full

Mixed Signals: How We Accidentally Confuse Our Dogs

Published on: 12th August, 2025

In this episode, we break down the subtle — and not-so-subtle — ways humans miscommunicate with their dogs. From snapping commands to overusing the leash, to being inconsistent with rules, these habits can create stress, anxiety, and frustration for your pup. Learn how your dog is reading your body language, tone, and patterns, and discover practical ways to replace mixed signals with clear, consistent communication. Your dog will thank you with calmer, more confident behavior.

dogspeak101.com

dogspeakgeek.thinkific.com

Herbal Dog Event

The Infinite Unfolding - Empowerment Coaching, Soul Transformation, 1 on 1 Coaching, Coaching and Empowerment

Mentioned in this episode:

Decoding Your Dog: A Live Behavior Support Session

Join me for a live virtual Q&A designed to help you make sense of your dog’s behavior and get clear, actionable guidance you can apply immediately. Whether you’re navigating reactivity, fear, stress-related behaviors, or everyday challenges, this session gives you the opportunity to ask direct questions and receive expert support in real time. You’ll walk away with a better understanding of what drives your dog’s behavior and practical steps you can start using the same day. Open to all dog guardians—bring your questions. January 8th, 2026 https://dogspeakgeek.thinkific.com/products/live_events/dog-behavior-live-event

Next Episode 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.