The Perfect Pup: Recent Episodes
Pupford Team
Our mission is to help you raise a happy, healthy, and well-behaved dog through companionship, nutrition, and training! Every week we cover topics like dog behavior tips, debates about dog parks, and so much more.
Oh, and let's not forget to mention we bring on some of the top experts in the fields of dog training, nutrition, and behavior. All for a better relationship with your pup!
This is the final Perfect Pup Episode (at least for the foreseeable future). Thank you SO much for all of your support over the years!
The world is full of conflicting information and methods for obtaining “success and happiness”.
And in terms of dog training and behavior “success”, the conflicts and arguments of how to get there will make your head spin.
The term and ideology to “train the dog in front of you” can be a grounding principle to help you make the best, most informed decisions for how to raise and train your dog!
In today’s episode, we’ll dive into what this phrase means, and how it can improve your outlook on your dog’s behavior to ultimately lead you to the strongest bond and connection with your dog as possible!
The term ‘train the dog in front of you’ can mean different things for different people (that’s kind of the point in and of itself).
In its broadest sense, this term/theory is meant to remind us as pup parents to drown out all the noise, competing opinions, and varying techniques out there and focus on what our specific dog needs at any given moment.
In other words, just because something works for one dog, doesn’t mean it will work for your dog.
Our dogs are unique individuals with varying strengths and weaknesses. Effectively raising a well-mannered pup is less about teaching specific behaviors, and more about adapting principles of learning to meet your dog’s needs.
When we learn about dog training techniques and tactics, it’s important to reframe them through the lens of what your specific dog needs at that moment in their behavioral journey!
No matter how many competing opinions or ideas you’ll hear from people, you ultimately have the make the best decision for your dog and your current situation.
As we strive to not just train, but LOVE the dog in front of us we can better meet their needs and help them live more enriched and healthy lives.
My hope is that you can focus on your dog’s individual needs on a daily basis and find training tactics, games, and methods that will help you unlock your dog’s best version!
If you haven’t already, be sure to sign up for 30 Day Perfect Pup. It’s a 100% free online course that can help you better tune into your dog’s needs, make a training plan, and help improve your pup’s behavior and manners. Sign up for free here!
What’s a unique trait or strength your dog has that you’ve incorporated into their training? Tell me in the comments!
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The caliber and talent of dogs competing at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is top-notch.Most of these dogs (and their humans) practice, compete, and work for months (and indeed, years) to get to this pinnacle of dog competition.On a warm spring day in Queens, I learned firsthand just how important our relationship with our dogs can be. Especially when times get tough.Surprisingly, these lessons were taught by the “slowest” timed dog at the agility trials… And I want to share these lessons with you because we all need some reminders about what really matters with our four-legged friends. 👇Our group of friends decided to attend the WKC Dog Show, the first dog show of any kind for our entire group.We entered with zero expectations, except that we would hopefully be able to pet some pups.As we explored the grounds at Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City, we were in awe. From start to finish.Dogs of every size, shape, and breed trotted around the grounds, of which many breeds I’d never personally seen (besides on the internet).The dock diving was unparalleled. Happy pups leaping to their fullest ability, just to get their favorite toy.The obedience trials were jaw-dropping. Dog and handler communicating with ease to follow the exact cues and directions at each step.The breed meet and greet lived far beyond our expectations. Giving belly rubs to the biggest Great Danes & Newfoundlands we’d ever seen, then scratching the chins of the tiniest Papillons & English Toy Spaniels just a few feet away.It was a dog enthusiast’s dream come true.Read the full recap and lessons learned on the Pupford blog (will be published on 5/31): https://pupford.com/lessons-slowest-dog-wkc-agility/And sign up for 30 Day Perfect Pup for free here!
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There are many instances where you need to learn how to clean a puppy without bathing!
Maybe they’re scared of water, they have a wound that can’t go underwater, or you just aren’t in a location with a good bath option.
No matter the reason, we’re going to dive into how to clean a dog without a bath. And, these tips will even help you keep your pup smelling clean between baths! These tips are for dogs of all ages.
And at the end of the article, we’ll also let you in on a little-known secret for helping your puppy enjoy grooming!
Let’s dive into it. 👇
Note: Puppies generally shouldn’t be bathed before 8 weeks old due to their inability to regulate body temperature.
When you’re in a pinch and need to clean your dog without a full bath, it can feel daunting…
Kind of like when you realize you need to leave the house but don’t have time for a shower and find yourself spraying body spray or Febreze on yourself, or maybe even rubbing your car’s air freshener on your clothes for a quick smell boost. 😜
No rubbing air fresheners on your puppy, so let’s look at some real solutions.
Generally speaking, you have a few main options for cleaning your puppy without bathing:
1- Dog wipes
2- Bucket/spray/spot cleaning with a rag
3- Dry shampoo
Trying to clean a puppy (or older dog) without bathing can feel complex at times.
Hopefully this article has helped you learn new ways to keep your puppy clean and smelling fresh, even between baths.
As a recap, here are 3 main ways to clean your puppy without bathing them:
1- Dog wipes
2- Bucket/spray/spot cleaning with a rag
3- Dry shampoo
Be sure to snag a bottle of our Dry Shampoo today. It’s made with unique ingredients formulated to remove excess oil and dirt, freshen your dog’s coat, and leave them smelling AMAZING!
Shop Dog Dry Shampoo here!
How else do you clean your dog without a bath? Tell us in the comments below.
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Learning ways to train a dog faster is advantageous for you AND your pup!As you improve your skills as the teacher, it will in turn improve your dog’s ability to more quickly understand and generalize new behaviors.In this article, I’m going to break down 5 daily hacks to speed up your dog’s learning process and ultimately help you raise a well-mannered pup. Because who doesn’t want that?!Here’s a quick overview of the 5 daily hacks for training a dog faster:1- Use mealtime for training2- Try mini training sessions, every day3- Routine-based training behaviors4- Incorporate training into playtime5- Use strong reinforcers & avoid mixed signalsTraining a dog takes time, patience, and consistency. And while your dog’s training progress might feel slow, it’s probably going better than you think!And while we didn’t dive deep into specific techniques in this article, I’d recommend signing up for 30 Day Perfect Pup if you’re needing specific training techniques and advice.This free course has guided videos (and an eBook) covering behaviors like leash walking, biting, potty training, and even recall! Sign up for 30 Day Perfect Pup here!How have you helped your dog learn faster? Tell me in the comments below.
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The most important way I’ve kept my house clean (with multiple dogs) is by cleaning my dog’s paws after each walk.
While it may sound like a lot of work, it takes just a couple of minutes and can significantly reduce the amount of dirt, germs, and bacteria that enter your home!
Plus, by handling your dog’s paws after each walk you get the chance to check for any issues like thorns, cracking, or other paw concerns.
Here’s what we will cover in this video:
-Why cleaning your dog’s paws is important
-5 ways to clean your dog’s paws
-Extra paw care ideas & tips
Here are 5 ways to clean a dog’s paws:
-MudBuster
-A wet rag with soap
-Dog cleaning wipes
-Teaching your dog to wipe paws
-Using the bath (not a full bath)
My recommendation is to read the article, try out different methods with your dog and see what works best. Remember to raise, train, and love the individual dog in front of you. Every dog is unique!
Our dogs' paws can get seriously gross after walks, hiking, and exploring the world around them.
By washing your dog’s paws you can reduce dirt in your home, protect their paws, and have an overall happier pup (and home).
Here’s a recap of 5 ways to clean your dog’s paws:
-MudBuster
-A wet rag with soap
-Dog cleaning wipes
-Teaching your dog to wipe paws
-Using the bath (not a full bath)
By far, the most effective way is the MudBuster. Be sure to check it out here!
And don’t forget to proactively moisturize and protect your dog’s paws with Butter Up. Shop here!
Do you clean your dog’s paws after walks? How do you do it? Tell us in the comments below.
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Focusing on a dog’s recall training should be at the top of every pup parent’s to-do list!
Not only can it keep your dog safe and give you peace of mind, but it ultimately gives you and your dog greater freedom and adventure in the long run.
Whether training a puppy or an older dog, this article is going to break down everything (seriously) you need to know about recall training. And it’s not gonna be a boring “call your dog back and reward” type article, we’re gonna dive into some pro tips, necessary tools, and even fun recall games to play with your pup!
Here’s what we will cover:
-What is recall?
-Why does recall matter?
-How to teach a dog recall
-7 tips, techniques & games for teaching a strong recall
-Additional FAQs about recall training
Alright… come! Let’s dive into recall. 👇
I want to dive into 7 tips that have helped me secure a solid recall with my dogs. And of course, we will look at some things not to do!
Here are 7 tips, games, and techniques to keep in mind when teaching a dog or puppy recall:
-Use a long lead
-Start inside with no distractions
-Use varying reinforcers
-Don’t ask too much of your dog
-Every recall should be a positive experience
-Play fun recall games
-Find the right “recall word” or cue for your pup
Recall training is one of the most important behaviors you will teach your dog. If you have a puppy, I recommend devoting time to teaching recall every single day.
If you’re looking for a basic introduction to training recall, sign up for the 100% free online class 30 Day Perfect Pup! It covers behaviors like recall, stay, leash walking, and more. Sign up here!
If you're ready to take your dog’s recall to the next level, including transitioning to off-leash behavior then sign up for the Recall Mastery Course. It breaks recall training down into 11 different “levels” and even includes bonus recall games. Get access here!
What was the most effective way you found to teach your dog recall? Tell us in the comments below!
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This is truly the last topic I want to write about, but I know how important it is and hopefully, it can help at least one person in this painful process. I want to provide my complete experience and answer common questions/concerns about dog euthanasia at home.
The passing of a dog is extremely painful. I’d argue it’s personally one of the most challenging experiences of my life.
In this article, I want to dive into all things in-home euthanasia because choosing this route for the passing of my dog, Buddy, was the best choice I could have made. I hope that if you’re nearing this part of your dog’s life you can find solace, comfort, and a small sense of hope by understanding what in-home euthanasia entails.
This will be a long article because there are SO many questions and concerns around this topic and I want to help you make an informed decision for your dog.
Here’s what we will cover in this article:
What is at-home euthanasia
-How do you know if it’s time to put your dog to sleep
-At-home euthanasia pros & cons (there are many)
-How does in-home euthanasia work, what is the process like
-Ways to memorialize a dog
I’ll also let you know about one of the most challenging parts of the experience that NO one told me about beforehand.
While I will only choose at-home euthanasia in the future, I want to dive into the pros and cons of in-home euthanasia for your dog.
Before we dive into each benefit or drawback, a quick overview.
Here are some pros & benefits of at-home euthanasia:
-Around your other dogs for closure
-Familiar & comfortable environment, just like someone coming over
-NOT the vet office, some dogs have real fears
-Feels more like a beautiful send-off
-You have control over the situation
And of course, here are some cons and disadvantages of at-home euthanasia:
-Cost
-A lasting memory/visual reminder of where your dog passed away
-It can be painful to be in the room as it happens
HOW TO MEMORIALIZE A DOG
Nothing will replace your dog, it’s that simple. But, there are some creative ways you can choose to memorialize your four-legged friend.
Here are some dog memorial ideas:
-Keeping ashes to spread at favorite places and keep in a decorative urn
-Shadow box with a paw print, fur clipping, picture, etc.
-Artwork, mugs, clothes, etc.
-Tattoo
-Photo album
-Necklace or other jewelry
The passing of a dog is a terribly challenging and painful experience. I hope that this article gave you some insight as to why choosing in-home euthanasia can be a great option for your dog’s end-of-life care.
While the cost can be higher than euthanasia at a vet’s office, the peace of having your pup’s final moments take place in the comfort of your home is priceless.
Whatever decision you make, do your best to build a support system around you during a challenging time like this. Losing a pet is a dark time and having friends and family (and mental health professionals) in your corner can give you light and hope on the dimmest days.
Time makes the pain more manageable, but our dogs stay forever in our hearts.
Have questions about dog euthanasia at home? Please leave a comment (on the blog) and I’ll do my best to help!
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Stumble into any community or group of pup parents (online or in person) and you’ll likely hear the debate about whether you should let your dog sleep in your bed!
Some of us LOVE having our dogs sleep in the bed.
Some of us HATE the idea of our pup potentially disturbing our sleep.
While we won’t come to a complete resolution, because it’s a personal decision, my hope in this article is to clearly explain 3 pros and cons of letting your pup sleep in your bed. After that, it’s your life (and your bed). 😀
Oh, and of course, we’ll cover what the research and data have to say about this co-sleeping dilemma!
Here’s what this article will break down:
-3 pros of letting your dog sleep in your bed
-3 cons or drawbacks of letting dogs sleep in the bed
-Tips for safe co-sleeping with your dog if you decide to do so
Before we dive into all the pros, cons, and data about having your dog sleep in your bed, let’s look at some fun survey results we got back from our Instagram!
Of course, this is self-reported and our followers on Instagram surely skew toward the ‘dog lovers’ type of pet parents.
We asked, “Do you let your dog sleep in your bed?” and got 312 votes.
30% of people said their dogs sleep in their beds.
We also asked, “Does your dog sleep in your room?” and got 310 votes.
76% said their dogs sleep in their bedroom.
I truly found these statistics interesting, I thought more of our Instagram followers would let their dog sleep in their bed.
Beyond “I just like having my dog in my bed”, there are some strong arguments for having your pup sleep in bed with you.
Some of these arguments have data to back them up. Here are 3 main reasons you may want your dog to sleep in your bed:
-Comfort, relaxation, and strengthening your bond
-Warmth
-Protection and security
I personally love sleep. I recognize it as something that can play a huge role in how I feel, think, and act on a daily basis (research does as well).
The thought of “bad” sleep scares me.
Here are some of the main drawbacks of co-sleeping with your dog:
-Noise & movement can negatively impact sleep
-Disrupting intimacy
-Diseases, cleanliness and potty accidents
If you decide you want your dog to sleep in the bed with you, there are some tips to follow! These will not only help keep your dog safe but also keep you and your bed protected!
Here are 7 tips for safe co-sleeping with your dog:
-Potty & crate training first
-Wash your sheets and pillowcases frequently
-Invest in a waterproof mattress cover
-Practice proper dog hygiene
-Teach your dog boundaries, an invitation should be required
-Provide a dog bed or crate near your bed
-If you have a really small dog, consider not co-sleeping
There is no perfect answer to whether you should let your dog sleep in your bed.
Some studies show almost no change in sleep quality between co-sleeping vs not.
Other studies show an increase in night wakings when co-sleeping with a dog.
Overall, we need more data and research to understand the effects of sleeping with dogs in our beds! There is a swath of data for human co-sleeping, but not so much for dogs.
With the large increase in the number of households with dogs, we should look to improve our understanding of the human-dog co-sleeping arrangement.
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When wondering how much freedom a puppy should have, remember this…
The more freedom you give, the more opportunities you give a puppy to make mistakes.
Mistakes?
That’s things that aren’t really your pup’s fault (more on that later), but things we would see as problem behaviors. Things like destructive chewing, potty accidents, biting and nipping at kids, you name it!
So to put it another way, your puppy should only have as much freedom as you’re willing to allow destruction and other problem behaviors to occur.
I’d argue that the single biggest mistake pup parents make is giving too much freedom to their puppies!
So your next question is probably when you can give your puppy freedom. At what age can you start to let your pup explore a bit more?!
The simple answer, is probably later/older than you think! Here’s why. ⏬
When you can let your puppy have more freedom is a 100% case-by-case situation. There are many factors to consider when making this decision. Here are some:
-How much trouble/problem behaviors could the specific situation allow for if I decide to give more freedom than I usually do?
-Does my dog understand proper behavior when it comes to where and when to go potty?
-Is my puppy teething? If so, this can lead to even more destruction!
-Has my dog shown, for a consistent period of time, an understanding of what items should and should not be chewed?
See how complex each answer might be… That’s why there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer for when you can give a puppy more freedom!
Some puppies catch on very quickly and can be afforded more freedoms as young as 6 months or so.
Other puppies frankly haven’t had enough training and may not be ready for a heavy helping of freedom until they’re about 18 months old.
And further, some dogs just can’t handle freedom. While that can be from a combination of a lack of training, breed tendencies, or even a history of problem behaviors, the fact remains that some dogs can’t handle freedom.
Some dogs may never be able to have the full freedom of being off-leash in a non-fenced area. And that can be okay!
What’s more important is that as pup parents we are aware of our dog’s individual strengths and weaknesses and raise them accordingly. And of course, work to provide proper training and teaching so that the “weak” behaviors can become the strong ones. 💪
As a general rule, it takes most puppies about 12-24 months of age, paired with consistent learning and training, to be ready for more freedom. But again, each dog is unique and you shouldn’t rush it!
If you’re unsure, I’d recommend finding a local dog trainer in your area who follows LIMA protocol and abides by positive reinforcement-based methods to give you specific advice.
Important note: I want to be clear, it is not okay to not train your dog and then completely limit their freedom because they haven’t been taught how to behave. We have a responsibility as pup parents to teach our dogs how we want them to behave and to do it in a humane and effective manner!
If you need extra help with training, please sign up for the 100% free class 30 Day Perfect Pup. It covers topics like leash training, recall, potty training, and even limiting your puppy’s freedom. Sign up free here: https://pfrd.site/classsignup-clickhere
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There are two principles and concepts that completely changed my understanding of training and raising a well-mannered dog. LIMA dog training and The Humane Hierarchy.
The two are very interconnected and provide a framework for changing dog behavior in a thoughtful, humane, and effective manner.
While these principles stand as an ethos and methodology for professional trainers and behaviorists, familiarity with the concepts will help you, the pup parent, feel vastly more confident and comfortable training your puppy.
Plus, these principles can guide you in choosing the right trainer for your dog!
To understand LIMA, we need to first understand animal welfare.
Animal welfare is the physical and psychological state of nonhuman animals. The term animal welfare can also mean human concern for animal welfare or a position in a debate on animal ethics and animal rights.
Basically, animal welfare means concern for the overall well-being of an animal, including our dogs.
LIMA was first introduced around 2005 by Steven R. Lindsay.
So, what is LIMA? LIMA stands for Least Intrusive Minimally Aversive. It generally refers to a trainer or behavior consultant who sets out to change behaviors through the least intrusive minimally aversive methods possible.
