Your New Puppy: Dog Training and Dog Behavior Lessons to Help You Turn Your New Puppy into a Well-Behaved Dog

Something exciting is happening!! I wanted to share why I'm offering $100 off my signature new puppy course YOUR Perfect Puppy until April 28th!!I've just finished two major changes to YOUR Perfect Puppy, my 4 week new puppy course. It's the same 4-week course that has helped hundreds of new puppy owners get through those first few months with their puppy but I've added an entire skills and cues section, both expanded lessons that were already there and added new ones.  Now there is almost double the amount of lessons to help you succeed with your new puppy. The second update is now you can join YOUR Perfect Puppy with life time access.  Previously you needed to join my membership Playtime Paws Academy to have access to YOUR Perfect Puppy.  Now (due to popular demand) you can join with a one time payment and get life time access.PLUS...As a bonus you receive 6 months in Playtime Paws Academy.  I'm not going to let you join my course and not give you all the live support that you need when raising your new puppy!! I'm very excited for these changes because I think they will help me support you in the best way possible.  To celebrate, and make it super easy for you to join, until April 28, 2024, you will receive get $100 off!!Listen for more details and visit www.playtimepaws.com/puppy for ALL the details.   In this episode I talk about:* Two new updates to my new puppy course YOUR Perfect Puppy.* Why I made these changes. * What's included in the program.* Limited time special ($100 off).Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YOUR Perfect Puppy:  A 4-week course to build the foundation of raising your perfect puppy!Playtime Paws Academy:  A membership for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey.

It can be counter intuitive but when your puppy has a potty accident, we shouldn't punish them.You may feel that you need to do something to let them know "this is wrong".  Or maybe you know that you're not supposed to punish your puppy's potty accidents but you're not sure why.In general, I discourage using punishment as a form of teaching your puppy anything.  But this question comes up a lot around potty training. In Episode #10: (Complete Guide to Potty Training Your Puppy), I talk about what to do when your puppy has an accident.  Punishment is never part of it.  In this episode, I'm going to talk about why that is. In this episode I talk about:* Why I get this question around potty training.* What I mean by "punishment". * What we are supposed to do with potty accidents.* Why dogs learn better when told what to do (instead of what not to do).* How puppies don't know going potty inside is wrong (yet!).Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #010:  Complete Guide to Potty Training Your PuppyYNP #039:  The Most Common Potty AccidentsYNP #079:  Are You Still Struggling With Potty Training?Playtime Paws Academy:  A membership for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey.

Free Feeding is when your dog's bowl is always filled with food allowing them to choose when to eat.  When you have a dog that likes does to graze leaving their food out all the time can be a convenient.  On the surface it seems harmless but what we don't realize is that it can have a negative effect on our dog's behavior and training.  In this episode, I talk about how free feeding can affect your dog’s behavior, health, potty training and more.You will also get some tips on how to change the habit if it has already started.For those of us that c an't imagine our dog leaving ANY food in the bowl there is still some great information on how one habit can effect your dog's other behaviors.   

Welcome to Your New Puppy’s Podcast!!

Getting a new puppy (or dog) is exciting and fun but it can also be very overwhelming.  No one gets a good dog by accident.  It takes time and energy to get the well-behaved dog we all dream of when we decided to bring home our new four-legged family member.
My goal is to guide you through all the information you need to guide you through the first months to a year and beyond, so you can get back to the fun!
In this episode, I tell you a little about me, who I am as a trainer and what you can expect from Your New Puppy’s Podcast.  
Resources:
yournewpuppy@playtimepaws.com:  Use this email to let us know what you want to hear about.
 
I look forward to talking with you!!

 
 
 
 
 

When I receive multiple questions from my listeners around the same topic I know it's time to do a podcast episode about it.  But not all questions warrant a full episode but can still be useful to answer.So that's exactly what I did in this episode.  I gathered 5 questions that came from you, my listeners (through email and social media) and answered them here.If you like this format let me know and maybe we can make a series out of it!In this episode I talk about:* Older puppy (9 months) rejecting the crate overnight (1:19). * When its OK to leave your puppy for 2 weeks (4:02).* Can you move their crate around or use two different crates? (5:47).* How to deal with a picky eater (6:58).* How many litters should a breeder have at one time? (8:07).Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #018: Ditch the Bowl and Make Mealtime an EventYNP #084: My Favorite DIY Puzzle FeedersPlaytime Paws Academy:  A membership for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey.

When your dog refuses to go outside in the rain, it can be annoying and time consuming.  It's even worse when you're trying to potty train a young puppy that isn't going to hold it until the rain stops.  For most dogs they will learn to tolerate it but for others it may always be a struggle. We know we should stay positive to try and change their association but when you've been outside for the 10th time in the rain and they still haven't gone it's hard not to let that frustration show through. Different things will work for different dogs.  That's why in this episode I run through a bunch of things that may help you pup's relationship to being wet and cold so both of you can spend more time inside the toasty warm house.  In this episode I talk about:* Rain gear. * Creating a special place in your yard.* Using a potty cue.* Change their association with the rain and rain gear.* Why does your dog love to swim but hates the rain (or their bath).Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:Playtime Paws Academy:  A membership for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey.

Muzzle training your dog means exposing your dogs to wearing a muzzle in a positive, stress-free way (see resources below on how to do this).This is something that most of us never think (or want to think) about doing with our dog. It's understandable because muzzles have a bad rap and are thought of as a last resort for an aggressive dog.But there are many benefits beyond "controlling an aggressive dog".Any dog, when injured has the potential to bite.  Some dogs have a hard time handling the groomer or the vet.  These aren't "bad" or "aggressive" dogs.When we take away that bad stigma and don't hesitate to use one, it can bring all stress levels down and help everything go smoother.  My stance is, better to muzzle train your dog and never need it than be forced to put a muzzle on them for the first time in a stressful situation. As always, the resources I talk about in this episode are listed all below. In this episode I talk about:* Why every dog should be exposed to a muzzle regardless of their temperament. * Specific situations where we can reduce the stress of all involved by exposing our dog to a muzzle first. * Reasons to muzzle train that have nothing to do with aggression.* Reasons to use a muzzle while working on behavior modification.* Reasons not to hesitate to muzzle train your reactive dog.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:American Kennel Club: Dog Muzzles: When, Why, and How to Correctly Use ThemVet.Cornell.edu : Muzzle ChoicesMichael Shikashio: A video on how to Accumulate your dog to a muzzle (this is the guy to follow for ANY muzzle or aggressive dog content).Michael Shikashio: How to find the right fit for your dog.Playtime Paws Academy:  A membership for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey.

Socialization is the most important training you can do for your puppy.  It's also the most overlooked and misunderstood part of your puppy's training.When done correctly as a puppy, socialization creates a confident, well adjusted dog.  And who doesn't want that for their puppy?  I've gathered the 4 things I think are the most misunderstood about socialization to help correct any misconceptions.  This also serves as a crash course in socialization if you have no idea what it is. In addition, each topic has it's own podcast episode where you can learn even more.  As always, the resources I talk about in this episode are listed all below. In this episode I talk about:* What socialization is. * How socialization is about more than dogs.* How your puppy's experience matters.* How age matters.* When socialization is about dogs.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #074: How to Socialize Your Puppy Without Leaving Your House.YNP #063: My 7 Guidelines for Socializing Your DogYNP #021: Balancing Vaccines and SocializationYNP #013: Dog Park vs. Dog DaycareYNP #058: How to Recognize Appropriate Dog PlayPlaytime Paws Academy:  A membership for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey.

Is your dog trying to dominate you?  The short answer is no, they are not.  And though that might not come as a surprise to you, what isn't always clear is why it's not true.  Especially because this theory that dogs want to dominate us or some dogs are more "dominate" than others still comes up a lot in dog training. That's why I want to talk about where this dominance and alpha theory came from, how it's been debunked, and why it still persists even though we now know better. I believe this information is important because helps us better understand our dog and how they see the world so we can better communicate with them and teach them how we want them to behave in our human world.  As always, the resources I talk about in this episode are listed all below. In this episode I talk about:* Where the dominance and alpha theory came from. * How we now know that there's no such thing as an "alpha" dog in a natural wolf pack.* Why dominance and alpha theory is still (incorrectly) used.* What is actually happening when we think we see a "dominate" or "submissive" dog.* Why I think it's so important to understand the difference.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:International Wolf Center: An article by the organization that conducted the ordinal study on why they no longer use the term "alpha".Dave Mech (pronounced "meesh"): An article and video by the scientist that wrote the book that made the "alpha" theory popular on why it's no longer accurate. YNP #038: The One Thing You Need to Know About Dog Behavior.YNP #040: How to be Your Dog's Pack LeaderPlaytime Paws Academy:  A membership for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey.

Teaching your dog to come when called (recall) is arguably the most important skill you can teach your dog.  It's also one that we struggle with the most. That's because we try and teach it like we would any other cue like sit, down or stay.But that only gives us half the picture. Recall is a habit that you have to develop with your dog, not just a skill to teach them.  This means your behavior is just as important as the skills you teach your dog. Inside my program: 14 Days to a Stronger Recall I teach it in three distinct parts:The habits and behaviors you (as the human) need to develop and avoid.The skills you need to teach your dog (using an activity a day for 14 days)How to practice #1 and #2 and build your dog up to real world and challenging environments.When we think of it in this way we can understand that our every day interactions with our dog can make a big difference in strengthening our recall.  In this episode I talk about:* Why so many of us struggle with recall. * What we are missing when we teach our dog to come when called.* A different way to think about recall.* Examples of things we can do to reinforce our dog's recall everyday. * 14 Days to a Stronger Recall Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #004: 3 Things You Can Do Now to Teach Your Dog to Come Every Time You CallRover Round Robin: A family training game14 Days to a Stronger Recall: A compressive online program where you receive an activity a day to do with your dog while also learning the habits and behavior you need to increase your dog's recall 10x.Playtime Paws Academy:  A membership for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey.

Potty training can be overwhelming.  The good news is, one of the first things we can check off the list is getting our puppy to sleep through the night.  Potty training overnight is a little different than during the day.  Even though they can hold it longer overnight, they still aren't going to make more than 4 hours or so at first.  Our goal is to take them out as little as possible while still minimizing the risk for accidents.  I give you the steps to make this happen.I've seen puppies as young as 10 weeks sleep through the night but most will be closer to 16 weeks.Hopefully, this episode will get you closer to that uninterrupted night's sleep!Remember the one thing that trumps all else????  Say it with me WHEN IN DOUBT, TAKE YOUR PUPPY OUT!In this episode I talk about:* How long your puppy can "hold it" overnight. * What to do before bed to prepare for overnight potty breaks.* Why I recommend setting an alarm.* How to let your puppy sleep longer while lowering the risk of overnight accidents. * Additional tips to make overnights a little easier.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #010: Complete Guide to Potty Training Your PuppyYNP #079: Are you Still Struggling With Potty Training?Playtime Paws Academy:  A membership for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey.

I love puzzle feeders as a way to "ditch the bowl" and make mealtime an event.  If you search "puzzle feeder" or "slow feeders" online countless options come up.  I have my favorite store bought feeders (see my Supplies page) but there's also many ways to DIY it!In fact, I have three that you can make with stuff you were going to throw out anyway.  Young puppies as well as older dogs can benefit from using these feeders to enrich their meal time.  As always, safety first!  Not every enrichment activity is appropriate for every dog.  Use your discretion and always supervise!In this episode I talk about:* What puzzle feeders are.* Why I recommend puzzle feeders. * Three DIY feeders you can make with stuff around your house.* Adjustments for young puppies. * As always, safety first.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #018: Ditch the Bowl and Make Mealtime an EventDebbie's Recommended Supplies (including my favorite store bought treat balls and feeders)Playtime Paws Academy:  A membership for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey.

