Barks to Basic Podcast
Barks to Basics is our podcast for dog owners who want real talk, clear advice and easy to follow training guidance. We tackle everyday problems and challenges that come with raising and living with dogs. We break down the why behind the behaviour and how to make lasting change. No fluff, no gimmicks, just calm, confident support, one episode at a time!
EPISODE 006 - BOOMS, BANGS AND SAFE SPACES: HELPING YOUR SOUND-SENSITIVE DOG
In this episode of Barks to Basics, Renee explores the world of canine sound sensitivity and asks: why do some dogs fear fireworks and storms, while others hardly react at all? Is sound sensitivity something dogs are born with, or can it develop later in life through stress, pain or negative experiences?
Drawing on behavioural science, real-life cases and years of hands-on experience, Renee breaks down the difference between primary sensitivity, where dogs are naturally more reactive to sound, and secondary sensitivity, where fear is learned through association. She explains why fireworks and thunderstorms are such powerful triggers, how the canine brain processes fear, and why these experiences can have such a lasting impact.
You will hear practical advice on recognising the signs of sound sensitivity, how to create safe spaces and routines that help your dog feel secure, and which training methods and support options can make the biggest difference. Whether your dog trembles at every bang or simply shows unease during noisy events, this episode offers understanding, compassion and science-backed strategies to help them cope. By the end, you will see that sound sensitivity is not a one-size-fits-all problem. With choice, safety and the right support, every dog can feel calmer and more secure, even when the sky is lit up with fireworks.
EPISODE 005 - INSIDE YOUR DOGS EMOTIONAL RADAR
In this episode of Barks to Basics, Renee dives into the emotional world of dogs and asks: What really happens when we cry in front of our pets? Do dogs understand sadness? Are they trying to comfort us, or are they simply reacting to change? Through real-life stories, behavioural insight, and years of hands-on experience, Renee explores the many ways dogs respond to human emotion, whether it’s licking your face, pacing the room, or quietly walking away. You’ll hear relatable examples (with names and details changed to protect privacy) that shed light on how individual temperament, history, and human interaction all play a role in shaping a dog’s reaction. Whether your dog is a full-on cuddler or keeps their distance during tough moments, this episode helps you see their behaviour with fresh understanding and compassion.
EPISODE 004 - HOW CHOICE AND SAFETY CHANGE BEHAVIOURS
Does your dog seem unsure around new people, freeze when approached, or react suddenly in situations that feel unpredictable? Maybe they are not being difficult. Maybe their brain is simply trying to stay safe. In this episode, we are looking inside the canine nervous system to explore why fear-based behaviours happen, and how a method we developed at Paws Academy, called Trust Step, can help.
This approach is grounded in neuroscience but designed for real life. You will learn what is really going on when dogs bark, bolt or avoid, why control is often the missing piece in training plans, and how to use clear, consistent patterns to help your dog feel safe enough to choose connection instead of retreat.
We will walk you through how Trust Step works, what makes it different from common techniques like luring or exposure, and how to avoid mistakes that can make progress slower. We will also share real stories of dogs who moved from shutdown to confident, not by being pushed, but by being given a choice.
If you live with a dog who is fearful, sensitive or reactive, or if you support clients who do, this episode is for you. It is practical, thoughtful and built on real experience. No complicated routines. Just one step at a time, led by what the dog is ready for.
Tune in and explore a new way of thinking about behaviour, trust and choice.
EPISODE 003 - WHY YOUR DOG JUMPS AND HOW TO FIX IT
Does your dog launch themselves at you the moment you walk through the door? Are guests being greeted with two paws on their chest and a flurry of excitement? In this episode, we’re breaking down exactly why dogs jump up and more importantly, how you can put a stop to it without the stress. Jumping might seem like harmless enthusiasm but for many owners it becomes frustrating fast. The good news is it’s a behaviour you can change with some simple adjustments and a bit of consistency. We’ll talk about why dogs do it in the first place, how your reactions might be accidentally encouraging it and what to do instead. You’ll get straightforward, no-nonsense advice that actually fits into real life. No complicated routines. No gimmicks. Just clear steps that work. We’ll also cover what to do when guests come over, how to set your dog up for success and why even negative attention can keep the problem going. If you’ve got a puppy who’s just starting to jump or an older dog who’s made it a habit, this episode will help you understand what’s going on and give you practical ways to fix it. As always, we keep it honest, realistic and focused on building good habits that last. Whether your dog jumps up in excitement, frustration or just for fun, this is your guide to calmer greetings and fewer muddy paw prints. Listen in, and let’s get your dog’s feet back on the ground. Literally.
EPISODE 002 - BUILDING CONFIDENCE AND UNDERSTANDING RESILIENCY IN DOGS
In this episode, we delve into the psychology of canine resilience, what it really means, why it’s important, and how you can support your dog in bouncing back from stress with calm and confidence. Whether you’re working with a nervous rescue, an anxious puppy, or simply wish to deepen your understanding of your dog’s emotional world, this episode offers valuable insight.You’ll learn what resilience looks like in dogs and how they experience and recover from stress. We’ll explore the influence of early life, environment, and training in shaping emotional resilience, along with practical, everyday ways to build confidence and emotional strength in your dog. We’ll also highlight common mistakes to avoid and share a real-life success story from Paws Academy to bring these ideas to life. Because training is about so much more than commands, it’s about building a genuine connection.