Let’s define the two pieces.
1- Least Intrusive.
Intrusive, in a dog context, can be seen as something that limits a dog’s ability to choose and act freely or comfortably. Certain techniques can intrude on a dog’s safety, well-being, and freedom to choose.
And on that note, LIMA methodology lends itself to relying primarily on positive reinforcement techniques as the initial behavior-changing route.
Allowing a dog to make choices (non-intrusive) and then rewarding when the desired behavior is performed is about as “least intrusive” as it gets.
2- Minimally Aversive.
It’s important to define the term aversive. The dictionary definition reads: “ending to avoid or causing avoidance of a noxious or punishing stimulus”.
In simple terms, a stimulus (could be a shock, harsh sound, bad-tasting anti-chew spray) that is provided to try and make your dog stop doing a certain behavior.
We’ll cover this more later, but aversives have been shown to cause more stress and anxiety often leading to more problem behaviors.
Is the science 100% perfect? Nope. But the vast majority of research, studies, and evidence show that aversives negatively impact the welfare of animals (see the beginning of this section).
So bringing it back to LIMA, the methodology requires a trainer to implement the most minimally aversive methods possible.
To sum it all up… LIMA boils down to finding strategies and methods that put the learner (the dog) first. That means understanding the dog’s history, challenging behaviors, preferences, and learning styles. And then following a humane hierarchy approach to resolve problem behaviors in the least intrusive (think freedom) and minimally aversive (think harsh punishment) way as possible.
Be sure to read the full article on the Pupford blog! https://pfrd.site/readnow
And sign up for the 100% free online dog training class to train a well-mannered pup: https://pfrd.site/class-signup-noww
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All dogs have butts. And similarly, many dogs will at one point or another scoot on their butt across the floor, grass, or even sidewalk (yep, it happens).
While this behavior can be a bit embarrassing if guests are over, it’s actually something you should try to diagnose and resolve sooner rather than later.
In most cases scooting is just a sign of full or irritated anal glands. But, in some cases, it can actually be a more serious sign of health problems!
So, let’s learn all about scooting. Here’s what we will cover:
-The main reason dogs scoot, full anal glands
-What are anal glands
-Other behaviors/signs you may see associated with scooting
-Other (less likely) reasons your dog is scooting across the floor
-What you should do if your dog is scooting
-What you should NOT do when your dog scoots
-How to prevent anal gland issues and scooting
Trust me when I tell you that you’re gonna run into this throughout your dog’s life, so it’s important to learn the ins and outs of the scoot.
If you just want the simple answer, this is it…
The main reason dogs scoot on their butts is that their anal glands/sacs are itchy and/or full.
So, you might be wondering what in the world anal glands are. Let’s cover that. ⤵️
While you’ll more commonly hear the term anal glands, it’s actually the anal sacs that get filled and irritated for your dog.
Let’s break this down as simply as possible.
All dogs, male and female, have anal sacs (inside their anus) that are filled with foul-smelling fluid. The purpose of this fluid is essentially a “calling card” with their information.
PS- That’s part of why dogs like to sniff each other’s butts and feces.
The fluid passes out of the sacs, through a duct, and then out of the anus, typically at the end of a bowel movement.
But sometimes the fluid doesn’t make it out as it should.
When that happens, you get a build-up in the sacs (often stemming from the ducts being clogged or irritated) that causes pain, inflammation, and general discomfort for your dog. This can also turn into Anal Sac Disease, especially if left untreated.
This leads us to why anal glands are often the root cause of a scooting dog… 👇
When your dog’s anal glands are full it can be quite uncomfortable for them. Think of how you’d feel if you constantly felt snot in your nose but were unable to blow it out…
Fun topics, right? 😉
Scooting can do two things for your dog:
-Comfort and itch relief
-Hopefully, it encourages the anal glands to discharge the liquid
Dogs scooting on their butt across the floor is common. Dogs typically scoot because their anal glands are full, irritated, and/or itchy.
Again, if you suspect this to be the case then please consult your vet. If anal gland issues go untreated they can become increasingly worse for your dog’s health!
And don’t stop your dog mid-scoot. Let them scoot and then work on finding a solution and remedy for the root problem.
As part of a healthy gut, be sure to check out our Gut Health + Immunity Supplement. Since a puppy's gut makes up a large majority of their immune system it's so important to properly care for their microbiome. This supplement has been formulated with optimal ingredients to support a healthy gut!
Shop the Gut Health + Immunity Supplement here! https://pfrd.site/gutsupplement
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While many people know grapes and chocolate are dangerous for dogs, did you know xylitol is poisonous for dogs too?!
The artificial sweetener xylitol can cause major health problems, including death if ingested by a dog.
So, in this article, we’re gonna dive into all things xylitol and pups so you can keep your good boy or girl safe!
DISCLAIMER: If you believe your dog has ingested something with xylitol, call your vet or a pet poison control hotline immediately.
Here’s what we will cover:
-What is xylitol
-Why is xylitol poisonous and toxic for dogs
-Symptoms of xylitol poisoning
-What foods contain xylitol
-How to keep your dog safe from xylitol
While xylitol is touted for its oral benefits and low-calorie sweetness for humans, it is extremely dangerous for dogs.
Xylitol causes a sharp increase in insulin that can lead to hypoglycemia (too low blood sugar). If left untreated hypoglycemia can become fatal to a dog.
Recently, researchers and professionals have found that xylitol can also cause liver failure (hepatic failure).
In dogs, other complications that can arise from xylitol ingestion are hypokalemia (low potassium levels) and hypophosphatemia (low phosphorous levels).
Based on experience at the ASPCA APCC, dogs ingesting greater than 0.1 g/kg of xylitol should be considered at risk for developing hypoglycemia. In comparison, doses greater than 0.5 g/kg may be hepatotoxic (toxic to the liver) and more than likely cause death.
So of course you are probably wondering how to calculate those numbers…
Well, it can be difficult. Many products do not explicitly list the amount of xylitol in their product, but let’s show a rough example.
Chewing gum typically contains about 0.22-1.0 grams of xylitol per piece!
In this sample calculation, I’ll use my Labrador Retriever Scout. She weighs about 65 lbs or about 30 kg.
So 0.1 g/kg would be about 3 grams of xylitol. To find the g/kg level that can lead to hypoglycemia, just take your dog’s weight in kilograms and multiply by 0.1
If 1 stick of gum is anywhere from 0.22-1 gram, just 3 sticks of gum could cause our very large dog to develop severe complications.
And anything above that could quickly lead to liver failure and death.
Here are some symptoms of xylitol poisoning in dogs:
-Decreased movement
-Lethargy
-Vomiting
-Weakness
-Staggering
-Incoordination
-Collapsing
-Seizures
COMMON FOODS THAT CONTAIN XYLITOL
-Sugar-free gum, Ice Breakers have been said to contain more xylitol than others.
-Peanut butter
-Nut butter
-Mouthwash
-Toothpaste
-Pudding
-Syrups
-Jams
-Chocolate
-Chewable multivitamins
-Nasal sprays
-Personal lubricants
-Sugar-free mints
-Sugar-free candy
Above all, keep xylitol-type products out of reach of your dog. If your dog ingests anything with xylitol immediately call your vet and/or pet poison hotline.
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Feeling sluggish? Not feeling mentally alert? Struggling to make decisions?
You may just need to pet a dog…
At least, that’s what the initial findings from a group of researchers have to say!
While all research can have limitations, the findings of the effects of contact with a dog on prefrontal brain activity study are quite eye-opening.
Let’s dive right into it. ⬇️
Each participant took part in 6 sessions, 3 that included a dog and 3 that included the plush toy. Every session followed the same format.
With the participant sitting on a couch, they did the following for 2 minutes while their brain activity was monitored with the fNIRS machine. Additionally, their heart rate and electrodermal activity (essentially sweat levels) were monitored.
Staring at a blank wall (neutral)
Only looking at the dog or toy from about 3 feet away (watching)
Having the dog lay near them or the toy placed on their thigh (feeling)
Actively petting the dog or toy (petting)
Staring at a blank wall (neutral)
This was repeated 6 total times (3 with a dog and 3 with a toy).
The data found through these sessions was astounding!
REAL DOG VS PLUSH TOY
While there was actually increased brain activity when interacting with the plush toy, the gains in activity were significantly higher when interacting with the dog.
As the dog or toy entered the room, was next to, and then was interacted with by the participant, brain activity increased.
And while this is true, the gains in prefrontal brain activity were significantly higher when the participant interacted with a real dog compared to a toy!
Simply put, a real dog was more effective at activating brain activity than a plush toy. Not much of a surprise there.
WATCHING VS FEELING VS PETTING
What I found most interesting was the significant jump in brain activity when participants were actively petting the dog!
One of the largest jumps in brain activity occurred when the participant when from being near the dog (feeling) to actively petting the dog (petting).
It seems as if there is some scientific evidence as to why we (or at least I) always want to go pet dogs that we see on the street. That petting of a good boy or girl can actually increase our brain activity.
WHAT ABOUT WHEN THE DOG LEFT THE ROOM?
Another piece of data that the researchers uncovered was that even after the dogs left and the participants went back to staring at a wall (neutral phase), brain activity stayed measurably higher than compared to the first neutral phase.
So, not only can petting a dog get our brain moving at that specific moment, but it can even help once the dog is gone!
No study is perfect and no study can give us complete answers, but this study did show statistically significant evidence that petting and closely interacting with a dog can have positive effects on our brains.
This type of hard data and evidence can ideally provide therapy dog groups with a better ability to secure funding, expand operations, and overall better serve people worldwide.
The bottom line is that dogs are amazing creatures that we are truly lucky to have in our lives and further research is certainly needed to better understand our relationship with them.
And we should treat, raise, and train dogs with that level of respect in mind. 🙂
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While you may be wanting to know how many times a day you should walk your dog, I want to convince you in this article to think about this question differently!
Before you close this tab, stick with me for a few minutes. I promise by the end of this article you’ll feel more confident in assessing your dog’s exercise needs each day.
And I know the sentiment of this question comes from a desire to make sure you’re meeting your dog’s needs, which is a fantastic thing! So I want to dig into that a little bit more, and help us all improve our dog’s lives (and ours as well in the process).
If you’re really dying for a number, I’d say at least one walk a day. Or at least 60 minutes of total walking time. Preferably you’d give two walks per day, too!
BUT…
Let’s flip the script on this question and find a better way to think about our dogs’ exercise and stimulation needs.
Where I previously lived I almost never walked my dogs.
Yup, you read that right.
But you know what I did do a lot of? Fetch, tug of war, playing at the park, snuffle mats, hikes, lick mats, hide and seek, and doggy play dates.
While we rarely went on a standard “walk” around our neighborhood, my dogs still had plenty of exercise, bonding, and enrichment time throughout the day.
The trap of thinking about how many times you need to walk your dog is that walks aren’t the only measure of a happy, healthy, and well-exercised dog.
And every dog is different (you’re gonna be sick of hearing that by the end).
Some dogs absolutely love walks. They love the bonding time, they love the sniffs, and they love the leisurely exercise.
Some dogs just don’t really care for walks but enjoy the experience and get enough enrichment out of it.
Some dogs need loads more than just a walk… 👇
I could walk my dog Scout for 2 hours straight and she wouldn’t be tired… at all. She would actually probably end up a little bit bored.
But let her play fetch for 30 minutes and she will be visibly enjoying herself and come home more tired than the 2-hour walk scenario.
Certain breeds have been bred for 100s (if not 1,000s) of years to perform specific tasks.
My Labrador Retrievers were literally bred to help retrieve items. That is their “life calling” if you want to give it a name.
So ask yourself, what was your dog bred to do?
If the answer is to be a lap dog, then walks might be perfectly suitable for meeting his or her exercise needs.
But if the answer is to help with hunting, walks might not be enough.
Or if the answer is to herd livestock, walks might not be enough.
Possibly the answer is to protect, and walks might not be enough.
Do you see what I mean?! Every single dog is different!
The key is to find what type of exercise your dog derives the most enjoyment and physical exertion from, and do that.
And if you find yourself coming home from a long walk and your dog is still hyper, it might be time to reassess your exercise routine.
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You come home to a chewed-up shoe, see your dog avoiding eye contact or making themself look small, and wonder… do dogs feel guilt? 🤔
The vast majority of pup parents believe that dogs feel guilt.
But what does scientific research say?
Alexandra Horowitz, a writer, professor, and researcher of dog cognition, conducted a study in 2009 to find out if our pups really can feel guilty!
So let’s break down her study and find out for ourselves if your pup really feels guilty after they have an accident on the carpet.
Let’s do it! ⤵️
This study consisted of 14 dogs of varying ages and breeds. The main criteria were that the dog was at least 6 months old and had lived in their current home for at least 3 months.
So as to get the most realistic results, the study was performed in the respective living rooms of these 14 dogs and their humans.
Here is how the study was carried out.
- The dog and their human were in the living room a treat was placed in a place accessible by the dog
- The human told their dog to not take the treat (ie saying leave it, or no, etc.)
- The human left the room while the dog (and treat) remained in the room
And this is where the real study kicks in…
The study had two main “elements” that varied:
- Obedience: Essentially, did the dog follow the cue given by the human, aka obedience or did they “break” the cue, aka disobedience
- Owner response: The pet parents were given two ways to behave when reentering the room, scolding the dog (not hitting or hurting, just scolding with their voice) or greeting the dog in a friendly way
So once the pet parent left the room, sometimes the treat was immediately taken away thus guaranteeing “obedience” to the human’s cue.
In other instances, the dog was prompted by the experimenter (although it was done in a way not to undermine the pet parent’s request to leave the treat) to eat the treat.
Two outcomes occurred for each dog:
- The dog consumes the treat
- The dog does not consume the treat
Before returning to the room the pet parent is told to act in one of two ways (see “owner response” above):
- Scold the dog if told by the experimenter that their pup had consumed the treat
- Note: The scolding was verbal, not physical. Think of it as a verbal chastisement like “did you do something bad?” or “what did you do?” or “oh bad dog” etc.
- Happily greet the dog if told by the experimenter that their pup had NOT consumed the treat
“Obedience” = happy greeting.
“Disobedience” = scolding.
Here’s the twist though!
Some pet parents were told their dog had NOT eaten the treat when the dog actually had.
Others were told the dog DID eat the treat when the dog actually had not.
But the pet parent completely believed the experimenter was being honest. Their behavior returning to the room was equal to what decision the pet parent had been told their dog had done.
So now for the most important part, the results of the study.👇
There was no significant effect on the dog’s obedience to the number of ABs. Meaning whether or not the dog “disobeyed” their human’s “command” had no major role in whether or not the dog acted guilty…
Want to know what did have a significant effect on the number of ABs?
The pet parents’ response!
The study found that the pet parent’s reaction had a MUCH greater impact on the amount of “guilty looks” than the dog’s actual behavior.
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Running with your dog can be a very effective way to improve the health and happiness of your pup and you, the human!
While jogging can be relatively straightforward, adding a dog to the mix will change how you approach this activity.
I’ve been running with my dogs on an almost daily basis for the past few years and want to pass along 9 essential tips that will make running with your dog much easier and more enjoyable.
Here is what we will cover:
- Assess your dog’s running capabilities
- Don’t start too young
- Essential training behaviors and skills
- Get the right gear (this can make all the difference)
- Start slow
- Pay attention to your dog’s signs of being tired
- Be aware of pace and distance
- Weather & terrain are important factors
- Keep it fun and use it as a time to bond
I have two Labrador Retrievers and they have been my running mates since they were old enough to safely run with me.
We’ve run all over Utah, New York City, and California on a wide variety of landscapes and terrains. I made plenty of mistakes in the early stages, and hope that his article will help you avoid my mistakes!
I typically run anywhere from 3-6 miles per session about 3-6 times per week with them. While this may sound high, it took a lot of progression and practice to safely get to those numbers (more on that later). My pups even recently helped me train for the New York City Marathon and were integral to my success!
While we mostly do our runs while they can be off-leash, I have logged hundreds of miles with them attached to my waist (more on that later as well).
All that to say, I have a high level of experience running with dogs! So, let’s dive into all the ways to make jogging with your dog a successful experience.
Quick note: I am only going to discuss casual running/jogging and not Canicross. I have no experience with Canicross, but many people (and their dogs) love it!
AND here's the hands-free leash I've used for years and LOVED! https://amzn.to/3G0EerB
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The choice to relinquish a dog to a shelter is often one that weighs heavily on the pup parent. It is in most cases seen as a last resort, and often one they’d rather not have to make.
While I want to remain sensitive to anyone who has had to make that decision, it’s important to discuss the main reason why so many dogs are relinquished to shelters. Understanding the “why” behind relinquishment can hopefully help reduce the frequency!
Some estimates put the number of dogs relinquished to shelters at around 1 million per year (roughly 3 million end up in shelters overall, but I want to focus on relinquished dogs).
Let that sink in for a moment…
Roughly 2,700 dogs PER DAY are being relinquished to shelters.
In this video, we’ll dive into the data from two different studies that aimed to pinpoint why dogs are relinquished. My hope is that understanding this data can help us individually and as a society make more informed and healthy decisions with our pets.
Here is what we will cover:
-The #1 problem behavior reported during a relinquishment
-How many surrendered dogs received training? Both formal & informal
-Additional statistics about dogs ending up in shelters
-What we can do to reduce the number of dogs being relinquished to shelters
If you're needing help with your dog's behavior, please sign up for 30 Day Perfect Pup! It is 100% free (no credit card required) and covers topics like potty training, biting, leash walking, and more! Sign up free here: https://pfrd.site/signupfree-heree
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While most of us know the damage stereotypes can do to us humans, what role do they play for our pups?!
We often put “labels” and stereotypes on our dogs that ultimately end up causing harm to them and specifically to their training.
In this article, we’ll discuss how you can avoid these stereotypes and find more positive ways to look at your pup, regardless of breed!
Here’s some of what we will cover:
- How “all dog”-style stereotypes don’t hold true
- Why you shouldn't get hung up on breed-specific stereotypes
- How stereotypes generally hurt training progress
Need more training help?? Sign up for 30 Day Perfect Pup here! https://pfrd.site/classhere-signupp
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While most of our homes or apartments have the dog staples like a bed, water bowl, and toys, there are some truly unique dog household items that’ll make your life about 100x easier!
