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
Episodes
6 episodes
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 ...
Love the Dog in Front of You (A Shy Dog Diary Entry)
🎥 This episode is also available in video format on Spotify if you want to see some of Nessie’s recent progress.What if the biggest breakthrough with your sensitive dog isn’t fixing them—but finally understanding them?In th...
Helping Fearful Dogs Build Confidence with Dr. Kelly Lee
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Kelly Lee, founder of Dogkind Training, to talk about what it truly means to support fearful, anxious, and traumatized dogs.Dr. Lee holds degrees in Zoology, Applied Behavior Analysis, and Ecology &am...
Understanding Anxiety in Dogs with Veterinary Behaviorist Dr. Karen Sueda
What if your dog isn’t “difficult” or “stubborn” — but anxious, overwhelmed, and trying their best?In this episode of Shy Dog Diaries, I sit down with board-certified veterinary behaviorist Dr. Karen Sueda to talk about w...
Training with Dog Genie: From Fearful to Flourishing
In this episode, I’m joined by certified dog trainer and behavior consultant Genie Tuttle of Dog Genie to talk about helping shy and anxious dogs build confidence.Together, we revisit Nessie’s early training days and explore how c...