Fetch for Me, Human artwork

Fetch for Me, Human

43 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 1 year ago - ★★★★★ - 7 ratings

Do you have a reactive dog? Do you want to deepen your relationship with your dog? Do you want to do so many things in life with your reactive dog, but you aren't sure how because of his behavior? Have you searched for dog training advice online only to come up with so many results that you aren't sure who or what to follow? If you own a reactive dog or just want to live a better life with your dog, this is the show for you.

Fetch for Me, Human is hosted by Alix Mitchell, a professional dog trainer and dog owner of a reactive dog.

With over 10 years of experience with dogs as a dog trainer, veterinary technician, and program administrator for a United States government working dog program, Alix's life truly revolves around dogs.

In this show, Alix shares actionable advice stemming from the same knowledge that she used to conquer her own issues as a reactive dog owner and transform into a professional dog trainer and frequent hiker and adventurer with her reactive dog by her side.

These episodes are packed with actionable training steps rooted in science and rewards based training methods, travel tips and tricks, overall health and wellness advice, and bits of motivation and encouragement sprinkled in to help you navigate the emotional roller coaster of owning a reactive dog.

Sit back and listen or grab your earbuds while you take your dog for a walk, now is the time to start living a better and more active life with your reactive dog!

Pets & Animals Kids & Family Education dogadventures dogs dogtraining howtotrainadog reactivedog
Homepage Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed

Episodes

Pet Loss & Grief - Your Dog Has a Legacy

January 10, 2023 11:00 - 19 minutes - 26.1 MB

If you've ever had a special bond with a particular dog, then you know the life-changing impact they can have on your life. In this episode, I discuss that while some of us with dogs opt not to have kids, we can still leave a powerful legacy behind as a team with our dog.  I hope this episode brings you peace and helps you realize the amazing things you and your dog have accomplished together! Connect on Instagram! If you're interested in the Fluff Trough bowl for a brachycephalic dog,...

5 Thoughts to Leave Behind in 2022: Pet Owner Edition

January 03, 2023 11:00 - 31 minutes - 43.4 MB

Welcome to 2023! We are starting the year strong by discussing some of the negative habits we tend to have as dog owners, and guess what? We're going to leave this in 2022! In 2023, we're going to advocate for our dogs and change our mindset so that we can live better and more active lives together.  If this episode has you feeling some sort of way, I'd love if you would share to your Instagram Stories and tag me @fetchformehuman.com.  I would LOVE it if you would leave me a review on Ap...

33. So Your Dog Reacted, Now What? Part 2

April 28, 2022 09:47 - 45 minutes - 82.7 MB

This episode is a continuation of last week's discussion about changing our mindset about our dogs' reactions. In this episode, we discuss what we actually do with ourselves and with our dogs in a physical way, now that we've already addressed the mindset.  This is the leash I use from High Tail Hikes This is a good article to read by Eileen Anderson on why you can't reinforce emotions Connect with me on Instagram 

So Your Dog Reacted, Now what?

April 21, 2022 09:00 - 35 minutes - 65.8 MB

If your dog has ever reacted, then I bet that it's made you feel some sort of way. In this episode, we're discussing the two main reasons why our dog's reactions impact us and what we can do about that. If we change our mindset, put into perspective, and have realistic expectations, we can set ourselves up for success.  The only way to help your dog feel safe and comfortable in the world and to work on training techniques is to get outside and train and practice. Don't let the worry or anxiet...

32. So Your Dog Reacted, Now what?

April 21, 2022 09:00 - 35 minutes - 65.8 MB

If your dog has ever reacted, then I bet that it's made you feel some sort of way. In this episode, we're discussing the two main reasons why our dog's reactions impact us and what we can do about that. If we change our mindset, put into perspective, and have realistic expectations, we can set ourselves up for success.  The only way to help your dog feel safe and comfortable in the world and to work on training techniques is to get outside and train and practice. Don't let the worry or anxiet...

