Puppy Talk: Recent Episodes
Dale Buchanan
Puppy Talk offers advice and training tips for new puppy owners. We cover topics such as potty training, play biting, basic commands, behavior problems, and leash training. Dale has trained thousands of puppies, as well as raising several of his own own. If you enjoy this podcast, please follow. Be sure to check out our website at http://puppytalkpodcast.com. This podcast is sponsored by http://topgundogtraining.com
Waiting for the puppy to tell you they need to go outside is a mistake that can cause more accidents than almost anything else. New puppy owners often expect their puppy to bark at the door, scratch the door. whine, pace around, or sit and stare at them.
Here is a scientific method that I learned from a vet a few years ago. It sets the puppy up for success by allowing them only a small amount of water at a time, and then taking them outside to go potty shortly afterward.
Step 1: Give your puppy one ounce of water per lb of body weight per day. You will need a measuring cup to ensure they get the exact amount of water per day.
Step 2: Divide the total amount of water into 4 or 5 servings.
Step 3: Give your puppy one of those servings of water.
Step 4: Take your puppy out to go potty 3 times within one hour after that serving of water.
Example
- Your puppy weighs 8 lbs. They need 8 ounces of water per day.
- Give them a 2-ounce serving of water at 8 am, 11 am, 2 pm, and 5 pm.
- Take them out to pee every 20 minutes after drinking the serving of water: 8:20 am, 8:40 am, and 9:00 am.
- Repeat this schedule after each additional serving of water.
- They will get 16 potty breaks per day.
References:
- AVSAB: Housetraining Tips: https://avsab.org/housetraining-tips/
- AKC: Potty Training Timeline and Tips: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/puppy-potty-training-timeline/
- PetMd: How to Potty Train a Puppy: https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/how-to-potty-train-a-puppy?
- VCA: House Training for Puppies and Dogs: https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/house-training-your-puppy?
- ASPCA: House Training Your Dog or Puppy: https://www.aspca.org/news/house-training-your-dog-or-puppy?
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
Bringing home a puppy is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming when reality doesn't match your expectations. If you've ever wondered why your puppy won't listen, keeps biting, has accidents in the house, or seems to have endless energy, you're not alone.
In this episode of Puppy Talk, Dale Buchanan discusses the biggest differences between what new puppy owners expect and what life with a puppy is really like. You'll learn why these behaviors are completely normal, how to adjust your expectations, and what you can do to help your puppy grow into a confident, well-behaved companion.
Whether you're raising your first puppy or your fifth, this episode will help you trade frustration for understanding and remind you that progress, not perfection, is the key to successful puppy training.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
Raising a puppy is about more than exercise and play. Their growing brains need a workout too. In this episode of Puppy Talk, Dale Buchanan shares five simple and effective ways to add mental stimulation to your puppy's daily routine. You'll learn how easy activities like scent games, food puzzles, short training sessions, toy rotation, and problem-solving exercises can help reduce boredom, build confidence, and encourage better behavior. If you're looking for practical ideas to keep your puppy happy, engaged, and learning every day, this episode is for you.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
Could your own stress be making your puppy fearful or anxious? In this episode of Puppy Talk, we explore how puppies pick up on our emotions, common ways owners unintentionally create stress, and simple changes that help puppies feel safe, confident, and eager to learn. If you want to build a stronger relationship with your puppy while preventing fear and anxiety, this episode is for you.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
A well-behaved puppy starts with a strong relationship. In this episode of Puppy Talk, we explore why trust and connection are the foundation of successful training. You'll learn simple, practical ways to strengthen your bond with your puppy through everyday interactions, play, training, and communication. Whether you've just brought home a new puppy or want to build an even better relationship with your dog, this episode will help you create a partnership that lasts a lifetime.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
It's very important to start socializing your puppy as soon as you bring them home. They need to be introduced ot a variety of people, places, sights, and sounds. In this episode, I discuss why this is so important and the consequences of not socializing a puppy.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
In this episode of Puppy Talk, I discuss whether or not you should allow people to pet your dog in public locations on field trips. The answer may surprise you.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
Should you punish your puppy for accidents, chewing, biting, or jumping? In this episode of Puppy Talk Podcast, Dale Buchanan explains why punishment often creates confusion and fear instead of teaching puppies what we want them to do. You'll learn why puppies make mistakes, how they learn best, and practical positive reinforcement strategies that build trust, confidence, and better behavior. If you're raising a puppy and want effective, humane training methods, this episode is for you.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
Many behavior problems are rooted in stress, confusion, fear, frustration, or overstimulation, not stubbornness or “bad” behavior. Owners often misread what their dogs are actually communicating. Dogs cannot explain emotions with words, so behavior becomes communication.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
Dogs need more than just food and shelter. They also require mental and physical stimulation. A bored dog might appear to be lazy or a troublemaker, but in many cases, it is boredom leading to frustration that gives rise to problem behavior. Spotting the signs early in that process and offering enriching activities prevents restlessness and keeps your dog healthier and happier.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
In this episode I talk about why and how to keep the training simple for your puppy early in their training program.
- Why it’s best to keep it simple.
- Focus on the foundational skills and make them perfect before attempting to add more commands, behaviors etc.
- What happens when you make training to complex too early. You would not try to get a kid in college at 10 years old.
- What a basic puppy program looks like.
- Intermediate program
- Advanced program
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
These are the same tips that we give all my clients when they hire me to help train their puppies. I suggest listening to this episode multiple times and reading the transcript if provided.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
In this episode of Puppy Talk, we talk about how many common dog behavior problems are accidentally taught by the owners themselves. Jumping, barking, leash pulling, and attention-seeking habits often continue because, from the dog’s perspective, the behavior works. Dogs repeat what gets a result, even when the owner is trying to stop it. We break down a few everyday situations where people unknowingly reinforce bad habits and explain how a simple shift in awareness can help owners start teaching the behaviors they actually want.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
Most dog owners think calm means a dog that is tired or doing nothing, but real calmness is something different. In this episode of Puppy Talk, we talk about what calm behavior actually looks like, why many dogs never learn how to settle, and how owners often encourage excitement without realizing it. You’ll learn how to recognize true calmness in your dog and simple ways to help your dog relax and behave better at home.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
Many people get a new puppy and immediately start teaching it to shake, high-five, and roll over. In this episode of Puppy Talk, I am going to explain the advantages and disadvantages of teaching your puppy tricks before they learn obedience.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
Most owners think their dog is being stubborn, ignoring them, or choosing not to listen. But in many cases, the dog is not being disobedient at all. The dog is confused. In this episode of Puppy Talk, we will discuss the following:
- Why confusion happens
- What confusion looks like in real life
- What real disobedience actually looks like
- How to reduce confusion
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
Most of us focus on the cute parts of bringing home a puppy. Cuddling, playing, and taking lots of photos. What if we focused on the habits that prevent behavior issues from forming?
This episode is taken from an Instagram post of Canyon Creek Aussies. Link to their page in the show notes. https://www.instagram.com/canyoncreekaussies?igsh=MXJxYW5uaHgxbDd3YQ==
Here are some habits to begin day one with your new puppy.
- Use a house line from day one. I suggest a skip lead.
- Daily socialization done the right way.
- A predictable schedule - every single day.
Build these three habits from day one, and you will raise a puppy who grows into a steady, adaptable, well-mannered adult dog.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
Dog training is about more than teaching sit and stay. In this episode of Puppy Talk, we break down what real dog training actually looks like in everyday life. We talk about why commands alone fall short, how understanding your dog changes everything, and the simple tools families need to create calmer, more confident dogs at home. If training feels frustrating or confusing, this episode will help reframe what really works.
Episode Outline
- Why dog training is more than obedience commands
- The gap between training sessions and real-life behavior
- How understanding your dog’s mindset improves results
- Why owner education is a key part of training success
- Practical tools that help in everyday situations
- Redefining what success in dog training really means
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
I’ve done several episodes recently on the responsibility of raising a puppy. The main thing to remember once you take ownership of a puppy is that they need obedience training, and you have to practice with them. Follow the guidelines below to improve your practice sessions and the predictability of the puppy's learning of obedience skills.
- Daily practice is essential. Practicing once in a while will not work.
- You have to practice correctly, the way a professional dog trainer has taught you.
- Short training sessions several times a day are better than a single long session.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
People call me to discuss puppy training, and their entire focus is on potty training. This happens a lot. The goal of this episode is to shift new puppy owners' focus to the bigger picture of raising a puppy beyond potty training and crate training.
A dog trainer can only provide tips on potty training, crate training, play biting, and other issues because we don’t live with the dog. Most of the unwanted behavior stems from the environment and from the owners' lack of leadership.
The bigger picture includes:
- Setting rules and boundaries,
- Creating a structured schedule
- Obedience training
- Leash training
- Socialization
It’s impossible to potty train a puppy without all of these elements of raising a puppy. Work on everything at once, and you will spend very little time on potty training. Two things in particular help with potty training: 1) when a puppy can stay in one place, and 2) when your puppy is tired.
The main thing you need to do for effective potty training is to control the puppies' space inside the house and NEVER take your eyes off of them unless they are in a crate just big enough for them to lie down.
Above all, get rid of pee pads.
PRO TIP: Monitor their water intake by giving them 1 ounce per pound of body weight. If your puppy weighs 10 lbs, give them 10 oz of water throughout the day. That means about 2 ounces of water five times a day. After they take a drink, they will need to go potty 2-3 times within the next hour.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
My dog Dixie has been diagnosed with heart disease after a routine checkup before teeth cleaning. They found a heart murmur, then, from an X-ray, found an enlarged heart and congestion in her lungs. I have created a GoFundMe account link in the show notes with more details.
Start-Up Fees:
- Including adoption or breeder fees, initial vet visit, microchip, supplies, and training.
- $2000-$8000
Monthly Expenses:
- Food
- Medication (heartworm, flea, and tick prevention)
- Daycare
- Dog Walker
- Grooming
- Treats and toys
- Pet Insurance
- For Dixie, this is about $700/month
Annual Expenses:
- Vet visits
- Shots (rabies, distemper, parvovirus, etc.)
- Bloodwork
- Boarding (when out of town)
- For Dixie, this is about $500/year
Unexpected Expenses:
- Heart disease
- Cancer
- Parvo, distemper, flu
- Parasites and worms
- Ear infections
- Heartworm
- Injuries such as broken bones or joint problems
- It can cost anywhere from $500 to $10,000 or more.
Resources: https://bowwowinsurance.com.au/pet-community/pet-talk/top-10-most-common-health-problems-for-dogs/
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
Many people underestimate the level of responsibility needed to raise a puppy. Listen to my first episode of Puppy Talk called Owning a New Puppy is a Lot of Work.
The Truth:
- Raising a young puppy starting at 8 weeks old is a part-time job.
- Hiring a dog trainer may not help. It’s not the solution.
- You have to do the work yourself, with the help of a coach.
The Myths:
- Puppies only need affection and play
- Teaching your puppy the command “no” will solve everything
- Punishing the puppy by yelling or using force is important
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
Being an effective leader and building trust in your dog requires a skill set grounded in effective communication, temperament, and focus.
What to do:
- Make sure your communication is crystal clear. Trim the fat. Tell the dog what you want and reward them for doing it.
- Set your dog up for success. Make it impossible for them to fail and let them have fun in the process.
- Stay focused on “teaching” the dog what you want them to learn.
What not to do:
- DO NOT talk to them so much, especially with repeated commands, where they check out
- DO NOT yell at your dog.
- DO NOT show frustration and lack of leadership skills.
- DO NOT use physical force with your dog.
