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

You’ve prepared for your puppy. You did the research.You bought the supplies.You read the books and checked all the boxes. So why does it still feel overwhelming when your puppy finally comes home? You did everything right, but you forgot one key part of puppy preparation: you. Good preparation doesn’t eliminate the chaos of bringing a puppy home. It prepares you to handle it when it shows up. In this episode, I talk about: Why feeling overwhelmed doesn’t mean you did something wrong How preparation helps you recover faster when things go sideways Why “mistakes” are not only normal, they’re part of the process The connection between preparation and the puppy blues What realistic expectations actually look like in the early weeks If you’re preparing for a puppy, this episode will help you go in with clearer expectations.If you already have a puppy and are thinking, “I wish I heard this sooner,” also check out Episode #104: The Puppy Blues. Enjoying this podcast?  Please rate and review it wherever you listen.  This helps other puppy parents find it. Other resources mentioned and related to this episode: Free Video Series: The Three Phases to Bringing Your New Puppy Home Your New Puppy’s Podcast: YNP #104: The Puppy Blues Your New Puppy’s Podcast: YNP #084: My Favorite DIY Puzzle Feeders YOUR Perfect Puppy: If you’re looking for ongoing guidance with situations like this, this episode is also a great example of the kind of real-life problem-solving we do inside YOUR Perfect Puppy, where I help you turn everyday chaos into manageable routines that work for your household.

Dinner should be a chance to relax, not a nightly negotiation with your dog. In this episode of Your New Puppies Podcast, I’m breaking down one of the most common struggles I see with puppies and adult dogs: dogs begging, barking, or demanding attention while their humans are trying to eat. It does make sense that this happens. Besides the obvious food, everyone is gathered together, and there tends to be a lot of movement and chaos. Your dog just wants in. The good news is you don’t need to teach new cues, run training drills, or micromanage every meal to fix this. This is a perfect example of how we can train without training by using consistency, structure, and a predictable routine. In this episode, I talk about: Why dinner time is such a challenging moment for dogs Why attention (even negative attention) keeps the behavior going How to give your dog something better to do before begging starts When and how to remove access to the table altogether How to build a predictable dinner routine These are things you can start doing today. It may not be perfect immediately, but with consistency, most families see improvement within a week. Enjoying this podcast?  Please rate and review it wherever you listen.  This helps other puppy parents find it. Other resources mentioned and related to this episode: Your New Puppy’s Podcast: YNP #018: Ditch the Bowl and Make Mealtime an Event Your New Puppy’s Podcast: YNP #025: Is Human Food Good for Dogs? Your New Puppy’s Podcast: YNP #084: My Favorite DIY Puzzle Feeders YOUR Perfect Puppy: If you’re looking for ongoing guidance with situations like this, this episode is also a great example of the kind of real-life problem-solving we do inside YOUR Perfect Puppy, where I help you turn everyday chaos into manageable routines that work for your household.

Potty training was going so well… until it suddenly wasn’t.   Let’s discuss why potty training regression is completely normal, what it actually means, and how to get back on track without feeling like you’ve failed your puppy. You have a stretch of good days, you start to feel confident, and then all of a sudden, the accidents are back. It feels like you’re back at square one, you start asking what you did wrong, and you might even wonder what’s wrong with your puppy. Here is the truth.Regression is normal. It doesn’t mean you failed. It doesn’t mean your puppy forgot everything. It means you are in the middle of the process. If this episode really resonates, I also recommend Episode 79: “Are You Still Struggling With Potty Training?” where I walk through the three key points I always cover with clients who are stuck. In this episode, I talk about: What potty training actually looks like (progress in NOT a straight line) The most common reason for potty training regression. Why regression seems to happen right at the end. How a small change in routine can have a big impact on your progress. The difference between a random accident and true regression. Enjoying this podcast?  Please rate and review it wherever you listen.  This helps other puppy parents find it. Other resources mentioned and related to this episode: Complete Guide to Potty Training Your Puppy: A free download that walks you through my complete process YNP #065:  YOUR New Puppy:  My signature new puppy course that has helped hundreds of new puppy parents raise their puppies into well-mannered, happy dogs.  Includes live support from me so you don’t have to do this alone! Additional Potty Training Episodes: YNP #009: Why Indoor Pads Should Not Be Used When House Training Your Puppy YNP #010: Complete Guide to Potty Training Your Puppy YNP #039: Common Potty Accidents YNP #041: Raising a Puppy in an Apartment YNP #056: Potty Training for a Working Household YNP #072: Should You Use a Potty Bell? YNP #079: Are You Still Struggling With Potty Training? YNP #085: How to Handle Potty Training Overnight YNP #090: When Your Dog Hates the Rain YNP #092: Why Not to Punish Puppy Potty Accidents

