Real conversations about dog training, behavior, relationships, and what it takes to create lasting change.
Off Leash & Unfiltered is the dog training podcast from Kati Peppe, owner and head trainer of Diamond K9 Dog Training in Biddeford, Maine.
Kati takes a practical look at the questions dog owners actually struggle with: reactivity, anxiety, aggression, obedience, boundaries, e-collar training, puppy raising, problem behaviors, and the often-overlooked relationship between a dog and its owner.
There is no single technique that explains every dog or every behavior. The podcast explores the reasoning behind training decisions, why certain approaches work for some dogs and situations but not others, and how clearer communication and consistent expectations can help dogs succeed in the real world.
Whether you’re working through a difficult behavior, raising a new puppy, or simply want a better understanding of how dogs learn, Off Leash & Unfiltered offers practical advice drawn from Kati’s experience training dogs and coaching their owners.
Listen to Off Leash & Unfiltered
Browse the latest episodes below for discussions, Q&As, training advice, and deeper dives into common dog behavior and training challenges.
Keeping A Rib-eye In Your Pocket Can’t Create A Reliable Recall In The Real World
In this episode of “Off Leash and Unfiltered,” Kati Peppe, owner of Diamond K9 Dog Training in Biddeford, Maine, explores the essential role of E-Collar training in achieving reliable dog obedience and behavior modification. Kati distinguishes between two primary training goals: stopping unwanted behaviors (such as reactivity, resource guarding, and separation anxiety) and establishing desired behaviors (like reliable off-leash obedience and walking in heel). Kati critiques the effectiveness of solely using positive reinforcement, arguing that while it is valuable for
What’s the Priority—The Warm Fuzzies, Or Rehabbing The Dog?
In this episode, Kati Peppe, owner of Diamond K9 Dog Training in Biddeford, Maine, discusses the significant challenges in dog training, particularly focusing on the human element in following training protocols. Kati emphasizes that while dogs may exhibit severe behavioral issues such as aggression, anxiety, reactivity, and separation anxiety, the primary hurdle in addressing these problems often lies with the owner’s consistency and willingness to adhere to established training methods. Kati addresses the common misconception that positive reinforcement alone is
Stopping Unwanted Behavior—You’re Being Gaslit
Kati Peppe, owner of Diamond K9 Dog Training in Biddeford, Maine, tackles the prevalent misconception that positive reinforcement alone is sufficient for effective dog training. She emphasizes the necessity of incorporating E-Collar training alongside positive methods to address and modify unwanted behaviors such as aggression, anxiety, reactivity, and separation anxiety. Kati shares insights from her consultations, illustrating how many dog owners inadvertently normalize chaotic and stressful behaviors in their pets by solely relying on rewards. She argues that without consistent
Your Dysfunctional Life
In this episode of “Off Leash and Unfiltered,” Kati Peppe, owner of Diamond K9 Dog Training in Biddeford, Maine, discusses the often-overlooked issue of dog owners normalizing chaotic and stressful behaviors in their pets. Kati shares insights from a recent consultation with a family struggling to manage their two affectionate but unruly dogs, illustrating how minor behavioral issues can escalate into significant disruptions when not properly addressed. Kati emphasizes the importance of stepping back to objectively assess how a dog’s
Feelings Lie (And So Do The “Experts”)
Kati Peppe, owner of Diamond K9 Dog Training in Biddeford, Maine, explores the relationship between human emotions and effective dog training. She emphasizes the importance of separating emotions from training decisions to ensure successful behavior modification in dogs. Kati discusses how emotional responses can impede progress and lead to inconsistent training outcomes, particularly when addressing issues like reactivity, aggression, and anxiety. Kati advocates for E-Collar training methods focused on off-leash obedience and behavior modification, highlighting their effectiveness in creating a
I Don’t Want My Dog To Be A Robot
In this episode, Kati Peppe, owner of Diamond K9 Dog Training in Biddeford, Maine, discusses effective dog training methods, focusing on E-Collar training for off-leash obedience and behavior modification. She addresses common concerns about different training formats, particularly board and train programs. Kati explains that while some people feel guilty about sending their dogs to boarding schools, board and train programs can be highly effective when conducted by reputable trainers. She reassures listeners that dogs retain their affection and loyalty
Emotional Support Disaster
In this episode, Kati Peppe, owner of Diamond K9 Dog Training in Biddeford, Maine, discusses the responsibilities and challenges of owning an emotional support dog. She highlights the importance of proper training, setting boundaries, and maintaining accountability to prevent behavioral issues such as reactivity and aggression. Kati shares a case where an emotional support dog became aggressive, emphasizing the risks of overburdening dogs with human emotions. She advises selecting breeds known for stability and lower aggression levels for emotional support
Group Class Isn’t The Answer: Why It Often Hurts More Than It Helps
In this episode, Kati Peppe, owner of Diamond Canine Dog Training in Biddeford, Maine, discusses effective dog training methods. She highlights the company’s focus on E-Collar training for off-leash obedience and behavior modifications. Kati explains the different training formats available, including private lessons and board-and-train programs, and outlines the reasons why Diamond K9 does not offer group classes. She emphasizes that group classes often lack the personalized feedback necessary to address individual dog behaviors effectively. Instead, Kati advocates for one-on-one
How To Get The Worst Version Of Your Dog
In this episode of Off Leash and Unfiltered, Kati Peppe dives deep into the common pitfalls that lead to the worst behaviors in dogs, often stemming from their owners’ missteps. She emphasizes the crucial balance between freedom and structure for a well-behaved pet, explaining how giving too much freedom can create harmful habits and behaviors. Kati discusses the importance of controlling your dog’s environment and interactions, particularly during their formative stages, and warns against the dangers of excessive affection and
When Can I Take The Collar Off? Training That Sticks.
In this episode of Off Leash and Unfiltered, Kati Peppe emphasizes the importance of lifelong accountability in dog training. She advises dog owners to expect permanent behavior changes as a result of their training program, and explains how to evaluate its effectiveness in instilling discipline in your dog. Peppe notes that accountability needs to be constant and consistent. Kati also argues against reward-based programs as inadequate on their own because they don’t provide for long-term behavior management. Instead, she advocates
Need Help With Your Dog?
Listening can give you a better understanding of what’s happening, but some problems are much easier to solve with individualized help.
Diamond K9 offers private training, behavior modification, board-and-train programs, puppy training, and other options for dog owners in Biddeford and throughout Southern Maine.