- DO NOT over-correct your dog. The focus should not be on stopping a behavior, but teaching an alternative behavior.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
Building structure for your puppy in one of the best things you can do to help raise a happy, healthy, and obedient puppy. In this episode of Puppy Talk I discuss the why and how of puppy structure.
Why?
- Structure creates calmness in the puppy.
- Structure creates an opportunity for the puppy to succeed, not fail
- Structure helps you, the puppy owner, have more control over the puppy’s behavior, obedience, and discipline.
How?
- Stick to a routine: wake up, potty, short walk, training, eat, play, potty again, and nap.
- Your puppy is in school and needs a balance of math, English, history, and science. Recess can come after the other subjects.
- DO NOT replace the essential subjects with play and affection. This is having your puppy in recess all day long.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
For dog owners:
- Always keep your dog on a leash. Listen to podcast episode 118.
- Never allow your dog to bark or lunge at another dog or people. Create distance immediately if this happens.
- Work with a trainer to prevent rectivity. Teach sit, wait, “watch-me” as alternative behaviors to reacting to stimuli.
For parents of children:
- Never allow your child to pet a dog unless the dog is on a leash and calm.
- Never have your child reach their hand toward a dog's face or put their face close to a dog's face.
- Only allow the child to pet the dog on its side while the dog's owner holds it calmly on a leash.
Related Episodes: #118 on October 7, 2025, and #97 on April 7, 2025.
News story on WHNT News 19: https://youtu.be/JdtAaPczUoc?si=3CmznHd_sHV08uT9
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
Embarking on a career as a dog trainer may seem daunting. With vast knowledge to acquire and numerous pathways to explore, it can be challenging. Yet, by breaking it down into straightforward steps, the journey becomes manageable. In this episode, I will guide you through the essentials of starting out, from enhancing your expertise to establishing yourself as a reliable professional in your community.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
The Most Important Command to Teach Your Puppy is the "stay" command. This will help you control the puppies space in the house, prevent them from jumping, and prevent them from running away. In this episode, I explain why the "stay" command is so important and how to program the command into your puppy.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
Puppy Socialization is the most important thing to teach your puppy from the ages of 8 to 16 weeks old. Everything that your puppy is exposed to during this time period will have a significant impact on preventing fear, anxiety, and stress in the future.
- Start socializing your puppy early.
- Take them to as many places as possible
- Be consistent with public outings.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
You may be wondering what is best for your dog, whether you should keep them on or off the leash. Here are some reasons that you'll want to consider keeping your best friend on-leash and living their best life.
- Your dog stays safe
- Others stay safe
- In most places, it's the law
- In case of emergency
- It's the responsible thing to do
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
Many people get confused when it comes to defining dog training. This episode should clear that up for you. Here is what we will cover today:
- Obedience Training, also known as dog training, involves teaching basic commands such as sit, down, and stay.
- Obedience training is what most people refer to when discussing dog training.
- Although dog training is used by almost everyone across a broad spectrum, including veterinarians and doggie daycare, “Your dog needs training”…when in fact they need Behavior Modification
- Behavior Modification (BeMod) is a systematic approach to change unwanted severe behaviors such as fear, anxiety, stress, or aggression.
- BeMod is not ideal for young puppies.
- BeMod works best when there is a solid foundation of basic obedience.
- BeMod is very intense and requires a considerable amount of time. The outcome is unpredictable. There are no guarantees.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
You’ve witnessed your dog's transformation through our basic obedience program, where they mastered essential commands and established a solid foundation. So, what's the next step for the truly devoted dog and owner? The answer is found in the engaging and effective realm of advanced group obedience training.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
Most behavior problems in adult dogs stem from fear or anxiety that started early and went unaddressed. Here are some tips to help prevent Fear, Anxiety, and Stress in your puppy:
- Early Socialization
- Create a Secure Environment
- Reading Body Language
- Building Confidence Through Training
- Avoiding Common Mistakes That Cause FAS
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
Seasoned dog owners might feel like they have been through it all with one pup, and thus, they can tackle any challenge that comes their way. Don't let that fool you. Experience with one dog at a time is much different than juggling two or more. That being said, how do you know when the time is right to add a second pup to the family? Is it even a good idea to do so?
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
A study from the National Library of Medicine shows that overweight dogs are more likely to engage in unwanted behaviors. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5468744/
How to prevent dogs from getting overweight
- Plenty of exercise
- Plenty of enrichment and mental stimulation.
- Monitor their food intake.
- No Snacking.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
In this episode, I discuss how to set your puppy up for success by making better decisions to replace unwanted behaviors.
- Stop directing them
- Allow them to decide independently - use leash training for this.
- Do the chair exercise.
- Praise them subtly when they make a good decision
- Target training, light agility training, and dog puzzles.
- Give them a chance to succeed.
The chair exercise: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DDK-H52SBgm/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Target Training: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFBXwE1yOXJ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Indoor Agility Training: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C-BznCQshcN/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
Dogs and cats are not naturally inclined to fight; that idea is a myth. Both animals can tolerate each other and even get along very well. However, you need to understand how their minds work.
- It's the personality that matters, not the breed
- Consider getting a puppy and a kitten together
- Help your dog with some training
- Give your cat his own private space
- Keep your dog away from the litter box
- Make sure there is no competition over food
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
Here are three reasons why you never want to repeat commands to your puppy:
- The puppy loses respect for you as a leader
- The puppy gets confused and checks out
- You’re programming the number of times you say the command
Say the command once, and allow the puppy enough time to do it.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
Choosing the perfect dog breed for you and your family can be challenging. It is even more of a challenge when you live in an apartment or do not have a yard and must consider space. Five breeds that not only survive but thrive in an apartment lifestyle include:
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Bulldog
- Poodle
- Greyhounds
- Great Dane
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
It is essential to select the right dog trainer. Various options include in-home private lessons, classes, or board-and-train. Here are eight reasons why in-home training can lead to better and lasting results.
- Personalized Attention
- Familiar Environment
- Owner Involvement
- Faster Progress
- Flexible Scheduling
- Addressing Specific Issues
- Longer-Lasting Results
- Building Trust and Communication
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
There are seven things that I talk about in this episode on how to raise the perfect puppy. Follow these seven principles, and you will have great results.
- Build your relationship from the first day
- Set the puppy up for success
- Set clear rules and boundaries
- Socialize your puppy early
- Don’t overuse corrections
- Don’t focus on what you don’t want - Teach the puppy what you want it to do.
- Don’t punish, yell, or get mad at your puppy
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
Many people need clarification about specialty training for their puppy or dog related to service dogs, therapy dogs, or ESAs (emotional support animals). In this episode, I discuss the definitions, training requirements, and roles each plays in human life.
Related article from AKC: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/service-working-therapy-emotional-support-dogs/
Alliance of Therapy Dogs website: https://www.therapydogs.com/
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog TrainingIn-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
- Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
- Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
- Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Potty Training Your Puppy: https://pottytrainingyourpuppy.com/
Top Gun Dog Training in Huntsville, Alabama. Dog Trainer near me. Puppy Training in Madison, AL. Dog Behavior in Huntsville, AL.
How can you make your new puppy's first days at home as smooth as possible? On this episode of Puppy Talk, I, Dale Buchanan, will equip you with five essential tips to transform those initial nerve-wracking moments into a seamless bonding experience. Whether you're bringing home an older rescue or a brand-new puppy, we'll cover why taking a few days off work can make a world of difference, how to avoid overwhelming your pup by sticking to one room at first, and the power of positive reinforcement during potty training.
Find out why forcing your new furry friend into a crate might backfire and learn the best way to introduce them to their new sanctuary. Plus, discover the importance of keeping initial human interactions to a minimum to ensure a calm and manageable transition. From setting boundaries and using baby gates to ensuring your pup gets plenty of outdoor time every hour, this episode provides a comprehensive guide to making your puppy feel right at home from day one. Tune in and turn those puppy jitters into joyful moments!
Discover a simple and effective method for loose-leash walking your puppy with my new book Leash Training Your Puppy.
Purchase my new book Potty Training Your Puppy here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
Ever wondered how to keep your puppy from barking at every little thing? Discover practical strategies to manage and reduce inappropriate barking in this episode of Puppy Talk. We'll explore how to limit your puppy's access to windows and use effective management and training techniques to redirect their attention. Hear Tammy's heartfelt testimonial about her journey with her dog, Ziva, and learn how to avoid reinforcing barking through conversations. I'll also share insights from my own experience with my dog, Dixie, emphasizing the importance of exercise, mental stimulation, enrichment, and socialization to keep your puppy engaged and calm.
Ready to take your dog's obedience training to the next level? Early and consistent training is key to a well-behaved dog. Patience and repetition are crucial, with thousands of repetitions necessary for reliable command following. Learn how positive reinforcement techniques, like treats and praise, can help train your dog without negative reinforcement. By gradually increasing distractions and reinforcing desired behaviors, you'll set your dog up for success. Remember, there's no quick fix; effective training demands time and effort.
https://www.washingtonian.com/2024/07/16/6-ways-to-keep-your-dog-from-going-stir-crazy-during-a-heatwave/
Discover a simple and effective method for loose-leash walking your puppy with my new book Leash Training Your Puppy.
Purchase my new book Potty Training Your Puppy here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
Ready to make your home puppy-friendly and stress-free? This episode of Puppy Talk with Dale Buchanan offers invaluable tips you won’t want to miss. Learn how to create a safe haven for your new furry friend by puppy-proofing your space with essential items like outlet plug covers, cord hiders, and corner guards. Discover why a cozy and strategically placed crate is a must for your puppy's sleep, and how a designated eating and drinking station can set the foundation for good habits.
But that’s not all! Dale also dives into the importance of having the right grooming tools and a variety of stimulating toys to keep your puppy engaged and healthy. From Furminators to slow-feeding bowls, we cover all the must-haves. Plus, get expert advice on assembling a canine first-aid kit tailored for your new puppy’s needs. By preparing ahead, you’ll be able to invest your time and energy into bonding with your new companion from day one. Tune in for these indispensable tips and make your puppy’s transition to your home as smooth as possible!
Discover a simple and effective method for loose-leash walking your puppy with my new book Leash Training Your Puppy.
Purchase my new book Potty Training Your Puppy here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
Ever wondered why so many first-time puppy owners end up rehoming their pets? Join me, Dale Buchanan, on this eye-opening episode of Puppy Talk, as we uncover the harsh realities and rewarding highs of raising a puppy. We’ll explore the emotional trauma puppies face when rehomed too soon and how this contributes to the overcrowded shelters in places like Huntsville, Alabama. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, I'll shed light on the importance of patience and dedication in nurturing a well-adjusted, happy pup.
Contrary to popular belief, hiring a dog trainer isn’t a magical fix for all your puppy problems. I'll bust this myth and emphasize that trainers are guides, not miracle workers. You’ll learn practical tips for creating a nurturing environment, from essential supplies to fostering love and patience. Reflect on your reasons for getting a puppy and discover why staying committed through the challenges is crucial. Hear my journey with my dog, Dixie, and understand that the bond you build with your puppy is worth every effort. This episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about overcoming the hurdles of puppy parenthood and building a lifelong friendship with their furry companion.
Related Episodes:
- https://www.puppytalkpodcast.com/owning-a-new-puppy-is-a-lot-of-work/
- https://www.puppytalkpodcast.com/why-are-so-many-puppies-being-rehomed/
Discover a simple and effective method for loose-leash walking your puppy with my new book Leash Training Your Puppy.