Potty training was going so well… until it suddenly wasn’t.   Let’s discuss why potty training regression is completely normal, what it actually means, and how to get back on track without feeling like you’ve failed your puppy. You have a stretch of good days, you start to feel confident, and then all of a sudden, the accidents are back. It feels like you’re back at square one, you start asking what you did wrong, and you might even wonder what’s wrong with your puppy. Here is the truth.Regression is normal. It doesn’t mean you failed. It doesn’t mean your puppy forgot everything. It means you are in the middle of the process. If this episode really resonates, I also recommend Episode 79: “Are You Still Struggling With Potty Training?” where I walk through the three key points I always cover with clients who are stuck. In this episode, I talk about: What potty training actually looks like (progress in NOT a straight line) The most common reason for potty training regression. Why regression seems to happen right at the end. How a small change in routine can have a big impact on your progress. The difference between a random accident and true regression. Enjoying this podcast?  Please rate and review it wherever you listen.  This helps other puppy parents find it. Other resources mentioned and related to this episode: Complete Guide to Potty Training Your Puppy: A free download that walks you through my complete process YOUR New Puppy:  My signature new puppy course that has helped hundreds of new puppy parents raise their puppies into well-mannered, happy dogs.  Includes live support from me so you don’t have to do this alone! Additional Potty Training Episodes: YNP #009: Why Indoor Pads Should Not Be Used When House Training Your Puppy YNP #010: Complete Guide to Potty Training Your Puppy YNP #039: Common Potty Accidents YNP #041: Raising a Puppy in an Apartment YNP #056: Potty Training for a Working Household YNP #072: Should You Use a Potty Bell? YNP #079: Are You Still Struggling With Potty Training? YNP #085: How to Handle Potty Training Overnight YNP #090: When Your Dog Hates the Rain YNP #092: Why Not to Punish Puppy Potty Accidents What’s Next? Feeling a little unsure about what to do with your new puppy? You’re not alone!  You’re just a human trying to raise a dog. That’s exactly why I created YOUR Perfect Puppy — my digital program that gives you a clear plan to follow and direct support from me every step of the way. From potty training and basic cues to building trust and confidence, we’ll cover everything you need to raise your well-mannered dog with less stress and more joy. And because puppyhood doesn’t stop after four weeks, you’ll also get ongoing access to Playtime Paws Academy — my membership community with weekly live calls, a private forum, and an entire library of enrichment activities to help you navigate real-life challenges as they come up. Click here to check out YOUR Perfect Puppy.  I’d love to support you through this journey.

