppy home when I haven’t raised a puppy in years — and now have a lot more experience as a dog trainer.

I’m talking about the things I actually care about with Stanley right now, from crate training and potty training to recall, using his kibble throughout the day, exposing him to sounds and new environments, and trying to prevent some of the struggles I’ve seen in dogs over the years.

And apparently knowing more about dog behavior has also turned me into a slightly insane, controlling puppy mom who watches to make sure Bobby says “go potty” at exactly the right moment. So there’s that.

Mostly, this episode is about puppies, grief, overthinking everything, and how much joy one little dog can bring into a house that really needed some.

In this episode of Confessions of a Dog Trainer, I’m sharing the real story behind the book I didn’t plan on writing - and why e-collar training became the thing I couldn’t stop thinking about.

After posting a few videos on Facebook and getting flooded with negative comments, I almost stopped sharing about e-collars altogether. But instead of getting defensive, something shifted. I got curious.

This episode breaks down the biggest misconceptions I see about e-collar training - the ones that keep so many dog owners stuck, overwhelmed, and unsure of what to trust.

If you’ve ever felt confused, hesitant, or judged for even considering an e-collar… this is for you.

In this episode, I talk about:

• Why I started writing my next book (working title: The Truth About E-Collar Training)
• The impact of negative comments on social media - and how it shifted my perspective
• How curiosity changed the way I respond to criticism
• The real goal behind this book: helping owners feel less confused and more confident

• “It’s a shock collar” Why that label is misleading and doesn’t reflect how modern e-collars are actually used
• “It electrocutes dogs” What e-collars actually are (muscle stimulation, similar to a TENS unit) and how they work
• “It’s a shortcut or lazy training” Why e-collar training actually requires more intention, structure, and consistency - not less

• Why saying “the e-collar doesn’t cause discomfort” can actually do more harm than good
• The importance of honesty and nuance when talking about training tools

The 3 Biggest E-Collar Misconceptions:Bonus Misconception:

Show Notes:

Resources Mentioned:

My book

• Dear Owner (available on Amazon)
• E-Collar Starter Guide

• Reactive Dog Handbook (E-Collar Training for Reactive Dogs)
• Separation Anxiety Guide
• 30-minute coaching / reassurance calls

In this episode of Confessions of a Dog Trainer, Bethany answers an amazing owner email from Brooke - who did a Board and Train with her two dogs, Maggie and Ivy, back in January 2023 - and has been feeling off track lately. If you’ve ever had a season where walks feel daunting, your confidence dips, and your dog’s behavior starts getting louder (hello, yard barking, ball obsession, and fence drama), this one will feel like a deep exhale.

Bethany walks through a practical reset plan that’s realistic for real life: walking dogs separately to rebuild your “mental muscle,” using the e-collar consistently so “no” becomes believable again, dialing up in meaningful jumps (not nagging), and focusing on just one or two priorities instead of trying to fix everything at once. She also covers how to handle prey-drive cat reactions, why heel position matters more than most owners realize, when muzzle training can be a great confidence tool, and how to use management (crate-and-rotate) to reduce chaos while you rebuild structure.

This episode is equal parts training strategy and owner reassurance - because getting off track doesn’t mean you failed. It just means today is a good day to reset.

Show notes resources:

•

E-Collar Starter Guide

•

Reactive Dog Handbook

•

Guide to Separation Anxiety

•

Problem Solver Guide

•

Seven Day Reset

•

Video Library

In today’s episode of Confessions of a Dog Trainer, I’m bringing you behind the scenes with Hazel - a sweet, houndy little “Bambi body” dog who’s fearful of people and famous for one frustrating walk habit: putting on the brakes and refusing to move.

I’m sharing what I expected when she arrived, what I actually saw, and the biggest game-changer in her training so far - including why the dial-up method on the e-collar didn’t work for her the way it usually does, and why a prong collar ended up being the missing piece to help her stop freezing and start moving forward.