Purchase my new book Potty Training Your Puppy here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
Are you contemplating adding another furry friend to your household? Join me, Dale Buchanan, on this episode of Puppy Talk as we examine the pros, cons, misconceptions, and truths about owning multiple dogs. Discover whether an additional pup could bring joy and companionship to your current dog or if it might just add to your responsibilities. We'll discuss common myths like the idea that an older dog will train a new puppy or that dogs need another canine companion at home to be happy and relaxed. Through real-life examples, like my own dog Dixie who thrives solo with the help of daycare, we’ll debunk these misconceptions and offer a realistic perspective.
Managing a multi-dog household isn't all fun and games; it comes with its own set of challenges. From financial responsibilities to time management and training difficulties, you'll get practical tips on how to navigate these hurdles. Learn why you must train each dog separately and how to handle the logistical aspects like walking and transporting multiple dogs. If you're on the fence about adding another dog or struggling with the ones you already have, this episode is packed with insights and strategies to help you make an informed decision and maintain order in your dog-loving home. Tune in and equip yourself with the knowledge to create a harmonious multi-dog household!
Discover a simple and effective method for loose-leash walking your puppy with my new book Leash Training Your Puppy.
Purchase my new book Potty Training Your Puppy here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
What if bringing home a new puppy could turn into a financial disaster? This episode of Puppy Talk is a must-listen for anyone considering adding a furry friend to their family. I'll guide you through the often-overlooked financial aspects of raising a puppy, from the initial adoption or breeder fees to the ongoing costs of vet visits, food, and training. With a recommended savings of at least $10,000, I break down every expense to ensure you're fully prepared to provide a happy and stable home for your new companion.
The alarming number of dogs ending up in shelters due to their owners' financial struggles is a crisis we need to address. This episode highlights the impact of inflation and global challenges on pet ownership, urging you to think twice before making such a significant commitment. By equipping you with the knowledge and financial planning tips needed to raise a puppy responsibly, I aim to reduce the number of dogs surrendered to shelters. For personalized advice or further questions, visit puppytalkpodcast.com. Join me in making a difference—one puppy at a time.
Discover a simple and effective method for loose-leash walking your puppy with my new book Leash Training Your Puppy.
Purchase my new book Potty Training Your Puppy here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
This is episode 100, the final episode of Puppy Talk. You can still access all the Puppy Talk episodes on our website and in every podcast directory.
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Purchase my new book Potty Training Your Puppy here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
- Dog trainers never repeat vocal commands.
- Dog trainers never overuse vocal commands when training a dog.
- Dog trainers never get frustrated with a dog.
- Dog trainers never allow a dog to pull on the leash.
- Dog trainers don’t expect a dog to be perfect.
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Purchase my new book Potty Training Your Puppy here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
The components of a puppy program:
- Potty Training and Crate Training
- Basic commands
- Behavior Training
- Leash Manners and Loose Leash Walking
- Socialization Skills
This is the same information in my book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Purchase my new book Potty Training Your Puppy here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
This episode provides dog safety tips to help prevent a dog attack. There have been two children who died from dog attacks in the past week in North Alabama. I provided dog safety content with two stories for the local news on the topic. Here are the links to the stories with an article and video.
- February 28, 2024, on WHNT 19 News
- March 4, 2024, on Fox54 News Huntsville
Disclaimer
The tips in this article are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to save anyone's life or entirely prevent a dog attack.
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Purchase my new book Potty Training Your Puppy here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
Commands I Don’t Recommend for Puppies:
- Off
- Stop
- No
Teach the puppy what you want it to do, not what you want it to stop doing. In this episode, I explain in more detail the training methodology.
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Purchase my new book Potty Training Your Puppy here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
It's important to set realistic expectations for your puppy, to be patient with them, and to accept that they are going to learn everything overnight.
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Purchase my new book Potty Training Your Puppy here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
The best way to potty train your dog is to take advantage of the fact that they don't want to soil their bed. With crate training, you can use this instinct to teach your dog where it's okay to eliminate and where it is not allowed.
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Purchase my new book Potty Training Your Puppy here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
Before you decide to take your dog out with you on a running session, there are a few ideas that you need to be familiar with.
- Don't assume that your dog is built for running
- Do talk to your pet's vet
- Don't go on runs if you have a puppy
- Do take it slow
- Don't forget to warm up
- Do look for a running trail
- Don't forget to train your dog to run with you
- Do make sure that your dog stays hydrated
- Don't run when it's sweltering
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Purchase my new book Potty Training Your Puppy here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
Naming a new puppy is fun--but while there's nothing wrong with choosing a name that's a little bit silly, you should also be practical and thoughtful. Your name should be one you'll use daily for a lifetime. Selecting a great name makes training more accessible and helps your dog settle into the family. Before picking a name, please listen to these tried and trustworthy tips.
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Purchase my new book Potty Training Your Puppy here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
You must put in the work yourself to raise a puppy successfully. A dog trainer cannot fix all of the dog issues and strengthen your relationship with the dog. Dog trainers give advice and suggestions and help educate you on how to solve problems. You have to do the work. You have to put in the time with your dog.
Things you can do right now:
- Check your emotions - let go of all stress, anxiety, fear, and worry.
- Don’t get frustrated with your puppy - they can sense your frustration, and they will also be frustrated because they don’t know what you want.
- Set the puppy up for success - focus on what you want the puppy to do and learn, not stopping or fixing the puppy.
- Set clear rules and boundaries and enforce them - this includes what rooms they are allowed into, how they must behave in the house, and how they behave on walks.
- Manage expectations - be patient, and don’t expect your puppy to learn everything overnight.
Follow the L.E.G.S.® model for behavior issues, created by Kim Brophey:
- Learned - Understanding how dogs learn helps identify effective ways to teach them new behaviors. Like humans, dogs are always learning, and not just in training sessions. Through learning, all animals learn to adapt to new situations.
- Environmental - The environment is everything an animal interacts with, and we humans can control it to promote a safe environment for our dogs. Examining and adjusting environmental factors helps promote positive behavior from your dog.
- Genetics - Recognizing the unique characteristics of your dog’s breed/s reveals your dog’s natural instincts. Each breed has its own set of genetic instructions that affect its behavior, such as herding instincts or protective tendencies.
- Self - Understanding your dog’s unique personality is crucial for successful mediation between you and your dog. Age, gender, nutrition, health status, and reproductive status all contribute to developing an animal’s distinct character and behavior.
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Purchase my new book Potty Training Your Puppy here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
Over the past year, I have seen too many puppies lacking confidence and self-esteem. They are shy, withdrawn, and fearful of experiencing new adventures and situations.
Six ways to build confidence:
- Help Them Navigate Through Challenging Situations
- Don’t Baby Them; Encourage Them
- Stop Spoiling Them
- Socialize Them Early
- Leash Training
- Other Enrichment Activities
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Purchase my new book Potty Training Your Puppy here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
Many people think dog training is stopping unwanted behaviors or fixing the dog. Dog training is actually teaching the dog what you want it to do. Dog training should be focused on setting your puppy up for success instead of focusing on their unwanted behaviors. When you change your mindset to teach the puppy good behaviors, the undesirable behaviors disappear. Focus on what you want the dog to do and reward that behavior.
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Purchase my new book Potty Training Your Puppy here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
A therapy dog lends comfort and affection to people in a facility setting or specific individuals who require visitation to deal with a physical or emotional problem.
There are 4 steps to complete Therapy Dog Training. After these 4 steps, you must take a test and be observed by the therapy dog organization for several public visits with your dog around people. I suggest ATD (Alliance of Therapy Dogs). My dog, Dixie, and I are members of this organization.
Step 1: Complete a Basic Dog Obedience Program. This gives you the foundation of basic commands, loose leash walking, and proper socialization skills.
Step 2: Complete the AKC Canine Good Citizen Training and Test (CGC). This test consists of 10 items listed here. (The AKC CGC is not a Therapy Dog certification)
Step 3: Complete the AKC Community Canine Training and Test (Advanced CGC). This will ensure that you and your dog are fully prepared for the Tester/Observer to meet with you for evaluations and testing.
Step 4: Get tested and observed by the ATD Tester/Observer. This is all done voluntarily and consists of 3 visits with visits with the tester/observer to complete your ATP Therapy Dog Certification.
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Purchase my new book Potty Training Your Puppy here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
Conditioning your puppy for bad weather, such as heat, cold, rain, and snow, is essential. This helps build their confidence and allows them to realize that bad weather is part of their life. In this episode, I explain how to do this safely and effectively.
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Purchase my new book Potty Training Your Puppy here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
Here is a list of the top 6 dog training mistakes:
- Chastisement upon return
- Confusing rules
- Rewards for bad behavior
- Constantly offering food treats
- Getting angry
- Poor communication
You can read the article here: https://www.topgundogtraining.com/post/dog-training-mistakes-avoid-them-if-you-want-a-well-behaved-pooch
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Purchase my new book Potty Training Your Puppy here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
One way puppies can explore the world and learn about things is with their mouth. They pick up everything from the ground and bite stuff because they have no other way to explore and learn about physical objects. In this episode, I teach you a method to stop puppy play biting.
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Purchase my new book Potty Training Your Puppy here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
3 Steps to Potty Train Your Puppy. More info in my book Potty Training Your Puppy.
1) Your puppy should always be supervised or confined while indoors. Supervise your puppy closely or have them in the crate. Supervised means you will see it taking place if your puppy has an accident. The only exception to this rule is if you know your puppy has just gone potty and now has an empty bladder or colon. Then, you may be able to get away with a brief period of less intense supervision, but never leave your puppy completely unsupervised. Watch for sniffing, crying, circling, panting, or suddenly wandering away from you and going off to the corner or near a wall. These are signs that they need to go potty.
2) Take your puppy outside on a leash as often as possible. Puppies 8-12 weeks must go out at least every hour, supervised while on a leash. Set up your walk to match your puppy's patterns. Take them to their place to go potty. Now say “go potty, go potty” very enthusiastically. Keep repeating this command until they do. If they do not potty after 10-15 minutes, bring them back inside, put them in a crate for 10 minutes, and then bring them outside again to repeat the process.
3) Give your puppy praise and a treat immediately after they go potty outside. Choose a high-value food reward you will use to give your puppy once they go potty outside on the grass. Praise your puppy for going potty on the grass, provide them with a lot of affection and say “good boy or good girl” so they understand that you are praising them for doing something good.
More info in my book Potty Training Your Puppy.
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Purchase my new book Potty Training Your Puppy here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
There are two times when you need to use your puppy's name when training. One is if there are multiple dogs present. The other is to get them to come to you. Don't overuse the puppy's name, or there will be no value to it.
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Purchase my new book Potty Training Your Puppy here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
Littermate syndrome is a term that describes unwanted behaviors among sibling dogs, including aggression and intense attachment. It is often used to describe behavioral issues that occur when two or more dogs from the same litter are raised together and adopted into the same home.
If you are considering adopting two puppies from the same litter, it is essential to do your research and understand the risks of littermate syndrome. By taking steps to prevent it, you can help your puppies develop into well-adjusted and well-behaved dogs.
The reference article used in the podcast is https://www.thewildest.com/dog-behavior/dont-take-two-littermates
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Purchase my new book Potty Training Your Puppy here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
Leash training your puppy is an essential part of obedience and discipline. Leash training will get your puppy out of the house to learn socialization skills and how to behave in public. These are called Leash Manners. Here are three tips to help leash train your puppy.
- Keep the walks short, about 5-10 minutes. Long walks for young puppies ages 8-24 weeks could result in them losing focus and energy, enabling them to check out and develop unwanted behaviors.