Bringing a puppy home is a joyful time… except sometimes reality hits a bit harder. Welcome to the Puppy Blues. It’s common to underestimate the effect this big life change will have on our emotional well-being.   I’m doing this wrong?Why is this so hard?I feel like a failure.There’s something wrong with this dog.It’s not supposed to be this way. These are all normal things to think and feel when you bring your puppy home.  Feelings of anxiety, frustration, exhaustion, or even guilt are something that nearly every new puppy parent experiences. Yet we don’t seem to talk about it. In this episode, let’s discuss what the puppy blues are, why they happen, and most importantly, how to navigate them without feeling like you’re failing your puppy or yourself. You’ll learn why these feelings are normal, temporary, and something you can plan for, along with practical tips for finding your new rhythm with your puppy. Whether you’re preparing for a puppy or already in the thick of it, this episode will give you reassurance, strategies, and a roadmap to survive (and enjoy!) these early weeks. In this episode, I talk about: What the puppy blues are. Why just about every new puppy parent experiences them. Practical ways to minimize the overwhelm. How to find your new rhythm with your puppy. Where to find extra guidance. Enjoying this podcast?  Please rate and review it wherever you listen.  This helps other puppy parents find it. Other resources mentioned and related to this episode: Science Daily: A dog’s puppyhood can cause ‘puppy blues’ reminiscent of baby blues Your New Puppy’s Podcast: YNP #005: Crate Training: How and Why to Make Their Crate Your Dog’s Best Friend Your New Puppy’s Podcast: YNP #028: 5 Reasons to Use the Crate When You’re Home Your New Puppy’s Podcast: YNP #061: A Typical Puppy Schedule YOUR New Puppy:  My signature new puppy course that has helped hundreds of new puppy parents raise their puppies into well-mannered, happy dogs.  Includes live support from me so you don’t have to do this alone! What’s Next? Feeling a little unsure about what to do with your new puppy? You’re not alone!  You’re just a human trying to raise a dog. That’s exactly why I created YOUR Perfect Puppy — my digital program that gives you a clear plan to follow and direct support from me every step of the way. From potty training and basic cues to building trust and confidence, we’ll cover everything you need to raise your well-mannered dog with less stress and more joy. And because puppyhood doesn’t stop after four weeks, you’ll also get ongoing access to Playtime Paws Academy — my membership community with weekly live calls, a private forum, and an entire library of enrichment activities to help you navigate real-life challenges as they come up. Click here to check out YOUR Perfect Puppy.  I’d love to support you through this journey.

Wondering what to do on your puppy’s first night home? You’re bringing your new puppy home, you’re excited, you’ve got everything ready, and you already have great plans on how your new puppy will fit right into your family.  But wait, do I know what to do that first night?   Maybe you’re coming home late and don’t have much time to make them feel safe and comfortable before bedtime.   You’re probably wondering:Where should my puppy sleep that first night?Do I put them in the crate even if I haven’t introduced it yet?Is it okay not to use the crate? No worries, in this episode, I walk you through exactly what to do that very first night. Note: If you’ve watched my three part series: The 3 Phases to Bringing Your New Puppy Home, this episode fits into Phase 02: Settle In. Whether you’ve been preparing for weeks or just thought of it now (we’ve all been there!), you’ll leave this episode knowing exactly what to do, and what you don’t need to worry about (yet!). In this episode I talk about: What to expect for your puppy’s first night home. Where crate training and potty training fits in. Where your puppy should sleep that first night. What you can do to make them more comfortable without overwhelming them. What else you should be prepared for. Enjoying this podcast?  Please rate and review it wherever you listen.  This helps other puppy parents find it. Other resources mentioned and related to this episode: The 3 Phases to Bringing Your New Puppy Home: Getting a new puppy is exciting but overwhelming.  This free three part video series will help you know how to Prepare, how long to let your puppy Settle In, and when it’s time to Get to Work. Complete Guide to Potty Training Your Puppy: Know exactly what to do when to help potty training feel easier with quicker results. It includes a tracker to help you find patterns and prevent accidents.  YOUR New Puppy:  My signature new puppy course that has helped hundreds of new puppy parents raise their puppies into well-mannered, happy dogs.  Includes live support from me so you don’t have to do this alone! What’s Next? Feeling a little unsure about what to do with your new puppy? You’re not alone!  You’re just a human trying to raise a dog. That’s exactly why I created YOUR Perfect Puppy — my digital program that gives you a clear plan to follow and direct support from me every step of the way. From potty training and basic cues to building trust and confidence, we’ll cover everything you need to raise your well-mannered dog with less stress and more joy. And because puppyhood doesn’t stop after four weeks, you’ll also get ongoing access to Playtime Paws Academy — my membership community with weekly live calls, a private forum, and an entire library of enrichment activities to help you navigate real-life challenges as they come up. Click here to check out YOUR Perfect Puppy.  I’d love to support you through this journey.