And with how challenging raising a pup can be, I’ll take “easy” any chance I get!
Here’s a quick overview of the 5 items + a bonus item:
1- Automatic/robotic vacuum: https://amzn.to/3yoK4ym
2- Enzymatic cleaner: https://pfrd.site/cleaner-enzymatic
3- Airtight dog food container: https://amzn.to/3ecOMbA
4- Portable paw cleaner: https://amzn.to/3T5wub3
5- Magnetic screen door: https://amzn.to/3rF7aNC
6- Dog blow dryer (if you bathe your dog at home): https://amzn.to/3RKaqla
#1- AUTOMATIC VACUUM (ie ROOMBA)
Whether your dog sheds or not, having an automatic vacuum will decrease the dust, pet dander, and general messes throughout your home.
And if your dog does shed, a robotic vacuum is almost non-negotiable.
Most robot vacuums can be set to automatically clean at certain times of the day so you almost never even have to think about it!
#2- ENZYMATIC CLEANER
Sticking with the whole “dogs are dirty” theme, a high-quality enzymatic cleaner will save your floors, rugs, and carpet.
Even if your dog is potty trained, accidents of all kinds will happen. Dogs throw up, excited pee, accidentally poop on your favorite rug, you name it.
Sh*t literally happens.
#3- AIRTIGHT DOG FOOD (& TREATS) CONTAINER
There’s something oddly unsettling about opening a pantry door, laundry room, or cabinet and a stiff stank of dog food hitting you in the face.
The vast majority of dog food, whether kibble or dehydrated food, doesn’t have the best packaging when it comes to closing it back up! And that causes two things to happen. ⤵️
The food doesn’t stay as fresh as possible
The smell of dog food permeates throughout your home (or at least the room you’re keeping the food in)
The solution?
Get a nice air-tight dog food container! Not only will your pup thank you (for the fresher food), but your home will smell better.
#4- PORTABLE PAW CLEANER
I don’t care if you live in a big city or the wide-open countryside, your dog’s paws can get quite gross on walks and other adventures.
While most of us will towel off paws if they’re muddy or visibly dirty, what about when they aren’t?
I can assure you that there is still plenty of dirt and grime on your pup’s paws, even if you don’t see it!
#5- MAGNETIC SCREEN DOOR
If you enjoy having bugs and flies in your home, then skip this section.
If you don’t, then you need a magnetic screen door!
Keeping a back door or patio door open is a great way to welcome fresh air into your home, but what if you don’t have a screen door..?
And don’t even get me started on the number of times you end up opening and closing your door to let your dog out to use the bathroom! 😅
With a magnetic screen door, you can keep the door open AND not have to worry about your pup being able to get out.
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While most of us have heard the term ‘therapy dog’, what therapy dogs actually do remains a bit of a mystery to many!
In this episode, I’ll be interviewing Monica Callahan to help us all gain a true understanding of what therapy dogs really do and how they improve lives everywhere!
MEET MONICA CALLAHAN
Monica Callahan has been a professional dog trainer for over 10 years and graduated from the Karen Pryor Academy in 2012. She is currently serving on the Board of Directors for the Alliance of Therapy Dogs. She is a current rally judge for the C-WAGS organization. In 2021, she graduated from the prestigious licensing program, Family Paws. Family Paws is geared toward working with families who are welcoming babies into families with dogs or continuing to keep toddlers and children safe and dog aware.
Monica also runs her own dog training business, Family Fido Dog Training. Monica helped start the MYR Airport P.E.T.S. therapy dog program in December of 2021. On top of all of that, The Hero Dogs was started by Monica and her husband to showcase the therapy work they do for first responders and crisis response.
Learn more about Monica and her work here: https://familyfidotraining.com/
WHAT DOES THE THERAPY DOG CERTIFICATION PROCESS LOOK LIKE?
Monica stressed that one reason she loves and believes so strongly in the Alliance of Therapy Dogs is because of their testing and certification process!
Many other tests and certifications are strictly behavior based, but ATD’s certification process chooses to focus on handler and dog relationship and temperament.
Monica emphasized that this type of certification process helps to more effectively approve only the dogs that can truly handle therapy dog work.
Of course, there are behaviors your dog should have a solid understanding of to become a therapy dog. Here are some things your dog should be able to do:
-Loose leash walking
-Responsiveness to handler, even in distracting situations
-Not jumping when greeted
-Not jumping when greeting someone sitting down (as is common in a therapy work situation)
-Not being startled by people rushing by (ie, nurses down a busy hospital hall)
Monica recommends ensuring that your dog could pass the Canine Good Citizen test as part of their therapy dog training!
As part of the Alliance of Therapy Dogs’ certification process, dogs are required to go through three different on-site (ie, senior citizens home, hospital, etc.) observations to ensure their capabilities.
WHAT DOES A THERAPY DOG DO & WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
While there isn’t one specific task a therapy dog does, their general role is to provide affection, comfort, and support to people in need.
This can be done in a variety of ways and in a variety of scenarios.
Here are some places where therapy dogs often do their work. ⬇️
-Hospitals
-Schools
-Offices
-Nursing homes
-Disaster areas
-Police & fire stations (more on that later)
-Libraries and more
Here are some of the specific things a therapy dog might do during their work. ⏬
-Be pet by people
-Play simple games with people
-Snuggle & cuddle with people
-Be groomed by people (especially those in rehabilitative situations working to improve or re-learn motor skills)
-Simply, be near people needing support and comfort
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While the idea of taking your pup with you to all the dog-friendly restaurants, cafes, and stores can seem extremely enticing, some dogs just aren’t built for it.
And, that is okay!
While social media often makes us believe otherwise, not every dog has to be out in public places with you. In this article, I want to help normalize and provide an empathetic view to those who don’t feel like their dog can handle public places.
Here’s some of what we will cover:
-Train (and raise) the dog in front of you
-Don’t force your dog (or yourself) into situations
-Many dogs in public spaces have been practicing for YEARS
In the age of social media, some people feel some type of cultural pressure to take their dogs everywhere!
And if locations allow it, that’s great! But, what if your dog just isn’t cut out for it?
While adequate training is one important factor for taking your dog to public spaces, that’s not the only consideration.
Some pups have great manners overall, but just get stressed out or overwhelmed with large crowds.
Some pups have great manners overall, but just get anxious when they have to settle or relax for too long while outside.
Some pups have great manners overall, but may have a history of unfortunate experiences that happened in public spaces that trigger an emotional response.
And guess what… THAT IS OKAY!
Even though your favorite Instagram doggie account takes their pup to every dog-friendly restaurant, bar, and cafe, that doesn’t mean you have to as well.
Every dog is different and our training and rearing should be unique and personalized accordingly.
DON’T FORCE YOUR DOG (OR YOURSELF) INTO SITUATIONS
Part of our role as pup parents is to tap into the nuances and unique personalities of our dogs.
While it can take time and effort, learning to read your dog’s body language can help you understand how your dog is feeling in new (or not new) situations.
And if your dog is clearly exhibiting excessive signs of stress, what do you gain by staying at that restaurant, cafe, or park?
Of course, some stressors can be valuable but there is always a fine line.
Giving your dog choices and not forcing them into undesirable situations will not only improve your bond but will also help you as the pup parent not get too overwhelmed!
And forcing your pup into spaces they can’t handle often unfortunately just turns into more stress, anxiety, and negative associations in the future. It can become a vicious cycle!
While many of us want to take our dogs with us everywhere we go, it’s important to remember our dog’s needs and capabilities. Some dogs don’t enjoy crowds, extended settling while outside, or being in an unpredictable place like a dog-friendly restaurant.
Remember to train the dog in front of you, don’t force them into stressful situations, and be patient with their progress.
If you’re looking for tips on improving impulse control and behaviors like settling/place, be sure to check out 21 Impulse Control Games!
You’ll get access to easy-to-play, quick, and effective games to help improve your dog’s manners, even out in public places! Get access here ✅ https://pfrd.site/impulse-games-here
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I’m here to tell you first and foremost, dog mom (or dad) guilt is totally normal.
Let that sink in for a second…
We all want to be the absolute best pup parent and provide our dogs with a healthy, happy, and fulfilled life. But, sometimes we fall short.
And that’s where the guilt comes in.
In this article, I want to help break down what guilt really means, why dog parent guilt happens, and some actionable ways to help reduce those feelings of guilt.
Here’s some of what we will cover:
-What exactly is guilt?
-Why do we feel guilty as pup parents?
-What can you do when you’re feeling dog mom (or dad) guilt?
-I feel guilty leaving my dog, what can I do? (this one is so common it’s getting its own section)
First, let’s clarify what guilt means from a clinical perspective.
Guilt is described as a self-conscious emotion that involves negative evaluations of the self, feelings of distress, and feelings of failure.
We all have goals and aspirations of being the best pup parent possible. And unfortunately, we often fall short of our own expectations.
And when that happens, guilt shows up.
While guilt can actually be a healthy emotion (it leads us to want to improve and/or repair mistakes that cause guilt), there are times when it becomes harmful and unproductive.
The reasons we feel guilty as dog moms and dads are almost endless (unfortunately), but here are some common reasons we pup parents feel guilt about our dogs.
-Leaving our dogs home alone for extended periods (this is probably #1)
-Incorrect training methods when we just didn’t know better or hadn’t yet learned what to do (using the crate as punishment, punishment-style methods, etc.)
-Having to crate our dogs when we leave or even while we’re at home
-Falling behind on grooming that negatively affects our dogs (nails too long, not frequent enough grooming visits, etc.)
-Bringing home another dog
-Having a baby and our dog getting much less attention and care
-When our dogs act bored or seemingly “sad”
-When we see them in pain and feel powerless to help them
-Getting angry or impatient with our dog’s behavior and/or training progress
-Spending less time with our dogs during holidays, busy periods of life, back to school, etc.
-Leaving our dogs while we go on vacation
While that list isn’t comprehensive, those are some very common reasons dog mom guilt pops up!
So, what can you do?!
Besides giving yourself some empathy and compassion, there are some critical reminders and actions you can do to help reduce your pup parent guilt! ⤵️
From a psychological standpoint, remedies for unnecessary guilt may include reflecting on factors that were beyond your control, acknowledging what you know now that you didn’t in the past, and considering whether your standards for yourself are too unforgiving.
I think that last part is massive… Considering whether your standards are too unforgiving.
When it comes to dog parent guilt, above all, know that it’s normal. Guilt and associated feelings are to be expected, and it’s good to give yourself some slack. The puppy blues are real!
And while it can sound annoying to hear, it will get better! Puppies can be extremely difficult in the early stages. But, if you stick to a training plan, like the free 30 Day Perfect Pup course, and stay consistent you will see improvements in your dog’s behavior and likely your own feelings toward your pup.
PS- Sign up for 30 Day Perfect Pup (free) here: https://pfrd.site/signupfree-here
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While we often think of food as a dog’s strongest reinforcement, your attention (eye contact, petting/scratches, talking, etc) can be almost as strong as a reinforcer for your pup!
Dogs have been domesticated for thousands of years to instinctively look for and work for our attention.
But, your attention can sometimes accidentally reinforce “bad” behaviors you do not want your dog to do… 😲
In this article, we’ll discuss how attention can be a reinforcer, why dogs care about our attention, and of course, how to more intentionally use your attention to improve good pup manners!
Here’s some of what we will cover:
-Why do dogs care about our attention?
-Your dog decides their reinforcers
-Unintentional attention reinforcement
-Interrupt & redirect to the “right” behavior
A reinforcer is something delivered after a behavior that causes the future rate of that behavior to maintain or increase.
While you could in theory make a pages-long list of dog reinforcers, here are a few:
-Attention (even just looking at our pups)
-Treats or food
-Verbal praise
-Petting/belly rubs
-Fetch
-Tug
The list goes on!
And while some dogs don’t care as much about attention from humans as others, almost all of those reinforcers come from us…
We throw the ball. We give the treats. We rub the bellies. We give the praise.
Of course, there are reinforcers that we don’t provide (barking can be one), but most of them rely on human interaction!
A reinforcer is something delivered after a behavior that causes the future rate of that behavior to maintain or increase.
But what if that reinforcer is delivered, albeit unintentionally, after a non-desirable behavior occurs? Unfortunately, the laws of learning still apply!
Let’s look at a few examples.
And let me say, these are extremely common so do NOT feel bad if you do these. My goal is to get you thinking about when/how this may occur in your home. Being aware of dog training “mistakes” is the first step in fixing them!
If your dog jumps up and you put your hands on them to try to push them down, a reinforcement was just applied. Your dog wanted your attention (that’s why they’re jumping, in most cases) and you gave it to them by touching them.
So, that jumping is likely to be repeated and/or increase in frequency.
If your dog sits begging at the table and you say “oh buddy, you’re so cute but not today”, a small reinforcement was just applied. Your dog wanted your attention (ultimately to get food) and you gave it to them by speaking to and engaging with them.
So, that begging for food is likely to continue (and then certainly will if you give in and provide the table scraps).
If your dog demand barks and you come up to them and try to engage with them to figure out what they want, a reinforcement was just applied. Your dog wanted you to pay attention to them, and you did it!
So, that demand barking is likely to be repeated and/or increase in frequency.
See the pattern?
Even when you may not think you are reinforcing a behavior, you just might be… With your attention!
If you’re looking for more in-depth training techniques, be sure to sign up for 30 Day Perfect Pup with Zak George!
It’s a 100% free (no credit card required) online video course that covers behaviors like teaching yes & no, leave it, leash walking, potty training, and more. Sign up for free here: https://pfrd.site/classhere-signup
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While jumping can seem cute when you have a small puppy, it drastically changes when that little pup turns into a full-grown dog. Understanding why dogs jump on you is key to overcoming this challenging behavior!
Our dogs typically jump on us for 5 reasons, and we’re gonna dive into each one in this article!
Here is a quick overview of why dogs jump up on you:
-Dogs jump to greet you
-Nervous or scared dogs may jump
-Sometimes, jumping can be aggressive
-They just want access to something
-Dogs jump up when they’re excited
And of course, we will discuss 3 tips to help reduce your dog jumping up on guests, strangers, or you!
Let’s get right to it 👇
A study found that dogs were 13 times more likely to jump on you when you come home vs jumping up on you when you were holding food.
This is often the biggest culprit for a jumping pup.
There are a few reasons why your dog wants to jump to greet you, here are a few.
-They want to be closer to you
-They know that praise and verbal reinforcement come from your mouth and want to be closer
-Your hands (which are often higher than where your pup is) provide treats, pets, and love and they want that affection
-Your upper body (mouth, nose, armpits, etc.) holds a lot of your smells and information that your dog wants to “read”
-They’re excited (more on that later) and don’t know what else to do, jumping is natural for them
While that isn’t a comprehensive list, it should provide insight as to why your dog jumps on you when you come home.
Simply put, our dogs want to be close to us after being left alone, and jumping up makes that a reality for them!
Plus, it’s just natural for them! Think about how they greet other dogs… it usually involves some face-to-face interaction!
Dog jumping can be a challenging behavior to overcome! It is a very natural behavior and happens for many reasons. Here, again, are some major reasons why dogs jump up on you:
-Dogs jump to greet you
-Nervous or scared dogs may jump
-Sometimes, jumping can be aggressive
-They just want access to something
-Dogs jump up when they’re excited
And while many of those reasons have similarities, each one can be approached slightly differently.
The key to overcoming your dog’s jumping behavior is to stay consistent and only give attention and rewards when all four paws are on the ground. Here is a quick recap of some ways to reduce your dog’s jumping:
-Play the Four Paws Game
-Teach replacement behaviors like settle or place
-Stay extremely consistent, if you don’t want your pup to jump on guests then don’t let them jump on you
Training a well-mannered pup is a lifelong endeavor that takes patience and practice. If you want some more in-depth training help with videos and an eBook, be sure to check out 30 Day Perfect Pup.
It’s a 100% free (no credit card required) online dog training class taught by Zak George. Learn more and sign up for free here! https://pfrd.site/class30days
PLEASE leave a review on Apple Podcasts here.
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Too often as pup parents, we try to fix or train “bad” behaviors while they are happening.
Unfortunately, we often feel overwhelmed, embarrassed, and downright frustrated in the heat of those moments.
So in this article, we’re going to discuss alternatives to better set your dog up for success. And, I’m going to give you a sports reference that just might make this concept click (it’s not actually “sports heavy” don’t worry 😜)!
Here’s some of what we will cover:
-What my high school soccer coach really understood
-Why it’s too hard to train during the “bad” behaviors
-Create a plan and practice, practice, practice
Let’s get right to it! ⬇️
In the heat of the moment, our dogs become much more difficult to communicate with.
And to make matters worse, when your pup starts doing that behavior that drives you crazy, YOU become not so good at communicating. (It’s not a personal knock, just a reality of being human.😃)
As soon as your puppy starts to jump on guests, feelings of embarrassment and frustration often flood your brain. You seem to forget about all the training techniques you spent hours learning about. It is tough!
And that’s why you need a plan… ⏬
CREATE A PLAN AND PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE
While I won’t dive into specific training techniques (you can sign up for the free 30 Day Perfect Pup course for that), I will implore you to create a plan and practice behaviors NOT when they are actually occurring.
If you’re struggling with your pup jumping on guests when they come through the door, the time to train to overcome that behavior is NOT when guests are coming through the door.
Here’s what I mean. 👇
If you want your dog to lay on their bed/place when guests come in the door, you need to start by building a strong foundation for the ‘place’ behavior with zero distractions. (That will take time, by the way.)
Then, once they’ve got place down pretty well you can start to add small distractions.
Then when they’ve got that down you can add larger distractions.
At that point, you can start to set up “mock” door greetings. Try it first with someone in your household (if possible). Have them go outside, knock on the door, and then enter with you there coaching and guiding your pup on what to do.
Once they’re improving on staying in their place when someone they’re familiar with comes in the door, it’s time for the next level of “mock” door greetings.
Find a family member, friend, or easily convinced neighbor to help you practice the behavior! Explain to them in detail what will be happening and how you want them to behave in this “mock” door greeting.
If the dog jumps, tell them to turn their back or even go outside. Instruct them not to look at or pet your dog unless they are in their place.
This type of planned-out practice is how you ultimately help train your dog to not jump on guests. While just trying to redirect or stop the jumping while it’s happening will not be as successful!
