In this episode, Nikki is accompanied by Veterinary Behaviorist Dr. Chris Pachel to explore the potential problems associated with daily dog daycare and frequent visits to the dog park. They discuss whether such routines could lead to elevated cortisol levels that may hinder a dog's capacity for self-regulation.

Dr. Pachel is a board-certified Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists. His work has garnered him international recognition as a thought leader, and coveted keynote speaker and educator. Dr. Pachel has traveled the world, headlining international conferences & teaching inspiring lessons about animal aggression, animal behavior, and industry trends.

https://www.drpachel.com/

Mentioned in this episode:

2026 Decoding Aggression and Reactivity Summit

If you want your dog to truly live well—not just get through the day, but feel safe, regulated, and able to move through their world without constant stress—this is for you. If you’re tired of managing triggers, walking on eggshells, or dreading walks because you don’t know what might set your dog off… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there is a better way. That’s exactly why I’m part of the 2026 Decoding Aggression & Reactivity Summit, created by my friend Ness Jones. She’s brought together more than 10 professionals from around the world (myself included) to help you understand what’s really going on underneath aggression and reactivity—and how to support your dog in a way that actually creates change. It kicks off April 19 (Northern Hemisphere) / April 20 (Southern Hemisphere), and you’ll get access to over 12 hours of education, real-world application, and conversations that go far beyond surface-level training advice. Yes, it’s a paid event—but at $47 USD, it’s a small investment for the depth of information, practical tools, and perspective you’ll walk away with. You’ll also receive a workbook, audio and video access, and a gift from each of the speakers. If you’re ready to start understanding your dog differently—and supporting them in a way that actually makes a difference—you can sign up here: Register HERE!