If you are experiencing some behavior changes from regression to old behaviors to brand new ones popping up, this episode is for you. Welcome to this special replay episode.  I’m wanted to bring back this important episodes for anyone with a puppy who’s entering adolescence. If you’re feeling like your once sweet, well-behaved puppy is suddenly turning into a bit of a troublemaker—you’re not alone. This is a super common struggle that many puppy owners face, and I’m here to help you navigate through it. In this replay, we’re diving deep into behavior changes that happen as your puppy grows, specifically during adolescence (around 5 to 18 months). You might have thought the hardest part was the early puppyhood days, but trust me—adolescence can be even more challenging. The behaviors that start cropping up during this phase—like jumping, counter surfing, barking in the crate, and more—can be frustrating, especially when you feel like you’ve just gotten things under control. But don’t worry, it’s completely normal, and I’m here to reassure you that you haven’t done anything wrong. In this episode I talk about: What behavior changes to expect as your puppy grows. Why these behavior changes are happening and what’s behind them. How to stay patient as your dog goes through this phase of development.  How to manage your puppy’s new energy levels. Why consistency is key! Enjoying this podcast?  Please rate and review it wherever you listen.  This helps other puppy parents find it. Other resources mentioned and related to this episode: Not-So-New Puppy Behavior Workshop:  A 4-week virtual workshop designed for dogs aged 5-18 months, offering you expert guidance on those frustrating adolescent behaviors. Together, we’ll troubleshoot common challenges like barking, leash pulling, counter-surfing, impulse control, and more.  YOUR New Puppy:  My signature new puppy course that has helped hundreds of new puppy parents raise their puppies into well-mannered, happy dogs.

Tug of war is a game that dogs LOVE to play.  Yet I always get asked the question “Can I play tug of war with my dog?” The short answer is YES!  It’s is great game for you and your pup.  It’s easy to play, they love it, it burns lots of energy and tires out those heavy chewing jaws and nipping puppy teeth.  So why is this a question?  Well, there’s some misconceptions about tug of war that have been going around for a while.  In this episode, I debunk the common myths, like the idea that it’s a dominance game or that you can’t let your dog win. The vast majority of dogs can play tug of war with no problem.   There are some pups that need some rules to reduce any over stimulation or excitement.   No worries, I walk you through what to watch for if this is your pup—like vocal escalation or raised hackles. Plus, I’ve got a special video for you that shows how to use tug of war to teach your dog important skills like drop it and impulse control. So, grab your dog’s favorite toy and tune in to find out how you can safely enjoy this fun game with your pup! In this episode I talk about: Can you play tug of war with your dog? Why this is even a question. Signs to look for if you need to put rules in place.  How tug of war can benefit your dog. Free resource on how to teach your dog impulse control with a game of tug of war. Enjoying this podcast?  Please rate and review it wherever you listen.  This helps other puppy parents find it. Other resources mentioned and related to this episode: YNP #087: Is Your Dog Trying to Dominate You?  YOUR New Puppy:  My signature new puppy course that has helped hundreds of new puppy parents raise their puppies into well-mannered, happy dogs.

Tug of war is a game that dogs LOVE to play.  Yet I always get asked the question “Can I play tug of war with my dog?” The short answer is YES!  Tug of war is great game for you and your pup.  It’s easy to play, they love it, it burns lots of energy and tires out those heavy chewing jaws and nipping puppy teeth.  So why is this a question?  Well, there’s some misconceptions about tug of war that have been going around for a while.  In this episode, I debunk the common myths about tug of war, like the idea that it’s a dominance game or that you can’t let your dog win. The vast majority of dogs can play tug of war with no problem.   There are some pups that need some rules to reduce any over stimulation or excitement (because tug of war is just so fun!).  No worries, I walk you through what to watch for—like vocal escalation or raised hackles. Plus, I’ve got a special video for you that shows how to use tug of war to teach your dog important skills like drop it and impulse control. So, grab your dog’s favorite toy and tune in to find out how you can safely enjoy this fun game with your pup! How to Use Tug of War toTeach Impulse Control Tug of war is not only a fun game that your dog loves but you can use it to teach your dog to control their excitement (also known as impulse control). As a bonus, I also talk a little bit about “drop it” It’s a two-minute video that will give you and your pup hours of fun! In this episode I talk about: Can you play tug of war with your dog? Why this is even a question. Signs to look for if you need to put rules in place.  How tug of war can benefit your dog. Free resource on how to teach your dog impulse control with a game of tug of war. Enjoying this podcast?  Please rate and review it wherever you listen.  This helps other puppy parents find it. Other resources mentioned and related to this episode: YNP #087: Is Your Dog Trying to Dominate You?  YOUR New Puppy:  My signature new puppy course that has helped hundreds of new puppy parents raise their puppies into well-mannered, happy dogs.

