full

Connected, Not Controlled-Canine Couch Convo with Britt

Published on: 9th September, 2026

In this Canine Couch Convo, we’re talking about the dogs we know and love best—our own. We share some of our favorite things about each of our dogs, the traits that make them uniquely who they are, and what those relationships have taught us along the way.

We also talk about Britt’s dad’s dog, who has had very little formal training yet is incredibly responsive to him. Why? Because responsiveness isn’t always built through obedience. Sometimes it comes from trust, connection, clear communication, and having a dog’s genetic needs understood and fulfilled.

This conversation is a reminder that a strong relationship with your dog isn’t about controlling every behavior. It’s about knowing who they are, meeting their needs, and building the kind of connection that makes them want to stay engaged with you.

Get Nikki's new book, The Dog Beneath the Behavior, on Amazon.

www.dogspeak101.com

www.dogspeakgeek.thinkific.com

www.patreon.com/dogspeak

All Episodes Previous Episode
Mailing List

Mailing List

Join our bi-weekly newsletter to ensure you receive all of our updated opportunities, training advice, and more!
Thank you, you have been subscribed.

Listen for free

Show artwork for DogSpeak: Redefining Dog Training

About the Podcast

DogSpeak: Redefining Dog Training
Talking behavior and giving owners the tools they need to improve their relationship with their dog.

Understand your dog better with DogSpeak founder, Nikki Ivey--a professional Canine Behavior Specialist, trainer and Family Dog Mediator. Learn why it's not about just fixing your dog's behavior but about understanding why the behavior is occurring. Nikki often shares the mic with wife and DogSpeak manager, Britteny, along with other fantastic guests. Whether the discussion is about real life manners, inappropriate behavior or nutrition, this podcast has it all. We focus on building relationships, not dictatorships. Learn more about DogSpeak and Nikki Ivey by checking out www.dogspeak101.com. Become a Patreon member by visiting www.patreon.com/dogspeak 

About your host

Profile picture for Nikki Ivey

Nikki Ivey

Nikki Ivey is DogSpeak's™ founder, trainer and canine behavioral specialist. She is a certified Family Dog Mediator and Pet Food Nutrition Specialist. She has been training dogs and their owners since 1996. Nikki primarily works with dogs displaying behavioral issues such as dog and human aggression, fear and anxiety. In addition to in-home sessions, she hosts the DogSpeak™ podcast, and teaches multiple workshops and seminars.

Nikki is a former search and rescue handler, instructor and trainer.

Nikki owned and operated one of the first daycare facilities in the Nashville area, and now assists daycare and kennel owners in their own facilities. She has also written multiple books and produced several online courses to assist pet owners, business owners and their staff, and rescue organizations.

In her free time, Nikki enjoys spending time with her family (including 2 dogs and 3 cats), working out and hosting The Full Breakdown podcast with co-host, Julie Roberts.