- Focus on discipline and obedience while on the walks. Have your puppy go out in your driveway or sidewalk and sit. They must learn patience and be desensitized to distractions such as other dogs, people, and cars.
- Finish the walk with a calming ritual on the puppy's bed when they come inside from the walk. This conditions them to develop the habit of exercise followed by relaxation. You can use a Kong, Lickimat, bully stick, or a deer antler to help them settle.
More tips can be found in my book Leash Training Your Puppy, available on Amazon in Kindle, paperback, and audiobook. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BVGJ3DPQ
Online course, Leash Training Your Puppy: https://www.puppytraining.dog/leash-training-your-puppy
Puppy Training and Puppy Vaccines https://www.puppytalkpodcast.com/can-you-take-your-puppy-outside-before-it-is-fully-vaccinated/
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Discover a simple and effective method for loose-leash walking your puppy with my new book Leash Training Your Puppy.
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://topgundogtraining.com
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
Potty training a puppy is very simple is you follow the basic guidelines in this episode.
- Manage the puppy's space in the house
- Reward the puppy immediately after they go potty outside
- Be consistent; take the puppy out at least every hour
- Don’t use pee pads.
- Combine potty training with obedience and leash training.
Potty Training Your Puppy Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
Potty Training Your Puppy Online Course: https://www.puppytraining.dog/potty-training
FREE GIFT: Download the chart below to help identify unwanted minor puppy behaviors and teach a replacement behavior. Download the chart here https://www.puppytraining.dog/bemod-chart
The Puppy Training and Behavior Membership is here. Ideal for all ages of puppies from 8 weeks to 2 years old. Click on this link to find out more https://www.puppytraining.dog/puppy-training-and-behavior-membership
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://topgundogtraining.com
Sponsor Website: http://puppytraining.dog
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
Your puppy's age and breed can determine the amount of exercise your puppy needs. Some dogs will need more than others. This episode advises determining what your puppy needs for exercise and mental stimulation. The book mentioned in this episode is Leash Training Your Puppy.
The Puppy Training and Behavior Membership is here. Ideal for all ages of puppies from 8 weeks to 2 years old. Click on this link to find out more https://www.puppytraining.dog/puppy-training-and-behavior-membership
FREE GIFT: Download the chart below to help identify unwanted minor puppy behaviors and teach a replacement behavior. Download the chart here https://www.puppytraining.dog/bemod-chart
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://topgundogtraining.com
Sponsor Website: http://puppytraining.dog
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
The place command is an essential tool in the training arsenal of any puppy owner, enabling them to establish control over their furry friend's movements both indoors and outdoors. Follow the three steps in this podcast and read the article from Top Gun Dog Trainings website or read the transcript for this podcast.
FREE GIFT: Download the chart below to help identify unwanted minor puppy behaviors and teach a replacement behavior. Download the chart here https://www.puppytraining.dog/bemod-chart
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://topgundogtraining.com
Sponsor Website: http://puppytraining.dog
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
Oftentimes, puppy owners are unaware of their puppies' need for mental stimulation. However, once they are educated on how to introduce it into everyday life and form a more structured schedule for their puppy, owners will see results almost immediately. While there are endless ways to mentally stimulate your puppy, I am going to recommend some of my favorites in the list below, which have proven to be the most beneficial for new puppy owners and their new puppies.
- 5-10 Minute Training Sessions
- Stuffed Kong
- Doggy Puzzles
In conclusion, mental enrichment is very important for your puppy, and there are endless opportunities to enrich your dog's mind. Look to your local pet stores or online for toys that will exhaust your puppy with little effort on your part!
Here is the article written by Catherine Wilson: https://topgundogtraining.com/blog/f/3-fun-ideas-for-indoor-mental-stimulation-for-your-puppy
FREE GIFT: Download the chart below to help identify unwanted minor puppy behaviors and teach a replacement behavior. Download the chart here https://www.puppytraining.dog/bemod-chart
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://topgundogtraining.com
Sponsor Website: http://puppytraining.dog
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
As a professional dog trainer, I have never been asked to help make a puppy more hyper, but almost every new puppy owner requests some training on how to make their puppy more calm.
To achieve the goal of puppy calmness, it’s mostly about trimming the fat…or eliminating things you are doing that overstimulate the puppy. In addition, most new puppy owners unconsciously create and reinforce the unwanted hyper puppy behavior. Calming hyper behavior in your puppy is about down less, not more.
Here are 3 tips to help make your puppy calm
- Stop talking to them so much with commands they don’t know in a high-pitched voice. It’s gibberish to them, similar to Charlie Brown’s school teacher. The puppy has no idea what you say, and your voice is a form of affection that will get your puppy more hyper. “Talk low, talk slow, and don’t say much.” John Wayne.
- Stop touching them so much when they are hyper - this will only reinforce the unwanted behavior. Save affection as a life reward when your puppy is calm and tired.
- Ensure your puppy gets enough sleep, exercise, mental stimulation, and leash training and is on a strict schedule for discipline.
FREE GIFT: Download the chart below to help identify unwanted minor puppy behaviors and teach a replacement behavior. Download the chart here https://www.puppytraining.dog/bemod-chart
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://topgundogtraining.com
Sponsor Website: http://puppytraining.dog
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
The goal of raising a puppy is to prevent unwanted behaviors from developing so that you can live harmoniously with your puppy. Most new puppy owners allow most unwanted behavior to develop, even reinforcing the behaviors in the puppy.
The behaviors I get called the most to help “fix” are play biting, jumping, barking, chewing, and pulling on the leash. Once the puppy has associated the unwanted behavior with something that’s ok for them to do, they will keep doing it.
It only takes 1-2 times for the puppy to rehearse an unwanted behavior, such as play biting, jumping, barking, or chewing furniture, for the behavior to be programmed into their software (brain).
How to prevent unwanted behaviors:
- Stop reinforcing them
- Stop allowing them to develop
- Find replacement behaviors
FREE GIFT: Download the chart below to help identify unwanted minor puppy behaviors and teach a replacement behavior. Download the chart here https://www.puppytraining.dog/bemod-chart
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://topgundogtraining.com
Sponsor Website: http://puppytraining.dog
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
Focusing on your puppy being calm in the crate lets you create a list of ways to achieve this goal. I will help you get started with this list. It is up to you to expand on this list and follow through.
- Help your puppy develop a positive association with the crate by feeding them their meals there. Also, playing games with your puppy, going into the crate to fetch a toy or treat, and calling them out of the crate playfully and happily will allow them to associate fun and good things with the crate.
- Help your puppy learn to relax in the crate and that it’s not a torture device. Try putting the crate in a location where the puppy can see you. Try moving it to the living room if they cry or bark with the crate in the bedroom. Explore your options and see what works best. Place a bully stick, Lickimat, or stuffed Kong in their crate with them.
- Help your puppy learn that it’s not the end of the world when you leave. If your puppy is very attached to you and can’t leave the house without them crying in the crate, you will have to start with a very short duration of 30-60 seconds and build up from there. Once you get to the puppy being calm for 10-15 minutes, you should be OK.
- Help your puppy desensitize to departure cues, such as the sound of the front door closing or you grabbing your keys to leave. This is the hardest part. If you are unsuccessful on your own, you should consider hiring a CSAT (Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer) to help you. This is usually done virtually so you can work with any CSAT anywhere in the world.
These are just a few things you can do to help your puppy not bark or cry in the crate. Here is a great article from the ASPCA about separation anxiety. This is not my expertise. I am only here to pass on some useful resources to you.
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/common-dog-behavior-issues/separation-anxiety
FREE GIFT: Download the chart below to help identify unwanted minor puppy behaviors and teach a replacement behavior. Download the chart here https://www.puppytraining.dog/bemod-chart
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://topgundogtraining.com
Sponsor Website: http://puppytraining.dog
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
This is a great question. In this podcast episode, I will discuss why so many puppies are being rehomed and how to prevent this from happening to your puppy.
Why Are So Many Puppies Being Rehomed?
- Owners don’t have time to raise and train a puppy.
- Owners have unrealistic expectations for their puppies.
- Owners realize they have the wrong dog for their lifestyle.
- Puppy develops behavior problems that are hard to fix.
How to prevent rehoming your puppy
- Choose the right puppy
- Provide very clear rules and boundaries
- Put them on a structured schedule
- Get obedience training for them ASAP
- Get leash training for them ASAP
- Set them up for success
Use this website https://dogtime.com/ to look up breed characteristics before getting a puppy.
BOGO! - Buy one course, Get one FREE. Leash Training You Puppy & Potty Training Your Puppy. Click here for more details. Offer expires Friday, April 14, 2023.
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://topgundogtraining.com
Sponsor Website: http://puppytraining.dog
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
Here is the List of some Essential Equipment for New Puppies:
- Dog Bed for relaxation and teaching place
- Play Toys for enrichment
- Kong® mental stimulation toys
- LickiMat® mental stimulation feeders
- Dog Puzzles for mental stimulation
- Bully Sticks for heavy chewers
- Dear Antler for aggressive chewers
- Nylabone® Puppy Starter Kit for moderate chewers
- 6” Snap Leash for leash training and walking
- Collar for use with the snap leash
- Long Line for enrichment and teaching recall
- Front Clip Harness for training walks
- Rear Clip Harness for enrichment walks
- Crate for safe place confinement
- Playpen to give your puppy a place to play
- Baby Gates to help establish boundaries
- Training Treats for reward-based training
- Dog Clicker for a marker during training
BOGO! - Buy one course, Get one FREE. Leash Training You Puppy & Potty Training Your Puppy. Click here for more details. Offer expires Friday, April 14, 2023.
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://topgundogtraining.com
Sponsor Website: http://puppytraining.dog
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
Isolating your puppy in the house and yard during their critical socialization period of 4-16 weeks is a big mistake. Lack of puppy socialization during the critical period of their life is the number one reason they develop serious behavior problems as adult dogs.
Here is the link to a resource on the importance of puppy socialization from Robert K Anderson, DVM http://trainyourdogmonth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/APDT_TYDMRKLetter.pdf
Here are some great places to take your dog for socializing, enrichment, and practicing obedience commands with distractions. These stores require your dog to be on a leash, but also consider parks and other outdoor places to socialize off-leash.
- Home Depot
- Lowes
- Ace Hardware
- Bass Pro Shops
- TJ Max
- Michael's
- Hobby Lobby
- Dicks Sporting Goods
- Petco
- Petsmart
This is just a short list of indoor socialization stores where you can bring your dog or puppy. Be sure to contact the store in your area before going, as individual locations may have specific dog rules.
FREE GIFT: Download the chart below to help identify unwanted minor puppy behaviors and teach a replacement behavior. Download the chart here https://www.puppytraining.dog/bemod-chart
Potty Training Your Puppy Video Course: https://www.puppytraining.dog/potty-training
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://topgundogtraining.com
Sponsor Website: http://puppytraining.dog
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
Every puppy has different needs. Below are the ingredients, and it’s up to you as the puppies owner to determine the exact recipe. This list is presented in order of importance for creating a happy, healthy, and obedient puppy.
- Exercise
- Mental Stimulation
- Socialization
- Enrichment
- Play
At the very end is affection. Don’t substitute affection for any of the other components listed above. Use affection as a “life reward” for the puppy doing things well and following your rules, boundaries, training, etc.
FREE GIFT: Download the chart below to help identify unwanted minor puppy behaviors and teach a replacement behavior. Download the chart here https://www.puppytraining.dog/bemod-chart
Potty Training Your Puppy Video Course: https://www.puppytraining.dog/potty-training
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://topgundogtraining.com
Sponsor Website: http://puppytraining.dog
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
Mental stimulation is often referred to as enrichment and covers a wide variety of activities. They often appear to be fun games or clever ways to feed snacks, but they're really so much more than that! You can read the full article here.
