In this episode of Enlightened by Dogs, we explore the topic of understanding and navigating the sensitivities, preferences and quirks that affect our daily lives with our dogs.   Here’s what we unpack in today’s episode: Understanding Mindset: We begin by exploring what a mindset is and how it influences our interactions with the world and our dogs. Your beliefs and perspectives can significantly impact the success of your relationship with your dog. Exploring Our Sensitivities: I invite...

In this episode, we journeyed further into the heart of understanding the unintended consequences of avoiding triggers and how such actions can inadvertently escalate reactivity in our dogs.    Be sure to listen to part 1: EBD301  “Shrinking Worlds, Growing Reactivity: Why Avoiding Triggers Backfires.”   One of the insights from this discussion is that trust is not transactional, and we can’t buy trust from our dogs at any price. Instead, trust is earned through consistent, reliable...

Recently, I've had the joy of exploring the often challenging terrain of reactivity in dogs, peeling back the layers to understand the underlying causes that sweep us and our canine companions into this whirlwind. It's been an enlightening journey, especially during my "Growing Together from Reactive to Remarkable" workshop, where we shared breakthroughs as dedicated dog moms.   In our latest episode, we've ventured into a topic that's both pivotal and potentially mind-bending: the...

This episode unfolds a compassionate and insightful exploration into what reactivity in dogs truly means, advocating for a profound shift in our understanding and response to it.    Kathy introduces listeners to a reimagined definition of reactivity, rooted in the complexities of canine communication and the frequent misunderstandings that arise when these communications go unheard or unheeded.    It challenges the common definition of reactivity—behavior that is inappropriately out of...

In this episode Kathy explores the nuanced communication between dog moms and their dogs, emphasizing the importance of understanding and reframing our perceptions of our dogs' behaviors.    Kathy shares the idea that behaviors we often interpret as disobedience or refusal are actually our dogs communicating their unmet needs. She advocates for a shift from correction to connection, suggesting that listening and engaging in a dialogue with our dogs can lead to a deeper understanding and a...

In this inspiring podcast replay, Kathy interviews Ros about her transformative experience with her two Hungarian Vizslas, Phoebe and Myrtle. Ros discusses the initial challenges of their reactivity and her subsequent journey to understanding and connecting with them in a way that led to an enjoyable life together.    The episode highlights the pivotal role of a dog mom’s mindset in influencing dog behavior, the importance of addressing the underlying causes of reactivity, and the...

Today’s episode addresses the common yet frustrating issue many dog moms face - their dogs not responding to recall in everyday situations.  In this insightful episode, host Kathy sheds light on why traditional command-based recall methods often fall short and offers a more effective, connection-based approach.  This podcast is essential for dog moms looking to understand their dogs better and build a relationship where recall becomes a natural, stress-free part of their daily life. Kathy...

In this episode, Kathy discusses the profound impact our subconscious beliefs can have on our dogs' behavior, drawing on the concept of the Pygmalion Effect or Self-fulfilling Prophecy.  Common frustrations and challenges dog moms face, like reactivity, over-excitement, and disobedience, can be transformed by starting with a shift from judgment to understanding and support.  Negative beliefs about our dogs can create a challenging loop of behavior that spirals into meltdowns or shutdowns,...

In this insightful episode, Kathy delves into the nuanced topic of leadership in the context of a relationship with our dogs that cultivates natural cooperation. She emphasizes the importance of being a loving leader without resorting to dominance or obedience training. Kathy explains that true leadership is about guiding, listening, and fostering trust rather than commanding or exerting control.    Kathy advocates for a leadership style that centers on making dogs feel safe, thereby...

Today on The Enlightened by Dogs Show, our host Kathy Kawalec dives deep into the beautiful world of empathy, connection, and mindful partnership with our dogs. She reminds us that it's not just about what we do, but also about who we are being in our relationship with our dogs. Our intentions and values shape our actions and the results we achieve.   To truly connect with our dogs, Kathy encourages us to reflect on what we truly value and desire in our relationship with them. She shares...

In this heartfelt episode, we delve into the essence of being a dog mom, exploring the powerful bond between women and their dogs, highlighting the unique perspectives and experiences that shape this relationship.  Kathy challenges conventional dog training philosophies, advocating for a partnership approach rooted in understanding, respect, and mutual growth. We delve into the concepts of power and leadership, contrasting traditional 'Power Over' methods with a more nurturing, 'Power WITH'...

As we step into the festive season, we often find ourselves swept up in the whirlwind of holiday preparations. However, amidst the glittering lights and cheerful melodies, our sensitive dogs can sense our stress along with the change in their environment, sometimes reflecting it in their own behavior. This season, Kathy invites you to create a holiday 'green zone' – a sanctuary of calm and connection for both you and your beloved dogs. Creating this green zone starts with us, the devoted dog...