31. 10 Things My Dog Has Taught Me - Buster's 10th Birthday

March 26, 2022 13:15 - 59 minutes - 109 MB

Today is Buster's 10th birthday! Listen to this episode and celebrate with me by discussing 10 things that Buster has taught me.  Check out my website!  Connect on Instagram

30. Taking a Reactive Dog to the Vet? Listen to this!

April 14, 2021 09:59 - 40 minutes - 73.5 MB

In today's episode, we're discussing how stressful it can be to take a reactive dog to the vet, and some tips and tricks that can help make it an easier experience. Let's connect!

29. Leadership in Force Free Dog Training

March 16, 2021 08:00 - 48 minutes - 88.2 MB

Positive reinforcement based dog training does not mean permissive. Even when we utilize force free or R+ methods, we still believe in leadership in training our dogs.  Connect on Instagram! Follow us on Patreon!

28. How Veterinary Medicine is Failing our Imperfect Dogs

February 19, 2021 17:31 - 49 minutes - 90.9 MB

This is a lengthy episode, but it's because the topic is so important. This was sparked by an email response I received from a vet. That email response essentially confirmed my fears that I have been worried about as I've witnessed things happen first hand as a vet tech. Veterinary appointments are incredibly hard for a lot fo dogs, and it is our job and duty to make it easier for them; it's our job and duty to not give up on these dogs that have a hard time. Those dogs are just as worthy an...

27. 3 Tips for Loose Leash Walking with Your Dog

February 03, 2021 10:34 - 14 minutes - 26.1 MB

Do you struggle getting a loose leash walk with your reactive dog? This can make walking your dog a challenge, so in today's episode, we're going to be discussing loose leash walking. I'll be giving my 3 top tips for how to make sure you have a loose leash walk, so you and your dog can have fun and adventure more together and be less stressed.  Don't forget to enter our 2,000 follower giveaway on Instagram! Hang out with us on Patreon! Subscribe & Review If you enjoy this podcast and ...

Top 3 Things to Teach Your Dog

January 29, 2021 10:00 - 14 minutes - 25.7 MB

In today's episode, I'm discussing the top 3 things I think everyone should train with their dog. These are 3 things that I think will benefit every dog and their owner.  I'm at 2,000 followers now on Instagram, so keep an eye out for my 2,000 follower giveaway! I'm on Patreon! Click here to check out my tiers and subscribe!

26. Top 3 Things to Teach Your Dog

January 29, 2021 10:00 - 14 minutes - 25.7 MB

In today's episode, I'm discussing the top 3 things I think everyone should train with their dog. These are 3 things that I think will benefit every dog and their owner.  I'm at 2,000 followers now on Instagram, so keep an eye out for my 2,000 follower giveaway! I'm on Patreon! Click here to check out my tiers and subscribe!

25. What is Trigger Stacking?

January 20, 2021 01:23 - 17 minutes - 31.6 MB

Today, we're discussing trigger stacking. What is it, and how does it impact our dog training, especially with reactive dogs? Connect on Instagram!

24. Is the "Reactive" Label Good or Bad? Can Reactivity be Cured?

January 12, 2021 00:21 - 13 minutes - 24.9 MB

We give our dogs a label by calling them reactive, but is this reactive label actually helpful or harmful? Additionally, can reactivity be cured or fixed? These are the two main questions I'll be diving into and discussing in today's episode! Do you want in on my activity challenge? Or, whether you just want to chat - DM me on Instagram. Also stay tuned for my upcoming giveaway!

Goal Setting & Realistic Expectations in Dog Training

January 06, 2021 10:00 - 37 minutes - 68.2 MB

In this episode, we're discussing how I personally break down goals for dog training, and we're also talking about how to make sure we're setting realistic expectations.  DM me on Instagram!  Make sure to DM me your email address if you want to join my January training challenge! To download my PDF printable goal setting worksheet, just click here!  

22. Structure in Dog Training - What does it really mean?

December 29, 2020 10:00 - 26 minutes - 48.1 MB

Today, we're discussing structure in dog training and what it really means for your dog. Can your dog benefit from structure? CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM  

21. Kindness and Open-mindedness in the R+ Community

December 23, 2020 10:00 - 21 minutes - 39.7 MB

Today, I discuss topics surrounding kindness and open-mindedness in the R+ dog training community. This is something we all need to remember to strive for.    DM me on Instagram!