Welcome to Episode 100 of Your New Puppies Podcast! I’m thrilled to celebrate this milestone with you, my amazing listeners.  As I reflect back, I started to think about what I’ve learned and the things I believed before I became a dog trainer.   I wanted to share some key lessons with you because unless you’ve become a dog trainer yourself, you may believe these same things. The three lessons I talk about: Even if you’ve lived with dogs before, being the one in charge of their well being and training is a very different experience. Puppies aren’t a blank slate. Dogs don’t inherently get along, just because their dogs. In celebration of 100 episodes and to thank my listeners you will receive a free gift if you join one of my digital programs. I’m offering two special promotions for a limited time! If you join my signature course, YOUR Perfect Puppy, receive a complimentary one-on-one 45 minute video session. Join 14 Days to a Stronger Recall program and receive 14 Days to a Stronger Leave It free! YOUR Perfect Puppy is my signature 4 week puppy course designed to help raise your puppy into a happy, well mannered dog. You also get 6 months inside Playtime Paws Academy which is where you get direct access to me to support you through your puppy raising journey. 14 Days to a Stronger Recall is a mini program designed to teach you the foundation you need to teach your dog to come to you every time you call in any environment.  With 14 Days to a Stronger Leave It you’ll also learn how to teach your dog not to pick up everything on your walk! Note: Both 14 Days to a Stronger Recall and 14 Days to a Stronger Leave It are inside of YOUR Perfect Puppy.  So, if you can’t decide, joining YOUR Perfect Puppy will get you all of the above!! If you have a questions about any of these programs or offers feel free to email me [email protected] Join me in this celebration as we embark on the next chapter together. In this episode I talk about: How far the podcast has come. Why I love working with new puppy parents. Until we’re in it, we don’t fully understand what it’s like to raise a puppy.  Why who your dog becomes is a combination of nature and nurture. Socialization isn’t about your dog learning to love other dogs, it’s about learning how to communicate. Two free gifts to celebrate 100 episodes and thank you, my listeners. Enjoying this podcast?  Please rate and review it wherever you listen.  This helps other puppy parents find it. Other resources mentioned and related to this episode: YNP #073: Does Your Dog’s Breed Matter?  YOUR New Puppy:  My signature new puppy course that has helped hundreds of new puppy parents raise their puppies into well-mannered, happy dogs. 14 Days to a Stronger Recall:  Learn how to have the freedom and peace of mind when your dog comes to you every time you call!

The holiday season is a popular time to bring a new puppy into the family.  But how we do it can make a big difference in the well being of all involved.  Now before I totally burst your bubble, I’m not saying you shouldn’t get a puppy this time of year (though there are things to consider while making that decision).     What I’m going to talk about here is why you shouldn’t surprise someone (kids or adult) with the actual puppy on a specific day – Christmas morning, for example.  We think of it as a special magical moment where a puppy comes out of a box and our kids or family member is overwhelmed with joy.  But the reality is, this can be a stressful experience for a puppy who is also meeting their new family for the first time.  If you’re considering getting a puppy around the holidays, this episode will help you keep the time special while making sure it’s a joyful and stress free experience for both humans and puppies! Enjoy! In this episode I talk about: What to think about when giving a puppy as a gift. Why you shouldn’t plan a surprise with an actual puppy.  The importance of building trust with your puppy during the first few days home. The importance of preparing your family before bringing a puppy home. Alternative ways to make the holiday special without surprising someone with an actual puppy. Enjoying this podcast?  Please rate and review it wherever you listen.  This helps other puppy parents find it. Other resources mentioned and related to this episode: YNP #060: Kids and Puppies The 3 Phases to Bringing Your New Puppy Home – Video series Book a virtual session with Debbie YOUR New Puppy:  My signature new puppy course that has helped hundreds of new puppy parents raise their puppies into well-mannered, happy dogs.

