Shy Dog Diaries
Shy Dog Diaries is a podcast about living with, training, and loving dogs who experience the world with a little extra sensitivity. Created for guardians of shy, anxious, fearful, or reactive dogs, the show blends personal stories, expert insights, and practical guidance rooted in compassion and positive reinforcement.
Inspired by my dog Nessie, each episode explores what it’s really like to support a dog with anxiety — from separation challenges and difficult walks to building confidence, emotional safety, and trust over time. Along the way, I share conversations with trainers, behaviorists, and other dog guardians, plus honest reflections on the slower, gentler path this journey often requires.
Whether your dog hides behind the couch, struggles with big feelings, or surprises you with brave leaps forward, Shy Dog Diaries is here to remind you that you’re not alone — and that every dog’s journey is worth honoring.
Shy Dog Diaries is hosted by Samara Iodice, a guardian learning — imperfectly and patiently — alongside her anxious dog.
Follow the journey on Instagram: @shydogdiaries
For inquiries or guest suggestions: pod@shydogdiaries.com
Shy Dog Diaries
Latest Episodes
Behavioral Euthanasia: Charlie’s Story of Love, Safety, and Letting Go with Sarah Endres
🎥 This episode is also available in video format on Spotify. In this deeply personal episode of Shy Dog Diaries, I sit down with dog trainer Sarah Endres of Journey Dog Training New Zealand to talk about Charlie—the deepl...
Grief, Guilt & the Emotional Side of Loving Dogs with Jill Gray, LMFT
🎥 This episode is also available in video format on Spotify. What happens when loving dogs also comes with guilt, grief, worry, and the constant feeling that you should be doing more?In this episode of Shy Dog Diaries
Helping Red Feel Safe: A Story of Sacrifice and Joy with Melissa Bell
🎥 This episode is also available in video format on Spotify. What happens when the puppy you carefully prepared for enters the world already afraid?In this episode, I’m joined by Melissa, guardian of Red, a Goldendoodle who s...
Improving the Lives of Shelter Dogs with Laurie Lawless
🎥 This episode is also available in video format on Spotify. When people meet a fearful dog, it's easy to focus on what they can't do.But what if we're asking the wrong questions?In this episode of Shy Dog Diaries<...
Using Nose Work to Build Confidence with Nancy Reyes
🎥 This episode is also available in video format on Spotify. When I first introduced nose work to my anxious dog, Nessie, I thought it would simply be a fun enrichment activity. What I didn't realize was that it would become ...
