Think Like a Dog

Millie Braden and Andreia Albies
  • 4.6 (87)
  • How To

Welcome to Think Like a Dog podcast hosted by Millie Braden and Andreia Albies. We discuss how to build the best relationship with your dog, dog psychology, and help guide you into the leader position so all your dog has to do is relax and follow. You will get input from a professional dog trainer and dog parents. From rescues to reactivity, we'll cover it all. Send us your questions at: info@thinklikeadogpodcast.com Join Our Podcast: https://www.thinklikeadogpodcast.com/join

  1. May 18

    Why Most Dog Introductions Go Wrong: Leash Greetings, Socialization, and Neutrality

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Think Like a Dog, Andreia and Millie break down why so many dog-to-dog introductions go wrong and why humans often put too much pressure on dogs to “make friends.” They discuss why on-leash greetings can create tension, frustration, reactivity, and miscommunication, especially when dogs are pulling toward each other or being forced into an interaction. This conversation also explains why “dog friendly” is not always a clear or helpful label. Dogs have different personalities, limits, social skills, and preferences, and a successful greeting with one dog does not mean a dog will do well with every dog. Andreia and Millie talk through what healthy introductions should look like, why neutrality should come before socialization, what body language owners should watch for, and how shelter volunteers, fosters, adopters, and everyday dog owners can set dogs up for more successful interactions. This episode is especially helpful for dog owners dealing with leash reactivity, rescue dog introductions, dog park issues, multi-dog households, foster dogs, and anyone trying to better understand dog behavior and socialization. Support the show Follow Us On Instagram:  @thinklikeadogpodcast  @Mirrorimagek9 @OzzieAlbiesFoundation Work with Mirror Image K9 here:   https://www.mirrorimagek9.com/contactus Be Our Guest: https://www.thinklikeadogpodcast.com Learn More About The Best Chance Program: https://www.ozziealbiesfoundation.org/

    55 min

  2. May 4

    Q&A: Puppy Biting, Resource Guarding, Anxiety & Structure

    Send us Fan Mail In this Q&A episode of Think Like a Dog, Andreia and Millie answer listener questions covering dog behavior issues from preparing dogs for major life changes like a new baby, to managing resource guarding, food hoarding behaviors, and high-energy puppy nipping, this episode breaks down practical, real-world solutions. They explain why structure, boundaries, and consistency are the foundation of behavior change, and how small daily habits can shape a dog’s mindset. You’ll also hear insights on crate training, place work, leash pressure, and how to stop unwanted behaviors without creating more stress or confusion. Whether you’re dealing with a reactive dog, an anxious rescue, or an overly excited puppy, this episode provides clear, actionable strategies to help you build a calmer, more balanced relationship with your dog.  Support the show Follow Us On Instagram:  @thinklikeadogpodcast  @Mirrorimagek9 @OzzieAlbiesFoundation Work with Mirror Image K9 here:   https://www.mirrorimagek9.com/contactus Be Our Guest: https://www.thinklikeadogpodcast.com Learn More About The Best Chance Program: https://www.ozziealbiesfoundation.org/

    48 min

  3. Apr 20

    From Chaos to Clarity: How Structure Changed Bug’s Life

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Think Like a Dog, Andreia and Millie break down one of their most complex rescue cases: Bug. Bug isn’t your typical “easy” dog. With a bite history, reactivity triggers, and a personality that requires structure, he represents a category of dogs that are often misunderstood, and too often given up on. This conversation goes beyond surface-level training advice and dives into what it really means to live with, manage, and advocate for a dog like him. Bug is extremely smart, eager to learn, and full of potential, but like many dogs, people tend to focus on his challenges instead of his strengths. Andreia and Millie discuss the realities of bite risk, why structure is not punishment, and how environment, expectations, and human behavior directly shape a dog’s outcomes. They also explain why traditional “affection-first” approaches don’t work for every dog, and how clarity, routine, and leadership can completely transform behavior. This episode is essential for anyone dealing with reactivity, considering adoption, or trying to better understand dogs that don’t fit the “happy-go-lucky” mold. It challenges common myths in rescue and training and offers a more honest, effective framework for building a relationship with your dog. CLICK HERE to learn more about Bug.  Support the show Follow Us On Instagram:  @thinklikeadogpodcast  @Mirrorimagek9 @OzzieAlbiesFoundation Work with Mirror Image K9 here:   https://www.mirrorimagek9.com/contactus Be Our Guest: https://www.thinklikeadogpodcast.com Learn More About The Best Chance Program: https://www.ozziealbiesfoundation.org/