Why your dog isn’t listening depends on a bunch of factors including what your asking them to do, where they are, what you’ve taught them previously, and more. It’s one of the most common questions I get but it’s also one of the hardest to answer.  I usually need ALOT more information.   From my experience, I’ve narrowed it down to 5 reasons.  They are not mutually exclusive.  In fact, chances are it’s a blend of a few reasons.   The five reasons are: You haven’t taught them what you’re asking for. You skipped some steps in their training. You haven’t practiced in this environment. They’ve already learned they don’t have to listen. Today is just not the day.  Once we can pinpoint the reason (or reasons) we can start to figure out what to do next.  Enjoy! In this episode I talk about: Expectations you should have for puppies. The five reasons your dog is not listening.  Examples of each reason. How to tell which reason your dog isn’t listening. What your next step is. Enjoying this podcast?  Please rate and review it wherever you listen.  This helps other puppy parents find it. Other resources mentioned and related to this episode: YNP #057: How to Teach Your Dog to Listen With Distractions YNP #064: The Downside of a Fenced-in Yard YNP #080: Why I Don’t Teach “Off” YOUR New Puppy:  My signature new puppy course that has helped hundreds of new puppy parents raise their puppies.

Just about every dog is going to have some trouble with the hot weather.   For some dogs even a slight elevation in temperature will find them seeking out the shade and wanting shorter walks.  The heat itself can be tiring for a dog so it tends to shorten walks and activity.  This will result in us having to find creative ways to entertain our dog and burn some energy.  For this episode I reached right into my Enrichment Database (available with YOUR Perfect Puppy) to find some activities that are perfect for a hot day.   I have you covered if you want to play with water, sit in the shade with a frozen treat, or stay inside and avoid the heat altogether. Enjoy!  In this episode I talk about: Dogs that are sensitive to the heat. How to recognize heat stroke in a dog.  Different types of water activities to try with your pup. Different types of frozen treats to make for your pup. Indoor activities to avoid the heat all together. Press play and enjoy! Other resources mentioned and related to this episode: Articles on heat stroke in dogs: https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/heat-stroke-in-dogs https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/heatstroke-in-dogs/ Rover Round Robin:  A fun family recall game you can turn into hide and seek (request the step by step directions) YOUR New Puppy:  My signature new puppy course that has helped hundreds of new puppy parents raise their puppies.

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! https://www.forbes.com/advisor/pet-insurance/compare-pet-insurance-quotes/ https://www.pet-insurance-university.com/guide_to_pet_insurance.html Other resources mentioned and related to this episode: YNP #010:  Complete Guide to Potty Training Your Puppy YNP #039:  The Most Common Potty Accidents YNP #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.

How do you know if your kids are ready for a dog?  And if they are, how do you prepare them for bringing that new dog home? Well lucky for you (and me) Justine Schuurmans, the expert on families, kids, and dogs,  is going to answer those questions. Justine is the founder of The Family Dog and the creator of The Dial Method.  Her work with families has greatly impacted how I work with kids and puppies to this day.   The best part?  This is part one of a two part series.  Stay tuned for part two where she talks about what to do when the your kids and the dog aren’t BFFs like you planned. In this episode we talk about: Are your kids ready for a dog? Are you ready for a new dog?  How much can you depend on the kids help? Why younger kids shouldn’t be in charge of walking the dog.  Picking the right dog for your family’s lifestyle. How to prepare your kids for when the dog comes home. Press play and enjoy! Other resources mentioned and related to this episode: The Family Dog resources:  This page includes the resources both Justine and I talked about inside the interview including the video that I think EVERY parent should watch along with the Pet, Pat, Pause flyer.  YNP Episode #002: Which Type of Dog is Right for You? YOUR Perfect Puppy’s course:  A 4 week course to build the foundation of you and your new puppy’s life together.  More about Justine: Justine is a former Nickelodeon and MTV producer and dog trainer for over 20 years, specializing in working with young families. Her mission is to help parents, kids and dogs understand each other better and live safely and happily together.  She’s the founder of The Family Dog, STOP THE 77 and the creator of The Dial Method.