Here are 4 reasons why your dog must have mental stimulation.
- Entertainment
- Improve Anxiety
- Wear Them Out
- Provide An Outlet For Natural Behaviors
FREE GIFT: Download the chart below to help identify unwanted minor puppy behaviors and teach a replacement behavior. Download the chart here https://www.puppytraining.dog/bemod-chart
Discover a simple and effective method for loose-leash walking your puppy with my new book Leash Training Your Puppy.
Potty Training Your Puppy Video Course: https://www.puppytraining.dog/potty-training
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://topgundogtraining.com
Sponsor Website: http://puppytraining.dog
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
This is a great exercise to build the relationship between the handler and the puppy. We start this in the house with no distractions, then move it outside with distractions so she can get focused back on me when she has reactivity to other dogs or people.
Here is the video teaching my puppy Dixie the Watch Me command: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z4RVPIfmXPs
FREE GIFT: Download the chart below to help identify unwanted minor puppy behaviors and teach a replacement behavior. Download the chart here https://www.puppytraining.dog/bemod-chart
Discover a simple and effective method for loose-leash walking your puppy with my new book Leash Training Your Puppy.
Potty Training Your Puppy Video Course: https://www.puppytraining.dog/potty-training
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://topgundogtraining.com
Sponsor Website: http://puppytraining.dog
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
I found this post on another dog trainer Olivia Mergl of Mannered Mutts Dog Training on Instagram. Below is her post text. The image that goes with the post will be placed on a blog post here.
No is not a cue!!
No is not a behavior, it’s not something your dog can perform.
You might mean one thing like stop, come here, stand still, lie down, drop it, down but it’s likely very unclear to your dog what you want.
Stop telling your dog no and start asking for a behavior they know instead, tell them exactly what is it you would like them to do.
Set your dog up to succeed!!
FREE GIFT: Download the chart below to help identify unwanted minor puppy behaviors and teach a replacement behavior. Download the chart here https://www.puppytraining.dog/bemod-chart
Discover a simple and effective method for loose-leash walking your puppy with my new book Leash Training Your Puppy.
Potty Training Your Puppy Video Course: https://www.puppytraining.dog/potty-training
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor Website: http://topgundogtraining.com
Sponsor Website: http://puppytraining.dog
Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan
There are two ways to be more patient with your puppy, and I will discuss both in this episode. Patience will go a long way when raising a puppy. Give your puppy time to learn and adapt to your lifestyle.
- Be patient when teaching new commands
- Be more patient overall as they grow up
FREE GIFT: Download the chart below to help identify unwanted minor puppy behaviors and teach a replacement behavior. Download the chart here https://www.puppytraining.dog/bemod-chart
Discover a simple and effective method for loose-leash walking your puppy with my new book Leash Training Your Puppy.
Potty Training Your Puppy Video Course: https://www.puppytraining.dog/potty-training
Potty Training Your Puppy Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
Leash Training Your Puppy Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BFBZYXMR
In this episode, I discuss the pros and cons of having your puppy sleep with you in your bed. Remember, that is my opinion, and the opinions of other dog trainers and vets will vary.
The Complete Puppy Training Manual is now available on Amazon.
Discover a simple and effective method for loose-leash walking your puppy with my new book Leash Training Your Puppy.
Potty Training Your Puppy Video Course: https://www.puppytraining.dog/potty-training
Potty Training Your Puppy Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
In this episode, I share what I did during my dog Dixie's First Day Home on May 5, 2020. I immediately taught Dixie her name, leash acclimation, and set boundaries in the apartment. Notice my tone, words, and leadership skills when I communicate to Dixie in this video https://youtu.be/f-qA1fYUp40.
Here is a link to the podcast episode, The First 5 Things to Teach Your New Puppy.
View my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Discover a simple and effective method for loose-leash walking your puppy with my new book Leash Training Your Puppy.
Potty Training Your Puppy Video Course: https://www.puppytraining.dog/potty-training
Potty Training Your Puppy Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
I use three types of walks for puppies that I train. Each of these walks is unique and can be combined to achieve multiple goals in one outing.
- The Training Walk
- The Enrichment Walk
- The Potty Break Walk
Roughly 40% of your walks will be potty breaks, 40% will be training walks (loose leash walking), and 20% will be enrichment walks.
FREE GIFT: Download the chart below to help identify unwanted minor puppy behaviors and teach a replacement behavior. Practice reinforcing the replacement behaviors without reinforcing the unwanted behaviors. Download the chart here https://www.puppytraining.dog/bemod-chart
Discover a simple and effective method for loose-leash walking your puppy with my new book Leash Training Your Puppy.
Potty Training Your Puppy Video Course: https://www.puppytraining.dog/potty-training
Potty Training Your Puppy Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNGRNXNX
The top 3 reasons why your puppy's behavior is not improving:
- You are reinforcing the unwanted behavior.
- You are trying to "fix" your puppy instead of teaching your puppy.
- You are not being consistent.
Use this FREE chart below to help identify unwanted minor puppy behaviors and teach a replacement behavior. Practice reinforcing the replacement behaviors without reinforcing the unwanted behaviors. Download the chart here https://www.puppytraining.dog/bemod-chart
Go to this link to purchase my new video course Potty Training Your Puppy. Enter code SAVE20 to save $20 on any course option. https://www.puppytraining.dog/potty-training
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
In this episode, I discuss one of the chapters of my new book, Leash Training Your Puppy, which will be available by the end of February 2023. To get on my mailing list for updates on the book release date, go to PuppyTraining.dog.
The most important tip for starting the loose leash walking journey with your puppy is to stay in the moment. Learn to be connected to your puppy through the leash. Don’t let personal distractions get in the way of a stress-free walk. Put the phone away and focus on your puppy. This is the proper mindset. (this is the first paragraph from my new book, Leash Training Your Puppy, which will be available by the end of February 2023. )
To get on my mailing list for updates on the book release date, go to PuppyTraining.dog.
Go to this link to purchase my new video course Potty Training Your Puppy
Enter code SAVE20 to save $20 on any course option. https://www.puppytraining.dog/potty-training
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Use this FREE chart below to help identify unwanted minor puppy behaviors and teach a replacement behavior. Practice reinforcing the replacement behaviors without reinforcing the unwanted behaviors. Download the chart here https://www.puppytraining.dog/bemod-chart
Go to this link to purchase my new video course Potty Training Your Puppy
Enter code SAVE20 to save $20 on any course option. https://www.puppytraining.dog/potty-training
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
I recently received an email from Dr. Leslie Brooks DVM, MPH, and a Vet Advisor for Betterpet. She sent me some information on a new tool that she helped create called The Dog Age Calculator. She went on to say that many pet owners don't always know how old their dog actually is and how they should be caring for their furry friend.
If pet parents know their dog's exact stage of life, they can make better decisions about their diet, nutrition, exercise, and health. That’s why my team decided to make a resource like this free and accessible to the public.
Here is the link to the Dog Age Calculator https://betterpet.com/dog-age-calculator/
Visit our website at https://www.puppytalkpodcast.com/
Dale's dog training website is https://topgundogtraining.com/
Go to this link to purchase my new video course Potty Training Your Puppy
Enter code SAVE20 to save $20 on any course option. https://www.puppytraining.dog/potty-training
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
This is a great question that was a comment on one of my YouTube videos. The short answer is "Yes, But Follow These Rules To Stay Safe."
Links to supporting articles and Podcasts:
- PawsGeek.com article: https://www.pawsgeek.com/can-i-take-my-puppy-outside-before-it-is-vaccinated/
- ThePamperedPup.com article: https://www.thepamperedpup.com/when-can-puppies-go-outside/
- A Letter on Puppy Socialization: http://trainyourdogmonth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/APDT_TYDMRKLetter.pdf
- An alternative to pee pads - Fresh Patch: https://www.puppytalkpodcast.com/an-alternative-to-pee-pads/
Dale's dog training website is https://topgundogtraining.com/
Visit the show's website at http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Visit this website http://puppytraining.dog to join our mailing list for updates on the release of my new book The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Our most popular episode has been #3 from January 12, 2021, on How to Potty Train Your Puppy. I continue to receive comments on social media posts and daily emails from local clients of Top Gun Dog Training who are having trouble potty training their puppy.
In this episode, I share the top 3 reasons why your puppy is not properly catching on to potty training. I have also linked several related articles and videos to help you potty train your puppy.
6 Potty Training Tips: https://topgundogtraining.com/blog/f/6-potty-training-tips
Why Pee Pads Are a Bad Idea: https://topgundogtraining.com/blog/f/why-pee-pads-are-a-bad-idea
How I Potty Trained Dixie in One Day: https://youtu.be/KumQMZt90lE
An alternative to pee pads: https://www.puppytalkpodcast.com/an-alternative-to-pee-pads/
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
In this episode, I am going to discuss important details about using corrections with young puppies. This information is a companion to the past episode #56 on The Benefits of Positive Reinforcement Training.
- When to use corrections
- What type of corrections should you use
- How to use corrections - correct it, redirect it
- Why too many corrections are not productive
- How to know when you are overcorrecting
Dale's dog training website is https://topgundogtraining.com/
Visit the show's website at http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Visit this website http://puppytraining.dog to join our mailing list for updates on the release of my new book The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
This episode is from an article written by Taylor Andrews for my website. You can read the entire article here https://topgundogtraining.com/blog/f/the-benefits-of-positive-reinforcement-training
Dale's dog training website is https://topgundogtraining.com/
Visit the shows website at http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Visit this website http://puppytraining.dog to join our mailing list for updates on the release of my new book The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Training Manual.
Everyone in your family, including dogs, has to have rules and boundaries in the house. You should start teaching the puppy rules and boundaries as soon as you bring them home. Giving a puppy too much freedom and the ability to do anything it wants, is a recipe for disaster.
Setting Rules
Rules refer to what a puppy is and isn’t allowed to do. Here are some examples:
- No jumping on furniture when not invited
- No pulling on the leash when walking
- No jumping on guests when they are greeted
- No “zoomies” in the house (outside in the yard is OK)
Setting Boundaries
Boundaries control where a dog can and can’t go, claiming territory, and teaching your puppy what is and isn’t theirs. Here are some examples:
- Not allowed in certain rooms of the house
- Sit and wait to go out the door
- Sit and wait for their food
- Go to bed, or place, when family is eating (instead of begging)
Visit the shows website at http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Visit this website http://puppytraining.dog to join our mailing list for updates on the release of my new book The Puppy Training Handbook.
These 5 things need to begin even before the basic obedience training command such as sit, down, stay, etc.
- Potty Training - Episode #3
- Crate Training - Episode #21
- Rules and Boundaries
- Puppies Name
- Stopping Play Biting - Episode #5
If you teach your new puppy these 5 things from the very beginning, you can prevent a lot of frustration.
Video Resources:
How I Potty Trained My Puppy in One Day: https://youtu.be/KumQMZt90lE
How to Stop Puppy Play Biting: https://youtu.be/0zYgl3jeKKI
Websites:
Puppy Talk Website: https://www.puppytalkpodcast.com/
Top Gun Dog Training Website: https://topgundogtraining.com/
I have a lot of clients with puppies that pee when they get excited. This is a huge issue with some new puppy owners, and in this episode I will provide some tips to help you deal with excited or submissive urination in puppies.
In this episode I discuss:
- What is the difference between submissive and excited urination?
- Why do either of these happen?
- What steps can you take to minimize submissive urination?