    49 min

  4. Apr 6

    Wiggle Room: When to Loosen the Rules With Your Dog

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Think Like a Dog, Millie is joined by the Mirror Image K9 trainers, Jill, Easton, and Connor, to break down one of the most misunderstood parts of dog ownership: when and how to give your dog “wiggle room.” Many owners focus on rules and structure at the beginning, but what happens after that? When can you start relaxing boundaries, and how do you know your dog has actually earned it? This conversation covers: What a full “relationship reset” looks like in the beginningWhy structure isn’t forever, but skipping it creates long-term issuesHow to tell if your dog is truly ready for more freedomThe biggest mistake owners make: cherry-picking training instead of fixing the foundationReal-life examples of dogs with reactivity, resource guarding, and inconsistent behaviorThe key takeaway: freedom is earned through clarity, consistency, and a healthy relationship, not time. If you’ve ever wondered: “How long do I need to be strict?” or “Can my dog handle more freedom yet?” This episode provides a clear framework for making those decisions correctly. Support the show Follow Us On Instagram:  @thinklikeadogpodcast  @Mirrorimagek9 @OzzieAlbiesFoundation Work with Mirror Image K9 here:   https://www.mirrorimagek9.com/contactus Be Our Guest: https://www.thinklikeadogpodcast.com Learn More About The Best Chance Program: https://www.ozziealbiesfoundation.org/

    35 min

  5. Mar 23

    Debunking Dog Myths: The Truth About Behavior, Body Language, and Training Tools

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Think Like a Dog, Andreia and Millie break down some of the most common misconceptions surrounding dog behavior, body language, and training. From the meaning behind a wagging tail to the truth about growling and excitement, they explain what dogs are actually communicating and why so many owners misinterpret it. They also dive into controversial topics like socialization and training tools, including e-collars, clarifying how and when they should be used properly. This episode focuses on helping dog owners better understand their dogs, set clear structure, and build stronger, more balanced relationships. If you’ve ever questioned whether your dog is truly “happy,” “stubborn,” or “misbehaving,” this episode provides the clarity and education you need. Support the show Follow Us On Instagram:  @thinklikeadogpodcast  @Mirrorimagek9 @OzzieAlbiesFoundation Work with Mirror Image K9 here:   https://www.mirrorimagek9.com/contactus Be Our Guest: https://www.thinklikeadogpodcast.com Learn More About The Best Chance Program: https://www.ozziealbiesfoundation.org/

    59 min

  6. Mar 9

    The Ultimate Guide to E-Collar Use in Dog Training

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Think Like a Dog Podcast, Millie is joined by professional trainers Easton, Brandon, and Jill from Mirror Image K9 for an in-depth discussion about when dog owners should consider seeking professional training support. The conversation focuses heavily on e-collar training, breaking down the philosophy behind the tool and explaining why proper foundation, timing, and safety are critical for success. The trainers explain how e-collars function as a communication tool rather than punishment, and why understanding pressure and release is essential before introducing any training equipment. You’ll learn how to identify your dog’s working level, how e-collar conditioning progresses through three structured phases, and how the tool can be used for real-world situations such as emergency recall, reactivity management, and resource guarding. This episode also addresses common misconceptions about e-collars and explains the safety protocols responsible trainers follow when incorporating them into a training program. If you're a dog owner considering professional guidance or looking to deepen your understanding of modern training tools, this episode provides practical insight from experienced trainers working with dogs of all temperaments. In this episode: • Why foundation training must come before any tool • The three phases of e-collar conditioning • How to find your dog’s working stimulation level • Safety guidelines and proper collar fit • Using e-collars for recall, reactivity, and behavior management Support the show Follow Us On Instagram:  @thinklikeadogpodcast  @Mirrorimagek9 @OzzieAlbiesFoundation Work with Mirror Image K9 here:   https://www.mirrorimagek9.com/contactus Be Our Guest: https://www.thinklikeadogpodcast.com Learn More About The Best Chance Program: https://www.ozziealbiesfoundation.org/