20. Why You Should Teach the Relaxation Protocol by Dr. Karen Overall

December 17, 2020 09:30 - 25 minutes - 46.7 MB

In this episode, I discuss why I recommend teaching the Relaxation Protocol by Dr. Karen Overall for all dogs and how it is different from place/stay.  Here is a step by step breakdown of the protocol.  This is a protocol in downloadable in mp3 format.  DM me on Instagram if you have questions!

19. Grab a coffee. Let's chat!

December 09, 2020 10:00 - 26 minutes - 48.5 MB

In this episode, I just wanted to catch up with you all - tell you where I've been, how things have been going, and the plans I have for the future.  Want to partake in my virtual dog activity advent calendar or have ideas for podcast episodes? DM on Instagram!

Training Tip Tuesday - How to Teach Place

June 30, 2020 05:00 - 9 minutes - 16.7 MB

In this episode, I give step by step directions on how to start teaching a place or station behavior. This is a foundation behavior that is useful in so many different scenarios, and I think all dogs should know this.  The main things to remember are: 1) Simply reset and put your dog back on the station if he leaves. 2) As you increase duration or distance, make sure you increase your rate of reinforcement. 3) Remember to experiment with the rate of reinforcement and slowly increase tim...

Training Tip Tuesday - High Value Treats

June 23, 2020 05:00 - 3 minutes - 6.08 MB

I've decided to make a new series on the podcast! Tuesdays will now be Training Tip Tuesdays. This will be super short episodes with one specific piece of advice or or something to think about the next time you go hiking with your dog or in your next training session.  Really though, I would love to answer YOUR questions in these episodes! You can email me at [email protected], or DM me on Instagram, or you can even leave me a voicemail! I want to make sure these episodes provide va...

16. Harnesses are NOT the Problem - Train Your Dog!

June 18, 2020 10:09 - 36 minutes - 66.1 MB

In this episode, we discuss why harnesses are NOT the problem. Harnesses do not ultimately encourage every dog to pull. In fact, harnesses can be used easily with great success. We discuss the differences between common harnesses on the market, and why some are not recommended and could be problematic for dogs. A good article about harnesses from Dr. Christine Zink https://www.caninesports.com/uploads/1/5/3/1/15319800/harnesses_for_agility_dogs.pdf CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM! JOIN THE FACE...

16. Harness are NOT the Problem - Train Your Dog!

June 18, 2020 10:09 - 36 minutes - 66.1 MB

In this episode, we discuss why harnesses are NOT the problem. Harnesses do not ultimately encourage every dog to pull. In fact, harnesses can be used easily with great success. We discuss the differences between common harnesses on the market, and why some are not recommended and could be problematic for dogs. A good article about harnesses from Dr. Christine Zink https://www.caninesports.com/uploads/1/5/3/1/15319800/harnesses_for_agility_dogs.pdf CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM! JOIN THE FACE...

15. A Sense of Normalcy in Tough Times

June 04, 2020 06:00 - 35 minutes - 64.1 MB

Connect on Instagram!   Subscribe and Review in iTunes! Are you subscribed to this podcast? If you're not, I encourage you to do so! This ensures that you don't miss an episode, and it's automatically downloaded to your phone.  If you really want to give me some positive reinforcement, I would be so grateful if you left me a review on iTunes as well. Those reviews help other people fid this podcast, which helps me help them and their dog! Just click here to review, select "Ratings a...

14. Tips for Car Travel with a Reactive Dog

May 07, 2020 05:00 - 25 minutes - 46.9 MB

Does your reactive dog have issues traveling in a car? Does he bark and react? In this episode, I share some tips on how to lessen the stress and anxiety (for you and your pup), so you can both travel in the car more comfortably.  Join the FB group! Connect on Instagram!