- What steps can you take to minimize excited urination?
- When to get professional help from a dog trainer
- When to see a vet or veterinary behaviorist
Reference article https://www.thesprucepets.com/fixing-submissive-excitement-urination-1118271
Puppy Talk Website http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Sponsor website http://topgundogtraining.com/
Setting unrealistic goals for your new puppy is a huge mistake. This is just as bad as trying to “fix” all of your puppies unwanted behaviors. As discussed in the last episode, we always want to focus on what we want the puppy to do, not what we want them not to do.
Be patient, take it slow, don’t force the puppy to try and learn too fast. Remember, they do not live with the same technology as humans in the digital world. Their life is analog, and they learn at their own pace.
SMART Goals
- Specific
- Measurable
- Attainable
- Realistic
- Timely
Our website http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Our sponsor: http://topgundogtraining.com
There is one secret to raising your puppy so that they continue to do what you ask from them, and stop doing the behaviors that you don’t eat such as barking, jumping, play biting, and chewing. Listen to this entire episode for complete details.
Visit the shows website http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Visit our sponsors website http://topgundogtraining.com
In this episode I discuss the importance of using hand signals in addition to vocal commands for foundational work such as sit, down, stay, come, etc.
3 reasons to use hand signals:
- Dogs easily habituate vocal commands when overdone
- Dogs sight is dominant over their hearing - Dogs perceive the world through her nose, eyes, and ears (in that order)
- Body language, spacial pressure, and hand signals combined together can help calm a puppy over a lot of vocalization and commands.
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/puppytalk)
In this episode I discuss Fresh Patch all natural real grass training pads for puppies. I also discuss the benefits and how to use Fresh Patch effectively. Here is a link to their website if you want more information https://www.freshpatch.com/
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/puppytalk)
Here is a list of our top 5 Puppy Talk episodes:
- Episode #35 - Puppy Training Series: Teaching Come
- Episode #3 - How to Potty Train Your Puppy
- Episode # 2 - The First 5 Things to Teach Your New Puppy
- Episode # 1 - Owning a New Puppy is a Lot of Work
- Episode # 18 - The Importance of Puppy Relaxation with Laura Donaldson
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/puppytalk)
In this lesson, I am going to discuss how to teach the “drop-it” command to your puppy. This is for basic obedience training, this technique does not apply to resource guarding.
What not to do:
- Repeat the command
- Grab the object from the puppy’s mouth
What to do:
- Say the words “drop-it” after puppy has an object in their mouth that you don’t want them to have
- Wait for puppy to let it go, do not force this step, be patient
- Reward them with a high value food reward after they drop it.
Watch my TikTok video demonstration here https://vm.tiktok.com/TTPdkskx6e/
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/puppytalk)
In this episode I teach you you to teach your puppy the leave-it command before they pick unwanted things up in their mouth.
Follow these steps:
- Grab some high value food rewards
- Locate the item that you don't want your puppy to have in their mouth
- Bring the item close to the puppy until they start to open their mouth and attempt to grab it
- Before they grab the item, firmly say "leave-it"
- When they bak off from the item, say yes or good girl/boy and reward.
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/puppytalk)
In this important episode, I discuss how to prevent unwanted puppy behaviors. Follow these steps below.
- Do not have the mindset of “fixing” your puppy, they are not broken.
- Two parts to preventing unwanted behaviors 1) Before the puppy knows they exist, and 2) at the beginning of the act of displaying the unwanted behavior.
- When my dog Dixie was with me the very first day, I corrected her play biting, jumping, and barking.
- If your puppy already has the behavior, such as jumping, correct the behavior the moment the puppy begins to do it, not after they have done it a few times.
- Stop reinforcing unwanted behaviors.
- Redirect puppy to an alternative behavior
- Reward the behavior that you want.
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/puppytalk)
This is our 1 Year Anniversary Episode! Today we talk about leash training tips for puppies. Below is a list of the topics discussed and links to recommended equipment.
- Nothing is more important than the dog walk, If properly done, it builds the relationship, discipline, and obedience.
- 3 Types of walks: potty break, training walk, enrichment walk
- Set you intention for the walk
- Use good equipment - no rear clip harness. Use easy walk harness or flat collar. Links in show notes for my recommendations
- Walk starts indoors before leaving house. Dog should be calm and relaxed.
- If once outside, puppy pulls, stop! Slow down their mind at the beginning of walk by stopping your movement.
- If puppy reacts to stimulus, DO NOT REINFORCE BY SAYING A LOT OF COMMANDS TO PUPPY. Increase your distance and get puppy focused on your with a “sit” and “watch me”…say each command only once. DO NOT REPEAT PUPPIES NAME OVER AND OVER AGAIN.
- If puppy lays down on grass or sidewalk, bring a squeaky toy or treats to lure puppy and add a motivation for them to move.
- Be patient, and practice multiple times daily
Easy Walk Harness: https://amzn.to/33hmGpW
Mendota Slip Lead: https://amzn.to/34zuDHF
Mendota Leather Collar: https://amzn.to/3q9bGnA
Mendota 6' Leash: https://amzn.to/3JRkDcQ
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/puppytalk)
This is a great question, and one I get asked a lot. This episode breaks it down for you and provides important information that will help you understand the importance of sleep for puppies.
- 8-12 week old puppies need 16-18 hours of sleep per day
- 12-16 week old puppies need 14-16 hours of sleep per day
- 16 weeks - 1 yr old puppies need 12-14 hours of sleep per day
- Puppies 1 yr+ need at least 10-12 hours of sleep per day
Don't underestimate the power of sleep for puppies. Listen to episode #41 for ideas of developing a puppy schedule.
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/puppytalk)
This episode was inspired by a post from Juliette Jones of Inquiring Noses Dog Training in Rockwell, TX. Her website and Instagram page is listed at the bottom of the show notes.
Before you get a puppy, ask yourself these questions:
➡️ Why do I want a puppy? Why now?
➡️ Is my home suitable for a puppy?
➡️ Is my entire family ready for a puppy?
➡️ Is my entire family on board with getting a puppy?
➡️ Will my current pet be okay with sharing their home?
➡️ Does my current pet need any training?
➡️ What does the next year look like? Planned moves? New baby?
➡️ Am I going to be able to dedicate time and money into proper and humane training?
➡️ Am I able to be prepared for any planned or surprise veterinarian costs?
➡️ Am I able to afford regular grooming visits that are appropriate for the breed I choose?
If after asking yourself those questions and you determine that yes, you are in fact ready and able to take care of a puppy, consider the following:
➡️ What breed or mix of breeds is right for my lifestyle?
➡️ What behaviors and health issues is that breed genetically predisposed to?
➡️ What veterinarian will I use?
➡️ What groomer will I use?
➡️ What trainer will I use?
➡️ What house rules will I set?
➡️ How can I set up my home to prevent unwanted behaviors before I bring the puppy home?
➡️ What will our routine be? Who will be responsible for what care?
I encourage anyone who is considering adding a puppy to their home, regardless of the time of year, to reach out to a certified professional dog trainer BEFORE you get the puppy so they can help you answer all of these questions.
Juliette's Website: https://www.inquiringnosesrockwall.com/
Juliette's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inquiringnosesrockwall/
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/puppytalk)
Getting a new puppy is very exciting and also a lot of hard work. Maintaining and adjusting the puppies schedule so they become a well behaved and balanced adult dog is extremely important.
Complete article with sample puppy schedule can be found here https://www.puppytalkpodcast.com/blog/new-puppy-schedule/
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/puppytalk)
This episode discusses the Essential Equipment for New Puppy Owners:
- Play Toys: Mendota pet has great toys https://www.mendotapet.com/collections/toys
- Kong https://prf.hn/l/6WxZM2g
- LickiMat https://prf.hn/l/rGDWM2O
- Puzzles https://prf.hn/l/7RAWaPA
- Bully sticks https://prf.hn/l/rwb5OqG
- Dear antler https://prf.hn/l/7BDBMRJ
- Nylabone puppy starter kit https://prf.hn/l/78akOOJ
- Mendota Pet slip lead https://prf.hn/l/KmPdyy0
- 6” snap leash https://prf.hn/l/7JD50Av
- Collar https://prf.hn/l/rvam3Zv
- Long line https://prf.hn/l/re92bjm
- Easy Walk Harness https://prf.hn/l/7ox2PMW
- Create: https://prf.hn/l/62gnzB9
For our blog post link to all of these items mentioned in this episode, click here https://bit.ly/3l8BQno
Visit our website at http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/puppytalk)
The correct answer to when you should start training your new puppy is the minute you take possession of the puppy.
Keep in mind that training is not always about the basic commands such as sit, down, stay, and come. Start with these 5 things listed below from Episode #2, and go from there.
Here is The First 5 Things to Teach Your New Puppy:
- Bite Inhibition
- Dogs Name
- Potty Training
- Leave-It Command
- Come Command
These 5 things need to begin even before the basic obedience training command such as sit, down, stay, etc. If you teach your new puppy these 5 things from the very beginning, you can prevent a lot of frustration.
Visit our website at http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/puppytalk)
There are a lot of things to consider when getting a new puppy. Here are just a few questions to ask yourself and my suggestions.
- Who is the puppy for?
- Why are you getting a puppy?
- What activities do you want the puppet do?
- Is this going to be a house dog?
- What is your lifestyle?
- Can you take the puppy for lots of walks?
- Can you socialize the puppy?
- Can you train the puppy yourself?
My suggestions:
- Retriever for outdoors
- Poodle or Maltese for indoors
- Mini Aussie or Australian Shepherd for easy training
- Anything mixed with a Poodle is great and hypoallergenic.
Visit our website at http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/puppytalk)
Dog obedience training and behavior modification are very different, as discussed in this episode. To read more about behavior modification, visit this link https://topgundogtraining.com/behavior-modification
Visit our website at http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/puppytalk)
There are several things to consider when speaking to you puppy. This episode discusses the best ways to use your voice for communicating with your puppy.
- The tone of our voice has a great impact of puppy behavior
- Low slow tones calm a puppy
- High pitch fast speech excites a puppy
- Be like John Wayne
- Less is better is in doubt.
- Never repeat commands
Visit our website at https://www.puppytalkpodcast.com/
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/puppytalk)
This is the final installment in our puppy training series, teaching puppy recall (come).
Todays Lesson:
- Make sure you have a good sit, down, and stay before expecting a good recall under distractions.
- DO NOT call you puppy to you and punish them or make them do something they don’t walk like go to crate, etc.
- Use high value food reward
3 Types of recall
- Place puppy in stay, release them with an “ok”, then call them to you with “come” - be energetic and use high pitch voice.
- Use a long lead, I use 30’ leash, allow puppy to go to end of the lease, and practice calling them back “Dixie, come” while using a slight tug on the leash.
- Try a restrained recall where you distance your self from the puppy while someone holds the puppy back, because they will follow you, and do the recall “Dixie, come” as the other person lets the puppy go.
- Recall outside with a lot of distractions will take a lot of time, be patient.
- Practice makes perfect. 3-5 minutes a day.
Applications
- Call puppy from anywhere is the house
- Call puppy to you on a walk
- Call puppy back to you if they get off leash
Visit our website at http://puppytalkpodcast.com
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/puppytalk)
Puppy Training Series: Teaching Stay. Unlike sit and down, we are not going to use shaping or luring with food. Down-stay is the ultimate calming command for any puppy or dog.
4 Steps to “stay”
- Make sure that your puppy has a good sit and down, episodes #31 and #33.
- Program the command “stay” firmly with held signal at same time.
- Start with 10 seconds and build up from there.