In this podcast episode, Kathy Kawalec talks about the importance of communication in building a beautiful and cooperative relationship with our dogs. She starts by expressing how living with dogs is a gift, despite the challenges that sometimes come with it. Kathy emphasizes that communication with our dogs isn't just about giving commands; it's a two-way street. It's about exchanging ideas, feelings, and understanding each other's intentions. She points out that dogs don't just act out or...

Inspired by a Business Insider article on meditation's impact on the human brain, Kathy ponders whether our stressful lives might be affecting our dogs more than we realize in this replayed episode. This leads her to question if our hectic lifestyles might also be changing our dogs' brains, possibly increasing their stress and anxiety.   The strong bond we share with our dogs has been shaped by years of living together, and while our furry friends help reduce our stress, we might...

Sometimes, in the hustle of dog sports and the pursuit of the 'perfectly trained' dog, we might lose sight of why we welcomed these loving creatures into our lives in the first place. This episode is a gentle nudge to step back and cherish the unconditional love, companionship, and personal growth our dogs bring to us every single day.   In this episode, Kathy shares a heart-to-heart talk about the deep and enriching bond we share with our dogs and a reminder of what's truly important in...

Today's podcast is a beloved replay of Kathy’s special tribute to our faithful friends—our dogs. Dogs are embodiments of love, laughter, and connection. Yes, they can sometimes be the source of frustration, but the joy they sprinkle in our lives eclipses those fleeting moments of worry. And even when we face communication hurdles, the bond remains unshaken.   In the first segment of this podcast, Kathy shares an excerpt from Mary Oliver's "Dog Songs." The passage read is a testament to the...

We are replaying this deep and insightful episode of Enlightened By Dogs, where Kathy shares a story that many struggling dog moms will relate to. Hear how she overcame difficult challenges and learn how her hardest dog taught her the true meaning of living a joy-filled partnership lifestyle with dogs.   Some of our most important life lessons come from our hardest dogs. If it wasn’t for those challenges, Kathy tells us that she  would never have the experience, insight, and determination...

Today, we are replaying a compilation of inspiring tales from dog moms who faced various challenges with their reactive dogs and then completely turned things around.   From dogs barking incessantly at fences, reacting aggressively on leashes, fearing strangers, or simply refusing to move on sidewalks due to panic, these stories shine a light on hope. No matter the existing relationship with your dog - even if it's already good - there’s so much more!,   These dog moms embraced the...

Kathy Kawalec shares an intimate story about her border collie Maya, who had been rejected by three homes by the time she was six months old. Maya was labeled "untrainable" due to her uncontrollable and dangerous chasing habits. Experienced trainers struggled with her, but Kathy approached the situation differently. Instead of focusing on training specific behaviors, Kathy prioritized establishing a strong foundation with Maya, emphasizing these key partnership principles: Role modeling:...

Kathy is replaying this important episode featuring the journey she took with her sheltie from fearful to confident.  In this heartwarming and enlightening episode, Kathy reminisces about her journey with her Sable Sheltie, Haley, from the early 1990s. Beginning with a look at Haley's profound fear of strangers, the narrative evolves to reflect on the transformational nature of their bond.    Despite the obstacles they faced, like Haley's unexpected chase after horses, Kathy employed her...

Ever caught your dog looking into your eyes and felt they were trying to tell you something, but couldn't quite grasp their message? You try to listen, but deep down you continue to wonder what your dog is really trying to say.   Whether it's a simple need or a crucial warning, our four-legged friends communicate using body language, vocalizations, and various behaviors. While they can't 'speak human,' we often don't 'speak dog’ – creating misunderstandings that can lead to frustrations,...

do we jump to conclusions, thinking that our dogs are refusing to listen or choosing to be difficult? This week’s podcast episode invites us to see our dogs in a new light - as beings HAVING a hard time, NOT giving us a hard time. It’s all about creating “a life of compassion, connection, and cooperation with our dogs. And everyone else in our life too!”   Tune in and explore how we can be more forgiving and understanding, not just towards our dogs but also towards ourselves. 3 Key...

In this episode, Kathy explores the profound connection between our thoughts, feelings, and actions and the way they shape our lives with our dogs. We’re delving into how powerful our minds really are and how we can better utilize our brains to help us.   Our old ‘Lizzie’ brain often throws us off course, highlighting the hurdles and tough bits, convincing us to stick to the status quo, even when our hearts are yearning for change. Kathy encourages us to tap into our executive thinking...

In today’s heartwarming episode, we dive into the essence of consent and freedom in our relationship with our dogs. Reflecting on a coaching session from the Brilliant Partners Academy, we discuss how reimagining our approach towards dogs can build a deep-rooted trust and a cooperative partnership.    Many of our dogs face anxiety at the vet and with difficult caregiving procedures, and this episode provides insights on handling those situations. The conversation revolves around allowing...