If you’re a parent, how do you know if your kids are ready for a dog?  And if they are, how do you prepare them for bringing that new dog home? Well lucky for you (and me) Justine Schuurmans, the expert on families, kids, and dogs,  is going to answer those questions. Justine is the founder of The Family Dog and the creator of The Dial Method.  Her work with families has greatly impacted how I work with kids and puppies to this day.   The best part?  This is part one of a two part series.  Stay tuned for part two where she talks about what to do when the your kids and the dog aren’t BFFs like you planned. In this episode we talk about: Are your kids ready for a dog? Are you ready for a new dog?  How much can you depend on the kids help? Why younger kids shouldn’t be in charge of walking the dog.  Picking the right dog for your family’s lifestyle. How to prepare your kids for when the dog comes home. Press play and enjoy! Other resources mentioned and related to this episode: The Family Dog resources:  This page includes the resources both Justine and I talked about inside the interview including the video that I think EVERY parent should watch along with the Pet, Pat, Pause flyer.  YNP Episode #002: Which Type of Dog is Right for You? YNP Episode #095: When Things Go Wrong Between the Kids and Dog? With Justine Schuurmans (Part Two) YOUR Perfect Puppy’s course:  A 4 week course to build the foundation of you and your new puppy’s life together.  More about Justine: Justine is a former Nickelodeon and MTV producer and dog trainer for over 20 years, specializing in working with young families. Her mission is to help parents, kids and dogs understand each other better and live safely and happily together.  She’s the founder of The Family Dog, STOP THE 77 and the creator of The Dial Method.

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 Puppy YNP #039:  The Most Common Potty Accidents YNP #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.

You may know that you’re not supposed to punish your puppy’s potty accidents but maybe you don’t know 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.  Since, you know I never miss an opportunity to discuss the why behind training I’d like to take the opportunity to answer the questions “why are we not supposed to punish potty accidents?” 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). Puppies don’t know going potty inside is wrong. Press play and enjoy! Other resources mentioned and related to this episode: YNP #010:  Complete Guide to Potty Training Your Puppy YNP #039:  The Most Common Potty Accidents YNP #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.

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 Leader Playtime Paws Academy:  A membership for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey.

If you have a dog that refuses to go outside in the rain. you know how annoying and time consuming it is.  It’s even worse when you’re trying to potty train a young puppy that isn’t going to hold it until it stops raining.   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 just run through a bunch of things to try to improve your pup’s relationship to being wet and cold so you can both spend more times inside the toasty warm house.   In this episode I talk about: Finding the right 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.

Teaching your dog to wear a muzzle might not be something that you have thought of.  Muzzles have a bad rap and a lot of times we think of them as a last resort type of tool.   Where muzzles can benefit us and our pups in a lot of ways. Muzzle training our dog entails exposing our dogs to wearing a muzzle in a positive, stress-free way (see resources below on how to do this).   That way when we find ourselves in a situation where one may be necessary our dog already knows the drill.   And when we take away that bad stigma and don’t hesitate to use one, it can bring all stress levels down making everything go smoother.   Plus, there’s reasons that have nothing to do with biting or aggression.  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 Them Vet.Cornell.edu : Muzzle Choices Michael 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 most common misconceptions about socialization to help you better understand what socialization is all about. 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 Dog YNP #021: Balancing Vaccines and Socialization YNP #013: Dog Park vs. Dog Daycare YNP #058: How to Recognize Appropriate Dog Play Playtime 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 Leader 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 Puppy YNP #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.

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 Puppy YNP #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.

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 Home YNP #050: Three Most Common Leash Walking Questions Playtime Paws Academy:  A brand new program 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 #082: Let’s Update Your Dog’s Microchip www.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 microchip Microchip 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.   I’m here to let you off the hook.  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.  ​ 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.  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 Home YNP #050: Three Most Common Leash Walking Questions Playtime 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 Jumps Playtime Paws Academy:  A brand new program for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey.