If you need help with a training plan, be sure to sign up for 30 Day Perfect Pup taught by Zak George! It’s a 100% free (no credit card required) online dog training course complete with videos, daily tips, and an ebook. Sign up for free here! https://pfrd.site/pupsclass-here
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Treats are part of every dog’s life, but how many treats per day can your dog have?!
54% of dogs are either overweight or obese. And unfortunately, treats are often a big culprit of this problem!
So, let’s break down how many treats your dog can safely consume AND more importantly, how you can find that number for your specific pup! Because just talking about the 10% rule for treats isn’t enough!
Here’s what we will cover:
-Dog body condition score
-Calculating your dog’s caloric needs
-The 10% rule
-The treats you choose REALLY matter
A quick & important disclaimer, you should consult your veterinarian whenever looking at changing your dog’s diet.
Your vet can give you a more accurate picture of your dog’s health, weight range, and information specific to your pup’s needs.
Generally speaking, treats should only make up about 10% of your dog’s total daily caloric intake. Notice I said ‘total’. That means if you’re planning on using that 10% of treats, it should be part of the total amount your dog eats.
So that means if your dog needed 1,000 calories total you would feed about 900 calories from meals and the other 100 as treats. You would NOT do 1,000 calories of food and an extra 100 calories of treats. It’s total!
Want to try 1-calorie treats?! Check out 6 different flavor options here: https://pfrd.site/1kcal-treats
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The next time you’re tempted to think your pup is being “naughty, bad, or disrespectful”, it may help to remember that dogs are opportunists.
While there are many behaviors we perceive as “bad”, dogs often act out of a desire to fulfill their own hard-wired desires and needs. Understanding this and adopting a mindset that empathizes with our opportunistic dogs can help you raise a well-mannered pup.
Here’s what we will cover:
-A brief history lesson about dogs
-What being an “opportunist” means
-3 behaviors that showcase your pup’s opportunism
-How to train an opportunistic dog
If you're looking for more in-depth training, be sure to sign up for 30 Day Perfect Pup (100% free) here: https://pfrd.site/freeeclass-heree
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I remember being a young dog sitter and taking the dog on a walk, seeing him sniff a dog’s butt, and alarmingly wondering to myself ‘WHY do dogs sniff butts’?!
I was 10 years old and thought it was hilarious, of course, but also could tell it probably was for a specific reason. Well, fast forward a couple of decades, and current me is going to amaze you (and 10-year-old-me) with all the facts about dogs and butt sniffing!
While I’ll do my best to hold in as many butt jokes and puns (was that one already?! 😜), there are some seriously amazing reasons as to why our pups love to sniff each other’s backsides!
Here’s what we will cover:
- Dog’s sense of smell compared to humans
- The Jacobson’s organ (aka vomeronasal organ)
- Pheromones
- Things dogs learn by sniffing butts
- Should you let dogs sniff each other’s butts
- What if your dog doesn’t sniff other dogs
- Where human pheromones are and how it compares to dog-dog butt sniffing
Let’s get our butts in gear and learn all about it! 🍑
Here are some pieces of information your dog learns when they sniff another dog’s butt:
- The dog’s gender
- The dog’s sexual status (intact vs spayed/neutered, in heat, etc.) and subsequently if they would be a good mating partner
- The dog’s age
- If the dog is sick or generally healthy
- The dog’s mood and whether they may be aggressive, happy to play, etc.
- Whether they’ve met before (seriously)
- And even what the dog may have been eating recently
STOP and think about that for a moment. What we humans perceive as a kind of weird behavior (the butt sniffing) is actually a tool your dog uses to get to know the other dogs around them!
To learn more about dog behavior and body language, check out the Dog Body Language Course taught by Traci Madson CPDT-KA here: https://pfrd.site/course-bodylanguage
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Dogs can play a huge role in our mental health journey. But, is it always “improvements”?!
I sat down with Chrissy Lawler, a licensed therapist & sleep expert, to discuss the good AND the bad parts of dogs and our mental health.
And while dogs typically provide SO much good in our lives, it’s important to understand some of the bad that can pop up.
Here is what we’ll cover in this podcast interview:
-Are there situations where dogs become a “net-negative” for someone’s mental health?
-How can having a dog impact a child’s or young adult’s mental health?
-Is it typically the responsibility of taking care of a dog that helps with depression & mental illness, or is it the dog itself?
-If someone is looking to get a dog to help improve their mental health, what should they consider when making that decision?
If your dog's behavior is starting to cause you more stress and challenges, be sure to sign up for our 100% free online dog training course here: https://pfrd.site/freehere-class
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Wherever you interact with other pup parents, you’ve probably experienced the harness vs collar debate.
While it comes down to your preference and your dog’s needs, there are some pros and cons of both harnesses and collars you must be aware of!
In this article, I’ll break down 5 pros and cons of both harnesses and collars for your puppy or adult dog and by the end, you’ll be able to make an informed decision for your pup!
It’s vital to understand that both harnesses and collars are not a training solution, they are just a tool!
No dog will magically walk perfectly on a leash just because you put a no-pull harness on him/her.
When used properly, a good harness (or collar) should be seen as a supplemental tool to your leash training efforts.
So please ensure your expectations are accurate when it comes to what harnesses and collars can do for your dog’s behavior!
Now, here is a simple overview of harnesses vs collars!
Pros of Harnesses
-More secure on your dog’s body
-Better control, especially with a 2-contact point harness
-Can help reduce pulling
-Less leash tangling
-Safer distribution of pressure
Cons of Harnesses
-Can be uncomfortable
-More challenging to get the right fit
-Can affect your dog’s gait (although research conflicts)
-Often don’t have tags/ID holder
-Can increase pulling
Pros of Collars
-Easy to remove and put on
-Less intrusive as it doesn’t go over your dog’s face
-Many styles and options are available
-Holder for tags/ID
-Often easier to clean
Cons of Collars
-Has been shown to cause pressure on the eyes
-Can cause neck/back pain, no distribution of pressure
-Dogs can easily slip out (martingale helps with this)
-Can be dangerous if caught on things which can lead to choking
-More leash tangling
Want to check out my FAVORITE dog harness (I've tried too many others to count)? Head here: https://pfrd.site/best-harnesss
Please leave a review and follow the show!!
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While online learning is valuable beyond compare, there’s something to be said about education through physical books (or ebooks if you must 😜). On that note, I wanted to share 3 of the best dog training books that I think EVERY pup parent should read!
These books not only will help improve your dog’s behavior, but they’ll ultimately help you better understand what’s going on in your pup’s head!
1- Don’t Shoot the Dog - Karen Pryor: https://amzn.to/3uDMO9f
2- Culture Clash - Jean Donaldson: https://amzn.to/3OY24pr
3- Zak George's Dog Training Revolution: The Complete Guide to Raising the Perfect Pet with Love: https://amzn.to/3c44oN8
4- How Dogs Work - Raymond Coppinger: https://amzn.to/3Iw3dCn
5- The Other End of the Leash - Patricia McConnell: https://amzn.to/3Ixz3yM
6- Meet Your Dog - Kim Brophey: https://amzn.to/3ywwgRN
While it's not a book, our 30 Day Perfect Pup course is full of helpful information and resources for training a well-behaved dog. AND it's 100% free. Sign up here: https://pfrd.site/signupnow
Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, thanks for listening!
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Imagine wearing a jacket all day long in the middle of July… That’s essentially what our dogs do!
And unfortunately, dog heat stroke is a serious problem and can sneak up on you quickly!
So, in this article, I’m going to give you 15 dog summer safety tips to help your pup stay cool, protected, and safe, even during the hottest days.
And even if you live in a cooler area, you never know where travel might take you. So let’s get right into it! ⬇️
-Walk at cooler times of day
-Use shoes/boots when it’s really hot
-Always bring water & a bowl
-Take frequent breaks
-Give your dog frozen treats
-Be aware of critters like snakes, fleas & ticks, chiggers, etc.
-Don’t leave your dog in the car
-If your dog must be left outside, provide shade and water
-Use an elevated or cooling bed
-Swimming and water activities
-Keep lawn and garden products out of your dog’s reach
-Brush more frequently
-Use sunblock (really)
-Screens on windows in your home
-Keep your dog’s hair trimmed (but not shaved)
Bonus Hacks for City Living
-Find pet-friendly restaurants and businesses to ask for water
-Opt for shady streets
-Clean paws after being outside
Need paw balm for your pup?! Check out Butter Up here: https://pfrd.site/pawbalm
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Every year millions of pets are lost or run away. And unfortunately, not having a dog microchip makes it 2.4x LESS likely that you’ll be reunited with your pup!
And to make matters worse, the 4th of July and the following days typically lead to about a 30% uptick in lost dogs.
But, it’s not all gloom and doom. Microchips are extremely easy to get, relatively cheap, and can keep your pup safe for their entire life!
So, we’re gonna dive into all things dog microchips to help you keep your pup safe!
Here’s some of what we’ll cover in this guide 🐶
-What is a dog microchip?
-How do dog microchips work?
-How big is a dog microchip?
-Do dog microchips have GPS?
-Where are dog microchips placed?
-How to lookup & register a dog’s microchip
-Should you microchip your dog?
-How much does dog microchipping cost?
-What are some dog microchipping side effects?
Dog microchips are an extremely useful and beneficial tool for pup parents. By microchipping your dog, you vastly increase your odds of being reunited with your pup if they run away or are lost.
And while there have been reported side effects, those effects are generally mild and don’t last for long.
No matter where you live or your dog’s breed, choosing to microchip your dog is a smart choice!
Do you have an experience where you (or someone you know) benefitted from having their dog microchipped? Tell everyone about it in the comments below!
And if you’re a new pup parent trying to learn the ropes of raising a pup, be sure to sign up for 30 Day Perfect Pup! It’s an online, free (no cc required), and effective video training course to help you raise a well-behaved dog!
Sign up for free here: https://pfrd.site/course-here
PLEASE leave a review, it helps the podcast get found by more pup parents like you!
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Some things in life are never fun. Like, cleaning up dog vomit.
But, by using a simple item like puppy pads, you can make that clean-up about 37x easier. Actually, you can make that clean-up almost non-existent.
Let me tell you why, where, and how puppy pads are just about the most underrated life hack known to dog parents!
In this video, we’ll cover the following:
-Why I always have puppy pads
-Where I keep puppy pads
Why I Always Have Puppy Pads - Even When Not Potty Training
A few weeks ago as my wife and I lay in bed, probably watching Ozark, I heard the noise that no pup parent ever wants to hear…
The regurgitating-are-you-about-to-cough-or-throw-up noise that only dogs can make.
It’s the type of noise that will get your attention no matter what. Even if you’re in a deep sleep!
I quickly pulled a puppy pad out from my nightstand drawer, tossed it to my wife, and she placed it under my dog Scout’s mouth.
Scout proceeded to throw up…
RIGHT ON THE PUPPY PAD! 🙌
It was a moment that typically would have been dreadful but was actually slightly blissful. And that was only because I had a puppy pad handy and ready!
Moments like this happen WAY more frequently than you might think, especially when you have a puppy.
Having puppy pads readily available can protect your carpets, couches, and comforters from nasty messes!
But those aren’t the only places… ⬇️
Where I Keep Puppy Pads
Now that we’ve established that puppy pads are an absolute life-saver, where should you keep them?!
There are everyday places like near a crate, dog bed, or puppy play area but there are some unique spots that’ll save you some cleaning time, too!
Here are spots I love to keep puppy pads at all times:
-Car, usually in the glove box, middle compartment, or another convenient area
-Dog bag, whatever you take when you go to the park or on a walk with your pup
-Purse/backpack, the space a potty pad takes up will be well worth the benefits of having it on you when you least expect the need for it
-On a bedside table/nightstand, see the story above 😜
-In your main living room area, essentially wherever you spend the most time in your home… It’s almost certain your pup will vomit, poop, or throw up in that area at some point
Hopefully you get the point! Having puppy pads readily available in common areas of your home, car or bag will save you in the long run.
Final Thoughts on Puppy Pads for Mess Clean Up
Puppy pads are first and foremost for potty training a puppy, but they can serve as a quick clean-up tool too!
I highly highly recommend you snag some puppy pads here (up to 15% off): https://pfrd.site/pads-here
Or, don’t… and risk all kinds of nasty messes ending up on places you don’t want them 😉
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After about the 73rd puppy bite of the day, I looked down at my bloodied hands and wondered aloud… WHY do puppies bite so much?!
I tried all the puppy biting tips but nothing seemed to be working. 😫 What a challenge!
Like many things in life, understanding the why behind our dog’s behaviors can actually help us more effectively train and raise a well-behaved pup!
So, let’s break down why puppies bite, how they interact with the world around them, and of course, some other FAQs around puppy biting.
Now, here are 9 major reasons puppies bite so much ⬇️
1- Overtired
2- Overexcited
3- Frustrated
4- Saying “No”
5- Playing
6- Teething
7- Some breeds bite more
8- Telling you they need to potty
9- It’s how they explore the world
While it is painful to deal with, puppy biting is normal behavior. Our young dogs explore the world with their mouths!
So if you’re dealing with the puppy biting stage, focus on reducing the behavior over time.
Give proper chewing outlets.
Provide plenty of redirection for unwanted biting.
Take your puppy for puppy play dates.
For even more puppy biting tips, be sure to sign up for 30 Day Perfect Pup!
This course taught by Zak George has a full section devoted to the challenges of puppy biting.
Sign up for the 100% free (no cc required) online training course here: https://pfrd.site/class-biting
When have you noticed your puppy bites the most?! Any other theories as to why puppies bite so much? Tell me in the comments below!
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In the vast majority of cases, crate training is extremely beneficial. But is it necessary..?
Many pup parents questioning the necessity of crate training are at their wit’s end with their puppy whining and barking in the crate.
And to that I say, trust the process. If you set out with a desire to have a crate-trained puppy, don’t give up just yet.
So to answer the question of whether crate training is necessary… the answer is no. At least according to the dictionary definition.
Necessary is defined as; absolutely needed, required. Example: Food is necessary to survive.
So under the literal definition, crate training a dog is not necessary. A dog doesn’t need a crate to survive. It is not absolutely needed.
BUT! 🚨
Crate training your puppy is highly recommended and extremely beneficial to your pup’s well-being.
I believe that each pup parent needs to make decisions that fit their lifestyle, home environment, and their dog. The adage ‘train the dog in front of you’ is timeless wisdom in a world of infinite opinions, information, and ideas.
So, let’s break down 17 Pros and Cons of crate training your puppy to help you make an educated decision for yourself.
17 Crate Training Pros and Cons
Pretty much all dog topics have pros and cons, and crating your puppy is no different. Here are 17 pros and cons of crate training!
PROS of Crate Training
- Provides a safe space for your dog that is completely their own
- Massive help for potty training
- Reduces destruction
- Reduces the potential for ingesting dangerous items/foods
- Greater peace of mind when away from home
- A valuable skill for boarding, grooming, vet visits, etc.
- Creates a real barrier when you don’t want your dog to have access to guests
- Makes travel easier
- Teaches dog to settle
CONS of Crate Training
- Many people become overreliant on crates and leave dogs for too long
- Crates can exacerbate anxiety issues
- Incorrect sizing can cause physical and emotional distress
- Can make some medical issues worse
- Incorrect assembly can be dangerous to your dog
- If not properly ventilated, can be very dangerous
- If used as a punishment, can create other problem behaviors
- Collars and harnesses can get stuck and cause major problems
For a more in-depth look at crate training, check out the Crate Training Course taught by Amber Aquart CPDT-KA!
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Often the first thing new pup parents search for is puppy potty training tips (no one wants to clean pee from their carpet constantly).
And you can find LOADS of information and tips about potty training, but there is one essential tip you can’t skip out on…
It is setting a schedule and timers and following them to a T. That is the most effective puppy potty training tip. Period.
While that may sound simple, new pup parents often forget and neglect it.
The result? ⬇️
Accidents, frustration, and a confused pup. So, let’s dive deeper into what your potty schedule should be, how to follow it, and a few other basic puppy potty training tips!
Moreso than anything else, setting a potty schedule with timers and sticking to it will provide the fastest road to potty training success.
Having a schedule is one thing, but setting timers will keep you on track with that schedule! So, if you decide you need to take your puppy out every 60 minutes, set a timer to remind you.
Once the timer goes off, take your puppy out to potty and then repeat that process.
The biggest potty training mistake pup parents make is thinking they can just guess when their puppy will need to pee. Do NOT do this. Young puppies are not capable of telling you when they need to pee!
For puppies 8-10 weeks, I would recommend setting a timer for 45-90 minutes and taking your pup out every time the timer goes off.
I gave a range there for two reasons.
1- Every puppy is different
2- Size plays a role in how often your puppy will need to pee. Smaller dogs will need to go more often than larger dogs
I can already hear you saying ‘every 45 minutes, that seems like way too much work and time’. 😜
Well, let me tell you this… It is much easier to take a pup out more frequently and have successful potty breaks outside than it is to try and untrain a learned behavior of going potty inside.
Your main goal when potty training a young puppy is to give your pup as many opportunities as possible to go potty outside and be rewarded (heavily) for that.
I’ll say it again. Your focus with a new puppy should be to provide ample chances for your young pup to do their business outside, not inside!
Because remember (from above), every time your pup goes potty inside they are naturally reinforced by no longer having an urge to pee.
As your pup ages, you can extend those timers up to around 1.5 to 3 hours. And generally speaking when a puppy is about 5-6 months old they have a mature bladder and can hold it longer.
You’ll quickly find what timing works best as your pup progresses, but avoid the trap of trying to overextend the interval between potty breaks. That’s when accidents happen!
For more in-depth potty training tips, check out the course taught by Traci Madson here!
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One of the most common questions in our private online community is “how long does it take to train a puppy”. Often, that wonder is accompanied by the realization that training a puppy can be a lot of hard work.
Naturally, we want our puppies to learn quickly.
BUT, that’s not always the case.
While many behaviors can be learned in 3-6 months (or more… or less), so many factors can influence how fast your puppy will learn new behaviors.
And on top of that, putting “timelines” on your puppy’s learning is a serious trap! 😨
5 Factors That Influence How Long It Takes a Puppy to Be Fully Trained
- Your dog
- Training frequency, techniques, and expertise
- Behavior (ie Sit vs Recall)
- Household environment
- Bad habits
For a full text recap, be sure to head to the Pupford blog here (search this title or topic on the website for easiest access).