13. Practical Sustainability Tips for the Earth

April 30, 2020 06:00 - 26 minutes - 48.4 MB

Do you love the earth? Do you practice sustainability? Did you know that it can be really really easy to be more sustainable? There are even dog specific ways to be more sustainable and help the earth! In this episode, I give you a ton of tips not only for yourself but also for your dog! CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM! https://www.instagram.com/fetchformehuman/ JOIN THE FACEBOOK GROUP! https://www.facebook.com/groups/readysetfetchinsiders/ SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW IN ITUNES! https://podcasts.ap...

12. Unprecendented Times

April 02, 2020 06:00 - 28 minutes - 51.9 MB

These are unprecedented times. This can be particularly hard on a reactive dog as well as on you!  CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM! Subscribe and Review in iTunes! Are you subscribed to this podcast? If you're not, I encourage you to do so! This ensures that you don't miss an episode, and it's automatically downloaded to your phone.  If you really want to give me some positive reinforcement, I would be so grateful if you left me a review on iTunes as well. Those reviews help other people fid th...

11. Go Explore New Places

March 12, 2020 04:30 - 27 minutes - 50.7 MB

Do you get anxious or nervous when you travel to or hike in locations or parks? It can be unnerving when you don't know what to expect. We get comfortable in our "regular" parks, so branching out can be scary with a reactive dog. The good news? It doesn't have to be so scary! I provide some tips that help me get over my anxiety and prepare myself for unwanted situations that are more common in new environments. These tips should help you too! CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM! REACTIVE DOG COMMUNITY ...

10. Why I Use a Clicker in Training

March 05, 2020 07:00 - 18 minutes - 33.2 MB

In this episode, I share the top reasons why I use a clicker in training and why you should too.  LINKS: Buy clickers! (Please note - this is an affiliate disclosure. At no additional cost to you, I'll get a few cents to help me keep this podcast up and running!) Basically, the holy grail for all things related to clicker training is right here from Karen Pyror.  Check out the website! Reactive Dog Owner Community on Facebook! Follow me on Instagram!   Subscribe and Review i...

9. Be Quiet and Be Kind

February 27, 2020 07:00 - 21 minutes - 39 MB

In this episode, I want to discuss how important it is to communicate with others, specifically trainers who may have differing opinions, in a respectful and civil manner.  Subscribe and Review in iTunes! Are you subscribed to this podcast? If you're not, I encourage you to do so! This ensures that you don't miss an episode, and it's automatically downloaded to your phone.  If you really want to give me some positive reinforcement, I would be so grateful if you left me a review on iTun...

8. The Anxiety of Owning a Reactive Dog

February 20, 2020 07:30 - 29 minutes - 54.3 MB

In this episode, Alix discusses some of the anxiety that we all struggle with from time to time, especially in owning a reactive dog.  The article I referenced briefly - make sure you have tissues! THE WEBSITE The Reactive Dog Support Group on Facebook CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM Subscribe and Review in iTunes! Are you subscribed to this podcast? If you're not, I encourage you to do so! This ensures that you don't miss an episode, and it's automatically downloaded to your phone.  If y...

8. Ideas for Canine Enrichment

February 13, 2020 08:00 - 22 minutes - 41.8 MB

In this episode, I explain what canine enrichment is, and why it's important for your dog. I also give you a variety of ideas on how to get started on providing enrichment for your dog quickly and easily without spending any money! Get my guide on how to get started with canine enrichment! Join the Canine Enrichment Facebook group (PS - I'm in it, too!) Connect with me on Instagram! Join the Reactive Dog Support Group!  

7. 5 Lessons Owning a Reactive Dog has Taught Me

February 06, 2020 10:57 - 33 minutes - 60.8 MB

In this episode, I urge you to have a shift in your mindset and thinking. Instead of thinking of the struggles and the challenges of owning a reactive dog, try to see the positive in those situations. Buster has taught me a lot in life, and I really believe that I wouldn't have learned these valuable life lessons - at least to such an extent - if I would have had an easy, friendly dog. Looking at the positive side of owning a reactive dog can be a challenge, but when we choose to shift our t...