I hope you never need this podcast episode.  Chances are, you will. Having a lost pet is a stressful and upsetting experience.  Sometimes we don't think of the obvious things and sometimes we don't even know the resources that are availableI talk about the most effective things you can do, who you should call, where you can make one of those "lost dog" posters, and where to post them.   This also applies to any lost pet!  Cats are more likely to be lost than dogs!I also highly recommend you also check out my last episode YNP #082: Let's Update Your Dog's Microchip if you haven't already. In this episode I talk about:* The first things you should do when your dog (or any pet) is lost.* Where to make a lost dog poster. * Who to call.* Where to send the poster or picture of your lost pet. Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #082: Let's Update Your Dog's Microchipwww.Canva.com: A free design tool to help you make your lost posters.Playtime Paws Academy:  A brand new program for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey.

A microchip is a tiny device that is placed below your pet's skin.  It has a unique 15 digit code that you register along with your contact information.  This way if your pet ever gets lost, shelters, veterinarians, police stations, and others can scan the microchip and access your contact info and help return your pet to you.  Think of it like a tag that can't get lost or fall off.  Microchipping your dog is a pretty standard and safe practice nowadays.  Most breeders and rescues automatically chip their dogs before sending them to their forever homes.  In certain place like the UK, Canada, and some cities within the US require your dog to be microchipped.  That is how effective it is at keeping dogs (and cats!!) out of shelters.Unfortunately, one problem persists.  It is extremely common for a lost pet to stay lost simply because the microchip information is out of date or not registered in the first place.That is exactly what we're going to prevent happening to you and your pets! I'm going to walk you through everything you need to know to make sure your dog's microchip is registered and up to date even if your unsure if your dog has one or what the number is. In this episode I talk about:* Why you should microchip your dog.* How to figure out if your dog is microchipped.* Where to go to find the number (or get your dog microchipped). * How to register or update your information.* Where to go if you don't know where or if the microchip is registered. Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:Animal Humane Society: List of websites where you can register your pet's microchipMicrochip Registry Look Up (www.petmicrochiplookup.org): A registry where you can find where your microchip is registered.Playtime Paws Academy:  A digital membership for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey.

When we thing of what our dog's walk should look like we think of them walking by our side without being distracted by anything and only sniffing when we say it's ok.  Spoiler alert!  There is NO "should".I'm here to let you off the hook.  Your walk doesn't have to be perfect.  As long as your dog is 6 feet from you, you and your dog are enjoying the walk, and everyone around you is safe, then I don't care what your walk looks like. No we don't want them dragging us down the street (then we wouldn't be enjoying the walk) but we also don't need them in a "heel" position the whole time (then they wouldn't enjoy the walk).It's about finding the balance that works for you and your dog. In this episode I talk about:* What my rules for what your dog's walk should look like.* What my rules aren't. * Why every dog should know "heel".* Why I encourage your walk to NOT be perfect. * A note about puppies and when your dog should have strict rules.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #011: Reasons to Leave Your Retractable Leash at HomeYNP #050: Three Most Common Leash Walking QuestionsPlaytime Paws Academy:  A brand new program for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey.

Most of the time we want to use the cue "off" to tell our dogs to "get down".  For example, when they  jump on us or our guests or when they jump on the table or counter.  I have nothing against teaching this cue, I just approach it in a different way. If we think about it, what we really want to teach our dog not to jump up.  So, if we need to use the word "off"  that means they're already preforming the behavior we don't want. BUT if we teach our dog a habit of keeping four paws on the ground then the cue "off" becomes irrelevant.  So this the behavior I like to focus on.Essentially we want to teach our dogs that all the attention, fun, play, food, etc. only comes when four paws are on the ground so they never even think about jumping up!In this episode I talk about:* Why I don't teach off (not that I have anything against it).* Why to focus on the behavior not the cue. * A different way to look at this type of training.* Examples of alternatives to teaching "off".Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #008: When Your Dog JumpsPlaytime Paws Academy:  A brand new program for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey.

Potty training is hard.  We can set them up for success as much as we can but it takes as long as it takes.  It's a process that we can't rush our puppy through.  We all struggle with potty training.  While we're in it, it feels like it will last forever.  For most, we'll have bad days and good days but overall we'll see improvement as the weeks pass.  Accidents happen less often and they are usually because we dropped the ball. For some, we stop seeing progress and they continue to have accidents we can't explain.  This can lead to some real frustration and even resentment toward our puppy. If you've been potty training for a couple months and your puppy still has unexplained accidents this episode is for you!When I have a client that is struggling there are three things I look at first.  Most of the time these work, sometimes it's something more.  If you can't seem to figure out why your puppy is STILL having accidents this is a great place to start.In this episode I talk about:* What I mean by struggling with potty training.* Why your puppy might not be signaling you to go out.* The three things I look at first when my client is struggling* Why the crate is still important. * How to reduce accidents.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #010: Complete Guide to Potty Training Your PuppyYNP #056:  Potty Training for a Working HouseholdYNP #072: Should You Use a Potty Bell?YNP #077: Using a Crate vs Using a PenPlaytime Paws Academy:  A brand new program for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey.

Nipping is one of the biggest struggles every puppy parent goes through.  It can be very disheartening especially when the kids don't want to play with the puppy anymore.  That's why I'm giving you my three favorite games that I teach my clients to help with a nipping puppy.Each one is designed to give you a way to interact and play with your puppy while keeping sharp teach away from sensitive fingers.Each of these games are great for kids and adults. The the games I teach are:Puppy SoccerFreeze TagFlirt Pole (this one is actually a toy which I have pictured below)Find this flirt pole on Amazon*.In this episode I talk about:* Why puppies nip and bite.* To prevent nipping it's sometimes about changing the game.* My three favorite games to play with a nipping puppy.* How to teach your puppy each game.* When to involve the kids. Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #046: Puppy Biting and Why You Might Still be StrugglingPlaytime Paws Academy:  A brand new program for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey.*Disclosure: I only recommend products I have used and loved and all opinions expressed here are my own and are NEVER paid for. That being said, this post may contain affiliate links that, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission.  If you don't wish to use these links, most supplies can be found by searching Amazon.com or Chewy.com.

A strong recall is one of the most important behaviors your dog can have.That is why I wanted to replay this episode about how to get a stronger recall.  This is a special training that I do inside my digital products (YOUR Perfect Puppy and Playtime Paws Academy)I talk about how I approach recall as a habit that you and your dog need to develop (not just a command to teach).  This part is overlooked so often when teaching recall I wanted to replay this episode once again to make sure that you get to listen.  If you have already listened to Episode 51 you will probably pick up on even more if you give it another go.  I also go over the most common mistakes that I see and small adjustments that you can make to get that stronger recall. In this episode I talk about:* The way I approach recall (not as a command to teach).* Common mistakes to avoid.* Small adjustments that make a big difference.* Due to popular demand, 14 Days to a Stronger Recall is now available as a stand along program (find more info below).Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:14 Days to a Stronger Recall YNP #004: 3 Things You Can Do Now to Teach Your Dog to Come Every TimeRover Round Robin: A family game that also reinforces recall. Playtime Paws Academy:  A brand new program for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey.

A lot of new puppy owners wonder if it's OK to use a pen in addition to (or instead of) a crate.  The idea of giving your puppy or young dog room to move around and play is a very appealing one.  BUT there are some drawbacks to giving them this extra space. A emphasize using the crate because I believe it is an essential tool to have throughout your dog's life.  I see a pen as more of an optional accessory that has it's uses...as long as we use it correctly.In this episode I talk about:* The biggest difference between using a crate vs using a pen.* The drawbacks during potty training.* How to use a pen after potty training.* Three common follow up questions I receive when talking about using a pen.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #005: Crate Training: How (and why) to Make Their Crate Your Dog's Best FriendYNP #028: 5 Reasons to Use the Crate When You're HomeYNP Special Edition: Q&A Tuesday: Crate TrainingYNP #072: Should You Use a Potty Bell?YNP #056: Potty Training for a Working HouseholdPlaytime Paws Academy:  A brand new program for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey.

Every dog needs a collar and leash.  There are many options out there so let's talk about them.Each of these tools has it's advantages and disadvantages and there's no one perfect solution that works for every dog.In part one I talked about the different types of leashes.   In this episode (part two) I talk about the most common types of collars and harnesses that are available.I also share my recommendations and which ones I think you should avoid.  By the end you'll have a better idea of what will work for you and your dog. Here are the different types of collars and harnesses I talk about:Flat Collar:This is the most common type of collar.  It usually holds some kind of identification.  You may or may not use this one for walks as well as everyday use.There is a slightly different version that has similar uses which I talk about next. I recommend the flat collars that have a quick release (which is the type of clip you see in the picture).  Most flat collars have this type of clip.  What I don't want you to use the type collar where you have to loosen and tighten the collar to get it on and off.  There are many ways for these collars to get caught up and you want to be able to get them off quickly. Martingale Collar:This collar is very similar to the flat collar.  The difference is that there is an extra piece that when a leash is attached and they pull the collar pinches together to make it just small enough so they can't pull out of the collar.  It's NOT a choke collar (in fact if it chokes your dog then it's too tight).  It's made for safety reasons so your dog can't pull back and out leaving you standing there with a leash and collar and no dog!  This is the everyday collar I recommend.As with a flat collar, you may or may not use this for walks and I recommend using one with the quick release clip. Harness:Harnesses are also very recognizable.  I favor this tool for everyday walking.  For some dogs a harness can encourage pulling and you loose a little control compared to a neck collar.  That being said, I've seen enough neck injuries to still recommend a harness over a neck collar for walks.  If you have a heavy puller there are some separate tools for that.  So let's talk about them... Head Collar or Gentle Lead:This tool is specifically designed to help with leash pulling.  When your dog pulls forward the collar pulls their head around taking away their leverage.  It's very effective.  The biggest drawback is dogs hate it.  They don't like the strap that sits around their nose.  Some dogs will get used to it but for the most part they tend to reject it.   Front Clip Harness:This is the tool I recommend for leash pullers.  Essentially it's a regular harness with a clip in the front as well as the back.  You don't need the double leash like in the picture but some do come designed that way.It works in a similar way to the head collar.  When your dog starts to pull forward they get turned around and lose their leverage.  It's very important to get the fit right for these, otherwise it's just the harness that spins around, not the dog. What I don't recommend:E-collar, pinch collar, choke collar.Each of these tools are designed to make your dog uncomfortable to stop a behavior.  In my experience these cause more behavior problems than they fix. Those are the tools I talk about in part two.  Head over to Episode #75 for part one where I talk about the different types of leashes. In this episode I talk about:* The most common types of collars and harnesses.* Which tools I recommend and why.* My recommendations for young puppies.

Every dog needs a collar and leash.  There are many options out there so let's talk about them.Each option has it's advantages and disadvantages and there's no one perfect solution that works for every dog.So in this episode (part one) I talk about the most common types of leashes that are available. In part two I talk about the different types of collars and harnesses.   I also share my recommendations (which may or may not be right for you) and which ones I think you should avoid.  By the end you'll have a better idea of what will work for you and your dog. Here are the different types of leashes I talk about:Standard Leash:The standard leash is the most common type of leash and the one I recommend for everyday use.  The material can vary but that is your personal preference.  I do recommend a light weight material and clip for puppies.Long Line:The long line is the other type of leash that I recommend.  It's not an every day leash but it has lots of training uses.  Anytime you want to give your dog more freedom but still have the control of a leash to keep them safe.  For example, your back yard (even if it's fenced in for a young puppy) or a park when you want to play a game of fetch.  I find 30 feet is long enough to give your dog some freedom but not too long where the leash is hard to handle. Slip Lead:I used to use a slip lead to teach loose leash walking.  I don't anymore because they need to be used correctly to be safe and effective.  It's very easy to use them incorrectly and then they become a choke collar which is dangerous and ineffective. I now use other loose leash walking tools that are easier to learn and are still effective.  I'll talk about them in part two.Retractable Leash (a.k.a. Flexi Leash): I do NOT recommend a retractable leash.  They are one of those tools that seems like a good idea but in practice they are not.  In fact, I have an entire episode about it.  YNP #011: Reasons to Leave Your Retractable Leash at HomeThose are the tools I talk about in part one.  Stay tuned for part two where I talk about the different collars and harnesses that are out there. In this episode I talk about:* The different types of leashes.* Which leashes I recommend and why.* My recommendations for young puppies.* Which leash I don't recommend and why.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #011: Reasons to Leave Your Retractable Leash at HomePlaytime Paws Academy:  A brand new program for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey.