Please subscribe and leave a review! Happy training!
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You’re a better pup parent than you think.
And in this article, I’ll tell you exactly why I believe that to be true.
We’ll also talk about dealing with self-doubt as a pup parent and staying positive with your efforts with your pup!
Let’s get right to it ⬇️
Self-Doubt As a Pup Parent
Raising a pup can be hard work. In the sense of time, effort, and even mentally.
There can be a LOT of ups and downs, frustrating moments, and moments of self-doubt.
A good friend of mine recently got a puppy and we’ve had many chats about the challenges of puppyhood. One comment he made was to the effect of “is what I’m doing even working or making a difference”.
Like many things in life, we can often find ourselves doubting our efforts. We often wonder if what we are doing is good enough, correct, or even worth our efforts.
Those feelings are very real, and can be very tough to deal with!
Moments of self-doubt about your abilities as a pup parent are common.
While self-doubt can be common, I believe that most times you are doing better than you think you are! Let’s talk about how to combat those negative thoughts and find ways to look at yourself as a pup parent in a positive way!
You’re Doing Better Than You Think
Like I mentioned before, I think you’re a better pup parent than you may feel you are! And we all need to be reminded of that from time to time!
One small note. It is vital you give your dog proper exercise and attention and that you meet their physical needs. That includes vet check-ups, proper nutrition, and using science-based training methods. Most pup parents are doing those things and the rest of this article applies to that group.
Caring Is Half the Battle
If you’re reading this article, that in itself is evidence that you care about your pup and are likely doing a great job. And caring about your pup’s well-being is half the battle!
Our dogs are animals with emotions, and I believe they can know when we are making an effort. And you making an effort is evidence that you’re a great pup parent!
Reading articles, watching videos about training techniques, and learning more about your dog’s behavior, health, and wellness is a sign you truly care about your dog.
It’s Not JUST About “Behavior”
While we focus often on behavior improvement, it’s not the only thing that matters. Your relationship with your pup is a huge part of what makes you a good pup parent.
Some behaviors can limit your ability to have a quality relationship with your pup, but generally speaking, you can forge a strong bond with your pup regardless of their behavioral shortcomings.
So, try to not let yourself get too hung up on your dog’s problem behaviors. Remember that being a good pup parent is much more than having a “perfect” dog (those don’t exist by the way).
Dogs Are Forgiving
Dogs are very forgiving creatures. I believe that’s part of why humans have developed such strong bonds with the species over history.
So even if you make mistakes (which we all do), your dog will still love you. To me, it’s comforting knowing that my pup will still be there no matter what.
Of course, we shouldn’t take advantage of that forgiveness.
BUT, knowing that your dog is forgiving should give you peace of mind as you work toward being the best pup parent you can be!
Focus on the Positives
While I personally despise the rhetoric that positivity is the “catch-all solution” to life’s problems (I do believe positivity is helpful), I think trying to look at the positive efforts you’re making is extremely helpful when you feel down as a pup parent.
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While there are many many ways to raise a pup, there are generally agreed-upon ways to be a responsible dog parent! And being a responsible pup parent makes the world better for all other dogs and humans.
In this episode, I’ll break down 5 easy ways (honestly, very easy) to be a good dog parent citizen. Plus, these ideas will help keep you and your pup safe!
Let’s dive into it ⬇️
Being a responsible dog parent helps open the door to new opportunities and situations for your dog and all dogs in general.
When people choose to not be responsible dog parents, they ruin experiences, locations, and situations for other dog parents and their pups.
Here are 5 easy ways to be a responsible dog parent.
1- Pick up poop
2- Keep your dog healthy with vaccines, spaying/neutering, grooming, etc.
3- Pay attention in public
4- Don’t go places your dog can’t handle
5- Understand that not everyone likes dogs
We can all do our part to help make society a more enjoyable place for us humans and our dog counterparts.
What else do you think is important when it comes to being a responsible dog parent? Tell me in a review!
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The way we choose to train our puppies can have long-term effects on their mental well-being, and behavior!
Unfortunately, I made the mistake of trusting some “experts” who guided me to make training decisions that almost ruined my relationship with my puppy.
Let’s dive into why it happened to me and why it often happens to other well-intentioned pup parents.
My wife and I got our 2nd puppy to try and give our 1st puppy a friend and playmate. While it was a great decision overall, we were in over our heads…
We were first-time pup parents and we truly didn’t know what to expect. And we certainly didn’t know what we were doing!
Feeling overwhelmed by our puppies’ behavior, we decided to enroll in an in-person training class (this was before 30 Day Perfect Pup existed).
The group that hosted the training class was full of trainers with decades of experience, awards, and reviews. Simply put, it sounded legit to us!
On orientation day (without dogs present), we were informed that we would need to use a choke chain for our dogs. They called it something else, but it was a metal slip/choke chain.
While both my wife and I didn’t feel great about it, we figured since they were experts with lots of experience it would be fine.
Fast forward to week 1 of the actual training class.
A middle-school-sized gymnasium was filled with about 35-50 puppies and their pup parents. It was clear through observation and conversation that many of the pup parents were in the same boat as us.
Feeling stressed, overwhelmed, and downright unsure of what to do with our young puppies.
And you can imagine the level of chaos in the room. Puppies lunging toward other puppies, instructors trying to teach over the sound of dozens of barks, and many pup parents seeming to struggle to just keep their dogs from running every which way.
From day 1 of instruction, it was a LOT of corrections, collar pops, and generally unpleasant techniques. While there were some teachings about how and when to reward, the focus was on corrections and stopping our dog from doing “bad” things.
But we believed it would get better, and we didn’t have much of a frame of reference… so we kept going.
Looking back now, it was clear that our puppies were overwhelmed, stressed, and confused every time we went to class.
There was little to no learning going on.
As the class progressed, our puppy Scout didn’t seem to be progressing (not surprising). Leash walking was still a challenge, she didn’t focus in class, and it seemed like nothing was working.
One of the trainer's recommendations was to put her on a prong collar. A 3-month-old puppy.
Luckily we didn’t.
Our puppies loved other dogs and puppies. They wanted to go up and interact with all of them during the class hours!
The trainers instructed us to give a collar pop/correction whenever our puppies lunged or pulled to go toward other dogs.
Fast forward to 1 year after this class, and we were struggling tremendously with Scout’s reactivity.
At the time I didn’t understand why, but now that I’ve learned more about dog behavior it was clear those constant corrections helped make Scout reactive.
It took us months (pushing on years) of hard and stressful work to overcome that reactivity.
While it is extremely frustrating to look back and realize those trainers set us up for failure, there are some lessons I learned that hopefully you can apply to your relationship with your puppy!
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While there isn’t one simple answer, generally speaking puppies calm down (at least a little bit) when they stop growing. But it’s not that simple…
Let’s find out when your puppy will calm down 👇
A quick note before we look at the factors. The question of ‘when do puppies calm down’ is truthfully a loaded question.
Are you really wondering about when your puppy will have less energy or when your puppy will be better behaved?
Thinking that a puppy will just magically be calm, attentive, and behave properly when they ‘calm down’ over time will lead you to a world of disappointment. A “calm” puppy really comes with training, routine, and proper teaching, but more on that later!
One more note to add… every puppy is different. Truthfully there is no one-size-fits-all answer for when puppies calm down! But, we’ll still do our best to break down some factors.
Alright, let’s cover what factors can influence when a puppy will calm down.
-Breed
-Size
-Gender
-Socialization with other dogs
-Home environment
-Routine & training
For a full text overview with EVEN more tips, head to pupford.com/blog or search 'when do puppies calm down' on pupford.com!
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A counter surfing dog can be extremely frustrating and dangerous. And while there are some things you can do to reduce counter surfing, we have to talk about the unfortunate reality of this behavior.
Prevention is the #1 way to stop counter surfing. But more on that later!
Plus, we will break down why dogs counter surf. Understanding the why of this behavior is important to know how to stop it!
In this episode we will cover the following.
- Why dogs counter surf
- How to stop counter surfing when you’re home
- How to stop counter surfing when you’re NOT home
Let’s get to it 👇
Dogs are opportunistic animals. If they approach a situation and believe there may be a reward for them, they’ll explore further.
If there is food, they’ll likely try to eat it.
Here are a few other factors that can contribute to counter surfing.
- Your dog is bored and looking for something to entertain them
- Your dog is actually hungry and might need a full meal
- Your dog hasn’t yet been trained that counters are off-limits
When you are home, counter surfing can be stopped with the right methods.
Here are a few ways to stop counter surfing when you’re home (full explanations below).
- Teach leave it
- Teach the off behavior
- Teach the place behavior
Now is where we get into the unfortunate reality of counter surfing…
You cannot stop counter surfing when you’re NOT home. At least not really.
You won’t be there to say ‘leave it’, or ‘off’, or ‘place’. You won’t be there to redirect. You won’t be there to stop the behavior.
So, is there anything you can do?!
NO.
Well, not really at least ⬇️
To stop counter surfing while you’re gone you have 2 options.
- Limit access to the counter (With a crate, baby gate, or door)
- Don’t leave food on the counter
That is the harsh reality of handling a counter surfing dog.
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Taking dogs on vacation can typically go one of two ways.
Outcome #1: Enjoyable for everyone (dog included), fun, and relaxing
Outcome #2: Stressful for everyone (dog included), unpleasant, and miserable
While you can of course get bits and pieces of both outcomes, this article will help make your vacation with your dog full of enjoyment, fun, and even relaxing memories!
I’ve taken my dogs across the country multiple times, to a variety of places, and in a variety of seasons. Hopefully, my experience will make your next vacation with your pup easier, stress-free, and fun for everyone!
Here is what we’ll cover in this episode
-3 quick tips for stress-free dog vacations
-5 must-pack items
-Full dog vacation packing list
Of course, there are SO many other things you may need to pack. These five items are must-haves for me and my pups, and will hopefully help you too!
I would never leave home for a dog vacation without the following items ⬇️
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Vaccination information and other health documents
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Hand vacuum
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Dog shampoo, brush & towels (even if you don’t think you’ll need it)
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Dog GPS tracker
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High-value treats
Here is a full dog vacation packing list ⬇️
Long lead
Chuck-it (if your dog loves fetch)
Long-lasting chews
Medications/prescriptions
Paw balm
Paper towels (don’t skip this!)
Enzymatic cleaner
Food bowl
Water bowl (a travel one is great, too)
Food (I always bring enough for at least one extra day)
Bed or blanket
Harness
Leash
Poop bags (LOTS)
Poop bag holder
Health documents
Flea/tick treatment (depending on location)
Up to date ID tags
GPS tracker
Dog first aid kit
Toys and balls for play
Towels
Paper towels
Mud Buster or other paw cleaner
Crate/folding crate
Hand vacuum (especially if your dog sheds)
Dog shampoo
Car safety restraint
Brush
Small training treats
While I may have missed some items (let me know in the comments), this dog vacation packing list will help you be prepared for anything!
Taking dogs on vacation can (and should) be an enjoyable experience! If you implement these tips and pack the must-have items, it will be much more pleasant and less stressful.
Reminder, here are three quick vacation tips.
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Let your dog acclimate
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Research dog-friendliness of hotel, restaurants, hikes, etc.
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Plan for the worst while expecting the best
And of course, these are the five things I won’t leave on a dog vacation without!
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Vaccination information and other health documents
-
Hand vacuum
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Dog shampoo, brush & towels (even if you don’t think you’ll need it)
-
Dog GPS tracker
-
High-value treats
What’s your favorite story of taking dogs on vacation? Or your dream dog vacation?
Oh, and don’t forget to check out my favorite dog shampoo bar, Sudsy, here: https://pfrd.site/getsudsy
Please review and subscribe for more podcasts in the future!
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Do you regret getting a puppy? Let me tell you first, you are NOT alone!
Raising a puppy (or any age dog) is challenging, sometimes frustrating, and can put a toll on your mental health.
If you have a desire to keep your puppy, which I hope you do, you need to take action today to overcome the feelings of puppy regret!
1- Find Positives
While it may feel like your puppy (and you) are only doing “bad” things, that’s likely not the truth.
Getting hung up on the “bad” (potty accidents, puppy biting, barking, etc.) can lead us to not see the full picture of our pup’s progress.
So, write down some positive things about the situation, your pup’s behavior, and your relationship with your dog!
While positivity isn’t a catch-all answer that can solve everything, it can certainly help! At least that was my experience in the moments that I regretted getting my puppy.
2- Focus on the Basics
Many of the challenges that lead us to regret being a pup parent are due to “problem behaviors” from our puppies.
So, get back to the basics of dog training and behavior.
If you haven’t already, sign up for 30 Day Perfect Pup here! https://pfrd.site/classfree-here
Focus on giving less freedom.
Focus on having dedicated training sessions each day.
Focus on giving proper physical and mental exercise.
Focus on keeping destructible items out of your dog’s reach.
The basics of puppy training are often the key to seeing improvements in your pup’s behavior! And often as your pup’s behavior improves, those feelings of regret will decrease in frequency.
3- Find (or Remember) Your Why
When you originally decided to get a puppy, what was your reason?
Was it for the companionship?
Was it to go on fun adventures like hikes, long walks, etc.?
Was it to help a puppy in need?
Whatever your reason, remember it!
And if you don’t have a “why” yet, find one! Having a solid purpose and “goal” for your life with your pup can help you stay at it when times get tough.
4- Get Support
This may be the most important thing to do when you regret getting a puppy. Get support!
Here are some ways you can find support both in the real and digital worlds.
-Join a Facebook group with other pup parents (ours has over 50k members, join here!)
-Seek out someone in your local area who is also currently raising a new puppy
-Go to group training or socialization classes in person to meet new people and professionals who can support you
-Make friends or connect with someone who has raised a lot of pups and can give you sound advice on your journey
-Go to parks and dog meet-ups (Facebook groups are helpful for this) and try to meet other pup parents
-Choose a friend or family member who can be your venting buddy when you just need to talk about the challenges of being a pup parent
Feeling like you’re alone can make pup parenthood more difficult. Find others who can understand your situation and let them be your support system!
5- Cultivate and Focus on a Relationship With Your Puppy
Similar to focusing on the basics, it’s so important to focus on your relationship with your puppy. Oftentimes we forget that the relationship between dog and human takes work!
Here are some things you can do to improve your relationship with your dog.
-Do fun training, especially trick training!
-Play games like fetch or tug
-Give your pup a tasty chew, treat, or frozen Kong
-Snuggle, give your puppy a belly rub, or just pet him/her
-Take them on a walk on a long lead without any specific destination in mind and let them follow their nose
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Learning how to break up a dog fight is unfortunately a necessary skill for every pup parent. While I hope you don’t actually have to use this information, you likely will.
In this episode, we’ll break down the ins and outs of dog fights. And while the information can feel startling and somewhat scary, it’s vital to learn what to do if your dog is involved in a fight.
Important note on safety. Any time a dog fight occurs and you try to break it up, there is a high risk of you getting bit or injured. Exercise caution and ideally, work with a local positive-reinforcement-based dog trainer to better understand how to stop a dog fight.
Here is what we will cover:
- Why dog fights happen (and how to avoid them)
- How to break up a dog fight safely
- What NOT to do
- What to do once you break up the fight
1- Noise, Distractions & Water When dogs start fighting, they get in a “zone” and it can be hard to get them out of it.
One method to stop a dog fight is to use noise, distractions, or something similar to break them out of that “zone”, even if just for a moment to allow you to get your dog and move to safety.
Here are some ways you can break your dog’s attention during a fight 👇
- Giving a loud clap and/or yelp/shout
- Dumping water on the dogs (this can be surprisingly effective)
- Using an airhorn or something similar
- Banging on a nearby tree/wall/garbage/etc
- Spraying citronella toward the dogs (NOT condoning this as a normal training method, just for this type of emergency)
- Blowing a whistle (carrying one on your keychain is great)
Those are just some ideas, but the principle is to be as loud and distracting as possible to try and break the dogs’ attention. If you can get a 1-2 second pause, you can likely get your dog out of the situation.
2- Put Something (NOT You) Between the Dogs Another safe way to break up a dog fight is to get something in between your dogs.
I understand that you likely may not have anything readily available, but in some instances, you can get creative. The idea is to create a physical barrier between the dogs.
Here are some things you could use to get space between two dogs.
- A backpack or something similar (be careful to not get your hands too close)
- A skateboard, bicycle, or other similar objects
- An opened umbrella (again, mind your hands)
Once you have an object in between the dogs you can leash/pull the dog away accordingly and hopefully de-escalate the fight.
3- The Wheelbarrow Method for Breaking Up Dog Fights (Can Be Risky) Some people disagree with this method, while others swear by it (that’s life, right?). Generally, the “wheelbarrow method” can be a good way to separate fighting dogs.
It requires two people to work in unison, which in a high-intensity situation like a dog fight can be quite difficult. Regardless, here is how it works.
- Ideally, at the same time, each person grabs a dog by the hind legs and quickly lifts the back legs up (it’s best if you grab above knees, but anywhere works)
- With the dogs hind legs up, walk backwards (like a wheelbarrow)
- As you both walk backward, walk in a somewhat circular motion. This motion makes it more difficult for your dog to reach back and snap at or bite you
- Continue walking the dogs backward to either a safe space (ie on a different side of a fence, etc) or where you are far enough away from each other and you can leash up your dog
Learning about dog body language can help you avoid dog fights! Take the Dog Body Language Course (taught by Traci Madson CPDT-KA) here: https://pfrd.site/bodylanguage-course
Please leave a review, thanks for listening!
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There is only one time when you shouldn’t be training your puppy…
When he or she is asleep! 💤
And while that may seem far-fetched or unrealistic, let me explain why this mindset will vastly improve your puppy’s behavior!
With your puppy, you’ll often focus on “training sessions”. Those dedicated blocks of time are invaluable for improving your pup’s behavior.
But what about outside of those dedicated training sessions
THAT is when real learning often takes place.
Here’s an example.
You’re sitting at your table reading some emails. Your pup walks up to you and barks.
You look down at your pup and say something to him or her.
While you weren’t in a training session, you just taught your pup that when they bark they can get attention. Is that what you wanted to teach? Not necessarily, but that’s what happened either way!