    54 min

  7. Feb 23

    Recognizing the Signs: When Your Dog Needs Professional Training Support

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Think Like a Dog Podcast, Millie is joined by three additional trainers from Mirror Image K9, Easton, Brandon, and Jill, for a conversation focused on helping owners recognize when it’s time to seek professional guidance. Together, they break down the behavioral patterns that often get minimized or managed rather than addressed, and how those small struggles can evolve into larger challenges. The trainers discuss insecurity in dogs, the critical role of early socialization, and the confusion many owners face when relying solely on online training advice. The episode also explores breed tendencies, commonly overlooked small dog behaviors, and the subtle ways avoidance can signal deeper issues. Throughout the discussion, the trainers emphasize that professional support isn’t about failure, it’s about strengthening the relationship between dog and owner while preventing escalation. This conversation offers practical insight for owners navigating uncertainty and reinforces the importance of intervening early to build confident, stable dogs. Support the show Follow Us On Instagram:  @thinklikeadogpodcast  @Mirrorimagek9 @OzzieAlbiesFoundation Work with Mirror Image K9 here:   https://www.mirrorimagek9.com/contactus Be Our Guest: https://www.thinklikeadogpodcast.com Learn More About The Best Chance Program: https://www.ozziealbiesfoundation.org/

    30 min

  8. Feb 9

    It’s Not a Command, It’s a State of Mind: The Real Purpose of ‘Place’

    Send us Fan Mail The “place” command is one of the most misunderstood tools in dog training, and it’s often taught in a way that completely misses its real purpose. In this episode of Think Like a Dog, we break down what “place” is actually meant to do for your dog. It’s not just about staying on a bed or mat. It’s about teaching emotional regulation, building coping skills, and creating a space where your dog can truly relax. We talk through why using “place” only during high-energy or stressful moments can backfire, how dogs form associations with their environment, and what calm actually looks like in training. You’ll learn practical techniques for teaching place the right way, including leash guidance, spatial pressure, tethering, and how to gradually introduce distractions without creating anxiety. This episode is for dog owners who want more than obedience—who want their dogs to feel safe, settled, and confident in a busy world. When taught correctly, “place” becomes a sanctuary, not a punishment. Support the show Follow Us On Instagram:  @thinklikeadogpodcast  @Mirrorimagek9 @OzzieAlbiesFoundation Work with Mirror Image K9 here:   https://www.mirrorimagek9.com/contactus Be Our Guest: https://www.thinklikeadogpodcast.com Learn More About The Best Chance Program: https://www.ozziealbiesfoundation.org/

    51 min
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4.6
out of 5
87 Ratings

About

Welcome to Think Like a Dog podcast hosted by Millie Braden and Andreia Albies. We discuss how to build the best relationship with your dog, dog psychology, and help guide you into the leader position so all your dog has to do is relax and follow. You will get input from a professional dog trainer and dog parents. From rescues to reactivity, we'll cover it all. Send us your questions at: info@thinklikeadogpodcast.com Join Our Podcast: https://www.thinklikeadogpodcast.com/join

Information

  • Creator
    Millie Braden and Andreia Albies
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    93
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Think Like a Dog
  • Show Website
    Think Like a Dog

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