Socialization is the most important training you can do for your Puppy.  We want to get our puppy out from the very beginning and do as much as we can in their early weeks.Socialization is more than just exposing your dog to new people and dogs.  It also includes new places, objects, sounds, textures, environments, and other animals.    When we think of it this way there are lots of things we can do everyday at home (in addition to the outside world).  So the next time you are looking to entertain your puppy between naps while getting some super important training in, try one of these activities!Bonus: Socialization tires a puppy out! In this episode I talk about:* A quick review on what it means to socialize your puppy.* Why socialization is so important.* 5 ways to socialize your puppy without leaving your home.* Lot of examples and ideas to keep you and your puppy busy for a long time.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #021: Balancing Vaccines and SocializationYNP #063: My 7 Guidelines to Socializing Your PuppyPlaytime Paws Academy:  A brand new program for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey.

Christine Rohloff Gossinger literally wrote the book on dog breeds.  She joins me to talk about how understanding your dog's breed can help us understand our dogs and their needs.  This episode is chock full of examples, training tips, and fun tidbits just like her book. Listen in and decide for yourself it your dog's breed matters.In this episode Christine talks about:* Her journey to becoming a trainer.* How understanding what your dog was bred for can help us understand our dog's needs.* How we can adjust training and enrichment for our specific dog.* Each of the different breed groups with examples of what those dogs need.* How each dog is an individual with their own needs and understanding them can help us improve our relationship and our dog's quality of life.Press play and enjoy!How to learn more from Christine:* Connect with Christine on Facebook* Her Book (find on Amazon): Dog Breed Guide for Kids: 50 Essential Dog Breeds to Know and Love with Fun Facts and Tips for Care* *Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links that, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission.  If you don't wish to use these link you can find this book by searching Amazon.com, Target.com or BarnesandNoble.comOther resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #002: Which Type of Dog is Right for You?Playtime Paws Academy:  A brand new program for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey.

Something I get asked often is how I feel about using a potty bell.  If you listened to my complete guide to potty training then you know that I don't mention using a bell at all but does that mean I don't want you to?  No go ahead...well, maybe... While I'll show my clients how to use the bell if they ask, I find myself talking them out of it more often than not.  I'm not against using a bell, I just find that it doesn't work in the way we may think.  BUT as long as our expectations are in the right place a potty bell might work for you.  So stick around until the end when I tell you exactly how to teach your dog to ring a bell to go outside.  In this episode I talk about:* Why I may hesitate to teach the bell.* Why a bell might not work the way you think it will.* Conversations I have with my clients before teaching the bell.* Reasons a potty bell might work for you.* How to teach your dog to ring a bell to go outside.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #010: Complete Guide to Potty Training Your PuppyPlaytime Paws Academy:  A brand new program for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey.

Teaching your dog "Stay" is one of the easier cues to teach your dog...if we do it right.  And of course most of us are doing it wrong.  Stay can be a useful command ("Stay" so I can take your picture).  It can be used for safety ("Stay" while I clean up this glass that just broke).  I also use it all the time to focus an overstimulated dog.  With just a few adjustments you can build a foundation to a stronger and longer Stay. In this episode I talk about:* How to set your dog up for success.* What's wrong with the Stay-Come exercise.* How to reset them when they break.* Stay is a one syllable word.* What makes Stay different from other cues.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #012: The Most Important Part of Your Dog's Obedience TrainingPlaytime Paws Academy:  A brand new program for dog and humans in any stage of training.

Kasie comes back to teach us more about raw feeding.  This time we talk all about puppies! Plus Kasie has some advice on treats and how to start even if you feel overwhelmed.This episode is Part 2 of a two part series.  In Part 1 we talk about raw feeding more general.  Kasie has been raw feeding for 30 years and is the founder and owner of San Francisco Raw.  If you are new to raw feeding this is a great opportunity to hear from the perspective from someone who's been doing it for a while. In this episode we talk about:* How to start with a brand new puppy. * How much to feed a puppy.* What is microbiota and how does it affect our puppies health?* Poop! (can't talk about puppies without talking about poop).* Treats. * How to start if you're feeling overwhelmed. Press play and enjoy!Other resources provided by Kasie:* Raw supportive vets worldwide: https://rfvs.info/find-a-vet/* Local supplier resources for ingredients: www.eatwild.com* Nationally available prepared raw foods (alternative to Answers Pet Food which Kasie no longer recommends): https://www.kurepetfood.com/ * Nationally available prepared raw foods: https://rawdogfoodandco.com/  * Raw food consultants: https://freshfoodconsultants.org/canine-consultants* Puppy feeding guide: https://perfectlyrawsome.com/raw-feeding-puppy-guides/ * Raw feeding myths: http://rawfed.com/myths/ Related articles from Kasie's blog:* https://sfraw.blog/2016/09/14/baywoofs-september-nutrition-issue-featured-article-starting-puppies-on-a-raw-food-diet-by-kasie-maxwell/*

Maybe you've never heard of raw feeding your dog.  Maybe you have but you're not quite sure what it means.  This episode can start to answer some of your questions. Raw feeding is something that I've dabbled in but I am NO expert.  Since I do get questions about it all the time, I've decided to bring in Kasie Maxwell Grujcic to help teach us more about it.  Kasie has been raw feeding for 30 years and is the founder and owner of San Francisco Raw.  If you are new to raw feeding this is a great opportunity to hear from the perspective from someone who's been doing it for a while. This episode is Part 1 of a two part series.  In Part 2 we focus on raw feeding puppies.In this episode we talk about:* Kasie's story. * A brief history of traditional dog food.* What is raw feeding?* How it's easier than most people think.* The different ways of raw feeding. * How to start.Press play and enjoy!Other resources provided by Kasie:* Raw supportive vets worldwide: https://rfvs.info/find-a-vet/* Local supplier resources for ingredients: www.eatwild.com* Nationally available prepared raw foods (alternative to Answers Pet Food which Kasie no longer recommends): https://www.kurepetfood.com/ * Nationally available prepared raw foods: https://rawdogfoodandco.com/  * Raw food consultants: https://freshfoodconsultants.org/canine-consultants* Puppy feeding guide: https://perfectlyrawsome.com/raw-feeding-puppy-guides/ * Raw feeding myths: http://rawfed.com/myths/ Related articles from Kasie's blog:* https://sfraw.

"Practice makes perfect."  We all know that one.  Well, it's just as true for our dogs.  When we teach our dogs how to sit we know to start at step one and work them up to a reliable sit in any situation.  When we want to change a behavior (like barking, digging, leash walking, or counter surfing) it's no different. We don't usually think of it as something we have to intentionally practice but this is exactly what's we need to do. We think about how we want the behavior to change in the moment and try to work there when really we have to back up a whole bunch of steps and practice in easier more controllable situations. It's like trying to teach someone algebra, when they don't know how to add and substract.  Our dogs are no different. That's why it's the power of practice that will teach our dogs how we want them to behave. In this episode I talk about:* The difference between changing a behavior and just reacting to it. * What I mean by intentional practice.* When management is appropriate.* How to set up easy situations to practice for the hard ones.* Why it's important to set up controlled situations. * Why it's important to start at step one and why we always want to start at step 8.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #047: How to Handle a Reactive Dog on a LeashYNP #050: The 3 Most Common Leash Training QuestionsYNP #066: How to Stop a Dog From Barking (Part 1)YNP #067: How to Stop a Dog From Barking (Part 2)YOUR Perfect Puppy: 4-week online training course for you and your new puppy.

In part one we talked about demand barking.  Here in part two I go into detail about alert barking.  Alert barking is when your dog is barking at something.  A dog out the window, a noise like a doorbell, your neighbor, etc.  This type of barking usually starts in as your puppy gets older.  Once they reach adolescence this instinct kicks in. It also feel really good to them!  It burns energy and relieves boredom.  So the habit can start very easily.  There are a few ways to handle this type of barking.  Unlike demand barking where we ignore and disengage, here we want to interrupt and redirect.  Listen now to learn the difference!In this episode I talk about:* Summary of what we talked about in Part 1.* What alert barking is and how it's different from demand barking.* The different techniques to handle alert barking.* Examples of different scenarios and how to handle them. * How to recognize when they are barking out of fear.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #027: How to Handle a Shy DogYNP #063: My 7 Guidelines for Socializing Your DogYNP #066: How to Stop a Dog From Barking (Part 1)See Part 1's show notes for links to these episodes:Episodes to help with barking while crate trainingEpisode to help with barking because of separation anxietyEpisode to help with barking while on a leashOther resources:YOUR Perfect Puppy: 4-week online training course for you and your new puppy.

Barking comes in many different forms. This makes how to stop a dog from barking more complicated than we think.  We can't just ask "how do I stop my dog from barking?" and get an answer because why they are barking plays a significant role in how we stop them.  Are they barking in the crate?  Are they barking at you?  Are they barking at your neighbor?  Do they only bark when on a leash?  Even if you answered "yes" to more than one, how you address the barking will change depending on the situation.  In this two-part series, I'm going dive deep into two different types of barking demand barking (part 1) and alert barking (part 2).  I have some previous episodes that go into some other types of barking.  I've listed those episodes below. In this episode I talk about:* Why stopping a dog from barking is complicated.* The different types of barking.* What techniques I don't use.* How to address demand barking. * Examples of different scenarios and how to handle them.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:Episodes to help with barking while crate training:YNP #005: Crate Training: How (and Why) to Make Their Crate Your Dog’s Best FriendYNP Special Edition: Q&A Tuesday – Crate TrainingYNP #028: 5 Reasons to Use the Crate When You’re Home.Episode to help with barking because of separation anxiety:YNP #022: How to Prevent and Treat Separation AnxietyEpisode to help with barking while on a leash:YNP #047: How to Handle a Reactive Dog on a LeashOther resources:YOUR Perfect Puppy: 4-week online training course for you and your new puppy.

Allison is back with some more great tips on how to take better photos of your dog!Who doesn't want that perfect Instagramable, frameable, background photo of our dog.  But even with the 200 photos we have on our phones sometimes it eludes us!Back in episode 52 Allison Shamrell of Allison Shamrell Pet Photography told us all about how to take great photos with just a cell phone and so much more.  Well, I've brought her back to answer some more questions on how to get that perfect shot!In this episode Allison talks about:* How to approach a photo session with your dog.* How to photograph two dogs together.* How to handle a dog that won't sit still.* How to photograph a dog with a dark face. * A free resource on how to get your dog to look at the camera.Press play and enjoy!

Allison's Freebie!On top of all the great tips she gives us throughout the episode she also put together a free gift for us:5 Ways to Get Your Dog to Look at the Camera*I've already downloaded it and I have to say there are some juicy tips in there! *This link will take you to Allison's webpage.  I have no affiliation with any links or downloads within that page.  That being said, I've requested the download myself and I highly recommend it.

Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #052: How to Take Better Photos of Your Dog with Allison ShamrellAllison's Free Facebook Group: How to Take Better Photos of Your DogAllison's Instagram: @takebetterphotosofyourdogAllison's website: Allison Shamrell Pet PhotographyYOUR Perfect Puppy: 4-week online training course for you and your new puppy.

I'm back to burst some bubbles (POP!).  Don't get me wrong, I LOVE my fenced-in yard just like most dog owners.  But just like with most things that make our lives easier there's a downside.  I'm here to help you minimize them!My goal is to make sure that you and your dog can use your backyard in the best way possible.  And that means there's some training that needs to happen before you just let them loose!This applies if you have a puppy or a full grown dog!In this episode I talk about:* Why letting a puppy have the run of the backyard too soon can backfire.* How to handle a dog that already has bad habits.* How a fenced-in backyard can ruin your recall.* How to work on a stronger recall in your backyard. * When it's time to let your dog run around unsupervised.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #019: The Downside of a Fenced-in Backyard (Part 1)YNP #051: How to Get a Stronger RecallYOUR Perfect Puppy: 4-week online training course for you and your new puppy.