Or, you hear a knock on the door.
Your pup goes wild with excitement.
How you respond next is going to teach your dog something (whether you like it or not 😀). You have a couple of options.
Option #1- You open the door, your pup bolts out to greet the person enthusiastically including jumping up on the door knocker.
Option #2- You direct your pup to their bed and give them a top-notch treat or chew. You then wait for them to relax or at least stop barking, and THEN open the door with your dog behind a baby gate (and ideally still on their bed/place).
In both instances, your dog learned something. Let’s break down what was learned.
Option #1 (opening the door) - Your dog learned that when they bark and are acting wildly, doors (literally and figuratively) open up for them.
The door opened, they got to experience a new and exciting moment with a new human. And I bet your dog loved that, why wouldn’t they? (And why wouldn’t they want to act the same way next time someone knocks on the door?)
They also jumped up on the guest, and likely got either pushed down or interacted with in some way.
And for your dog, that is enjoyable for them! They jumped up desiring attention and received it. In your dog’s brain, their action created a consequence that they enjoyed!
Meaning, they’ll do it again next time.
Here’s the alternative 👇
Option #2 (using place) - Your dog learned that when someone knocks on the door, good things happened on their bed/place. They start to learn that their place brings about tasty consequences.
Additionally, the door opened only when they were calm (I know, easier said than done but you get the point here). So, they learn that being calm and listening to you is how good things happen (like seeing a new human).
And by having a baby gate keeping them from the person at the door, you never even gave him or her the opportunity to jump up on a guest. Which means they weren’t unintentionally reinforced for jumping (like in Option #1).
Which option do you want for your puppy?!
Whenever you’re with your puppy, you have an opportunity to teach and they have an opportunity to learn.
And just like in our example above, simple choices lead to wildly different results and learning.
So, how can you be more prepared to effectively teach at any moment? Here’s how ⬇️
The best way to make these impromptu moments of learning more effective is to be prepared with the right tools! And that means reinforcers!
While there are many things that can be a reinforcer for your pup, treats are often the most effective!
So I highly recommend keeping treats readily available throughout your home. Of course, out of your dog’s reach! Snag some Pupford Training Treats here!
Please subscribe and review, thanks for listening!
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For most of history, humans have regarded dogs as animals with specific jobs.
But in recent history, these animals have become pets only.
Is that to blame for many of the “problems” and “challenges” we face with our dogs?
In this episode, Kim Brophey will help us make sense of why the viewing of our dogs as pets may actually be the root of many “problem behaviors”.
And of course, Kim will break down what you can do today to help your pup be more successful in a human-centric world!
First, let’s define applied ethology👇
What is Applied Ethology?
The ISAE defines applied ethology this way ⬇️
The study of applied animal behavior contributes to a greater understanding of the interactions between humans and other animals and helps to create a better balance between animal welfare and the requirements that humans have of other animals
Applied ethologists work on a wide variety of animal species and topics: e.g. the management and welfare of livestock; the interactions between humans and companion animals; the impacts of housing on the behavior and welfare of zoo and laboratory animals.
Simply put, applied ethology is the study of animal behavior in captivity.
Now, let’s meet Kim!
Meet Kim Brophey: Applied Ethologist and Professional Dog Trainer
Kim Brophey is an applied ethologist and professional dog trainer with decades of experience.
Here are many of Kim’s top accomplishments, credentials, and works.
-Applied Ethologist, member of the International Society for Applied Ethology
-Owner of the awarded Dog Door Behavior Center - www.dogdoorbehaviorcenter.com
-Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) / Certified Member - International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants
-Board member - Asheville Humane Society
-Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)
-Member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT)
-APDT Outstanding Trainer of the Year 2009
-Author of Meet Your Dog- The Game-Changing Guide to Understanding Your Dog's Behavior (2018)
-TED talk presenter - The Problem With Treating a Dog Like a Pet - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=46ND3suK1y8
As you can see, Kim deeply understands dogs and I promise you’ll learn a LOT in this episode!
The Human Role in Dog Breeding & Behavior
For centuries we have bred dogs to perform specific tasks like assisting with hunting, herding, and rodent control. But, in recent years, many of those task-centric jobs have gone away for dogs!
Of course, those genetics and traits still exist, which can create “problems” (at least in our eyes).
We in a way have, unfortunately, created a “void” in our dogs’ lives. They have an innate desire to, for example, herd livestock.
But now those same breeds aren’t able to.
And when they showcase some of those related behaviors (chasing other animals, nipping at our heels, etc.) we become frustrated and overwhelmed with their “bad behavior”.
Part of Kim’s hope for us humans is to better understand our dog’s deep-seated behaviors and find enriching experiences for them to express those behaviors in a healthy way.
How Can We Give Dogs Proper Outlets?
One of the best ways to help your dog succeed is to research and understand your dog’s history and “job history”.
If your dog was used to herd, you can try things like Treibball!
For retrievers, focus on using more fetch in your dog’s daily life.
Do you have a terrier? Try creating a dig box for your pup to use every day!
While it may not be a perfect solution, trying to tap into your dog’s natural instincts is a powerful way to improve their mental well-being and behavior.
Please subscribe and leave a review, thanks for listening!
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Do the words we use in dog training matter? In this episode, we break down why the distinction of “cue” vs “command” matters and how it can benefit your dog’s behavior!
Terminology in Dog Training
In the early stages of Pupford as a company, we spent lots of time learning from trainers and experts, like Zak George. And one of the things he mentioned was using the word cue and behavior, instead of command.
Since that time, we’ve tried to stick to that at Pupford. Here’s why 👇
We believe that training a dog hinges on communication and relationship building. While there are plenty of techniques, nuances, and tips specific to behaviors, we must foster a healthy relationship with our dogs.
So, let’s define these two opposing words. Cue and command.
Cue: Anything that excites to action: stimulus.
Command: To require authoritatively; demand.
Do you see the vast difference?!
Are you wanting to demand and require from your dog, or excite them into action?
And ask yourself, how do you prefer to learn (that’s what your dog is doing btw, learning)?
When we approach dog training with a communicative approach like with the word ‘cue’, it becomes a 2-way street.
Instead of demanding things of our dogs, we give them choices and reward the correct ones. With positive reinforcement.
Quick note. We’re not condoning a lack of structure and consequences for actions for our dogs. Our dogs need feedback and structure.
Another point on cues is that they should be introduced once a behavior is learned and has meaning.
-
Luring, capturing, or shaping correct behaviors
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Marking and rewarding the behaviors when they occur
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Once the behavior has been marked and rewarded to where our dog understands, then introducing the cue word
Commands often precede the being learned. Then a consequence or reinforcement is delivered whether it happens or not.
The ‘cue’ mentality is all about understanding and choice, and less about demands.
My Dog Isn’t Responding to Cues, Why?
In most cases, you can break down a lack of follow-through by our dogs into three different reasons.
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Your dog doesn’t actually understand the cue
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Distractions are more enticing
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Not enough reward or upside
Your Dog Doesn’t Actually Understand the Cue
“Buddy come… Buddy come… BUDDY COME!”
Did Buddy hear the word ‘come’? Likely.
But does it mean anything to him? Maybe not.
Again, this is why adding the cue word after your dog understands the behavior can have massive benefits.
So if your pup doesn’t seem to listen, ask yourself if he/she really knows what the words mean! Have there been enough reinforcements when said behavior is accomplished?
Distractions Are More Enticing
In other situations, your dog may understand the cue word but is overwhelmed by distraction. That distraction can come in many forms. Squirrels, other dogs, a car, food on the ground, the list goes on.
In this instance, distractions need to be lowered and training needs to continue. Then, layer by layer you can add more distractions to the behavior.
Not Enough Upside & Rewards
Our dogs care about what’s being offered as a reward as well.
So, choose high-value treats. You can also use fetch, tug, affection, and even verbal praise as reinforcers.
The key is to find what works best for YOUR dog. What do they care about?
If you're ready to improve communication and behavior, check out Pupford Academy today!
Also, please leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!
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A couple of the most challenging experiences as a pup parent can be finding a good vet and finding dog-friendly places in your area!
In this episode, we sat down with Jamie Ruden from Dog Spotted. We discussed ways to make this process easier, and even a new tool she released to help with this issue!
QUICK TABLE OF CONTENTS
-What makes it so hard to find a good vet?
-How can you make finding a good vet easier?
-What makes it so hard to find dog-friendly places
-How can you find dog-friendly places easier?
WHAT MAKES IT SO HARD TO FIND A GOOD VET?
When I first moved to New York City, my wife and I collectively spent more than a few hours in the search for our new vet. We scoured Google reviews, Yelp reviews, and even Reddit threads.
We finally landed on a vet through a recommendation from a friend.
Turned out, that vet did NOT work out for us and our dogs (even though it does for our friend).
And, we were back to square one. More searches, more reviews, more phone calls, etc.
After a couple more rounds of trial and error, we finally landed on a vet we liked… But it was such a process!
Finding a good vet can be a serious challenge, no matter where you live! Plus, if you need a very specific type of vet or specialty, that process becomes even more complicated.
HOW CAN YOU FIND A GOOD VET?
While finding a good vet isn’t always easy, there are some things you can do to make that process a bit simpler.
-Asking for recommendations at dog parks, meetups, etc. Local people often are going to have ideas for you and can speak from their own experiences.
-Verifying credentials of vets
-Scanning their website for the specific types of specialty your pup may need
And if you’re in the NYC area, be sure to check out Dog Spotted! You can now search for vets by specialty type, procedures provided, whether they do in-house visits, and so much more!
WHAT MAKES IT SO HARD TO FIND DOG-FRIENDLY PLACES?
While we all dream of taking our pups with us everywhere we go, that dream can be difficult to make a reality.
Trying to find dog-friendly places can be a real challenge. Especially when very few restaurants and stores explicitly say it on their websites or map listings!
Plus, even if you find out that a place is dog-friendly, it can still be hard to know if they offer dog treats, areas specifically for dogs, etc.
HOW CAN YOU FIND DOG-FRIENDLY PLACES?
Finding dog-friendly places isn’t always easy, but there are some tips to help simplify your life!
-Check out the restaurant/places photos on Instagram or in map listings to see if there are any dogs
-Ask around at local dog meetups, dog parks, etc as to where people in your area have taken their dogs
-Call ahead to your destination and ask directly or message them on social media
If you’re in the NYC area, be sure to check out Dog Spotted! You can now search for dog-friendly places and filter by activity type, if they provide snacks for dogs, and so much more!
PLEASE leave a review on Apple Podcasts and follow on your favorite podcast platform!
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Your pup comes sprinting through your living room, running in large, wide circles with seemingly no desire to stop… It’s the DOG ZOOMIES!
And while this slightly ‘crazy’ behavior can be confusing at first, we’re here to break down everything you need to know about dog (or puppy) zoomies!
While dog zoomies is the most common term you’ll hear, there is actually a more technical term for this fascinating display of energy put on by your pup!
FRAPs or FRAP. This stands for frenetic random activity periods. And while I think this term is spot on, “zoomies” is more fun!
Just like the real name says, the zoomies are a spurt of energy (often at seemingly random times) from your dog.
Dog (or puppy) zoomies often include (but is not limited to) things like this… ⬇️
-Running as fast as possible
-Running in no clear direction or with no clear purpose
-Barking, howling or making other vocal forms of communication
-Jumping on and off of things like couches, beds, nearby toddlers, chairs, etc.
-Spinning wildly in circles (yes, this happens)
-Trying to get you (or other dogs) to chase them, often encouraged by a play bow
-Just overall being a little bit hyper and uncontrollable for a short burst of time
The question of why do dogs get the zoomies gets a lot of attention in our private Facebook community and on our social media pages!
And while there may not be a hard and fast rule as to why it happens, there are some ideas as to why.
When our pups encounter prolonged periods of boredom, confinement, or even stress, it can create a pent-up amount of energy. And when you get a pent-up amount of energy and a desire to relieve stress… THE ZOOMIES!
Most of the time our dogs get the zoomies after they’ve been forced to be not active for quite a while.
Additionally, it can happen after stressful situations. Think bath time, vet visits, and even new guests coming to your home!
And while the zoomies can really happen to your pup at any time, you’ll often see it after a period of boredom/confinement (like in a crate) or after stressful situations.
Just like undesired car repairs, the zoomies can happen at any time! And, it’s often when you aren’t expecting it.
While these random bursts of energy can happen spontaneously, there are instances when dogs are more likely to get the zoomies. Here are a few ⬇️
-After being crated
-After visiting the vet
-After visiting the groomer
-After a bath/shower at home
-After being on a leash for an extended period of time
-When they hear you say something they love like walk, park, dinner, treats, etc.
-When you come home after a long period of time
-When your dog knows you are about to leave
-When your dog becomes extremely bored
-When your dog knows it is about bedtime
-When your dog doesn’t have enough outlets for physical and/or mental activity
Those are just a few times when dogs get the zoomies!
Before we answer how to stop the zoomies, we really should ask should we want to stop the zoomies?
While it’s understandable to sometimes need your dog to chill out, shouldn’t we be excited when our pups get the zoomies?!
I mean we all want a tired, relaxed, and chilled out pup and doesn’t exercise help with that?
When my dogs get the zoomies, I’m stoked!
Why?
Because they’re making my life easier. And as a human being, I like when my life is easier.
They get to run around, go crazy, and get some energy out all while I often sit and enjoy the spectacle from the comfort of my couch!
But if you do need to stop the zoomies, redirect to something less intense like a lick mat!
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While you might already be familiar with enrichment, do you know the types of enrichment for dogs?
In this episode, I’ll give you 5 specific types of enrichment with examples for each type.
Understanding the types of enrichment for your pup will help you improve on each one and give your dog a more fulfilled life. And when a dog lives an enriching life, they behave better!
5 Types of Enrichment for Dogs
While enrichment can be a catch-all term, there are 5 specific types you should know about.
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Social enrichment
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Occupational enrichment
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Physical enrichment
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Sensory enrichment
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Nutritional enrichment
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While we often like to think that our dogs love everything we do, there are some common human behaviors that dogs do NOT enjoy.
And while these things may not be “make or break” for your relationship with your dog, it’s important to try and keep your interactions with your pup as positive as possible.
Another note. If you are currently doing any of these 3 things, that is okay! My main goal is to just help you be aware that it may potentially be something your dog doesn’t enjoy.
#1- Hugging
While the temptation to give our dogs a big bear hug can be strong, it may not be the best decision.
Many dogs can be uncomfortable about having people in their personal space. Especially when that involves people being near and around their face.
So going up to a dog and giving them a hug around the neck/chest area can be concerning for them, especially if they feel trapped.
When a dog gets put into a situation where they don’t feel in control of their ability to move, it can lead to very negative situations.
If you’re still wanting to hug your dog, be very aware of their body language.
Is your dog trying to pull away?
Is your dog moving their head away from yours?
Is your dog licking their lips?
Is your dog giving you whale eye (or side-eye)?
Is your dog stiffening up, especially on his/her tail?
All of those dog body language signals can be signs that your dog is uncomfortable with the current situation.
#2- Not Letting Them Sniff
Think of your favorite store to go for some leisurely shopping (Nordstrom Rack anyone?)...
You’re excited to see what’s on sale, what is available in your size, and you’ve been hoping to find some nice dress shoes.
As you round the corner and see a nice pair of heels you tell your friend you’re with, ‘Oh, I’d love to check those out!’.
You both walk close and as you flip them over to check out the price, your friend yanks you away from the beloved shoes.
Now, repeat that about 57 times.
I can imagine you’d very quickly want your friend to leave so you could enjoy some shopping.
Are you doing that to your dog?
When we go on walks with our pups it’s an opportunity to not only let them go potty but also to sniff and explore the world!
Going out for a walk is a lot like you heading to your favorite department store to shop. There are a lot of items they’re looking to check out, but if they get yanked away as soon as they’re checking it out they’ll probably get frustrated!
It’s like letting them look at a nice pair of shoes but not check out the price tag.
And while there are times that our walks are more rushed, try your best to give your dog ample opportunities to sniff and take in the world around them.
Our dog’s noses are how they learn and explore. Let them shop! ;)
#3- Dressing Them Up
While we do have articles on our site about costume ideas for your dog, that doesn’t mean every dog will love it!
Some dogs truly hate the experience of being dressed up.
That can include jackets, costumes, booties, hats, and any other arrangement of human-concocted accessories.
For some dogs, the feeling of being constricted in a jacket or booties can be a serious mental hangup for them.
So, just like with all things that may be uncomfortable for your pup, start slow!
Work on desensitizing your pup to any clothes you may want them to wear. And if your dog gets uncomfortable, don’t continue.
Again, keep an eye on your pup’s body language and look out for things like yawning, lip licking, moving their body away from yours, etc.
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If you’ve found yourself wondering why your pup has started to ‘rebel’ or digress with their behaviors, you may be experiencing the puppy teenage phase.
Do Dogs Actually Have a Teenage Phase?
A group of researchers set out to determine if the teenage, rebellious phase was a real thing or just a term. What they found was that there is a strong connection between certain time periods of a dog’s life, and how they behave. You can read the full study here: https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsbl.2020.0097
Generally speaking, puppies go through the ‘teenage phase’ at about 7-10 months. But keep in mind, that time frame will vary depending on a host of factors including gender, breed, environment, etc.
What the researchers found is that when compared to a puppy’s behavior at 5 months, many pups willingly defied cues from their pup parent at around 8 months old.
Additionally, many self-surveyed pup parents reported an increase of rebellious behavior from their pups around that same time period.
So, yes… the puppy teenage phase is real.
Can You Avoid the Teenage Phase
While there are some things you can do to make the rebellious phase less rebellious, this phase is often out of your control.
Your dog’s hormones, chemicals, brain activities, etc. are often playing a role in this teenage phase and that is completely out of your control.
How to Survive the Teenage Phase
While there isn’t one silver-bullet answer to surviving this phase, there are some things you can do to help make the time more successful.
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Decrease freedom
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Increase training
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Try new things
#1 - Decrease Freedom
Often right as our pups are starting to get better at certain behaviors, we start to give more freedom.
That can be freedom in the home, freedom off-leash, freedom with choices, and other things.
Unfortunately, when you combine a rebellious teenage phase with newly added freedoms, you create a recipe for disaster!