We’ll also talk about one of my favorite confidence-building frameworks for nervous dogs: job + exposure (and exactly what that looked like for Hazel this week), how my dog Johnny helped her warm up to my husband without anyone forcing an interaction, and what “real progress” looks like when you’re living with a fearful dog (hint: it’s usually subtle - and easy to miss if you don’t know what to watch for).

Plus, I answer Hazel’s owner’s questions about measuring progress at home, nervous pooping, and whether running with a dog like Hazel is a good idea - and I touch briefly on Azula’s update, including why tools aren’t about “correcting dogs all over the place,” but about clear communication and safer, calmer outings.

If you have a nervous dog and you’ve ever wondered, Am I doing this right? - this one’s for you.

Products & Resources

•

Book: ⁠⁠Dear Owner⁠⁠ (⁠⁠Amazon link⁠⁠)

•

⁠⁠Dog Diary Desk Calendar ⁠⁠

•

⁠⁠E-Collar Starter Guide ⁠⁠

⁠E Collar Video Library ⁠

⁠Brick device - get 10% off code⁠

⁠Find me on Instagram @walkingdogtraining

In this episode, I’m walking you through week one with Azula - a 100+ lb Cane Corso in my 2-week board and train in Orlando, Florida - and what’s actually been making the biggest difference in her reactivity so far.

A lot of owners focus on the big reactive explosion (barking, lunging, chaos on the walk) - but I’m sharing the other moments that quietly fuel reactivity every day: rushing thresholds, pushy doorway behavior, over-the-top excitement, mouthing, jumping, whining, and all the “little stuff” that adds fuel to the fire.

I also share my real-time experience using a bark collar (the Bark Pro) to interrupt nighttime barking and kennel chaos - including the part where I accidentally had it set wrong at first (true confessions) - and how it’s been helping Azula settle and actually rest.

Plus, I answer owner questions like:

•

Why is she insanely reactive with me, but an angel without me - is it protection?

•

How do I set boundaries without “shutting my dog down”?

•

How do I know if a correction is too much?

•

How do I avoid my dog associating triggers (like other dogs) with stim?

•

Does breed-specific enrichment help with reactivity and anxiety?

•

What does “bluffing” mean with tone vs stim?

If you’re working through reactivity and feel like you’ve tried everything, this episode will help you zoom out and look at what’s happening outside the reactive moment - and how those pieces can change the walk more than you think.

Message me on Instagram @walkingdogtraining if you listened - I love hearing what clicked for you.

In this episode, Bethany breaks down how e-collar training can look totally different depending on the dog in front of you - and why it’s not a one-size-fits-all tool. She shares what she’s currently working on with Nola (a pushy 9-month-old Frenchie), what she’s preparing for with her first-ever Cup of Joe Scholarship board + train (a big, powerful, highly reactive dog already e-collar trained), and how her approach shifts for a dog who is extremely fearful of people.

Bethany walks you through her real-time thought process: how she handles drop-off day, why she ignores nervy dogs at first, what she’s watching for with kennel behavior, and how she thinks about safety and fit as a trainer. She also explains her framework for using the e-collar as both a boundary setter (stimulation - “red light”) and an encouraging guide (tone - “green light”), especially for fearful dogs where fleeing becomes the default option.

To wrap up, she answers three common questions owners ask: pairing “no” with stimulation, heeling vs potty needs, and how to handle judgment when your dog wears a muzzle - with a reminder that most people who get it are quietly rooting for you.

Products & Resources

•

Book: ⁠Dear Owner⁠ (⁠Amazon link⁠)

•

⁠Dog Diary Desk Calendar ⁠

•

⁠E-Collar Starter Guide ⁠

E Collar Video Library

Brick device - get 10% off code

Find me on Instagram @walkingdogtraining

In this episode of Confessions of a Dog Trainer, Bethany dives into one of the most common (and stressful) challenges for dog owners - living in a multi-dog household when one dog is resource guarding.

Using a real case study from her current board-and-train dog, Nola (a 9-month-old Frenchie navigating resource guarding with her housemate), Bethany explains what’s actually happening beneath the behavior, how to teach a clear “out” command using the e-collar, and how boundaries and management create safety and clarity for everyone involved.