Socializing your dog, especially when they are young, is SUPER DUPER important.  If you have listened to me at all then this is not news to you. You know that you have to expose your dog to many different people, places, environments, sounds, textures, and dogs.  This is what creates a confident, well-adjusted dog that you can take anywhere and not have to worry about them.  BUT we need to do it right.  That is why I developed my 7 guidelines for socializing your dog.  Not only do we want to expose our dog to all these different things and situations but we need to make sure that we create a good association!  In fact, that's exactly where we start with Socialization Guideline #1!In this episode I talk about:* Why socialization is important to do at a young age (3-16 weeks!).* How to handle a shy dog.* How to handle it when things go bad.* How you, the human, need to act. * How to create a good association.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #021: Balancing Vaccines and SocializationYNP Episode: How to Socialize Your Puppy During Social DistancingYOUR Perfect Puppy: 4-week online training course for you and your new puppy.
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How many times have you gone to Youtube to find a new dog trick and it's a three-minute video with a dog that already knows the trick?Or you teach your dog a new trick in class to go home and they act like they never heard of it before.  Truth is, training doesn't happen in a straight line.  Yes, there is usually a set of steps we have to follow but those steps don't go as smoothly as the video, book, or class make it look. In this episode, I go session by session describing my journey of teaching my dog the trick "spin".  I'm not going to teach you HOW to teach "spin" (see the formal steps below for that).  My goal is to illustrate what those videos, classes, and books don't talk about.  The ups, downs, adjustments, mistakes, setbacks, wins, etc.  In this episode I talk about:* How my expectations immediately got me in trouble.* The adjustments I made when Miriah was struggling to learn what I wanted.* A brief cameo from Ollie and how he learned.* How I handled successful sessions and wins. * What needs to happen to deem the command a success.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #012:The Most Important Part of Your Dog’s Obedience TrainingYNP #030: The First 4 Steps to Teaching Any New CommandYOUR Perfect Puppy: 4-week online training course for you and your new puppy.

How to Teach Your Dog the Trick "Spin"*  Using a treat in your hand, lure your dog to walk in a circle.  Don't worry about the size of the circle at this point.  If you have trouble getting the full circle start to reward them when they reach 1/4 or 1/2 way and work them up to the full circle.*  Once your dog is walking in a full circle, tighten up the circle if necessary and start to shorten the lure.  You want to go from using your full arm to walk them in a circle to just using your finger and wrist to point in a half-circle.  If you are over 90% sure your dog will follow your lure at this point you can start to say the command "spin" (or "twirl", your choice).  Say it only once and DO NOT expect them to listen to it.  Use the lure to guarantee they will spin when they hear the word. *  Take away the treat from your lure hand and only use the hand signal.  You are still rewarding them with treats when they perform the behavior. *  Once you are down to the hand signal (90% sure they will listen to it) start to teach the command.  Say the command first, wait on second and then use your lure. Do this until they start to spin before you need to hand signal.  * If your dog performs "spin" without the food lure (remember still treating but there's no food in your lure hand), with just the hand signal and no command, with the command and no hand signal then just keep practicing until the trick is solid!Ways to up the challenge:Teach both directions (one can be "spin" the other "twirl")Teach multiple spins in a rowAdd distance (can you tell them to spin from across the room)Add distractions

Your puppy's schedule will vary depending on many factors.  Including age, exercise needs, and your schedule.When I'm asked about what a typical day looks like I know that I'm actually being asked things like:"How many times should I take my puppy out?""How much exercise should my puppy get?""How much time is too much time in the crate?"To help answer these questions and give you a place to start, in this episode, I talk about what a typical day might look like for a 10-week old puppy and how it will change as your puppy gets older.   In this episode I talk about:* What your puppy's schedule will revolve around depending on their age.* How exercise and enrichment vary depending on your puppy's age.* How your puppy's schedule will change as they get older.* Examples from clients on the daily schedules that work for them. * Bedtime and wake time.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #056: Potty Training for a Working HouseholdYNP #018: Ditch the Bowl and Make Mealtime an Event YNP #042: 10 Ways to Play With Your Dog YNP #059: How to Teach Your Dog to FetchRover Round Robin: Instructions to a fun, structured, family game that also reinforces recall.11 activities to do with your dogThe flirt pole: Found under toys section of my recommended supply list.  YOUR Perfect Puppy: 4-week online training course for you and your new puppy.

When we imagine kids and puppies we think that they go together like peanut butter and jelly (or my preference - chocolate). The reality isn't so sweet.  Your puppy and your kids LOVE each other.  But sometimes it's that same love and excitement that causes scratches, tears, and a disheartening relationship.When we have kids and a puppy in the same house it takes a lot more management and referring than most expect.  We can have that amazing relationship that we imagined when you got the puppy for the kids, but it does take some work to get there.  Be sure to check out all the resources below that I mention throughout the episode. In this episode I talk about:* What the kids/dog relationship looks like vs what we imagine.* Why there can be more tension with the kids than with adults.* My recommended house rules for families with young kids.* Other tips to manage and make sure the puppy and kids stay best friends. Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:The Family Dog: One of the most powerful videos about the kid/dog relationship and why we need to respect it.  If your puppy is ever going to have contact with kids, watch this 2.5 minute video.Rover Round Robin: Instructions to a fun, structured, family game that also reinforces recall.11 activities to do with your dogThe flirt pole: Found under toys section of my recommended supply list.  YOUR Perfect Puppy: 4-week online training course for you and your new puppy.

Debbie here!  I just wanted to jump into your podcast feed one more time this year.  First I want to thank you, my listeners once again for being a bright spot in an otherwise stressful year.  I also thought it would be fun to take a look back at this year's most popular episodes and also talk about what's to come in 2021.No training advice in this one.  Just a little conversation between us humans.  Press play to listen!Resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #046: Puppy Biting and Why You Might Still Be StrugglingYNP #050: The 3 Most Common Leash Training QuestionsYNP Episode: How to Prevent Separation Anxiety During Stay-at-HomeYNP #053: Tips to Introduce Your Dog and CatYNP #051: How to Get a Stronger Recall Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:The Not-So-New Puppy WorkshopYOUR Perfect Puppy: 4-week online training course for you and your new puppy.

Fetch it the one game we all think of when we talk about playing with our dog.  So it's easy to forget that we have to teach them how to fetch.  We have the picture in our mind of our dog running across the yard or park to get the ball and bring it back.   It's so clear to us that we try to jump right there with our dogs!  But the reality is, our dogs have no idea what the rules of the game is...yet!To teach your dog to fetch first you have to make it SUPER EASY so they know what we want from them.  For fetch that means we have to start with super short distances in a small space.  Then build them up from there!The catch (hehe) is some dogs with take to the game like it's the best thing since sliced bacon, others may never take to it all.  To really know the difference take it slow to make sure they know how to play!In this episode I talk about:* Where we go wrong when teaching your dog to fetch.* My fair warning about teaching fetch (curiously of my old dog Chance).* Tips on how to start to teach your dog to fetch.* How to handle when you dog wants to play chase or refuses to bring it back. Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:11 activities to do with your dogYOUR Perfect Puppy: 4-week online training course for you and your new puppy.

When you are new at watching dogs play it can be confusing and even a bit concerning.  Dog play is "play fighting" so if you haven't made a career out of knowing dog body language it's easy to get concerned even when dogs are having a grand old time. To make it harder sometimes two dogs play, are having a good time, but it's still inappropriate play and we might want to ask them to take a break.Learning dog play and dog body language is like learning any new language.  It takes study, time, and a whole lot of practice. You aren't going to learn everything in one podcast episode.  But as dog parent we do want to have a "conversational dog" understanding.  My goal is to give you more confidence when your pup is playing to know if they are having a good time and let them have at it or if it's time to break it up and let it rest.  In this episode I talk about:* Signals that two are playing and having a good time* What to do when you think one dog is not playing nice* When two adolescent dogs play rough* When it's OK to give them a break* What to do if you are not sure (when in doubt)* A word about dog parksPress play to listen and enjoy!
As promised, below are a couple videos to demonstrate some of the signals and signs I talk about inside the episode. 

Pauses in PlayIn the video below, you can see how Sandi and Zorro pause periodically during their play session (or as I describe it inside the episode (play, play, play, pause).  Periodical pauses in the play is a good sign that everyone is having fun and respecting each other's boundaries. .searchie-container { position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; overflow: hidden; max-width: 100%; } .searchie-container iframe, .searchie-container object, .searchie-container embed { position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; }

SneezingHere, the play looks very concerning with all the snapping and teeth showing.  But listen for the quick little sneezes. Those are a clear sign that it's play.  Silly but true!.searchie-container { position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; overflow: hidden; max-width: 100%; } .searchie-container iframe, .searchie-container object, .searchie-container embed { position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; }

No Pauses and Increased ExcitementIn this video keep a close eye on Bromley (the small dark brindle puppy).  Notice that Bromley isn't taking any breaks and by the end she seems to be getting more and more excited.  Ollie (the larger white dog) is being very gentle and patient (which is great) but this is a time I might stop the play for a minute or two to give Bromley a chance to settle and then let them play again. .searchie-container { position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; overflow: hidden; max-width: 100%; } .searchie-container iframe, .searchie-container object, .searchie-container embed { position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; }Loose and Curving Body LanguageThis last video is more subtle.  Watch how Lucy (black and white) and Ollie (white) have very loose body language.  They curve their bodies toward each other a lot.  Also notice how they always approach each other from the side (chest to shoulder or side to side) rarely straight on (head to head).  This is ideal dog play. .searchie-container { position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; overflow: hidden; max-width: 100%; } .searchie-container iframe, .searchie-container object, .searchie-container embed { position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; }
Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #013: Dog Park vs. Dog Daycare

If your dog listens to you inside your house that doesn't mean they know what you want outside on their walk.  Even if you are asking for the same thing.  Dogs are very contextual and need to be taught how to listen even when there distractions.  The good news is, if your dog listens to you in your kitchen then you already know how to teach your dog to listen with distractions!  If you want your dog to listen to you in a new environment you have to reteach them the same skill like they have never learned it before.  Then it's about practice, practice, practice.In this episode, I talk about how to teach your dog to listen with distractions!Press Play and enjoy!In this episode I talk about:* How to think about distractions.* Practice, practice, practice.* How to know when to increase or decrease the distractions.* How to prepare for the unexpected. Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #054: How to Use Training Treats ProperlyYOUR Perfect Puppy: 4-week online training course for you and your new puppy.

How do you handle potty training when all the adults in the housework full time?  This is a question I get asked a lot.  Mainly because my listeners know I do not like the use of potty pads (for more on that, check out Episode 009).  If you are going to be out of the house longer than your puppy can hold regularly, how do you handle that without using potty pads?  My short answer is "get help!"  I know, it’s not what you want to hear.  And you may think, “wait, SO MANY people have dogs and work, how do they do it?”  I address that too.At the very least I highly recommend working out a schedule to give your pup potty breaks - which might mean getting help from a sitter, neighbor, or friend - until at least 6 months (longer depending on your dog).  That is the minimum age a puppy can be left alone for an extending period.  I think it’s of great benefit for both you and your puppy to go beyond that and I explain why in this episode.  Press Play and enjoy!In this episode I talk about:* What I mean by a working household.* Why I highly recommend you get help instead of using potty pads.* Why it's about more than potty training.* Remember you have a puppy not a dog (yet). Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #009: Why Indoor Pads Should NOT be Used When House Training Your PuppyYNP #014: How to Choose the Right Dog Care – Part One FacilitiesYNP #015: How to Choose the Right Dog Care – Part Two Pet SittersYOUR Perfect Puppy: 4-week online training course for you and your new puppy.

There are SO MANY things we need to train our puppy when we bring them home.  It's really easy to get overwhelmed or focus on the wrong things.  In this episode, I talk about the three most important skills you can teach your puppy.  Start these skills from day one and you will reap the benefits for years to come.  The three skills I talk about are:Being handled (beyond being picked up and petting)Getting their attentionImpulse control (AKA frustration tolerance)In this episode I talk about:What these skills are.Why they are so important.How you will benefit for years to come.Where to start when training your puppy these skills. Press play and enjoy!Other resources from this episode:YOUR Perfect Puppy: 4-week online training course for you and your new puppy.