While it can be enticing to want to give your pup more freedom, I recommended sticking to what you know has worked for the first months of your pup’s life. That means sticking to crating your dog while you aren’t home, not letting them off-leash, and generally keeping boundaries for your pup.
#2 - Increase Training
Similar to decreased freedom, often a helpful solution for the puppy teenage phase is to increase your training routine.
Again, we often start getting complacent with our pup’s behavior right about the time they’re going to hit the teenage phase. We start to think they’re performing well, and we get lazier with our training.
That is totally normal, but should be avoided if possible!
The 7-10 month age range is the perfect time to buckle down on training and really commit to consistency. If you can keep up with training consistently for the entire first year of your dog’s life you will be so happy you did!
#3 - Try New Things
The first 6 months of my dog Scout’s life, she couldn’t care less about fetch.
We tried everything to get her interested, but it didn’t stick.
And then right when she hit about 7 or so months, a switch flipped. She fell in LOVE fetch!
Just because something worked (or didn’t work) at the beginning of your puppy’s life, doesn’t mean it will always be that way.
So if you find your pup going through a particularly rebellious phase, try out some new things. Introduce new training techniques, play new games, try new toys, test out new treats, etc.!
Dogs change, and we should try to lean into that change as much as possible!
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Dogs are challenging. No matter the age, breed, or size of your dog there will be situations and behaviors that will drive you absolutely crazy. And guess what, that's totally normal.
I have gone through the ups and downs of being a pup parent in many ways. My wife and I have raised two high-energy Labrador Retrievers, all alongside a Senior Puggle who recently passed away. No matter the age of our dogs, there have always been behaviors and situations that test our patience with our dogs!
When moments pop up that test your patience with your pup, try out these 3 things to keep your sanity.
#1- Get Some Space
As with many things in life, if you try to "fix" a situation in the heat of the moment you'll likely not make the wisest decisions.
If your pup is starting to do things and you can feel your patience running thin, take a break. Get yourself some physical distance between yourself and your pup and regroup.
This can be done by putting your dog into a crate (don't use it as a punishment though), in another room, or using a playpen or baby gate.
Taking a few moments away from your dog can help you reassess the situation and calm down.
#2- Do Something Fun
Once you've taken a moment or two of space away from your dog, re-engage with something fun.
You know your dog best, so do something that you know both you and your pup will enjoy. It could be playing tug, throwing a ball, or even some fun (not structured) trick training.
For many of us as pup parents, we originally chose to get a dog because we envisioned the fun moments and memories that come with being a pup parent. So, finding a way to reconnect with that "goal" can be a great way to gain your sanity back with your dog.
Plus, taking part in a fun activity with your pup will help both of your moods and outlooks on the situation.
#3- Make a Plan
This is the most important step. You have to make a plan on how you will improve the behaviors that are driving you up a wall.
If, for example, you get frustrated whenever you go on walks because your dog barks at other dogs then you can make a plan to combat that.
When will you train that behavior?
What resources will you use?
How often will you practice that training?
How long will you practice when you do the training?
The challenge with many "annoying" dog behaviors is that we often only think about them when they happen. But the truth is, you're not going to train out a problem behavior in the heat of the moment.
Instead, you need to practice the situations the lead to problem behaviors on their own.
So if your dog always barks when people come to the door, don't think you can train that when a stranger knocks on the door. Instead, practice having someone (a neighbor, friend, etc.) come to the door while you are engaged in a training session with a specific plan.
Recap
Although our dogs mean the world to us, they can do things that drive us a little bit crazy. So when this happens, take the time to get some space, re-engage with something fun, and then make a plan to help overcome the problem behaviors causing you stress!
If you're looking for in-depth resources to help overcome challenging behaviors, you can find the techniques as part of Pupford Academy. Access it here: https://pfrd.site/academy-accesss
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While recall is a behavior that takes a lot of practice and persistence, there are some things you may be doing that are actually RUINING your dog's recall... 😳
One of the most common mistakes I see with recall is when pup parents call their dog to them, and then they do something not enjoyable for their pup.
For example, calling your dog to you, they come, and then you put him/her on a leash and leave the park. Well, if you do that enough... your dog is going to start associating the recall cue with the "bad" thing of leaving the park.
Or, calling your dog to you and then putting them in the bath.
Or, calling your dog to you and then brushing their teeth.
Or, calling your dog to you and then clipping their nails.
You give a cue, they perform the desired behavior, and then... BOOM, a negative experience (in their mind).
When this happens too many times, your dog will start to associate "come" with negative things. And when that happens, your dog will STOP wanting to come back to you.
So, instead of calling your dog to you when you're gonna do something they may not like, YOU should go to them. Or, if you must call them first, give a couple of other cues in between the "come" and the not desirable thing.
If I'm at the park and need to leave, I don't call my dog to me and then instantly leash her up. Instead, I'll call her to me, give a few short throws of her ball once she comes, and then go to her and clip her on the leash.
Simply put, every time (seriously) your dog comes to you there should be a positive experience. Don't let negative experiences immediately follow when your dog successfully comes back to you.
For more recall tips, check out the Recall Mastery Course here: https://pfrd.site/course-recall
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Welcoming a new puppy (or older dog) into your home is a time of excitement, nervousness, and oftentimes, stress! While you will certainly make mistakes along the way (and that's okay), here are 3 mistakes you should try to avoid!
And not only will avoiding these mistakes make YOUR life easier, but they will also help your pup live a happy and healthier life as well.
Mistake #1 - Potty Training Overconfidence
One of the first things you likely think of when training a new puppy is potty training. Because let's face it, no one wants their carpets, rugs, and floors ruined!
And often in the first couple of weeks, you are on top of the potty training! You set timers, take your pup out frequently, reward good potty breaks outside, etc... And then, overconfidence creeps in!
You might start to get lazy with setting timers, and you might generally start to feel that your puppy has the hang of potty training. And inevitably, accidents will start to occur again!
One of the biggest puppy mistakes you can make is to get overconfident with your pup's potty training abilities! While there isn't a hard and fast rule, I would say that your pup isn't fully potty trained until he/she hasn't had an accident in the home for 3 months.
Yup, 3 months.
Again, learn from my mistakes and don't become overconfident with your dog's potty training abilities. Stick to a schedule, be adamant about potty breaks, and continue to reward the right behavior to avoid accidents in the home!
Mistake #2 - Expecting Your Puppy to "Outgrow" Behaviors
You've likely heard people say something like "oh, they're just a puppy... they'll outgrow that". Ahhh, what a mistake!
While there are behaviors and things your pup will become better at naturally over time, you can NOT expect them to just outgrow behaviors.
Every behavior that your pup might struggle with needs training. You must put in the work.
And while it's true that an older dog will often mellow out and become less hyper, that doesn't mean they will magically outgrow things like puppy nipping, potty accidents, or poor recall.
Don't plan on your pup just outgrowing something, work on it and train it!
Mistake #3 - Giving Too Much Freedom
While this mistake is similar to mistake #1, there is a bit of a difference.
I can still remember this costly mistake like it was yesterday...
Our puppy Sunny had started to do really well with not chewing up objects. She had started to learn what was and wasn't okay to have in her mouth. And let me tell you, we were feeling GREAT about that!
Fast forward a few days and we brought home a new custom table for the nook area of our home. It was a beautiful piece of woodwork honestly.
And, of course, it just so happened that we had a lot going on that day and had to leave Sunny for a little bit longer than usual without supervision. Well, I'm sure you can guess what happened...
We gave Sunny too much freedom and she chewed up the edge of our brand new table. We were FURIOUS.
But whose fault was that? Sunny's? Certainly not... she was still a puppy and had never ever been left alone around a nice tasty wood table.
We made the mistake of thinking she was 'better' than she really was with chewing objects, and we gave her too much freedom. Not a fun lesson to learn!
And this type of situation can be applied to off-leash behavior especially. I can almost promise you that if you think your puppy's recall is good enough for off-leash behavior, that means you should wait at least 3 more months.
While mistakes are inevitable (and part of the process), I hope you can learn from these mistakes that I made as a new pup parent!
Need help training your new pup? Download the FREE Pupford app here!
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Term #1- Recall
Recall is interchangeable with 'come when called'. So basically, recall refers to your dog's ability to come back to you when you call him/her.
Recall is one of the most important behaviors you can teach your dog!
Term #2- Marking/Clicker
If you hear the term 'mark the behavior' that simply means to give your dog a distinct indicator of exactly when the correct behavior occurred.
So for example, if you are teaching your dog to sit you would 'mark' that behavior the instant your dog's butt hits the ground.
Marking can be done by using a 'marker word' like "yes" or "good" or by using a training clicker. A clicker is a simple tool that gives a distinct "click" noise when pressed.
By using a marker word or clicker while training, you can more clearly help your dog identify the exact moment they did a behavior correctly. And when they understand the timing of when they did something right, the more likely they'll be to do it again in the future!
Term #3- Zoomies
While this isn't a "technical" term, it's one you will hear quite often.
The zoomies are essentially when your pup gets a burst of energy and runs wildly around. It can involve running back and forth, spinning in circles, overall just acting a little wild.
It often happens right before your dog is getting ready for bed, when you come home, and/or after a bath.
The only cure for the zoomies is letting your dog zoom around 😅
Term #4- Bite Inhibition
Bite inhibition is your dog's ability to control the force of their mouth/bite. This is sometimes referred to as "soft mouth", while those terms are slightly different generally.
Bite inhibition is best learned by doing proper training when your pup bites.
But the most effective way to teach bite inhibition is by having your puppy play with other dogs. Dogs have a natural way of letting other dogs know when bites are too hard and painful.
Don't skip out on puppy play dates!
Term #5- Capturing
Capturing is simply a technique of 'marking' (see above) a behavior your dog naturally does.
For example, if you're trying to teach your dog to lay down you might wait for them to lay down on their own and then 'mark' and reward that behavior. After doing that a few times, you can start adding a cue word (lay down) so your dog pairs the behavior with a term.
Capturing is a very effective way to turn natural behaviors into behaviors you can ask for on cue!
Term #6- Jackpotting
A big part of dog training is keeping your dog guessing and WANTING to listen to you. And jackpotting makes that happen!
Jackpotting is simply giving your dog a better reward (think real steak vs normal treats) or giving your dog more of their normal reward.
For example, instead of just giving one or two treats like you normally would you could give 4-5 treats when your dog does something you really want from them.
Jackpotting is a great way to more strongly reinforce behaviors!
Term #7- Intermittent Reinforcement
Similar to the above, keeping your dog guessing can be a very valuable tool when training!
Intermittent reinforcement is simply giving your dog rewards at a random interval.
So, instead of giving a treat every time your dog does a trick, you only give a reward/treat every 2 or 3 times. Of course, at the beginning of teaching a new behavior, you'll want to reward each time.
But as your dog progresses with that behavior, you can start to randomize the reward interval to help keep your pup guessing and wanting to listen!
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Ahh prey drive, the thing our dogs are born with that can make life slightly complicated.
Many people find themselves wondering, should I try to reduce my dog's prey drive, or should I be using it?
In this episode, we'll dive into what prey drive is, whether you should try to reduce it, and how you can turn it into a MASSIVE reinforcer for your pup.
WHAT IS PREY DRIVE?
Prey drive is essentially our dogs' innate desire to search, stalk, chase, and bite objects. And typically, those objects are moving.
In a simplistic sense, it's why your dog might love to chase squirrels or even a tennis ball.
And while prey drive often has a somewhat negative connotation, it really is an important part of our dog's DNA. In the early types of dogs, they had to hunt for food. So prey drive was a matter of life and death.
Nowadays, our dogs aren't hunting for their food... but the prey drive is there nonetheless.
SHOULD YOU REDUCE OR USE YOUR DOG'S PREY DRIVE?
While there isn't one answer for every situation, in most cases you should strive to utilize your dog's prey drive in a controlled manner.
So that often means your dog will still "use" their prey drive, but just in a controlled and desirable way.
I will note here... If you have a dog with an extremely strong prey drive, I would recommend getting the help of a professional dog trainer. They can help you understand your dog's behavior more thoroughly and learn how to tap into that drive for your dog's benefit.
USING PREY DRIVE AS A REWARD
My dog Scout loves to fetch. She would fetch for hours if she was given the opportunity (I've only seen her willingly stop playing fetch a couple of times in her whole life).
She LOVES the chase. And many times in her life, that has gotten her into some troublesome situations (most if not all of which were my fault for giving too much freedom).
When dogs like Scout lock onto something, their brain is literally wired to stalk and chase that item. And then when they aren't "allowed" to it can cause leash, fence, and other frustrations. Or it can get them into trouble like running to places or towards people/objects they shouldn't.
One of the best ways we learned to utilize Scout's prey drive is by using fetch and flirt poles as part of our training and rewarding process. Here is what we have done consistently for over a year now.
In a controlled and safe environment, start to play fetch. Once you do a few throws, grab the ball as if to throw and ask your dog to come to you. (It may feel foreign to your dog at first, so if they struggle just shorten your distance for the 'come' and continue.)
Once your dog comes to you, give your marker word (or clicker) and throw the ball for them to fetch. The fetch is the reward!!
I have been doing that process consistently every time I play fetch (not every throw, but every time we play fetch) and Scout's recall has improved dramatically! And in conjunction with other training, it's also helped to improve her ability to focus outside and has helped reduce her reactivity to other dogs, skateboards, bikes, etc.
This took a lot of time and practice generally, but learning to use fetch (prey drive) as a reward for other behaviors made it so Scout ACTUALLY cared about listening to us while outside!
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While mental enrichment can feel like a fun 'buzzword', it's important to know what research has shown about mental exercise for dogs!
In this episode, I give a synopsis and my opinions on research done by Lidewij L.Schipper (amongst others) in 2008. Here's a link to the article where you can learn more about the research: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0168159108000038
Note: The researchers themselves said that the study is not completely thorough, could use more work, and had a relatively small sample size. Nonetheless, the findings are valuable.
The researchers ran the tests on 8 dogs in shelters. They gave the dogs Kong toys filled with treats to test the effects that interaction had on the dog's behavior.
In the researchers' words, here is what they had to say:
"This study demonstrated that the presence of these food enrichment toys stimulates appetitive behaviours and increases the level of activity (exercise), measured in terms of time budgets and the total number of behavioural transitions. Moreover, it also appears to result into lower barking frequencies."
That is a GREAT finding!
Appetitive behavior is essentially behaviors that proceed eating and are a signal of 'desire'. This can include sniffing, foraging, working for food, etc.
So, enrichment for dogs can help them have a greater desire to work for food, increase their activity level (especially important in shelter dogs) and can even help decrease barking.
Those are all AMAZING results from just the simple use of a Kong!
Hopefully, this study gives you added reasoning to give your pup mental exercise!
If you're looking for tools for mental enrichment, you can shop our full range here: https://pfrd.site/enrichmenttoyss
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Your dog's confidence levels can drastically affect their ability to learn, respond correctly to cues, and generally feel happy in their environment! In this episode, I sat down with Emily Fitzpatrick (VSA-CDT) to discuss ways to improve your dog's confidence!
Emily also helps break down why confidence is important, things that can break your dog's confidence, and daily actions to help make your dog more confident and happy!
Meet Emily
Emily Fitzpatrick is a Victoria Stilwell Academy Certified Dog Training and is the owner of Misunderstood Mutt Dog Training.
Connect with Emily
Misunderstood Mutt's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/misunderstoodmutt/
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You’ll probably get this question a lot around Thanksgiving: what are you thankful for?
We hope your list is a long one -- and that it doesn’t leave anything out. Including your dog!
Although we may not think about it often, our dogs give us so much to be grateful for during the holidays and always.
Here are my personal top 3 reasons I'm grateful for my dogs!
- They keep me active
- They remind me to slow down
- They remind me to not take life too seriously
Leave a review and tell me why you are grateful for your dog!
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Dog training isn't always "ups" and "forward progression"... it actually usually consists of a LOT of setbacks, challenges, and "dips" in behavior. But truthfully, that is to be expected!
In this episode, I'll break down 5 powerful tips that will help you improve your pup's behavior with more peaks than valleys!
Tip #1- Set Goals
Most things worth accomplishing in life take a lot of hard work. In my life, I've seen the most success with my dog's behavior when I've set goals.
I don't typically like focusing goals on 'behavior growth' necessarily, but more on how often you'll train, how long you'll train, and what behaviors you will work on.
If you set SMART goals (look that up if you aren't familiar with it 😃), you'll find that you'll become more consistent with training. And in my experience, staying consistent (more on that later) is one of the most vital ways to help your dog's behavior see more growth than setbacks!
Tip #2- Track Progress
Part of setting goals is keeping track of progress. Plus, keeping track of your dog's progress can help you visualize the growth that is occurring.
In the Pupford App (download here: https://pfrd.site/track-progress), you can rate your dog's behaviors so that you have a snapshot of where your dog stands with different behaviors like recall, leash walking, and more!
Again, tracking progress will help you understand more thoroughly how your dog is actually progressing!
Tip #3- View Behavior as a Whole
If you're feeling down about a specific behavior your dog is struggling with, remember to look at your dog's behavior as a whole.
While your dog may be struggling with jumping, for example, find the good things your dog is doing and focus on those. And what you'll realize is that your dog's "behavior" is likely better than you're giving your dog credit for!
Tip #4- Stay Consistent
The key to pushing through your dog's behavior setbacks is consistency.
Training takes a lot of effort over an extended period of time. And it can't just be for a few days or weeks... it takes consistent effort!
Plus, the more consistent you are with training your dog the more quickly you will be able to overcome the setbacks and 'dips' in progression.
Tip #5- Be Patient
Even more important than consistency is patience!
Often as pup parents, we put timelines in our head as to how quickly our dog should learn a certain behavior... that is a mistake.
Not only do you need to be patient with your dog's progress, but you need to be patient with yourself. Raising a dog can be hard work, so remember to cut yourself some slack and be patient with results!
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The time to prepare your dog for the holiday season is... NOW! In this episode, I'll break down 3 tips to help you start preparing now so that you can have an enjoyable season of get-togethers.
TIP #1- Teach Place
This behavior is vital to overcoming challenges with door greetings, being hyper when guests arrive, and of course, begging for food.
To learn this behavior in-depth (from Amber Aquart), head and watch the video (and read the text recap) here: https://pfrd.site/teachplace-here
TIP #2- Impulse Control Training
Impulse control training can help with problems like jumping, barking, bolting through doors, and so much more.
