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Straight Up Dog Talk Podcast
Home
Blog
Nutrition & Enrichment
Sponsors
For Dogs That Ask
  • Fuel the Mission & Listen
  • Products & Partners
  • Dog Training with Trust
  • Rescues & Resources
  • Programs & Freebies
  • Streaming Platforms
  • SUDT Instagram
  • Em's Instagram
  • YouTube
  • Merch
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  • Home
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  • Nutrition & Enrichment
  • Sponsors
  • For Dogs That Ask
    • Fuel the Mission & Listen
    • Products & Partners
    • Dog Training with Trust
    • Rescues & Resources
    • Programs & Freebies
    • Streaming Platforms
    • SUDT Instagram
    • Em's Instagram
    • YouTube
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Book Your Free 30-Minute Consult

Book Now

DOG TRAINING FOR CONNECTION

Personalized, Judgment-Free Support for Dogs Who Ask for More

 

Some dogs need more than obedience cues or generic training plans—they need care that looks at the whole picture: their emotions, their environment, and even what’s in their bowl.


Whether you’re navigating reactivity, enrichment needs, gut health, or communication breakdowns, I’ll help you create a realistic plan that supports behavior from the inside out.


Through personalized virtual coaching, we’ll:

  • Address behavior challenges with clarity and confidence
  • Strengthen communication and trust between you and your dog
  • Incorporate nutrition and enrichment strategies that support training—not work against it
  • Build calm, connection, and lasting results
     

When we listen to the dog in front of us—and meet their behavioral and nutritional needs—real transformation happens. Together, we’ll reduce stress, strengthen your bond, and help your dog feel safe, understood, and supported.

Meet Em

Hi, I’m Em—a lifelong dog lover turned professional trainer with a passion for helping both dogs and their people thrive.


My first word was “dog,” and I’ve spent my life surrounded by four-legged friends. Over the last 20+ years, I’ve worn many hats in the pet world—vet tech, pet sitter, dog walker—and each role deepened my understanding of canine behavior, body language, and what it really takes to build trust.


But my biggest teacher has been my own dog, Fitz. His big feelings and endless energy showed me that traditional methods don’t always work—and that training needs to be as unique as the dog in front of you. That realization led me to explore alternative approaches and seek out mentors who valued compassion, communication, and real-life results.


To expand my expertise, I’ve:

  • Completed two professional dog training apprenticeships
  • Shadowed a service dog trainer for several months
  • Earned certifications as a Family Dog Mediator, DN Certified Enrichment Technician, and Trick Trainer
  • Continued education toward the CPDT-KA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed)
  • Pursued advanced study as a Certified Professional Canine Nutritionist (CPCN)
     

These experiences shaped my approach: science-backed, ethical, and judgment-free—always tailored to each unique dog and their guardian. I integrate training, enrichment, and nutrition to support the whole dog, because behavior doesn’t exist in a vacuum.


My mission is simple: to be the trainer I wish I had years ago. Someone who listens without judgment, understands the overwhelm, and offers solutions that truly work.

Together, we’ll create calm, confidence, and connection—for both you and your dog.


Let’s get started — book your free consult today.

Book now

5 Daily Habits to Help Your Big-Feeling Dog Feel Calmer

Straight Up Dog Training Consultations

1:1 Virtual Dog Training Consultation

Personalized Support for You and Your Dog

Get expert guidance—without leaving home. In this personalized Zoom session, you’ll receive tailored support to address your dog’s unique needs through training, enrichment, and nutrition strategies that work together to create lasting change.

Together, we can:

  • Address your dog’s specific behavior or training challenges with customized solutions
     
  • Explore enrichment activities to keep their mind sharp and body engaged
     
  • Incorporate nutrition strategies that support emotional regulation and behavior
     
  • Build a play and training plan that fits your dog’s personality and energy level
     

Whether you’re navigating reactivity, big feelings, or simply looking to bring more structure and calm to daily life, this session is designed to give you clarity, confidence, and a clear path forward.


Book your Zoom session today and start building a stronger, calmer bond with your dog.

Book Now

In Person & Hybrid Dog Training

Transform Your Dog’s Life with Em — In Cedar Rapids and Beyond

Looking for training that meets you and your dog where you are? Whether you want hands-on, in-home support or a flexible hybrid model, you’ll find the perfect fit here.


Training Options

In-Home Private Training
One-on-one, personalized coaching tailored to your dog’s unique needs—all in the comfort of your home. We’ll work on real-life skills where they matter most.


Hybrid Training
Blend the convenience of virtual coaching with the power of in-person sessions. This flexible option gives you personalized structure and support while working around your schedule.