Does it feel like your trainer just tells you to stuff your dog's belly full of treats and say then they're trained?  Treats are an essential tool to raising our well-mannered dog but the lesson on HOW to use the treats properly gets lost.And we really want to avoid that place where your dog will only listen if you have a treat in your hand.  In this episode I talk about:Why we use treats.What's the difference between high value and low value treats (and when do we use them).How to know when to come away from the treats.How to ween your dog off the treats but still have a dog that listens. Press play and enjoy!Other resources from this episode:YNP #031: Reward Your Dog Without Treats 

All we want is a peaceful house!  When asking two (or three!) different species to live together it can get tricky!How you introducing your dog and cat depends a lot on the personalities involved. If you have a calm dog and confident cat, count yourself lucky!  If you have an excited dog and a shy cat, it's gonna take a little longer.One of the most important things to keep in mind is not to rush the process.  That being said the best thing you can do to speed the process along is to make sure everyone not only IS safe but also FEELS safe.In this episode, I go over my top tips to introducing your dog and cat.  SPOILER ALERT: it has everything to do with making sure your cat feels safe around the dog. P.S. You can replace "cat" with any pet (that isn't a dog) that your dog needs to share the house or yard with. 

We all have a hundred (ok, ok hundreds) of photos of our dog.  But how many are keepers?  If you are anything like me you have 600 pictures and 2 end up as keepersIn this episode, let's welcome Allison Shamrell to give us all her best tips on how to get better photos of your dog, even if all you have is a cell phone!This is a fun episode and I learned so much from Allison and I know you will too!What we talk about:How to take better photos with just your cell phoneWhat obedience commands will come in handyHow to take a great action shotYou can learn even more from Allison here:Allison's Free Facebook Group: How to Take Better Photos of Your Dog Allison's website: Allison Shamrell Pet Photography

A strong recall is one of the most important behaviors your dog can have.  It's also something that takes LOTS OF WORK!!This episode is a replay a mini recall training I did inside my online puppy course YOUR Perfect Puppy.  I talk about how I approach recall as a habit that you and your dog need to develop (not as a command to teach).  I also go over the most common mistakes that I see and small adjustments that you can make to get that stronger recall. Press play to listen to the entire episode!  Enjoy!Links mentioned in this episode:* YNP #004: 3 Things You Can Do Now to Teach Your Dog to Come Every Time You Call* YOUR Perfect Puppy online new puppy course* Rover Round Robin cheat sheet

Separation anxiety is always been something dog owners need to be aware of.  How to be alone is something that we have to teach our dogs.  In a perfect world we start this when they are puppies with crate training and the natural rhythm of our lives as we need to go to work, school, family functions or just out to dinner.  But right now we aren't doing any of those things.  As we are spending so much more time with our dogs a concern that has come up recently is how our dogs will react when we do start leaving the house again.In this episode, I address exactly that.  I have you some ideas on how to ease your dog or puppy back into being alone (or maybe being left alone for the first time).  I talk about specific considerations during this time of COVID-19.If this is something you are struggling with I also recommend you check out Episode 022: How to Prevent and Treat Separation Anxiety.

Leash training is a hot topic among dog owners.  Walks are a fundamental joy for dogs but when it comes to walking down the street in a straight line, it's no longer feels natural for them so that's why we encounter some resistance.This is also why there are many different ways we struggle with our dog on a leash.In this episode, I go over the 3 most common questions I get about leash training.* How to stop pulling on a leash.* How to stop jumping and nipping during the walk. * How to handle distractions. Press play to listen to the entire episode!

​As your dog grows you will probably experience some behavior changes.  Just as you think you have it ALL figured out your puppy will prove you wrong. It's all part of the roller coaster of owning a puppy.  In this episode, I talk about when these changes can happen, why they happen, and how to handle them.  Press play to listen to the entire episode.  Enjoy!

​If you decide to bring home an adult dog you may have different expectations than if they were a puppy.  Maybe they're already potty trained and crate trained.  They don't have as much energy. Maybe they're out of the chewing stage.  These expectations can lead to some trouble when we first bring them home.  Just like with a puppy, we still need to make them feel safe while they get to know us and we get to know them.For a rescue dog, this can take up to 3 months. Last week I talked about the 3 Phases to Bringing Your New Puppy Home.  Bringing home an adult dog doesn't look much different.You want to keep their world small and grow it slowly.  This will help them feel safe and while they start to trust you and you get to know each other.  You know that you're going to be the best dog parent ever, and you're not wrong.  We sometimes have to give our new four-legged family member some time to figure that out.  Once your new adult dog settles in it is ALL very much worth it!!Press play to listen the entire episode!

​This week I'm doing something a little different.  This is the audio version of a video series called 3 Phases to Bringing Your New Puppy Home.  If you are a future puppy owner than this mini training is perfect for you.In this episode, I talk all about Phase 03: Get to Work.  Right around day 4 your will see your puppy's true personality start to come out.  Now that they are settled in it's time to get to work!  There are four essential tools you will need through every stage of your dog's life.  I go over what they are and how they work together.Press play below to listen to the full episode or...

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​This week I'm doing something a little different.  This is the audio version of a video series called 3 Phases to Bringing Your New Puppy Home.  If you are a future puppy owner than this mini training is perfect for you.In this episode, I talk all about Phase 02: Settle In.  I go over exactly what you need to focus on in the first 3-4 days your puppy is home.  Just as important, I go over what you don't need to worry about until later!  Press play below to listen to the full episode or...

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​This week I'm doing something a little different.  This is the audio version of a video series called 3 Phases to Bringing Your New Puppy Home.  If you are a future puppy owner than this mini training is perfect for you.In this episode, I talk all about Phase 01: Prepare.  I go over everything from the supplies I recommend to have the for the day your puppy comes home to how to prepare your home, yourself, and your family.Press play below to listen to the full episode or...

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***This episode was recorded on March 22, 2020 and uses the best information available at that time.  With information is constantly changing, please keep informed and stay safe according to the most accurate, science based, up to date information available.***In the best of times, it's important to know how to socialize your puppy.  Even though these are not the best of times, socialization is no less important. How are you supposed to socialize your puppy when you're not allowed to socialize yourself?!?!Well, the situation isn't perfect but we can make the best of it.In this episode, I talk about what you can focus on during social distancing and adjustments you can make to still get these essential life experiences in for your puppy. In short, we are going to work with what we got!  Press play and enjoy!

I wanted to take a minute and check in and reach out.  How are you doing?Just about every single person out there is touched by what's happening.  I too, sat in my anxiety and stress for a little while. You know what brought me out of it?  YOU.I carved out this little corner of the internet to help dog parents and new puppy parents have an amazing life with their dog.  That's exactly what I'm going to continue to do even through this incredibly rough time.I 100% believe that stress management is just as important as washing your hands right now.  Conveniently enough, we all have little stress relievers running around our house.Over the past few days I've been posting an activity a day to do with your dog.  I encourage you to turn off your phone, turn off the news and just take an hour and play with your dog.  Keep yourself entertained, keep the kids entertained, and have a little extra playtime guilt free!!In this episode, I talk about a few of the activities that I've already posted (on Facebook and Instagram).  Below are the videos and all links to the resources I talk about.  I'll be keeping this page updated so check back!I hope this finds you safe and healthy.  Give your pups a belly rub from me as we all get through this together!Links and resources:YNP #042: 10 Ways to Play With Your DogYNP #018: Ditch the Bowl and Make Mealtime an EventYNP #004: 3 Things You Can Do Now to Teach Your Dog to Come Every Time You CallRover Round Robin step by step guide

Activity 01: Puppy SoccerWhat you’ll need:✔1 or more humans (you'll take turns)✔Your dog✔Your dog’s dinner (or dry treats, or peas, or anything that will roll across the floor)✔A tiled or wood floor (no carpet)To Play:Step 01. Show your puppy the food or treat. Let them sniff it and get them excited about it.Step 02: Roll across the floor.Step 03: Once they catch it, call them back to you.Step 04: Repeat!Tips:✔Start with short distances while your dog is learning.✔Make sure the dog sees you roll the food.✔Great for young kids and adults!✔Feed your dog dinner and get some exercise and bonding time as well!!








Activity 02: Scavenger HuntWhat you’ll need:✔1 or more humans✔Your dog✔Your dog’s dinner and smelly treatsTo Play:1. Keep your dog in a separate room as you hide portions of their dinner mixed with the treats.2. Put a few pieces in plain sight to get them started.3. Bring your dog in and let them sniff and hunt!Tips:✔Start with super smelly treats (liver treats work) while they are learning the game then you can switch to their food only once they get the hang of it.✔Start with super easy places (where he can see it as well as smell it) until your dog gets the hang of it then up the challenge.✔Puppies are still developing their ability to sniff out food so make it super easy for them.✔Don’t hide it where your dog has to break a house rule to find it (in the couch or on a shelf). This is great nose work, tires out their brain and fills the tummy!








Activity 03: Rover Round RobinWhat you need:✔2 or more humans✔Your dog✔Treats, toys, and a silly attitudeTo Play:1. Stand a few feet apart.2. Take turns and call you dog to you.3. When your dog reaches you, shower him with praise, give him treats, and/or play a game of tug.Tips:✔Start close together while you and your pup are learning. Add distance once your dog learns the game.✔When it’s your turn to call your dog, throw a party! Get excited,

​When you have a reactive dog on a leash it takes all of the fun out of walks and makes them stressful and a chore.Unfortunately, having a reactive dog is all too common. It comes from the dog’s fight or flight response. When they are on a leash and tethered to you, some can default to the fight instinct. They’re not being bad, they are only showing this “aggression” because they feel they have to.Then it turns into a habit and your walks turn into a nightmare.Before you resort to walking your dog at 2 am or down that back ally where you know there won’t be any people or dogs, I have some tips for you on how to handle your dog when they bark or lunge at other people, dogs, or even fast-moving objects on a walk.If this has been going on for a while, if you’re working on it and you don’t see improvement or if it gets worse, it’s time to call a trainer. Most have experience with reactive dogs and it’s a behavior that can be improved but it can also takes timing and a technique that takes practice.  Having a professional guide you will be your best option.Your overall goal is to get your dog’s attention, keep their attention while whatever they usually bark at goes by.  We want to teach them “when I see another dog I pay attention to my human and good things happen!”In this episode, I provide my top tips that you can use if this is just starting or is minor. As an added bonus these same tips can also apply to an overexcited dog that is distracted by something in their environment.My tips include:* Practice getting your dogs attention in low-level environments* Stand or walk between your dog and the stimulus* Use distance to your advantagePress play to listen to the entire episode and enjoy!

Puppy biting is something that just about every new dog owner struggles with.  It can go from being an annoyance to affecting your enjoyment and bond with your puppy.  It gets even worse with the kids. Puppies don't know how to play with humans.  It's in their DNA to play with their tough-skinned, fur-covered littermates, but not us wimpy humans with our delicate skin. Working with your puppy on their nipping is pretty straight forward.  When you don't like the way they're playing, you stop playing.  You become completely boring and disengage.  Turn your back, tuck your hands or maybe even walk out of the room. What you don't do is say "no, no, no, stop" and physically try to stop them.  To your puppy, you are still playing. Then, even if you are doing everything right, you may still be struggling. The main reason I see, is that stopping your puppy's biting is a process.  You will be working on and managing puppy biting for a good portion of their first 6 months.Just like potty training, it takes time for our puppy to understand how to play with us.  Remember, we are working against their natural instincts.  So, you're gonna have good days and bad days.  What you need to look for is progress. The other big reason is that sometimes the puppy biting has nothing to do with biting at all.  There is something else going on that you need to address.  An overtired puppy will bite moreAn over-excited puppy will bite moreA teething puppy will bite moreOn those really bad days, instead of "strong-arming" our puppy into stopping, it's probably more about addressing one of the above problems.* Maybe it's time for your puppy to rest in their crate with a toy or chew* Maybe we need to give them a little bit more exercise like a walk or a structured game (like Rover Round Robin which I talk about in Episode 4).* Maybe we need to give them their chew toy to satisfy their aching mouth. In this episode, I talk about what to do when your puppy is biting while playing and why you might still be struggling.Press play to listen and enjoy!!

