Two Dog Trainers. No Filter. Everything You Were Afraid to Ask

Not every dog is the right fit for every person—and that's okay. In this episode, I sit down with dog trainer Zoë Holloway of The Dreaded Trainer for a candid conversation about dog breeds, training philosophies, behavior, and what it really means to meet the dog in front of you. From Rottweilers and Dachshunds to shelter dogs and designer mixes, we explore how breed traits, genetics, environment, and individual personality all play a role in shaping behavior. We also dive into some of the biggest misconceptions dog owners have about training, why understanding your dog's needs matters more than forcing obedience, and how unrealistic expectations can create frustration for both ends of the leash. In This Episode, You'll Hear: Why understanding your dog's breed traits can make training easier and help you set realistic expectations. How training the dog in front of you leads to better results than relying on one-size-fits-all advice. Why enrichment, management, and meeting your dog's needs often matter more than perfect obedience. Whether you're raising a puppy, living with a rescue dog, or simply trying to better understand the dog sharing your home, this conversation will give you a fresh perspective on what successful dog ownership can look like. Listen now for an honest discussion about dog training, breed traits, behavior, and building a life that works for both you and your dog. 🐾 Follow Zoë from The Dreaded Trainer on Instagram: ⁠@thedreadedtrainer⁠ Dog Nutrition Quiz Not sure if what you’re feeding is actually supporting your dog? Take the free quiz and get access to the Mini Bowl Blueprint 👉⁠ https://tinyurl.com/feedingquiz Free 15-Minute Clarity Call Feeling stuck or unsure what your dog needs? We’ll talk through what’s going on and find the next step together. 👉⁠ https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknow⁠ PetMatRx Supplements We Trust Supplements that support gut health and daily wellness. Use code FITZ20 to save. 👉⁠ https://tinyurl.com/PETMATRXtdwafm⁠ Email ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠ to get in touch with Em This podcast explores real life with dogs — including dog behavior, reactivity, dog anxiety, stress in dogs, fearful dogs, and everyday training challenges. It’s for dog parents who are overwhelmed navigating life with dogs and want a clearer understanding of their dog, practical support, and a stronger bond while creating a calmer daily life with their dogs. Episodes cover canine nutrition, dog body language, dog communication, dog food and behavior, gut health, dog wellness, enrichment for dogs, dog enrichment activities, routines, dog lifestyle, and regulation — so life with your dog can feel calmer, more manageable, and more sustainable. Hosted by a dog trainer, canine nutrition coach, and retired vet tech, the show blends training, nutrition, and enrichment to support and bond with sensitive, anxious, pure-bred, and rescue dogs at home and in real life. Affiliate links support the podcast and help fuel the RV dream 💛