Potty training is hard.  It can take anywhere from 3 weeks to 3 months.  Even then you can still have a random accident here and there up to a year.  It’s a process that we can’t rush our puppy through.  We can set them up for success as much as we can but it usually takes as long as it takes.    If you’ve been    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 Soccer Freeze Tag Flirt Pole (this one is actually a toy which I have pictured below) 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 Struggling Playtime 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.  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 Struggling Playtime Paws Academy:  A brand new program for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey.

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 Time Rover 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.  A pen can be an extra accessory but we have to make sure that we are using 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 Friend YNP #028: 5 Reasons to Use the Crate When You’re Home YNP Special Edition: Q&A Tuesday: Crate Training YNP #072: Should You Use a Potty Bell? YNP #056: Potty Training for a Working Household Playtime 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. Which collars I don’t recommend and why. Press play and enjoy! Other resources mentioned and related to this episode: YNP #075: Different Leash Walking Tools (Part 01: Leashes) Playtime 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 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 Home Those 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 Home Playtime 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. There are also lots of things we can do every day at home in addition to the outside world.  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 Socialization YNP #063: My 7 Guidelines to Socializing Your Puppy 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 Puppy 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.   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 Training Playtime Paws Academy:  A brand new program for dog and humans in any s

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 Training What’s Next? Feeling stuck because your puppy just won’t stay put no matter how many times you practice? You’re not alone AND you’re not doing anything wrong.  You might just need some extra guidance. That’s exactly why I created YOUR Perfect Puppy — my digital program that gives you a clear plan to follow and direct support from me every step of the way. ​ You’ll build the core behaviors that matter most — like stay, attention, and impulse control — using real-life training that actually fits into your day. And because puppyhood doesn’t stop after four weeks, you’ll also get ongoing access to Playtime Paws Academy — my membership community with weekly live calls, a private forum, an entire library of enrichment activities, and training refreshers Click here to check out YOUR Perfect Puppy.  I’d love to help you get a “stay” you can actually count on.

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.blog/2016/09/14/baywoofs-september-nutrition-issue-featured-article-starting-puppies-on-a-raw-food-diet-by-kasie-maxwell/ https://sfraw.blog/2017/05/10/making-using-raw-goat-milk-slurry-for-naturally-reared-puppiesyoung-dogs/ https://sfraw.blog/2018/02/25/perfect-canine-poop-qa-whats-a-normal-stool-for-a-raw-fed-dog-question-about-constipation/ Ways to contact Kasie: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sfraw Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sfraw/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatgroovyeats/ (how she feed her own dog) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briarandbones/ (her cats) Website: http://sfraw.net/ Direct scheduling link: https://sfraw.as.me/Kasie 

“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 is going to change it.  When you teach someone algebra, first they need to know how to add and substract.  Our dogs are no different.  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.  In this episode I talk about: What intentional practice means. The difference between changing a behavior and just reacting to it. Why it’s important to work in controlled environments. Why practicing when the behavior isn’t happening is important.  How to resist the easy button. Press play and enjoy! Other resources mentioned and related to this episode: YNP #027: How to Handle a Shy Dog 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 alter barking.   Alert barking is when your dog is barking at something.  A dog out the window, a noise like a doorbell, your neighbor who’s washing their car, etc.   ​ In this episode I talk about: Summary of what we talked about in Part 1. What is alert 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 Dog YNP #063: My 7 Guidelines for Socializing Your Dog YNP #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 training Episode to help with barking because of separation anxiety Episode to help with barking while on a leash Other resources: YOUR 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 Recall YOUR Perfect Puppy: 4-week online training course for you and your new puppy. Enter your text here…

Allison is back with some more great tips on how to take better photos of your dog! Back in Episode 52 Allison  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.  Press play and enjoy! Other resources mentioned and related to this episode: YNP #052: ​How to Take Better Photos of Your Dog with Allison Shamrell Allison’s Free Facebook Group: How to Take Better Photos of Your Dog Allison’s Instagram: @takebetterphotosofyourdog Allison’s website: Allison Shamrell Pet Photography YOUR 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, yes, dogs.  This creates that 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 a 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 is 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 Socialization YNP Episode: How to Socialize Your Puppy During Social Distancing YOUR Perfect Puppy: 4-week online training course for you and your new puppy.

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: YOUR Perfect Puppy: 4-week online training course for you and your new puppy.