There are a bunch of different types of dog training programs out there.  Each has its own advantages and disadvantages.  Which one (or ones) you choose depends on your learning style, what's going on with your dog, and what your budget is.In this episode, I take a look at a puppy class vs obedience class vs private training vs online trainingNo matter which one you think is right for you it all comes down to you doing the work.  Once you walk out of the class or the trainer walks out the door it’s just you and your pup.  The last thing you need to do is find a trainer that has the program you want and that you like and trust.  Believe me, it's worth the time to call, talk to and research because your relationship with the trainer can make all the difference. Press play to listen to the entire episode.

Just like humans, dogs get car sick.  It's especially common for puppies.  Their little bellies are sensitive and not used to the motion.  The good news is, most will grow out of it.  The bad news is there is always a chance they will develop a bad association with the car.  Since it starts out as a physical reaction there isn't much we can do but help them feel better and try to avoid the sickness.  The last thing we want to do is stop taking our dog places. That's why in this episode, I go over tips to help prevent the car and motion sickness, including the anxiety that can develop.  I also give you a place to start if your dog is already has a bad association with the car.  Press play to listen to the entire episode.

You've read ALL the books, watched ALL the videos, listened to ALL the podcast but there are things that still come as a surprise when you get a new puppy.Let's be honest, some of these things they DO tell you, but maybe we don't hear them because they aren't the fun part of having a puppy.In this episode, I talk about the important things from how raising a puppy is an 18 month road to how your kids may react unexpectedly to the puppy.No worries, I didn't just talk about the doom and gloom.  I end the episode with some fun stuff like how puppies get the hiccups...a lot.   Press play to listen and enjoy!!

Especially with a new puppy, you'll hear 20 times a day, play with your puppy, exercise your puppy, stimulate your puppy so they don’t get bored, bond with them to create a strong relationship…OK OK, we get it’s important but after 160 games of fetch things get a little...well, boring. In this episode, I’m going to go through 10 ways to play with your dog. And this is just to get you started, it doesn’t stop here, not even close.  In reality, there are hundreds of ways to play with your dog. I want you and your dog to get creative and take it from here.   With the cold weather settling in here in NJ I decided to concentrate on indoor activities.  It’s easy to take things outside and get all the exercise and entertainment you need. It’s when you're stuck inside that things get harder.  No matter what activity we do with them, we are entertaining, stimulating, and bonding with them.  It’s tiring them out that can sometimes seem impossible.    That is why I also focused on ways that will up the exercise and tiring out factor.  At the end of the day (literally) what we want is a tired and happy dog! Your dog will probably have their favorites.  I hope you can find something you love, your dog loves AND gets everyone to sleep! Let’s get those creative juices going!!  Press play to listen and enjoy!!

Raising a puppy is challenging.  Raising a puppy in an apartment adds a few additional challenges. It’s becoming more and more common to raise a puppy in an apartment.  This is great because it means more places are allowing dogs but before you run and get your new puppy there are some things to consider and to be ready for. When we think about raising a puppy in an apartment we usually think about the size restriction the apartment building has (which I don’t agree with and I talk about why).  There are also a few other things.When living in an apartment (or a condominium or even a townhouse) you have close neighbors that can make crate training harder.  Sometimes you can’t get outside quickly which can be a struggle during potty training. And most of the time the room you have to exercise your dog is limited.I have you covered with some tips on how to handle these extra challenges.  Including:* Getting the right age and breed* Potty training tips * Crate training tips* When they destroy something that's not yoursPress play to listen to the full episode. Related Episodes:YNP #002: Which Type of Dog is Right for You?YNP #005: Crate Training: How to Make Their Crate Your Dog’s Best FriendYNP #009: Why Indoor Pads Should NOT be Used When House Training Your PuppyYNP #010: Complete Guide to Potty Training Your Puppy

You need to be your dog’s pack leader.  This much is clear. However, when I talk about leadership it doesn’t have anything to do with “alpha” or “dominance”.  I believe those words are overused and greatly misunderstood. But mostly, I believe that it leads us to the wrong type of relationship with our dog.  Make no mistake you need to be your dog’s pack leader, but I want you to think about more like a parent or teacher.  You make the rules, you decide how you want your dog to act and then it's up to us to guide and teach them how to be the dog we want them to be.  It’s a balance of respect, patience, and trust.There are three parts to being a good pack leader to your dog that builds this type of relationship. We need to:* Lead by example* Lead with consistency  * Lead with patienceIn this episode, I will talk about each one, what they mean, and how they fit into the bigger picture.  

This is the third and final special edition highlighting the great questions I received during Q&A Tuesdays.  Every Tuesday in October I will be answering your training questions.  These are just a few of the great questions I received and I thought would be beneficial to all my listeners.  October is now officially over and therefor so are Q&A Tuesdays, for now..If you don't want to miss the next time I do Q&A Tuesdays, you can find me on Instagram or Facebook because that is where it all happens.  I got the idea for Q&A Tuesday because this is very similar to what I do inside YOUR Perfect Puppy my online course for new puppy owners. More info on YOUR Perfect Puppy.For this special edition I cover the following topics:A dog that is marking in other people's homes.When your dog is uncomfortable or "afraid" of something (in this case a brush).Tips if you want to run with your dog.How to tell the difference between whining to go out and whining for attention.Teaching puppy to be calm around a cat. Press play to listen to the full episode with more details and examples.  Enjoy!

Potty accidents are part of having a puppy.  You can do everything right and you are still going to have an accident.  And let’s face it, we probably aren’t going to do everything right.  In all of my years helping puppy owners with potty training there are a few types of accidents that I see over and over.  Knowing what they are can not only help you avoid them but sometimes it’s nice to know what may seem like weird place to have an accident, it actually quite normal.  In this episode, I go over the most common types of potty accidents I see.  First I go over common places and then common situations that will occur.  Of course, I give you tips throughout on how to avoid them altogether.
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Every Tuesday in October I will be answering your training questions.  These are just a few of the great questions I received and I thought would be beneficial to all my listeners.I got the idea for Q&A Tuesday because this is very similar to what I do inside YOUR Perfect Puppy my online course for new puppy owners. You can find me on Instagram or Facebook next Tuesday to get a preview of the kind of access you get to me inside the course or just get your training questions answered.  I'll be hanging out in my messages all day. More info on YOUR Perfect Puppy.For this special edition I chose a theme of all crate training questions.   Press play to listen to the full episode with more details and examples.  Enjoy!

Every Tuesday in October I will be answering your training questions.  These are just a few of the great questions I received and I thought would be beneficial to all my listeners.I got the idea for Q&A Tuesday because this is very similar to what I do inside YOUR Perfect Puppy my online course for new puppy owners. You can find me on Instagram or Facebook next Tuesday to get a preview of the kind of access you get to me inside the course or just get your training questions answered.  I'll be hanging out in my messages all day. More info on YOUR Perfect Puppy.The questions I answer in this special edition of the podcast include potty training, how to handle working households with a puppy, counter surfing, and puppy nipping.  Press play to listen to the full episode with more details and examples.  Enjoy!

There is only one thing that you need to know about dog behavior to teach or stop any behavior!  Yup, when it comes down to it, our dogs are very simple creatures.  In this episode, I am revealing my secret.  This is what I use to solve 90% of my client's training issues.  I have centered my life around dog behavior.  And everything I have learned and observed comes down to this one thing.  SPOILER ALERT...
The one thing you need to know about dog behavior***Dogs do what works for them...always; and they don’t feel guilty about it.*** That's it.  If your dog is exhibiting some behavior then it is working for them.  Otherwise, they wouldn't be doing it.  The trick is to understand what's working.  We can use it to our advantage to teach a behavior.  For example, you want to teach your dog to sit, you give them a treat every time their butt hits the floor when you say "sit". Now, that behavior works for them so they are going to repeat it.  Or we want to stop a behavior.  For example, your dog barks at you and you give them attention by looking at them or even telling them "no." That behavior now works for them and they will repeat it.  To change the behavior we have to take the attention away.    The top 4 most common things your dog is looking for isAttentionFoodRelease extra energy Relieve boredomThese are not the only things but they are the place to start.  The concept is easy, it’s applying that gets tricky.  Sometimes it's super obvious (your dog jumps on the counter and gets to the food) or not so obvious (your puppy is whining in the crate for attention, not to go potty).  This episode is chock full of examples on how to apply this. Now you know my secret.  This is the same place I always start when trying to teach or stop a behavior.  It takes practice, but if we take a hard look at our dog’s behavior (and ours) you will see the pattern.  Press play to listen to the full episode with more details and examples.  Enjoy!

There are three types of training that you need to turn your puppy into a well-rounded, well-behaved, and well-mannered dog.When we think of training our dog we usually think about teaching our dog to “listen to me”  I want him to come when I say come and stay when I say stay. Or we don’t even think about training until a bad behavior starts and we want to correct it.  In this episode, I talk about three different types of training that you need.  My goal is to get you to approach training your dog a little differently. Instead of it being something that you do when needed it’s actually something that is integrated into your everyday life with your dog.  
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Here is a summary of each type I talk about. Skills trainingThis is the type of training that we think of.  It involves formally training your dog to do something on command.  The most common example is obedience training.  This is the training we gravitate to because it's really easy to see.  We tell our dog to do something and we do it.  The feedback is obvious.  Preventative trainingStop bad habits before they start.  When we put our shoes away so our puppy doesn't discover them or when we take our dogs for a walk before they use their extra energy to dig up the garden.  This is a more subtle type of training but it is just as important.  Habit trainingWhere preventative training is stopping bad habits before they start, habit training is creating everyday good habits on purpose.  Potty training is teaching our dog the habit of going to the bathroom outside only.  When we play with our dog when they pick up their own toys to chew on we are teaching them to always play with their toys.   All ThreeThere isn't one of these that is more important than the other.  In fact, they all work together and most of the time you will be using more than one.  So, you don’t have to know which one you are doing when.  The point here is that training is more than just teaching your dog to "listen to me."  Sometimes training is done in the everyday subtle things like closing the front door or putting the remote on a high shelf or consistently not allowing them on the couch or bed.It's also important to know that just about everything we do with our puppy means something.  This can help in those moments that you feel that nothing is happening and your puppy isn't learning.  Remember those little things count just as much as the big stuff.  Press play to listen to the full episode with more details and examples.  Enjoy!

Raising a puppy is something we have to learn.  It's not natural for us humans.  So just like with learning anything new we are going to make a few mistakes along the way. First we have to know what mistakes we are making in the first place.  In this episode, I talk about 4 mistakes I see new puppy owners make (and what to do instead).  
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Let's take a quick look at each one. #1. Give too much freedom too soonWhen we first imagined having a dog we thought about a dog wandering around the house, sleeping on the couch or freely playing the back yard.  Then when we bring our puppy home we end up giving them too much freedom too soon. What I mean is within the first couple weeks home you give the puppy the run of the first floor of the house or let them run around in the back yard (yes, even if you have a fenced-in yard).This is too much freedom for a new puppy!  You will have that dog that freely runs around your home but right now you have a puppy and there is some work to get there.  What to do instead:Right now they are learning EVERYTHING about your world and how to live in your house.  Think of their freedom as something they earn by building trust and a bond with you, not something they automatically get when they move into your home.Until they earn that freedom, keep your puppy's world small, and closely supervised. The more freedom we give our puppy the more trouble they get into.#2. Underestimating the importance of socializationSocialization is THE most important training you can do for your puppy.  So many new puppy owners aren’t aware of just how important it is or they simply misunderstand it.  When I say socialization most think about letting their puppy play with other dogs. This is true, but interacting with other dogs is only a small part of socializing your puppy.Socializing teaches your puppy to interact properly with EVERYTHING in their environment. It goes from sounds, textures, smells, climbing stairs, being handled, as well as interacting with people and other dogs.  The other part that is greatly misunderstood is that you can’t put off socialization. Socializing has the greatest impact between the age of 3-16 weeks. This isn’t something we can change.  It’s how a puppy’s brain grows and matures.  This also happens to be the time so many dog owners are keeping their dogs inside and avoiding interaction with the outside world.  Usually at the advice of their own vet or breeder because of vaccinations.  I talk all about balancing socialization and vaccinations in Episode 21.An under-socialized dog has trouble adjusting to new people and places.  A well-socialized dog is a confident dog that can go anywhere with you. You can't over-socialize a dog but you can very easily under-socialize a dog.The Socialization lesson inside YOUR Perfect Puppy (my 4 week puppy course) is by far the biggest lesson because it's SO important. What to do instead:If you have a puppy at home get your puppy out there experiencing new people and places AT LEAST 3 times a week (every day if possible).  If you have one coming soon, be ready to hit the ground running. #3. Ignoring behaviors hoping that they grow out of themThe dangerous part about this one is that there is some truth to it. As your dog matures they will be less likely to cause trouble.  Their energy decreases, their need to chew, explore, and rebel also decrease.  BUT when they are puppies they are discovering everything and learnin...