- Mark and reward every 10 seconds while standing next to puppy
- Slowly increase the 3 D’s: distance, duration, distractions, but not all at once.
Down-stay outside with a lot of distractions will take a lot of time, be patient. Practice makes perfect. 3-5 minutes a day of down-stay
Applications
- Use when you want puppy settle down
- Use when you want puppy to behave
- Use when you want puppy to go to place (bed)
Our website https://www.puppytalkpodcast.com/
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/puppytalk)
This episode is part a change in the format for Puppy Talk Podcast. Once a week I will be providing detailed instructions of training commands for your puppy. This episode coaches you how to teach your puppy the "down" command.
Todays Lesson:
- Teaching down using shaping
- Need training treats - see episode 11 for recommendations
- Also need a quiet place with no distractions for you and your puppy
- Lure into sit.
- 4 parts: food lure, down, mark the behavior (yes or click), reward
- Clicker training - episode 15
- Do this 5 times with no mistakes. Go for 5/5 - (Jean Donaldson)
- Once they can do this 5/5, then you can add the command “down” before offering the food lure. Say “down”, then proceed with the lure, puppy goes down, mark the behavior, and reward.
- Don’t add the word “down” until the puppy knows the movement well and can do 5/5
- The next step is to use a hand signal by sweeping hand and arm the palm face down from your also saying “down”.
- After 5/5 of this then you can try removing the word and just using the hand signal.
- Practice makes perfect. 3-5 minutes a day of sit training
Applications
- Use when you want puppy settle down
- Use when you want puppy to behave
- Use when you want puppy to go to place (bed)
Our website https://www.puppytalkpodcast.com/
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/puppytalk)
Interview with Michelle Dart and Yo Armendariz of The Empowered Dog Show to talk about their new podcast and other exciting news for dog trainers. You might know Michelle and Yo from the 2020 International Dog Trainers Winter Summit last December.
We talk about:
- What is The Empowered Dog
- How they started The Empowered Dog
- Why they switched from Facebook Live video to audio format
- The importance of Hybrid Learning System
- And much, much more
Our website is https://www.puppytalkpodcast.com/
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/puppytalk)
This episode starts a change in the format for Puppy Talk Podcast. Once a week I will be providing detailed instructions of training commands for your puppy. This episode coaches you how to teach your puppy the "sit" command.
Todays Lesson:
- Teaching sit using shaping
- Need training treats - see episode 11 for recommendations
- Also need a quiet place with no distractions for you and your puppy
- Lure food over puppies head and slightly back so their butt touches the ground and they sit.
- 4 parts: food lure, sit, mark the behavior, reward
- Do this 5 times with no mistakes. Go for 5/5 - (Jean Donaldson)
- Once they can do this 5/5, then you can add the command “sit” before offering the food lure. Say “sit”, then proceed with the lure, puppy sits, mark the behavior, and reward.
- Don’t add the word sit until the puppy knows the movement well and can do 5/5
- The next step is to use a hand signal by raising the palm up from your side to a 90 degree angle and also saying “sit”. After 5/5 of this then you can try removing the word and just using the hand signal.
- Practice makes perfect. 3-5 minutes a day of sit training
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In this episode, I had a great interview about canine nutrition with Rei Kawano of Heed Foods. We talk about many things related top optimal puppy and adult dog nutrition. Be sure to visit their website at https://www.heedfoods.com/
- How you founded the brand?
- What is so important about the ingredients you use?
- Why the focus on gut health?
- Are there any dog food regulations that monitor the ingredients and quality of the food?
- What are the different product that you offer?
- What about for puppies?
- Where can people buy your dog food?
- How have you increased you business so far?
- What inspirational tips do you have for other entrepreneurs?
Check out our website at https://www.puppytalkpodcast.com/
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To control Puppy Barking, we first need to determine what type of barking it is. Here are the 4 most common types of barking:
- Frustrated Barking
- Fear Barking
- Guard Barking
- Excited Barking
For creating a solution to the barking, here are 4 tips:
- Make sure your puppy is getting plenty of physical and mental exercise
- Make sure your puppy is getting plenty of socialization with people and other puppies
- Manage surroundings of the triggers that cause your puppy to bark
- Teach the "quiet" command and relaxation techniques
- Don't respond to puppy barking to prevent you from reinforcing the behavior
This information comes from this article at the American Kennel Club https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/how-to-stop-dog-barking/
If you have any questions about puppy barking, contact us through our website https://www.puppytalkpodcast.com/
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In this episode, I talk about 5 tips that will help your puppy if they are a picky eater. My own puppy, Dixie, has been a picky eater all her life. I have many clients with puppies that are also picky eaters.
Here are the 5 tips:
- Feed puppy only at scheduled times
- Find a food that the puppy really loves
- Try freeze dried and air dried foods
- Feed puppy by hand
- Feed puppy in a Kong or Licky Mat
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In this episode me and Irith Bloom discuss leash training and leash walking for puppies. We talk about the how to get started and what to do when problem behaviors appear. You can learn more about Irith on her website https://thesophisticateddog.com/.
What we discussed:
- At what age should new puppy owners start leash training?
- What is the best equipment for puppies? Leash length collars, harness…
- What types of walks should new puppy owners focus on? Potty break walks? Obedience walks? Enrichment walks?
- How to best handle minor puppy walk behaviors such as chewing on leash, jumping, picking up things off the ground?
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This episode focuses on 4 things that every puppy, and adult dog, needs to be healthy, happy, and obedient. The link with an outline of the 4 things is on our blog here https://www.puppytalkpodcast.com/blog/4-things-that-every-puppy-needs/
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In this episode I explain what you need to do to stop your puppy from jumping on people. This is broken down into two parts: 1) puppy jumping own people out on a walk and 2) puppy jumping on people coming in the house.
Two things to do right now to help stop the behavior are 1) stop reinforcing the jumping and 2) stop allowing the puppy to reverse the behavior by not putting it in a position to have access to the stimulus (people) when it’s over excited. We want to make this behavior extinct, however be aware of extinction bursts. To make the jumping extinct, start by no longer reinforcing the jumping. You have to control excitement and behavior before it escalates out of control.
We want to create alternative behaviors to the jumping. For the two situations previously mentioned, here is how you do that:
- Teach puppy that while on walks and it sees people, to lie down and wait for you to release them to interact with people. (Give example with dixie)
- Teach puppy to go to place and use a down-stay and release puppy to great house guest under your guidance, when puppy is calm. (Give example with Dixie)
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In this episode, I talk about the Major Biden Dog Bite Incident at the White House that happened on March 9, 2021. I provide my feedback of the situation from a dog behavior modification standpoint. Since there is way to much information that we do not know about the incident, only what's in the press release, we can only provide a guideline of the necessary steps to get Major Biden ready to safely come back to the White House.
For a copy of the Behavior Modification Consultation questionnaire that I used in this episode, go here https://www.puppytalkpodcast.com/blog/dog-behavior-modification-questions/
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In this episode I provide a comparison of dog park vs doggie day care and rate each on 8 different categories. In the end, I also provide an overall winner, and some final thoughts and tips. Remember that for puppies to go to either the dog park or doggie day care, they need to be fully vaccinated, including rabies.
Podcast website: https://www.puppytalkpodcast.com/
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In this episode, me and Trish discuss how to properly manage multi-dog households, with a special bonus of how to manage dogs and cats in the same home.
Trish is a certified professional dog trainer and certified dog behavior consultant, with a Masters Degree in animal behavior. She specializes in training and behavior modification work using positive reinforcement with dogs, cats, and horses.
Trish is located in Mars Hill, NC and her website is trishmcmillan.com and I’ll place the link in the show notes.
Questions:
- How many dogs do you have?
- How do you manage all of them without any conflict between them?
- What should current dog owners know about brining another dog home to the family?
- How much work is it to own 2 dogs? 3 dogs? 4 dogs?
- What are some things that could go wrong?
- How common is multi-dog household aggression?
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In this episode, I provide tips for crate training your puppy. The goal is for the puppy to associate a positive experience with the crate. This can take some time and patience. Don't try to rush the process.
Tips of what to do:
- Use treats to lure puppy into crate
- Have puppy lie down in crate with lure or one time saying “down”
- Feed using their food bowl, or Lickimat, or Kong (do not close door to crate)
- Play games with puppy and crate (see Instagram videos for Top Gun Dog Training)
- Close crate door for intervals of 30 sec, 1 min, etc., and work up to several minutes at a time while puppy is being calm.
- Use a camera to observe what puppy does in crate when left alone.
Tips of what NOT to do:
- Do not throw your puppy in the crate
- Do not yell at puppy in crate when they are barking or crying
- Do not put any bedding in crate if they are a chewer or not potty trained. Just use the plastic crate pan.
- Do not let puppy suffer in crate, go back to steps of what to do and work on those.
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For this episode I provide 4 tips on how to stop overstimulating your puppy. This is a follow up to Episode #18 on The Importance of Puppy Relaxation.
Here are the 4 tips:
- Stop talking to your puppy so much
- Stop playing with your puppy on floor or couch
- Do mental stimulation with your puppy
- Make sure that hard exercise is not in the apartment, house, or yard
Be sure to visit our Sponsor https://topgundogtraining.com/
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In this episode, I talk about how to raise a puppy in an apartment. I've had puppies, and adult dogs, in apartments for that past 14 years. and there are a few things you need to know and implement into the puppies life to make it work most effectively. These tips will hopefully minimize the risk of puppies eliminating, chewing, and barking inside of the apartment.
There are 4 things that you puppy will need to help living in an apartment. Without all of these, in the right doses, your puppy will likely develop behavior issues.
- Exercise
- Mental Stimulation
- Socialization
- Enrichment
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Laura Donaldson, is a PhD, CDBC, KPA CTP and the owner of Four Paws, Four Directions Dog Training & Behavior Consulting, LLC at https://fourpawsfourdirections.com
The episode will focuses on THE IMPORTANCE OF RELAXATION FOR PUPPIES (& ALL DOGS). Topics covered include mat training for puppies, calming enrichment activities and the cognitive as well as emotional underpinnings of the RELAXATION RESPONSE that we want to teach our puppies.
TEN WAYS TO HELP YOUR DOG LEARN TO “REALLY” RELAX ON A MAT!
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Do not use a clicker or other excitatory marker with mat training – if you want to use a marker, use a CALMING one like “Niiiiice,” or “Gooooood,” said in almost a subliminal tone of voice.
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Do the “Be Still/Reward Nothing” game on the mat. No movement, not even a wagging tail.
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Every time you place a treat down on the mat (because we’re feeding the mat, not the dog), ask your dog to TAKE A DEEP BREATH. The sequence would be:
Calming Marker -- Ask the dog to TAB -- Place treat on the mat
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Give your dog a LickiMat spread with baby food, squeeze cheese, xylitol-free yogurt or even an overripe banana on his/her mat. There is science & hard data backing up that calm repetitive licking induces both a physical & neurochemical “feel good” sensation that is very soothing.
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Do some massage with your dog on the mat.
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Do Tellington TTouch Ear Slides with your dog on the mat.
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Give your dog a stuffed, frozen Kong on his/her mat.
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Dogs use social mimicry to interpret their environment, so if the human stands by the mat and practices relaxed, deep breathing, dogs will often imitate what their human is doing.
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Have your dog on their mat & plug in a pheromone dispenser nearby.
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BE CALM & RELAXED YOURSELF AND CHANCES ARE THAT YOUR DOG WILL BE (MORE) CALM & RELAXED!!