6. Everyone Deserves to Go Hiking

January 06, 2020 10:55 - 17 minutes - 32.5 MB

We participated in First Day Hikes this year on January 1, 2020. through the Virginia State Park system. As we were hiking, we had an experience that was unlike anything I've ever encountered before. This serves as a good reminder that everyone deserves to be outside in nature hiking - no matter what. 

5. Surviving the Holidays with a Reactive Dog

December 09, 2019 07:00 - 29 minutes - 53.5 MB

Do you have a reactive dog and struggle with what to do with them during the holidays when there are lots of gatherings and events and guests? This espidoe gives you some tips on how to the handle the holidays and having guests over all while having a reactive dog!

#4 - Buster's Story

November 27, 2019 02:20 - 40 minutes - 84.4 MB

In this episode, Alix describes Buster's story and life. This episode describes in details how Buster went from a non-reactive dog to a reactive dog and what that journey entailed. 

3. 5 Tips for Walking Your Reactive Dog

November 18, 2019 08:00 - 22 minutes - 50.9 MB

Today, we're going to discuss 5 tips for walking your reactive dog. If you're listening to this podcast, you are most likely a reactive dog owner. Likely, your whole goal in listening to this podcast is to gain more tips and knowledge so that you can start living a more active life with your dog. Of course, that means you have to get out, and you have to walk your dog. I know firsthand that walking a reactive dog can be challenging and stressful. You always have to be scanning the horizon to...

#3 - 5 Tips for Walking Your Reactive Dog

November 18, 2019 08:00 - 22 minutes - 50.9 MB

In this episode, Alix shares 5 tips to help you walk your reactive dog. These tips will help you walk your dog and be more active with your reactive dog! As mentioned in the episode, here are a couple of good videos on how to teach your dog a focused heel.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=45lk4_tud9Y https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eP3l9ouRnl8 Are you loving the podcast? Please leave a review! Positive reinforcement works well on humans too ;) Have a question or just want to chat? ...

#2 - 7 Reasons to Keep Your Dog On Leash

November 11, 2019 02:09 - 17 minutes - 31.2 MB

In this episode, Alix discusses 7 reasons to keep your dog on leash while out and about.  Connect with Alix and find your reactive dog tribe! The blog - www.fetchformehuman.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fetchformehuman/    

2. 7 Reasons to Keep Your Dog On Leash

November 11, 2019 02:09 - 17 minutes - 31.2 MB

Let me be clear - people with off leash dogs are ruining it for everyone. Not only are they ruining the experience for anyone they may directly come in contact with, but they are also potentially ruining it for everyone in the future. Most parks have leash laws. By violating those leash laws, they are risking these places to no longer allow dogs in the future. There are no ifs, ands, or buts. I assure you - your dog DOES NOT have some intrinsic requirement to be off leash. Your dog is not ...

7 Reasons to Keep Your Dog On Leash

November 11, 2019 02:09 - 17 minutes - 31.2 MB

In this episode, Alix discusses 7 reasons to keep your dog on leash while out and about.  Connect with Alix and find your reactive dog tribe! The blog - www.fetchformehuman.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fetchformehuman/    

1. Reactive Dog Tribe

November 05, 2019 11:06 - 4 minutes - 18.3 MB

Do you own a reactive dog? Or are you a dog trainer who focuses on reactive and aggressive dogs? Or do you have a pretty friendly and stable dog but you want to learn more about dogs in general? In this first episode, Alix lays the groundwork and sets some expectations on what you can expect from the Ready, Set, Fetch! Podcast going forward. This podcast is your one stop resource for everything and anything having to do with reactive dogs. You'll get actionable training tips to start trainin...

#1 - Reactive Dog Tribe

November 05, 2019 11:06 - 4 minutes - 18.3 MB

Do you own a reactive dog? Or are you a dog trainer who focuses on reactive and aggressive dogs? Or do you have a pretty friendly and stable dog but you want to learn more about dogs in general? In this first episode, Alix lays the groundwork and sets some expectations on what you can expect from the Ready, Set, Fetch! Podcast going forward. This podcast is your one stop resource for everything and anything having to do with reactive dogs. You'll get actionable training tips to start trainin...