Where should your dog sleep?  This is a simple question with multiple answers.  On one had I have a strong recommendation where your dog should be sleeping.  On the other, it really doesn't matter as long as you make the decision and then stick with it. To make this more clear split my answer into two parts:* Should your dog sleep in or out of the crate?* Where in the house should your dog sleep (including on the bed)?In this episode, I talk about when I have a recommendation, when it's up to you, and things to conciser when deciding.Here is a preview of what I will talk about.In or out of the crate?This is where I have a strong recommendation depending on your dogs age and behavior.During potty training, your puppy should be sleeping in a crate.  Even if you know they can sleep through the night without an accident while in the crate, doesn’t mean they won’t have one if they are out of the crate. Throughout adolescence (18-24 months) they should still be in their crate or, at the very least, a puppy-proofed room.  The more access they have to the house the more trouble they can get into. And when you are sleeping, I’m going to guess you aren’t supervising.Where in the house?Your dog can sleep outside your bedroom, inside your bedroom but not on the bed, or on your bed. There is no right or wrong answer but there are some things to conciser.No matter where you decide, your dog will adjust and be perfectly happy.  The key here is to decide early, and stick with it!  Once you let the dog up on the bed with you it is going to be a hard habit to break.  Listen to the whole episode to get all the details.  Enjoy!

Adding another dog to your pack is an exciting time.  It can also be a little stressful because you want to make sure that your current dog accepts your new puppy.Sometimes when you bring a new puppy home the current dog immediately accepts the puppy and it super excited to have a younger brother and sister.  And this is a possible scenario.The more likely scenario is that your current dog will be standoffish to the puppy.  This is completely normal and a common way for an adult dog to deal with a puppy (in fact, take note on how well your older dog gives the puppy boundaries by simply ignoring them.  We could take a few lessons from this).  The good news is, the vast majority of the time the dogs will figure it out.  That being said there are lots of things that you can do to make the “warm-up” time go more smoothly.The first thing to note is that this “warm-up” time could be a day or two or could take weeks!  Don’t rush it and let your current dog set the pace. How they interact in the first few weeks home is not necessarily how they will always interact.In this episode, I talk about a few things you can do to help make this initial time together go smoothly.* Walks, walks, and more walks* Tire the puppy out before you let him/her interact with your current dog* Balance allowing them to interact with giving your current dog some space from the puppy.* Manage food and toys to reduce any competition that might arise.  Listen and enjoy!

My dogs aren't perfect, and I'm ok with that?  You would think because I'm a dog trainer I would care more.  But that's exactly why I know it's OK. Training a dog is time-consuming and it’s something that most of us just simply aren’t good at.  Most likely you won't be able to teach your dog EVERYTHING.  I've quickly learned that raising a puppy is a combination between training and management. We quickly get frustrated or overwhelmed trying to create this perfect dog and I’m here to tell you to give yourself a break. It's all about YOUR priorities.  In this episode, I confess about my dog’s behavior and how I sometimes manage behaviors instead of correcting them.  I save my energy and focus on the behaviors that are the most important to me. Your dog only has to live with you.  So it's important to raise YOUR Perfect Puppy, not the one your neighbor says you should have or what Google thinks a well-behaved puppy is.Give yourself a break, the perfect puppy is one you love, is happy and healthy, and enhances your life.  Not the one your neighbor tells you you SHOULD have. Listen below and enjoy!

There are so many dog supplies out there it can be overwhelming.  Over the years I have developed a list of my go-to supplies that I use and recommend to my clients.In this episode, I talk about what my favorite dog supply is in each of these 8 categories and why they have become my go-to. All supplies can be found on Amazon.com, Chewy.com, or BarkBox.com. Disclosure: I only recommend products I have used and loved and all opinions expressed here are my own and are NEVER paid for. That being said, this post may contain affiliate links that, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission.A full list of my recommended supplies.1. Training treat: Freeze dried liverI never met a dog that could resist these liver treats.  You can break them down into small training pieces or even sprinkle some on top of a picky eaters food.  There is only one ingredient and they are made in the USA.


Find on Amazon.com

2. Leash pulling tool: Front clip harnessI prefer using harnesses for leash walking in general.  Especially if you have a heavy puller.  The traditional collar can put a lot of pressure on the neck.  With the leash clipped in the front (you don't need a double leash like the picture below) when they start to pull they get turned around so it's hard for them to get the leverage they need to pull hard.  


Find on Amazon.com

3. Food bowl: Treat ballI may be cheating a little bit with this one.  It's not actually a food bowl, but it is my favorite way to feed your dog.  Instead of inhaling their dinner from a bowl, they knock around a ball and their food comes out.  You have to feed your dog anyway, let them occupy themselves for 20 minutes instead of 20 seconds.


Find on Amazon.com

4. Chew toy: KongSimilar to the treat ball above you can stuff the Kong with your dog's dinner or some homemade healthy wholefoods (skip the store bought stuffing).  Now your puppy is occupied, chewing, and eating something healthy or their own food!


Find on Chewy.com

5. Teething chew: Ice cubeSimple, free and can entertain your dog for hours (weather permitting).  Best part is,

Dogs learns through repetition and reward. The easiest and most efficient way to reward your dog is by using treats.  That is why they are the go-to for trainers and dog owners.Even though treats is the most popular way to reward your dog they are not, by far, the only way.  In fact, there are so many ways to reward our dog we do it everyday by accident. What we can do is use these non-treat rewards to our advantage.The best alternative (and easiest) is our attention.  Do not underestimate the value of your verbal praise and attention.  This is something we always carry with us so we never have to wean off our verbal praise like we do with treats.  In this episode, I go through a bunch of examples to get you started.  The key is to look at your dog’s environment and see what motivates them, what makes them happy, and then use that to reward them for good behavior .It’s time to think outside the (treat) box.Enjoy!Photo by Leio McLaren (@leiomclaren) on Unsplash

Dog obedience training is the first thing we think of when we say “training your dog.”  In fact, it might be the only thing we think of.Your dog’s training goes WAY beyond obedience but it is a very important part of your new puppy’s education.When starting from scratch it’s important to create a strong and reliable foundation.  We can do this in four easy steps.  * The Lure:  Encourage your dog into the position or action you are looking for, without saying a word.* Add the command:  Connect the action with a vocal command.* Hide the treat, add a hand signal:  This step prevents the dreaded bribing scenario.* Intermittent treats:  Come away from the treats and add other rewards.These are often the steps we skip or rush through. The most notable being, ​the command is not added until step 2.  Now I don’t expect you to be able to listen to this episode and teach your dog ANY command.  How these four steps look will vary slightly depending on the exact skill you are teaching. It's the foundation they create that is universal.  Always start with this foundation and you will be on your way to reliable dog obedience training in no time.

Bringing your puppy home is exciting and maybe a little stressful.  The ride home is the first time you are 100% responsible for them.If this is your first puppy you may be even more nervous. Your puppy might be nervous too.  It’s a short and simple topic but something I get asked all the time.  Bringing your puppy home should be exciting, not nerve-racking.  So I have some advice for you to help it go smoother.Whether it’s a 15-minute ride from your local rescue or a 10-hour ride from your breeder there are some things you can do to be ready.A few tips I discuss in the episode:* Have a towel* Bring one person but not the whole family.  You want one person taking care of the dog and one person driving but you don’t want the whole family overwhelming the puppy* Bring something that smells like other your other pets.  * Have a plan for when you get home.  Right now the ride home seems like it’s the most important thing in the world.  You are going to have so much time with your puppy, just make sure they are safe and comfortable.  Photo by Emerson Peters on Unsplash

When we think of crate training we usually think of potty training or where we put our puppy when we aren’t home.  Crate training goes way beyond that. In fact, we should be using it after potty training AND when we are home.I usually get some resistance to this.  Most dog owners have a sense of guilt using the crate even when they are home.  You might think “well, it’s not fair to my puppy, he shouldn’t have to be in his crate when I’m home” or “I should be able to supervise him when I’m home.”The only thing we are doing is making things harder on ourselves.  Your puppy’s crate is a multi-faceted training tool. In this episode, I’m going to convince you that not only CAN you use the crate when you are home but you SHOULD use your puppy’s crate when you are home.The five reasons for using the crate when you are home are:* It’s the best way to crate train your puppy* Your puppy will hate the crate if you only use it when you leave* Prevent separation anxiety* Your puppy’s safety* Your sanity!I mention two other episodes that are related and highly recommend if you are looking for information on crate training your puppy. YNP #005: Crate Training: How (and Why) to Make Their Crate Your Dog’s Best FriendYNP #022: How to Prevent and Treat Separation AnxietyPhoto by Alvan Nee on Unsplash

How to handle a shy dog is important for all of us to know.  If you are anything like me, you just want to put ALL the puppies.  But not ALL of the puppies want to be pet. Wait, what??? Crazy, right?  This is even worse when it’s our own puppy.  We are all excited and ready to share our lives with our new fur ball but he won’t come anywhere near us.  Most of us want to win our puppy over. I mean come on, look at this amazing home and all I want to do is love you!!This is not uncommon, especially with rescue dogs.  Even though we know they are safe, they don’t know that...yet.In this episode, I talk about why this can happen and what to do if it does.This is a great listen for all dog lovers because anytime you come in contact with a shy, fearful, or insecure dog you will know what to do.This is also a time where a trainer will be important.  Insecurities in a puppy, if not addressed, can grow into many different behavior problems.If you take anything away from this episode is it this:  Let the dog come to you. Do not try and win them over, they make the first (and second, and third) move.Enjoy! 

The foundation of positive dog training is to reward the behaviors we want repeated and ignore or redirect the behaviors we don’t want repeated.Oh, how I wish it were that simple.  A question we don’t even think to ask is “how does the dog know what behavior we are rewarding or correcting?”  This is where timing is EVERYTHING.     Dogs are very present-minded. If we want to reward or stop a behavior from happening we have to do it the exact moment the behavior is happening.  Not a before or after. If we are just a moment or two off they may make the wrong connection with the wrong behavior.This is the only way we make sure our dog is making the connection to the right behavior.  If we reward them even 30 seconds later, it mines as well be 3 days later.There is some room for error here and we are not going to be perfect.  This skill is something WE need to practice. Understanding how timing makes a huge difference is the first step.    In this episode, I go into a few examples of what I mean and how to avoid rewarding or correcting the wrong behavior.See you inside!