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In this episode I talk about the New Your Times Article liked below. The name of this article is The People Who Got Puppies Were in Over Their Heads. Now professional dog trainers are all booked up. While you wait, they have some advice to share.Here is the article link https://www.nytimes.com/2021/02/19/style/dog-trainers-pandemic-puppies.html?searchResultPosition=3
Here are other links mentioned in this episode:
Pandemic Puppies: https://topgundogtraining.com/blog/f/the-problem-with-pandemic-puppies
First 5 Things to Teach your Puppy: https://topgundogtraining.com/blog/f/the-first-5-things-to-teach-your-new-puppy
Puppy Schedule: https://topgundogtraining.com/blog/f/new-puppy-schedule
Our website is https://www.puppytalkpodcast.com/
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Kim Brophey is an applied ethologist and professional Family Dog Mediator™ working to solve problems between people and dogs with modern science. Kim is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC), a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)
I’ve seen Kim’s presentation on Ethology for Dogs in the Aggression in Dogs Master Course and the Aggression in Dogs Conference, and both times I was blown away by her level of knowledge, experience, and information.
I’m currently reading Kim’s book “Meet Your Dog”, The Game Changing Guide to Understanding Your Dogs Behavior.
You can see more about Kim on her website dogdoorcanineservices.com.
Questions:
- What is applied Ethology
- How does the understanding of applied ethology help dog owners?
- How does the information gathered from applied ethology help new puppy owners or potential new puppy owners?
- Why is it important for people to choose the right dog for their needs and lifestyle?
- Not in Kansas anymore (on website)
- (L.E.G.S) learning, environment, genetics, self.
- Fix it mentality (Mike’s podcast)
- Tell us more about your book Meet Your Dog?
- On your website you have Matchmaker, where your team helps people find the right dog. Tell us more about that.
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In this episode I talk about the history of Clicker Training why you would want to use Clicker Training, and how to use Clicker Training for your puppy. I provide a basic explanation of clicker training, and examples on how to use a clicker.
If you find this information helpful, Please leave us a note and 5 star review on iTunes and Apple Podcast. Thank you!
Our website https://www.puppytalkpodcast.com/
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Moira Hechenleitneris a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and is a Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT). Moira is a founding board member of the Chilean Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT Chile). She has spent the last 12 years offering consultation services to pet owners, and teaching courses to dog trainers. Moira is a speaker on the topic of Separation Anxiety, giving seminars internationally in English and Spanish. She currently resides in Connecticut and helps dogs and their families from all over the world overcome separation anxiety.
You can find out more about her on her website separationanxietydog.com, where she has a course for dog owners and dog trainers on treating separation anxiety in your puppy or dog.
Questions:
- Define separation anxiety
- How do puppies, (and dogs) develop separation anxiety?
- What are the signs of severe separation anxiety?
- What does the treatment plan look like for separation anxiety?
- What are the most common triggers?
- Explain the process of desensitization.
- What is an optimistic length of time to treat severe separation anxiety?
- How important is it for owners to set realistic expectations fo the treatment of separation anxiety?
Our website: https://www.puppytalkpodcast.com/
Moira's Website: http://separationanxietydog.com/
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This episode is a continuation of episode #12, where we interviewed Eileen Koval on the importance of Puppy Enrichment. I provide more ideas for puppy enrichment that I found on this website Puppy Leaks https://www.puppyleaks.com/canine-enrichment/
If you have any further questions about about enrichment for puppies, please contact us through our website at https://www.puppytalkpodcast.com/.
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Eileen is a certified dog behavior consultant and a certified professional dog trainer. She is one of only two certified dog behavior consultants in the state of Nevada. She is also a graduate of the Mike Shikashio's Aggression in Dogs Master Course, who we had on the show last week. Eileen also does a lot of work with puppies starting as you as 8 weeks old. She lives ins Nevada, and one of her specialities is Rattlesnake Training. You can see more on her website confidentcaninesdogtraining.com. Today, she’s going to talk with us about enrichment for puppies.
Questions:
- What is enrichment?
- How does it differ from play, mental stimulation, and socialization?
- How can puppies, and adult dogs, benefit from enrichment?
- At what age should puppies start enrichment?
- What are some examples of puppy enrichment prior to them getting all of their shots?
- What about older puppies and adult dogs?
- When should puppies start agility training?
- Can enrichment be combined with obedience training?
- What happens when puppies don’t get enough enrichment?
You can reach Eilieen at https://www.confidentcaninesdogtraining.com/
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I get asked a lot about dog training treats. I list my choices below and talk a little about each in this episode. Make sure that any training treat you use is soft and chewy and the dog can eat quickly to continue the training. Also, look for high quality ingredients. You get what you pay for when it comes to training treats.
- Pet Botonics
- Zuke's
- Bil Jac
- Blue Wilderness
- Pure Bites
- Vital Essentials
- Ziwi
Here is a link to the full article and video on these training treats, with links with more information about each: https://topgundogtraining.com/blog/f/best-dogtraining-treats
Be sure to visit our website at https://www.puppytalkpodcast.com/, where you can view all episodes and make a donation to Puppy Talk.
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Michael is a an internationally sought after keynote speaker and presenter on the topic of aggression at numerous events, conferences, and universities worldwide. He has mentored and presented to thousands of animal professionals in twelve different countries and has been a guest at every major dog training conference in the U.S. and Mexico including the APDT, IAABC, FDSA, Clicker Expo, Victoria Stilwell's DBC, PPG, CICA, Owners of Dog Daycares, and The Aggression in Dogs Conferences.
Michael is fully Certified through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants and is one of fewer than 300 CDBCs worldwide. He is the founder of the Aggression in Dogs Master Course at aggressivedog.com and currently teaches trainers and behavior consultants in more than 25 countries how to work with aggression cases.
Michael also has a great podcast called The Bitey end of the Dog.
Interview Questions:
- Define dog aggression?
- What are the different types of dog aggression?
- How do dogs become aggressive?
- How important is sleep for young puppies?
- What about fear, anxiety, and stress?
- What about the owners stress and anxiety?
- What are dog behavior consultants and dog trainers seeing more of since COVID-19?
- Have you seen more young puppies with dog aggression?
- What are the first signs that new puppy owners should look for with their dog being aggressive?
- How can we help prevent or minimize the possibility of our puppies developing dog aggression.
- Do male dogs that get neutered become more aggressive?
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In this episode, I discuss the power of positive training for puppies, and and dangers of other forms of training. Positive reinforcement training is especially important for young puppies to to teach them the behaviors that we want, and help prevent them from developing behavior problems.
Dogs repeat behaviors that are rewarding. For example, if your dog gets a treat when he sits, he will be more likely to sit again in the future. That’s why positive reinforcement training, or training with rewards, is so effective.
Positive reinforcement training uses a reward (treats, praise, toys, anything the dog finds rewarding) for desired behaviors. Because the reward makes them more likely to repeat the behavior, positive reinforcement is one of your most powerful tools for shaping or changing your dog's behavior.
If you find the information on this podcast helpful, please be sure to leave us a donation on our website https://www.puppytalkpodcast.com/
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Socializing a young puppy is probably the most important thing you can do. In 2020, I have seen a lot of Pandemic Puppies which were not properly socialized sue to COVID-19, and improper socialization during the puppies critical period of around 4-12 weeks old can result in a dog with lifelong fear and anxiety around new people and other dogs.
Here are the 6 ideas that I talk about in this podcast. These can also be utilized for puppies and dogs of any age.
- Take puppy for walks outside around people
- Take puppy for rides in car through drive through
- Take puppy for field trips to pet store
- Take puppy for field trips Home Depot or Lowe’s is visit
- Bring puppy to friends house
- Have friends come visit your house
These are just a few ideas to help socialize your puppy. If you find this information helpful, please leave a donation through our website https://www.puppytalkpodcast.com/
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Today we have an interview with Michelle Stern of Pooch Parenting. Michelle is a certified professional dog trainer and certified dog behavior consultant. She is the owner and founder of Pooch Parenting, which offers Professional Support for Families with Kids and Dogs.
Parenting babies, toddlers, kids & dogs can feel overwhelming. Pooch Parenting gives you personalized & practical strategies to make living with kids and dogs SAFER & less stressful. You can visit her website at poochparenting.net, she offers online workshops, courses, and consultations.
Interview Questions:
- How did you get involved with this specialty of dog training?
- Let’s talk about bringing a new puppy into the family with babies, toddlers and kids. What is the best way to safely and effectively do this?
- Are there a different protocols for each?
- What are the potential issues if not done correctly?
- Now let’s switch gears and talk about having a baby when the family already has dogs or puppies. What and when is the best way to safely introduce the baby to the dogs?
- What are the potential issues if not done correctly?
- Let’s talk about family dog training…“Parenting kids and dogs together is NOT easy!”
Be sure to visit Michelles website at http://poochparenting.net
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My Mini Aussie, Dixie, used to suffer from severe car anxiety, which made her drool the entire car ride and throw up once she got home. Now she enjoys riding in the car.
Here are the 4 steps that I used to help her overcome her car sickness and anxiety.:
- I use a car booster seat
- Played soft music
- Opened windows and sunroof
- Used a very small dose of Trazodone
Here are 3 things that you can do to help eliminate anxious puppy behavior in the car:
- Don't reinforce anxious behavior with a lot of vocalizing
- Don't allow puppy to have zoomies in the car
- Don't take puppy for rides until they like the car
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Puppy play biting is one of the most undesirable behaviors that every new puppy owner wants to get fixed. It cause some serious physical damage and frustration to the entire family. This is not related to dog aggression. Play biting has to do with the puppies bit inhibition, or how hard the puppy bites down on the human or other dog.
The technique that I use with clients puppies is called "correct it, and redirect it". Simply put, you have to interrupt the puppies undesirable behavior and immediately redirect that behavior to something that you want instead. I explain it all in this podcast.
Also, be sure to visit our website https://topgundogtraining.com/ for related articles and links to our social media pages for video demos on stopping play biting.
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This episode features FAQ's from out Tiktok page:
- How do I teach the drop it command?
- How do I stop my puppy from pulling on leash?
- What do I do if my puppy has anxiety?
- How do I socialize my puppy during COVID-19 Pandemic?
- At what age should I start training my puppy?
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This podcast teaches a 6 step method for potty training your puppy. This list below is a basic guideline. For complete details of each step, please listen to the podcast or follow this link https://topgundogtraining.com/blog/f/6-potty-training-tips
- Your pup should always be supervised or confined.
- Take your pup to the right place as often as he needs to go.
- Give your pup a treat immediately after he "goes" in the right place.
- If you catch your puppy "going" in the wrong place, interrupt him.
- NEVER scold your pup if you find a mess AFTER he has had an accident .
- Always clean up accidents as quick as you can with an odor neutralizer.
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In 2020, I have received dozens of calls and emails from people who need help with their new puppy. These people are sometimes frantic and often question their decision to get the new puppy.
Here is The First 5 Things to Teach Your New Puppy:
- Bite Inhibition
- Dogs Name
- Potty Training
- Leave-It Command
- Come Command
These 5 things need to begin even before the basic obedience training command such as sit, down, stay, etc. If you teach your new puppy these 5 things from the very beginning, you can prevent a lot of frustration.
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One trend I have seen in 2020 is that everyone is getting a puppy. People are home a lot more, due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, and they seek companionship and a new addition to the family. What they don’t know is that raising a young puppy is a lot of hard work.
In this podcast, I am going to explain the responsibility and dedication that it takes to successfully raise and balanced and obedient puppy without creating behavior problems. After you read this, it would be a good idea to also read a related article that I wrote last month called How to prevent dog behavior problems.
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