What does it mean to be a good dog in the human world?

In this heartfelt, eye-opening conversation, I’m joined by Vivian Zottola, human-dog relationship therapist, educator, and author, to talk about what it really takes to live in harmony with our dogs. Vivian brings decades of experience (and a deep well of Wisdom) to help us shift the way we think about our Relationships with our canine companions.

We explore what happens when dogs are treated like toys or tools instead of sentient beings, why understanding their perspective changes everything, and how learning to listen to our dogs can make us more compassionate humans too.

Whether you live with dogs now or are simply curious about the profound bond between species, this episode will leave you thinking differently about how we relate, not just to our pets, but to each other.

💡 A few key takeaways:

• Why many behavior issues start with misunderstanding, not misbehavior
• How dogs “speak” to us – and how we can learn to listen
• The link between learning to understand dogs and becoming more empathetic with people
• The hidden dangers of treating dogs like siblings or toys, especially around children
• How Vivian’s work and writing gently guide us back to mutual respect and shared connection

💬 A favorite quote from this episode:

“Emotionally, we are the same. When we start to understand what our dogs are trying to say, it changes how we see the world – and each other.” — Vivian Zottola

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:24 Meet Our Guest: Vivian
00:43 Vivian’s Journey with Dogs
01:23 The World of Dog Training and Therapy
02:29 Collaborations and Further Education
06:29 Balancing Work and Personal Life
06:54 Understanding Dog Behavior
10:40 Promoting Vivian’s Book
15:19 The Importance of Respecting Dogs
20:34 Educational Initiatives for Children
23:05 Conclusion and Contact Information

About Vivian Zottola

Vivian Zottola is a human-dog relationship therapist based near Boston, MA. With over 20 years of experience, she’s earned a stellar reputation among veterinarians, trainers, and clients alike. She holds two Master of Science degrees—in Anthrozoology and Communication Management—plus multiple certifications in canine behavior and training.

Vivian is passionate about education, empathy, and building bridges between species. She’s the author of Being A Good Dog In The Human’s World, and the co-creator of BeBiteSmart.org, a series of animated educational resources designed to teach kids respectful, safe ways to interact with dogs. Her upcoming picture book, Cammie, Queen of the Neighborhood Goes to the Moon, explores adaptation, Love, and pet loss through the story of a resilient rescue dog.

Learn more and subscribe to Vivian’s newsletter to receive a free Dog Stress Response Illustration:
👉 https://www.vivianzottola.com

Follow Vivian:

Instagram: @vivianzottoladogbehavior

Facebook: VivianMZottola

LinkedIn: Vivian Zottola

Twitter: @k9concierge

🐾 As always, to find out all about Soul Touched by Dogs, go to https://soultouchedbydogs.com

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Anke Herrmann Soul Touched by Dogs

Anke Herrmann is the creator of Soul Touched by Dogs, a podcast, virtual event &
community platform to celebrate the human-canine connection and advocate for holistic
approaches to canine health and education.

She is on a mission to educate people to see dogs not just as pets, certainly not as fashion accessories, toys for the kids, or tools, but as soulful beings, finely tuned into your emotions, wise teachers worth our respect and care. In her ideal world, every dog has the loving home it deserves.

Originally from Germany, she lives in the south of Spain. When she's not talking about dogs,
she is a multi-passionate coach and online tech expert helping coaches and educators build
Boutique Businesses offering freedom and ease without scaling the soul out of it. She's the
author of Taming the Tech Monster.

Find her at soultouchedbydogs.com or ankeherrmann.com