Very often I get asked: Is human food good for dogs?  Or "should I feed my dog people food?" Or they say with pride “I ONLY feed my dog, dog food”The first thing I want to dispel is the idea that there is a difference between "people" food and "dog" food.  Food is food.The distinction that we are actually making is the difference between fresh foods and traditional commercial dog food which is typically highly processed.  So yes, "human" food is good for dogs because just like us, our dogs benefit greatly from fresh foods.I'm not talking about feeding your dog table scraps or dinner left overs.  I'm talking about supplementing their dinner with nutritious fresh foods and snacks.There are a few pitfalls we have to be careful of:* We want to be careful of over feeding our dogs.  When we add fresh foods we are also adding calories. * We also want to make sure that we keep a balanced diet.  If they are filling up on chicken (which is good for them) they might not be eating the other nutrients they need.* There are some foods that we can eat that our dogs shouldn’t.In this episode I talk about:* The difference between people and dog food (or lack there of).* Cautions when feeding your dog human food.* Benefits of feeding your dog human food.* Some of my favorite fresh foods that I use to supplement my dog’s food.  Related Episodes:Your New Puppy Episode #017: 5 Dog Food Myths and the Truth Behind ThemPhoto by Marek Szturc on Unsplash

The thought of raising two puppies together can create a lot of warm, fuzzy, and fun images.  They will keep each other company, entertain each other, exercise each other, and create perfect Instagram moments of snuggling together in their bed.We go into it aware that it will take more work.  Of course, it makes sense, there are two puppies instead of one.  What we don’t realize until we get them home is that it doesn’t take twice the work, it takes THREE times the work as raising one puppy.When a client asks me: "How to do I train two dogs at the same time?" My answer is: "You don’t."  Not until you train each one separately so they understand what you are asking. Then you can bring them together and train them as a pack.  That is where three times the work comes in.AND it doesn’t stop at skills training.  There are many activities you will need to do with your puppies both separately and together.There are also many reasons for this which I talk about within the episode.  Litter-mate syndromeYou need to have a relationship and bond with each dog on their own and with both dogs as a pack.Prevent separation anxiety from each other by giving them time apart.Teach them to have the confidence to deal with any environment with and without their sibling there.This is A LOT of work to train and prevent behavior problems.  Enough that most dog trainers recommend that you don’t ever get two dogs from the same litter.  It can be done, if you are prepared for it. If you already have two puppies or if you are set on getting two, I give you some examples on how to tackle all of this work .  If you are still thinking about getting two puppies, I give you the advice I usually give my clients who really want two dogs.  Enjoy!

Did you remember to praise your puppy?When using positive training our main tool is to reward behaviors we want our puppies to repeat.  The more we praise our puppy's good behavior the more likely they will grow into a well-behaved dog. Unfortunately, there are many times that we don’t remember (or worse, we don’t even realize) it’s an opportunity to praise and reward them to see the behavior again.Recognizing these moments is tough.  It takes practice if we are not used to it.  That is exactly why this episode includes a little bit of homework for you.In this episode, I talk about 2 situations that most puppy owners can miss:  When our puppy is being good and we didn’t even ask.For example: Sitting quietly at our feet.Relaxing on their bed with their toy.  Walked past our slipper without picking it up.When they are doing something wrong and we have to tell them to stop...and they do.For example:They stole our shoe but gave it to us when we asked.  They jumped up on the couch but they got down when we told them.Press play to listen below or go to where ever you get your podcasts. Photo by Charles Deluvio on Unsplash

Separation anxiety is when your dog is stressed out because they are separated from you.  Every single dog has the potential to develop some form of separation anxiety because dogs don’t know how to be alone naturally.  This is one of the many things we need to teach them to live in our world. Separation anxiety was also one of the many issues I had to deal with when I brought home my two girls all those years ago.  I know how heartbreaking and stressful it can be to deal with severe cases. My goal for you is to prevent it or nip it in the bud. In this episode I talk about:* What separation anxiety is.* What it looks like.* How to prevent it.* How to treat your dog if they are already showing minor signs.  If your dog is showing major signs of separation anxiety (destructive behavior, excessive barking, even hurting themselves) please call a certified trainer in your area.Press play to listen below or go to where ever you get your podcasts. Photo by Patrick Carr on Unsplash

A question I get ALL the time is about taking your puppy outside before they are fully vaccinated.  This question usually comes up during potty training but my answer has nothing to do with potty training.In short, your puppy needs to get out and start experiencing the world BEFORE they are fully vaccinated. I know this can come into direct conflict with your veterinarian's advice.  I am not telling you to ignore your vet! As the title of this episode suggest it is all about balancing your puppy’s physical health and their behavioral development.In this episode I talk about:* What socialization is.* What science tells us about when socialization is the most important.* Why the advice of “keep your puppy inside until fully vaccinated” is still around even though it’s not what is best for your puppy.* Suggestions on how to balance the risks of keeping your puppy physically and mentally healthy.Don’t take my word for it.In the episode, I talk about the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior and their statement on puppy socialization.  Their website is https://avsab.org/You can get the statement I reference right here or by going directly to their website (which I recommend, they have lots of great information on dog behavior).  ​

We are always told “prepare for emergencies" or "make an emergency preparedness plan."  The problem is the nature of an emergency is they are unpredictable and the situations are usually not something we expect.  All we can do is do our best to prepare so when it happens we at least have a head start.The type of emergencies I talk about in this episode is any situation where you either, can’t make it back home or you have to leave your home.  Having a dog can make both of these situations even more complicated.When faced with an emergency you will have a lot of things to think about.  Planning ahead can take the stress out of the situation that you are dealing with.In this Episode I walk you through making a list of people, places, and things that you may need in these types of emergencies when it comes to taking care of your dog.  Keep this list in a safe place so it’s ready for you when you need to use it.My hope for you is that this will be the best time you ever wasted.  Links mentioned in this Episode:YNP #014: How to Choose the Right Dog Care – Part One
YNP #015: How to Choose the Right Dog Care – Part Two Pet SittersNow Released: YOUR Perfect Puppy's online course

A fenced-in backyard is considered a very valuable resource for a dog owner.  It makes owning, potty training and exercising your dog SO much easier.  Or does it?With anything that makes our lives easier there is always a downside.  I know this, because I share this struggle with you.In this episode I talk about a very recent experience I had with my own dog.  Lucy’s behavior started to worsen out of nowhere and I started to get worried and frustrated all at the same time.Until i realized what was happening.  Lucy was BORED OUT OF HER MIND.  My fenced in backyard allowed me to get lazy and now Lucy and her behavior were showing it.With an acre of room and her sister to play with she had plenty of exercise but was lacking any other stimulation.This is why, fenced in yard or not, it is still important to get into the habit of walking your dog right away.In this episode I share my own struggle and tips on how we can work on it together.Photo by Aaron Bookout on Unsplash I did take my own advice!Immediately after recording this episode I regretted it ( 😉 not really) because, I had to take my own advice, right?  So even though it looked like this outside:My actual front yard. I tapped into my inner Jersey girl, toughened up, put on my snow boots, grabbed the girls’ leashes, and went out the door.I’m SO glad I did. Once I was out there and moving, it wasn’t as cold as I thought AND apparently snow changes the smell of everything because the girls acted like they haven’t seen that tree outside a hundred times before.  Leash walking resourceshttps://positively.com/dog-behavior/basic-cues/loose-leash-walking/​https://ferndogtraining.com/episode20/

So often, we get stuck in the idea that our dogs need to eat out of a bowl.  BORING!! Our dogs are programmed to work for their food so let’s use that in our favor. We already feed our dogs so let’s make it an event!  Our dogs have a blast AND it also help in our endless journey to burn off some of our dog's energy!  By having them work for their food our dog is occupied for longer than the typical 30 seconds it takes for them to eat out of a bowl.  This will relieve boredom and give them some mental exercise in the process (it’s also entertaining for us too)Now, what in the world do I mean?  In this episode I talk about three different examples of how to make meal time an event.  Use these examples to get your creative juices flowing and even a Google or Pinterest search to get more ideas on how to ditch the bowl.First example:  Use a Kong.Most of us know what a Kong is if not here is a photo.  You can find them in any pet store and they come in all different sizes and toughness.  This is one of the best ways to create a meal time event.  Instead of stuffing the Kong with peanut butter we stuff it with their meal.  One step that some of us miss is we have to teach your dog to use the Kong.  I talk about how to do this. Second example: Use a treat ball.A treat ball is one of my (and my dog's) favorite ways to eat their meal.  Despite the name it's not just for treats!  There a a bunch of different treat balls on the market.  You can also make some yourself.  Just search for DIY food puzzles or treat balls. Here are a couple of videos of Miriah and Boris enjoying their treat ball!!







The possibilities are endless!I give a few more examples in the episode to help you start to think outside the bowl.Have your own ideas!  Share below!

We know that finding the right dog food for our dog is important.  It can also be overwhelming.  Most of us want to be able to walk into a pet store, pick up a bag and make the right decision.  Unfortunately, it's not that simple.There is a lot of different information out there about which dog food.Deciphering what is true and what is based on common beliefs that may or may not be outdated is next to impossible.To help you out, this in this episode I go over 5 myths associated with commercial dog food.  Most of these myths came from a small amount of truth BUT through a game of telephone, the misconceptions grew.  The worst of it, are some of the dog food companies take advantage of these myths to continue to sell us low-quality food for our pets.The 5 Dog Food Myths (and what the truth is)#1: Find a dog food your dog likes and stick with it. (not always)#2: Dog food has a long shelf life (sorta)#3: Grain-free means low carb (nope)#4: Higher price means higher quality (not even close)#5: The first ingredient should be meat (Yes! But that’s not the whole story)

Decoding Pet Food Labels Free 5-day course delivered to your inbox.As mentioned in this episode I have a FREE dog food label mini-course! It’s a 5-day video series that goes through all the different parts of the label, from the description on the front to the ingredient list on the back.  Ready to learn more about the food you are feeding your pet? Sign up below to receive this FREE series.  You can also learn more about what's inside the lessons here. 

Both a dog park and a dog daycare are a place for your dog to get lots of exercise while playing with his friends.  Beyond that the experience is quite different.Where a dog park is free, daycares cost money.  You get to stay and interact and play with the other dogs and people at a dog park but a daycare allows you to take a break while your dog is having fun.The biggest difference is the socialization and safety of your dog.  Like anything that is free, a dog park involves more caution and risk.  Daycares carefully monitor the dog's health and behavior that participate in the play.If you take anything away from this episode it's this:  If your goal is to socialize your dog then a daycare is a place to go.  If you have a dog that is already well socialized, then a daycare still works.  A dog park can too, as long as you use common sense and caution.In this episode, I go through the pros and cons of each so you can decide what is best for you and your dog.

You don’t have to be a dog person to know about basic obedience. It’s usually the first thing you think of when someone says “training a dog”.It is popular for very good reasons. I could list a hundred reasons for you and your dog to go through some kind of obedience training.In this episode, I name a few but I mostly talk about what, in my opinion, is the most important part of your basic obedience education.YOU are the most important part of your dog's obedience training.Learning the commands is only half the story. Developing the relationship and bond is the other. You can’t have one without the other.If you have ever had a dog or have known a dog that only listens to one person in the family or if you have ever known a dog that knew all his commands but still didn’t behave properly then you know what I’m talking aboutI feel that if you approach your training as a relationship building exercise then you are going to get the most out of it.Obedience training isn’t a cure-all but it can create the foundation of your relationship and all training to come.Have you taken an obedience class? Tell us your experience. What was the best thing you got out of it? What do you wish was different? Leave a comment below and let us know.

I find so many dog owners go right for their retractable leash.  And I get it! I did the same thing when I got my first dog. Retractable leashes make so much sense in theory; make it short when I want to, give them freedom when I want to. It’s like 10 leashes in one!” Except they are anything but convenient for the safety and training for your dog.If you don’t already have a retractable leash you have most likely thought about buying one. You might even think that it's the type of leash you're "supposed" to get.  EVERYONE has one.  I'm here to tell you to resist the peer pressure!!This episode is short and sweet. I go through many different reasons why you should grab your regular ol’ leash and leave the retractable leash at home next time you head out the door with your dog. Once you make the switch, I promise you will understand.The main reasons you should leave your retractable leash at home:* Control* Safety* Bonding* Resource controlEnjoy!!

Indoor pads (also called wee-wee pads or potty pads) have a purpose but house training should not be one of them.If you want to teach your puppy to go to the bathroom outside only, these pads can be detrimental to this training.Indoor pads are one of those products that seem like a great tool (and are even advertised to us) but are anything but.  In the long run they create more work. It's also possible your pup may never be fully house trained.In this episode, I talk about why I strongly discourage the use of indoor pads for house training.If you plan to use indoor pads regularly, I give you a few reasons why that may not be a great idea either.For some indoor pads are a great option, but for most, they are not.Potty training is a right of passage for any puppy owner.  It’s a time-consuming process that can be frustrating at times so it’s only natural for us to grab something that might make it easier.  However, I promise you if you put in the work now, it will be worth it in the end.Talk to you inside!Related Episodes:YNP #010: Complete Guide to Potty Training Your Puppy