With Em’s Support, You’ll Learn How To:

  • Address behavioral challenges with confidence and compassion
     
  • Strengthen trust, communication, and understanding
     
  • Support your dog’s natural instincts through enrichment and play
     
  • Build a deeper bond and create calm, lasting results
     

📍 Serving Cedar Rapids, Marion, Hiawatha, and surrounding areas.
Availability for hybrid training is limited and depends on RV travel schedule—ask about openings during your free consult.


👉 Book your consult today and take the first step toward a more connected, harmonious life with your dog.

Book Now

Mini Courses & Self-Guided Support

Real-Life Support You Can Start Right Now—At Your Own Pace

This section is your home for self-guided programs and resources designed to give you clarity, relief, and tangible results—without the pressure of getting everything “perfect.”


Whether you’re navigating reactivity, overstimulation, mealtime struggles, or simply trying to meet your dog’s needs in a more sustainable way, these programs were created to meet you where you are.


Some options include a bonus Zoom call for extra guidance, while others are fully self-paced so you can move through them on your own timeline. Each one is rooted in lived experience, practical strategies, and the emotional truth of raising a big-feeling dog.


What You’ll Get

  • Learn at your own pace
  • Instant access after purchase
  • Optional support calls where noted
  • Designed with both ends of the leash in mind
     

You’re not behind—you’re building a new way forward, one thoughtful step at a time.

Start Learning

Virtual Dog Training Programs

 Transform Your Dog’s Behavior with Personalized Support

Say goodbye to frustrating training sessions and hello to a calmer, more connected relationship with your dog. These virtual training programs are designed to fit your lifestyle while addressing your dog’s unique needs—without rigid schedules or cookie-cutter advice.


Program Options

  • 4-Week Program – Target specific behavior challenges with focused support
  • 6-Week Program – Build strong foundational skills and everyday confidence
  • 8-Week Program – Comprehensive plan for advanced behaviors and lasting results
     

After your consultation and intake, you’ll receive a fully customized training plan tailored to your dog and your goals. With ongoing feedback and judgment-free guidance, you’ll have the tools and clarity to create real, sustainable change—at a pace that works for you.


👉 Book your free consult today and take the first step toward a calmer, more harmonious life with your dog.

Book now

Limited monthly spots available

Free Consultation

Spaces fill quickly—especially for hybrid training. Book your consult today to find the right program for you and your dog, check current availability, and take the first step toward a calmer, more connected life together. 

Book Now

Your Dog Training Experience with Em

What to Expect When Training Your Dog with Me


  • 1:1 Consultation (30 Minutes) – We’ll start with a personalized consult to discuss your goals and create a training plan that fits your dog and your lifestyle.
     
  • Foundational Skills That Last – Learn and practice essential skills together, building a strong foundation you can rely on for years to come.
     
  • Strengthen Your Bond – Training goes beyond behavior—it’s about trust, communication, and a deeper connection with your dog.
     
  • Build Confidence in Real Life – Apply new skills to everyday situations so both of you feel supported outside of “training time.”
     
  • Ongoing Support & Communication – Receive direct access to me for guidance, encouragement, and feedback throughout your program.

What You Won’t Find Here

 

  • No Cookie-Cutter Programs – Every dog is unique; your plan is customized to your goals and your real life.
     
  • No Step-Skipping – Each stage of training matters for lasting success.
     
  • No Strict, Stale Plans – Your program adapts as your dog’s needs evolve.
     
  • No Extreme Methods or Pressure – Training remains positive, supportive, and pressure-free.
     
  • No Dominance Theory – We build trust and communication, not outdated hierarchies.
     
  • No Improper Use of Tools – Tools are used thoughtfully and responsibly, with your dog’s comfort and safety at the center.
     
  • No Judgment – This is a safe space; mistakes are part of the process for both ends of the leash.

Now Available: Custom Virtual Dog Training Programs

Welcome to dog training that fits your life—not the other way around.

Our virtual programs are designed to help you build a calmer, more connected relationship with your dog—right from home. 

Personalized Dog Training Packages

Choose from 4, 6, or 8-week programs tailored to your dog’s needs and your goals. Designed for busy pet parents, these programs focus on behavior, communication, and real-life results in a flexible, supportive environment.


What We Cover
• Foundational skills that strengthen everyday communication
• Behavior challenges like reactivity, overexcitement, or anxiety
• Confidence building for both ends of the leash
• Optional in-person or hybrid sessions (location dependent)—ask during your consult

Limited Spots Available Monthly

 Spots fill quickly each month. Schedule your 1:1 consult today and take the first step toward a more confident, connected life with your dog. 

Book Now

Contact Em

Empowering dog lovers one conversation at a time

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