You’ll hear practical tips for:

•

Working with one dog when you don’t have access to the other

•

Teaching “out” for both safety and emotional regulation

•

Why management isn’t failure — it’s leadership

•

How to use crate-and-rotate, place, and kennel time effectively

•

Why multi-dog training often feels messy before it feels better

Bethany also shares updates on her book Dear Owner, the Dog Diary calendar, new social media boundaries she’s setting, and why consistency (not perfection) is what actually creates change with your dog.

Whether you’re a trainer or a dog owner, this episode will help you feel less alone, more confident, and more clear on what to do when living with multiple dogs feels overwhelming.

Products & Resources

•

Book: Dear Owner (Amazon link)

•

Dog Diary Desk Calendar

•

Use code SALE26 for 20% off

•

E-Collar Starter Guide

•

E Collar Video Library

00:00 Welcome back to the pod!

02:53 Introducing Nola and Resource Guarding

06:11 E-Collar Training Insights

09:05 Teaching the 'Out' Command

11:58 Multi-Dog Household Management

19:45 Training Strategies for Multiple Dogs

27:55 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Two reactive dogs. Two very different personalities. In this episode, I walk you through what I’ve been prioritizing with Toast and Ozzy during their first few days of training, how I use the e-collar for both reactivity and recall, and why understanding “pushy” moments matters more than where reactivity stems from.

I’m sharing behind-the-scenes updates, breakthroughs with tone + stim, and how one correction helped Toast soften in a way that reminded me why I love this work. Plus: a little life update, a sprinkle of grief, and some lessons from my chickens.

This one’s for the dog owner who wants to better understand their reactive dog, and the trainer who’s ever wondered if they’re doing it right.

Resources mentioned:

→ E-Collar Starter Guide (now $50 off!)

→ Reactive Dog Handbook

→ Guide to Separation Anxiety

→Instagram Highlights: Toast & Ozzy @walkingdogtraining

🎧 Let me know what resonated over on IG!

Episode Description: In this episode of Confessions of a Dog Trainer, Bethany shares the inspiring story of Milo, a board and train dog whose sweet, sensitive personality made for a unique training journey. Bethany dives into how a dog's personality can drastically impact the pace and feel of their training, especially when introducing tools like the e-collar and prong collar.

She explains:

•

Why structure is key and how starting with the right tools changes everything

•

How Milo’s sensitive nature helped him quickly respond to training

•

The real role of the e-collar and how it creates clarity (not conflict)

•

Why comparing your dog’s progress to others is often misleading

•

How giving your dog a “job” like place or down can transform their behavior

Whether you're struggling with reactivity, pulling, or just trying to better understand your dog, this episode is packed with real-life examples, encouragement, and practical tips you can start using today.

Mentioned in the Episode:

•

E-Collar Starter Guide Episode

•

E-Collar Starter Guide Resource

•

Go Home Guide Template for Trainers

•

Walking Dog Training Website

Connect with Bethany:

•

Instagram: @walkingdogtraining

If you’ve got a little dog with big energy, this episode is for you. I’m talking through real-life lessons from recent board and train dogs - including a spicy little Frenchie named Valentina - and what surprised me about her reactivity and E-Collar training.

I’m also sharing a heartfelt update on the book I’m writing (Dear Owner), how grief shaped the timing, and why it feels more important than ever to share the stories that have shaped me (and my training).

Plus:

• When to upgrade from a Micro to a Mini Educator
• The mindset shift that helps owners stop underwhelming their dogs
• Why sustainability in training matters more than perfection
• How one message from an owner brought me to tears (in the best way)

If you’ve ever felt stuck, second-guessed your training, or wondered if you were doing it “wrong,” this one’s for you.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

• 🐾 Free 7-Day Reset Guide
• 🐾 Place Command Starter Guide
• 🐾 Free Reactivity Guide
• 🐾 E-Collar Starter Guide + Video Library
• 🐾 Separation Anxiety Guide
• 🐾 Reactive Dog Handbook

Connect with me on Instagram: @walkingdogtraining

Let me know what resonated with you — I love hearing from you.

