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How Dogs Make Choices

Published on: 14th July, 2026

In this episode, Nikki touches on the neuroscience of making choices and how your dog's decision-making process isn't what you think.

Genetics, learning history, nervous system, memory and so much more goes into every "decision."

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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

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.