Is your dog’s reactivity keeping you from enjoying walks? In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how I worked with Noelle, a highly reactive Australian Shepherd mix, and the game-changing approach that made all the difference using the e-collar.

I’ll walk you through:

✅ The most common mistake owners make when correcting reactivity
✅ How I determine the right e-collar level for each dog
✅ Why addressing the big reactive moment first is key
✅ The connection between anxiety, crate time, and the place command
✅ How one owner finally got it - and why her dog’s “calm muscle” is stronger than ever

If you’ve been hesitant about dialing up the e-collar or wondering if you’re doing it right, this episode is for you. Plus, I answer a fantastic listener question about whining vs. barking during reactivity - how do you know what to correct?

Let’s get into it!

🎧 Listen now & let me know what resonates with you!

Show links:

E Collar Starter Guide

Reactive Dog Bundle

Reassurance Coaching Calls - 30 minutes

Place Command Freebie

In this episode, Bethany discusses the training journey of Jax, an anxious Australian Shepherd. She shares insights on managing his whiny behavior, the effectiveness of the e-collar, and the importance of establishing calm routines. Bethany emphasizes the owner's role in continuing the training at home and offers practical advice for dog owners dealing with similar challenges. In this conversation, Bethany discusses effective dog training techniques, emphasizing the importance of establishing calm routines, consistency, and structure in a dog's life. She shares insights on how to manage anxious behaviors, the significance of giving dogs jobs to help them relax, and the necessity of navigating messy moments during training sessions. Bethany also highlights the need for tailored approaches based on individual dog behaviors and the positive impact of calmness on a dog's overall happiness.

Resources for YOU:

7-Day Reset Freebie

E Collar Starter Guide

Training Guide Bundles

Coaching Calls (aka Reassurance Calls)

Where I got my favorite coffee cup

In this episode of Confessions of a Dog Trainer, Bethany shares her experiences training a challenging dog named Jax, reflecting on personal loss and the importance of transparency in training. She discusses the use of e-collars, techniques for managing reactivity, and the significance of setting boundaries to improve dog behavior. Throughout the conversation, Bethany emphasizes the emotional journey of dog training and the small victories that lead to progress. In this conversation, Bethany discusses various aspects of dog training, focusing on reactivity, establishing boundaries, and the importance of owner involvement. She shares insights on managing a dog's behavior, the significance of daily exercise, and the exploration of new training outlets. The conversation emphasizes the need for a structured routine and the use of commands to foster a calmer mindset in dogs.

E Collar Starter Guide

Hands-Free Leashes

Coaching Sessions (aka Reassurance Calls!) - These calls are more than just advice—they’re a source of reassurance that you’re on the right track. By the end of the session, you’ll feel more empowered and ready to continue your journey toward a better relationship with your dog.

FREEBIES:E Collar Starter Cheat Sheets andThe Place Command Guide

Show Notes:

Go Home Guide Template

Coaching Sessions (aka Reassurance Calls)

The Trainer In You Mastermind- Apply for the next one in May!

I hope this episode inspires you! - Bethany

In this episode of Confessions of a Dog Trainer, Bethany shares her personal journey and reflections on dog training, particularly focusing on the joys of working with small dogs. She discusses effective training routines, calming techniques for dogs, and insights into crate training. Throughout the conversation, Bethany emphasizes the importance of creating a structured environment for dogs and how to set them up for success in various situations. She also touches on the significance of routine and consistency in training, offering practical tips for dog owners and trainers alike.

RESOURCES FOR YOU:

E Collar Starter Guide

Place Command Freebie

Owner/Trainer Coaching Calls

Use code CUPOFJOE to get 30% off any guide or bundle through 11/29 - - -shop linked here

In this episode of Confessions of a Dog Trainer, Bethany discusses the fundamentals of e-collar training, addressing common misconceptions and providing insights into how to effectively use e-collars for dog training. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the technology behind e-collars, the necessity of owner homework, and how to build confidence in both the dog and the owner. The conversation also covers managing reactivity, setting boundaries, and the positive impact of e-collar training on a dog's behavior and relationship with their owner.

E COLLAR STARTER CHEAT SHEET FREEBIE

PLACE COMMAND STARTER FREEBIE

Want to hop on a call with me?Click here to set up a 30 minute reassurance call and I'll help you come up with a game plan moving forward!

In this episode of Confessions of a Dog Trainer, Bethany discusses the significance of follow-up visits after a board and train program, emphasizing the importance of owner involvement in dog training. She shares insights on e-collar training, addressing common misconceptions and providing practical advice for managing dog reactivity. Through a real-life case study, Bethany illustrates how to effectively use e-collars while boosting a dog's confidence and ensuring a positive training experience. In this conversation, Bethany discusses the effective use of e-collars in dog training, emphasizing the importance of understanding the dog's behavior and the owner's role in the training process. She highlights the significance of follow-up visits, setting realistic expectations for owners, and providing them with the necessary resources to ensure success after training. The conversation also addresses common challenges faced by owners, such as reactivity and vocalization, and offers insights into navigating these issues with confidence and clarity.

Training Resources:

E Collar Starter Guide + Videos

Reactive Dog Training Bundle

Guide to Separation Anxiety

NEW Go Home Guide Template for trainers!

In this episode of 'Confessions of a Dog Trainer', Bethany and Kait discuss the complexities of dog behavior, training, and the expectations of dog owners. They reflect on personal experiences, including high school reunions, and delve into the importance of understanding individual dog needs, setting boundaries, and recognizing that not all dogs are suited for every social situation. The conversation emphasizes the significance of e-collar training, the impact of social media on perceptions of dog ownership, and the evolving nature of dog behavior over time. Ultimately, the episode serves as a reminder that dog ownership is a journey that requires patience, understanding, and adaptability.

Show Notes:

E Collar Starter Guide plus videos

30-Minute Coaching Calls

Chapters

00:00 High School Reunion Reflections

03:55 Understanding Dog Behavior and Owner Expectations

09:49 The Importance of Knowing Your Dog's Limits

15:47 Navigating Public Spaces with Dogs

18:21 Navigating Dog Socialization and Boundaries

19:18 Understanding Dog Behavior and Owner Expectations

22:48 The Importance of Realistic Training Goals

26:04 Adjusting Expectations for Dog Training

30:43 The Role of Privileges in Dog Behavior

34:41 Empowerment Through Setting Boundaries

39:55 Navigating Dog Ownership Challenges

43:30 Understanding Dog Behavior and Socialization

47:07 The Evolution of Dog Behavior Over Time

50:39 The Impact of Environment on Dog Behavior

54:05 Finding Balance in Dog Socialization

You can find more about Kait and everything she offers over athttps://www.kane9dogtraining.com

In this episode of Confessions of Dog Trainer, Bethany discusses the essential aspects of bringing a new dog or puppy home, including the importance of crate training, managing puppy behavior, and insights into e-collar training. She shares personal experiences, coaching session takeaways, and practical tips for new dog owners, emphasizing the significance of structure and routine in dog training. In this conversation, Bethany discusses various aspects of dog training, focusing on introducing puppies to older dogs, setting boundaries for resource guarding, and the importance of individual attention for multiple dogs. She emphasizes the use of e-collar training, the significance of establishing structure, and strategies to prevent leash reactivity. Throughout the discussion, Bethany shares personal anecdotes and practical tips for dog owners to enhance their training experience and foster positive relationships with their pets.

Podcast resources:

E Collar Starter Guide

Reactive Dog Handbook

Guide to Separation Anxiety

Training Guide Bundles

Episode Chapters:

02:50 E-Collar Training Insights

05:46 Coping with Loss and Grief

09:05 Owner Coaching Session Takeaways

12:00 Bringing a New Dog or Puppy Home

14:56 Crate Training Essentials

17:45 Managing Puppy Behavior

21:03 Introducing Puppies to Older Dogs

33:25 Setting Boundaries and Structure for Resource Guarding

35:24 Individual Time and Attention for Multiple Dogs

38:18 Training Basics Before E-Collar Introduction

42:41 E-Collar Training Insights and Recommendations

47:10 Preventing Leash Reactivity and Managing Hyperactivity