Simple impulse control exercises like having your dog sit before going through doors can help teach your dog to look for guidance from you instead of just acting on their own.
Learn 21 effective (and fun) impulse control games here: https://pfrd.site/get21-games
TIP #3- Get the Right Tools
Sometimes even with the right training you just need a 'safety net' of tools and products to help keep your pup occupied and happy.
Mental enrichment can work wonders for your dog during the holiday season. Whether you're leaving your pup at home or having guests over, mental exercise can help tire your dog out and help them relax.
Shop easy to use Mental Enrichment toys and tools here: https://pfrd.site/toys-here
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Letting your dog off leash can seem like a 'dream' scenario, but it comes with inherent risks and drawbacks. In this video, I'll break down 4 "pros" and 4 "cons" to letting your dog run off leash!
First things first, it's important to obey leash laws! They are there for a reason and typically help keep you, your dog, and other people and their dogs safe.
Here are some of the main cons of letting your dog off leash.
-Leash laws can be very limiting as to where you can go with your dog (if you’re wanting to be off leash)
-You lose control of potentially dangerous situations with other dogs, animals, wildlife, etc. and you really never know how other dogs/animals will react to your dog
-Bad habits can be formed like chasing objects, running quickly in other directions (even if your dog comes back to you)
-There is an inherent danger of your dog running into bad situations like cars, bikes, etc…. It does happen all the time unfortunately
And of course, here are some of the main pros of letting your dog off leash.
-Freedom for your dog… it can give them a mental ‘break’ from having to be cooped up inside, being beholden to the leash, etc.
-Your dog gets an enhanced sniffing experience and that mental exercise can really make your dog’s exercise time more beneficial and tiring
-Typically your dog will do more running than when attached to you since they aren’t having to go at your pace… they’ll go forward, come back, etc. and end up getting more exercise than walking that normal distance
-You and your dog both are not dealing with a leash and all the challenges that come with it
Choosing to let your dog off leash should be a decision you make very carefully. You don’t HAVE to let your dog off leash if you’re not comfortable with the risks. And ultimately, having your dog on a leash adds a layer of safety to almost any situation.
Do you or do you not let your dog off leash? Tell me why in the comments below!
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Doing trick training with your dog can be an extremely enjoyable experience for both you and your dog.
And of course, everyone loves to be able to show off their dog’s favorite tricks when guests come over!
But there are some unexpected benefits to trick training that will make you want to prioritize doing trick training every day with your pup!
Let’s dive into it!
One quick note. Trick training doesn’t have to be crazy, complex tricks! It can be as simple as tricks like shake, roll over, speak, etc. It’s more important to try it out than getting hung up on trying to learn extremely difficult tricks!
Unexpected Benefit #1 – Improved Communication
One of the biggest challenges with raising a dog is that we don’t speak the same language. Yes, dogs can pick up and learn words, but there is a ‘language barrier’ when it comes to our dogs.
Every moment of interaction with your pup involves trying to communicate what you’re wanting and expecting from them. And of course, they often try to communicate back how they’re feeling and perceiving situations (often with body language).
A huge benefit of trick training is that your communication will have to be precise! Marking, shaping, and reinforcing tricks learned takes a high level of focus on communication.
You have to key in on the exact moments your dog does what is being asked of him or her. Trick training forces us as humans to think and communicate more clearly and effectively with our dogs.
As I’ve done more trick training with my dogs, I’ve found my ability to communicate with them much improved. It also has helped that communication become more second-nature, even when compared to just ‘normal’ behavioral training sessions!
Unexpected Benefit #2 – You’ll Have Fun
I know that sometimes it doesn’t feel this way, but raising a dog should be fun!
Too often we get hung up on the ‘bad’ parts of our dog. It can be frustrating, feel like progress is slow, and sometimes feel like there isn’t a solution to the challenges of raising a dog.
I’ve been there!
And that’s why it is so important to do things with your dog that are fun. Doing fun things, like trick training, with your dog can unlock the positive experiences with your pup you might be searching for!
Taking the time to practice tricks can be an extremely welcome break from the ‘behavioral training sessions’ you and your dog are used to. Plus, I’ve found it can be a helpful reset for my dogs if they are becoming frustrated during those ‘behavioral training sessions’.
If you’re looking for a fun way to bond with your dog, do trick training!
Unexpected Benefit #3 – Improved Behavior
While working on tricks isn’t going to make your dog stop barking through the fence right away, it can help his or her behavior generally.
So much of training comes down to practicing how we communicate with our pups. And as I mentioned previously, trick training is a great way to improve communication with your dog.
When communication improves, behavior often does as well.
With my own dogs, for example, I’ve found doing fun things like leg weaves can get them more excited about being around me and more attentive to what I’m asking. In turn, when we go out on walks that makes them want to be attentive, even if just a little bit more!
And in dog behavior, every incremental bit of success is valuable and important. Dog behaviors don’t change overnight or with one training session, but rather, gradually over time.
Practicing trick training can help your dog’s ability to listen, focus, and therefore indirectly improve their general behavior and manners.
Get access to 40 tricks
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I’ve always loved robots! The idea of a machine that can complete tasks for you is fascinating.
And nowadays, we deal with robots every day. You have one on your phone (Siri, etc.), a speaker in your house that will do exactly what you ask, and you may even have a robot that vacuums your house (best appliance I own).
You give an input or command, and get the same output every single time.
Unfortunately, I think that because we are so used to getting the exact same output from these robots, we often, inadvertently, view our dogs in the same manner. We want A=B always, but that’s just not reality with our dogs.
And while I know you don’t actually think your dog is a robot, I want to discuss ways that you might act like your dog is a robot.
What Works for Me, Might Not Work for You I have two sister Labrador Retrievers. So you would think that of all the dogs out there, they would surely behave in a similar fashion.
Nope.
They are extremely different in more ways than I can explain. But needless to say, they do not behave the same way in every situation. And how I train and raise them individually is extremely different.
So, why do we often think that a technique that worked for a neighbor’s dog is going to work for our own?
And even beyond that, why do we think that a toy your neighbor’s dog loved will be loved by your own dog?
It’s important to remember that the things you learn (even from us here at Pupford) may need some tweaking to best fit your dog’s needs. Or, they may not work for your dog… and that is okay!
Don’t be afraid to try out different variations of training techniques you learn to best meet your dog’s needs.
Don’t Be Too Robotic as a Trainer While this episode is about how your pup isn’t a robot, it’s a good reminder for us as humans to not act too robotic when training our pups.
My opinion is that when we get into ‘training sessions’ we often get hung up on trying the same things over and over. And sometimes that just doesn’t work.
Don’t be afraid to mix it up! If your pup is struggling with recall, try turning it into a game. Or, try jumping up and down when you call your pup to you.
Again, remember that if your training becomes too robotic it may lead your pup to tune out and not focus as well.
Give Your Dog a Break My dog Sunny has hip dysplasia. When I tell my dogs to go to their place (typically their bed), I do not expect Sunny to lay down. It can be uncomfortable for her and so a sit is just fine, even though I expect my dog Scout to actually lay down on her place.
That example illustrates that it’s more important to look at your own dog’s situation than a conventional ‘this is how a behavior is done’ mindset.
And sometimes, our dogs just need a little bit of a break when they aren’t “performing how we hope”. There are so many factors in their surroundings including sounds, smells, and other stimuli that we may not even notice.
That isn’t to say we should be okay with our dog not listening to us or following behaviors that they are capable of! Rather, it’s a reminder that our dogs are creatures with nuance, and we should be okay with that.
Recap While we all know our dogs aren’t actually robots, we sometimes get into the trap of thinking they should behave like robots!
Remember that not every technique will work for your dog and that sometimes may just be having an off day or off moment when we ask for a behavior.
As we try to view our dogs through the lens of them behaving variably, it can help us remember to be patient and consistent with teaching new behaviors!
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I'm a huge believer in the power of mental enrichment for dogs! It really can help keep your dog's pesky problem behaviors at a minimum.
I've noticed in my own dogs that when they have enough mental enrichment they are overall less likely to jump on guests, bark at the door, etc.
Snuffle Mats are a super easy option for giving your dog some quick mental enrichment. Here are 2 powerful reasons why you should use a Snuffle Mat for your dog!
#1- Slow Down Mealtime
My labs love to scarf down their food. Which in most cases isn't a huge deal... but it can be problematic. I've seen it cause stomach issues and sometimes even throwing up (not often, but it has happened).
Giving your dog their meal in a Snuffle Mat can make the time they consume their meal MUCH longer.
#2- Mental Enrichment
Mental enrichment is powerful. And when you can knock out some mental enrichment during a daily task, it makes your life SO much easier!
As your dog forages for their food or treats in the Snuffle Mat, it works their brain and nose to find the treats.
If you wanna try out a Snuffle Mat, right now you can snag one and get a FREE bag of 2oz Training Treats (over 225 treats) and FREE shipping! Get the deal here: https://pfrd.site/snufffle-deal
Please review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/pupapp-freee
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
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Whether it’s back to school, a job change, or new family members in your home, any time of transition can be a challenge for your pup!
That sudden adjustment from plenty of time at home with you to suddenly being alone more during the day can cause some fear, anxiety, and even loneliness for your dog.
Let’s dive into 3 ways you can help make schedule changes easier for your pup.
1. Give Extra Exercise and Enrichment
Our dogs need mental and physical exercise. It’s that simple.
And when we know schedule changes will be happening, we need to give them even more.
Do NOT plan on leaving for long stretches of time without giving your dog some exercise. Here are some quick ideas:
- Use frozen treats like Lick Mats and Kongs
- Encourage healthy chewing with long-lasting chews
- Do activities that incorporate both physical and mental exercise like fetch, sniff walks, and flirt poles
And now, the 2nd point.
2. Slowly Work into the New Schedule
Dogs are creatures of habit, so if you need to change those habits… try to do it gradually instead of all at once.
If your summer wake up time for your pup is 8 am but it will be switching to 6:30 am, take a week or two to gradually move up their wake up, feeding, and exercise schedule. accordingly
And with any time of change, remember to be patient with your pup. They may change their behavior, habits, and even general mood as they go through changes in their schedule.
Here’s the 3rd and final point.
3. Get a Dog Walker or Friend to Help Out
Dogs have been bred for thousands of years to enjoy the company of humans. So if you’re not able to provide that during the day, try to get other people involved in their life.
Dog walkers or sitters are a good option for midday visits.
If that isn’t financially viable, try getting the help of a friend, family member, or neighbor. I’m sure there is someone near you who LOVES dogs and would love extra time around one!
Recap
Changes in schedule can be surprisingly challenging for dogs of any age. By following these tips you’ll help ensure that this transition is as simple and positive as possible for your dog!
Have other ideas that helped your dog? Tell me in a review!
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Dog aggression is both a scary and often misunderstood topic. And while we won't be able to dive into everything there is to know, this episode will help you understand the basics of dog aggression!
In this episode, I was lucky enough to be joined by Karen Chapdelaine. Karen is a professional dog trainer who specializes in working with reactive and aggressive dogs.
She holds multiple certifications including CPDT-KA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed), DN-CET (DogNostic Canine Enrichment Technician), Fear Free Certified, and is an AKC CGC Evaluator.
You can connect with Karen through her website or social media!
https://thetimelessdog.com/
https://www.instagram.com/karenandcj/
https://www.facebook.com/TheTimelessDog/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_Qzwou5vLd-DcKGeXtSgOw
Please review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
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Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Trying to reduce dog shedding is... an eternal struggle. If you have a short-haired dog (or almost any dog for that matter), shedding is part of the dog parent experience!
And no, you cannot stop a dog from shedding. Period. It's not possible. If you find any type of product or supplement that claims to stop shedding, avoid it!
In this episode, I'm going to break down 3 main things you can do to reduce your dog's shedding.
#1- Coat Health
Dog shedding is natural but ensuring your pup's coat health is in top shape can reduce shedding.
Make sure your dog's getting enough Omega's in their diet or with an added supplement.
Our dog's overall nutrition and health affect shedding in many ways!
#2- Brush Regularly
How often you need to brush your dog will depend on the breed, but most dogs should be brushed at least a couple of times per week. For some dogs, it may need to be done more frequently.
Regularly brushing helps to pull out the loose hair from your dog's coat. While you may not see dramatic results right away, consistency will help reduce your dog's shedding.
#3- Bathing Routine
A consistent bathing routine can also help to reduce how much your dog sheds!
If you're dealing with a LOT of shedding, It's important to use a shampoo that can aid in reducing shedding.
I have two Labrador Retrievers who shed more than you can imagine. And above all, the thing that has helped the most with their shedding is Sudsy.
It's an all-natural shampoo bar with a combination of ingredients that seriously help reduce shedding. My dog Scout sheds off so much more of her coat when we use Sudsy for baths. You can check out Sudsy (available in 2 scents) here: https://pfrd.site/sudsy-here
The other important part of a healthy bathing routine is to blow dry your dog. It's best to use a dog-specific blow dryer if possible. The high-powered vacuums work to clear out as much loose hair and undercoat as possible.
If you want to use a normal hairdryer, be sure to do it on warm or cool and not on hot. The high heat can cause damage to your dog's coat.
And the 3rd step of a successful de-shedding bath routine must include brushing your dog. That last step of brushing will help pull out any final hairs still waiting to be shed.
So your bathing routine should consist of the following.
-Use a shampoo formulated to reduce shedding
-Dry dog completely, preferably with a dog-specific hairdryer
-Completely brush your dog out
Following that routine has reduced my dog's shedding more than anything else!
Bonus Tip- Treatments at the Groomer
If you have an extreme shedder in your house, it could be worth taking your pup into a groomer for a full de-shedding.
Prices will vary depending on where you live, but it's likely only something you'll need to do a couple of times each year.
Personal Life-Hack: Get a Robot Vacuum
This isn't necessarily going to reduce shedding, but investing in a robot vacuum is a life-saver in a house with dogs.
There are models that cover a huge price range (some starting at $99) but even something simple will help reduce how frequently you need to sweep/vacuum.
Our robot vacuum is one of the most important things we have in our home, thanks to two Labrador Retrievers.
Please review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
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Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Why is my neighbor's dog so good on a leash... he's half the age of my dog?! This is a trap!
And you should avoid getting caught in it as much as you can!
Falling into the comparison trap with our dogs usually just brings about negative feelings and no real help for our dogs. In this episode, I break down a few reasons why you should NOT compare your dog to other dogs.
Reason #1- You Don't Know That Dog
Whenever you look at a dog and how they behave, you might be making some assumptions that are completely untrue.
You typically don't know if that dog is a Hollywood-dog-star with years of dedicated training experience, for example.
You also likely don't know how that dog behaves in all situations. While you might see a dog that's good on leash out on a walk, you don't know if that dog tears up couches when left alone.
Making snap judgments about a dog in comparison to your own isn't fair because you don't truly know that other dog's background. You don't know the experiences the dog and human counterparts have had!
Any comparison is truthfully an apples to oranges type comparison because every dog is SO different and every situation is unique.
Reason #2- You're Only Seeing a Moment in Time
If you make a comparison about your dog to another, you're like only doing that based on a few snap moments or situations.
This is even more so true in the world of social media...
I can almost guarantee you that the pup with 50k followers on Instagram has just as many problem behaviors as you're dealing with for your dog.
Instagram dog accounts are polished and perfected moments that don't reflect reality. If you let that become your benchmark to what your dog should be aspiring to... you're bound for disappointment.
Again, you might see a dog that sits well for pictures on their Instagram posts but is an absolute maniac while on a leash.
So don't be fooled by Instagram dogs! The reality likely isn't what they're willing to actually show you ;)
Reason #3- You Should Compare Your Dog to Their "Past Self"
In my opinion, the only comparison you should make about your dog's behavior is to their previous "self".
Instead of looking at how good your neighbor's dog is at not jumping, look at how much your dog has progressed instead!
If you were to make a record of your dog's skill level with a specific behavior every day, you would likely see HUGE levels of growth over time.
It's so much more important to focus on your dog's progress over time than their "skill level" in comparison to other dogs!
By the way, you can track your dog's behavior progress in the Pupford App! Get it here: https://pfrd.site/getthe-app
Recap
No dog or dog's situation is the same. Comparing your dog to the dog next door is a sticky trap that can lead you to forge the good things your dog is doing!
So instead of comparing your dog to other dogs, compare your dog to their "past self" and see how much improvement has happened over time!
Please review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/getthe-app
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Pet insurance can be an extremely confusing topic, but in this video, I'll break down the important things to look for when choosing pet insurance.
Let me say this first, I'm NOT an insurance expert. If you're looking for in-depth information on how insurance works, look elsewhere :)
There are a few things to understand about pet insurance.
1. Not all plans cover the same things, so do your research
- Yes, in most cases it is worth having some level of pet insurance
Here is what I recommend to keep in mind as you are searching for insurance for your dog.
1. Assess Your Finances
Understanding your financial situation will help you choose the right plan with the right deductible, premium, and maximum out-of-pocket.
Find a plan that is feasible for your exact financial situation.
2. Explore Different Companies
Never just get one quote. ALWAYS always always explore different options. Always!
Asking around and trying different options is a good way to price shop as well as to see different plan coverage.
Additionally, the "quote" you get isn't always the final answer. Try adjusting the deductible, maximum-out-of-pocket, etc. to see how your premium might change!
3. There is Not a "One Size Fits All" Answer
Your dog is unique and your situation is unique, so don't expect a one-size-fits-all answer to which insurance is "best".
Pro Tips for Insurance Research
- Look at the Reimbursement Process
One of the most challenging and frustrating parts of pet insurance is the reimbursement process.
For some companies, the timeline for reimbursement can be over 60 days. So, be sure to consider that as part of your decision process.
- Check Out Reviews About Customer Service
Reviews are sometimes an inaccurate way of looking at insurance companies. In SO many cases (not all though) the extremely negative reviews are from people who didn't end up getting an emergency covered that they anticipated would be covered.
So, it's important to look at reviews that talk about customer service, ease of use, reimbursement process, etc.
I hope this episode was helpful for you and gives you an added level of confidence in choosing the right pet insurance!
Please review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
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Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
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You've probably heard people say that our dogs can "read" our emotions and moods, but is there science to back that up?!
A group of researchers set out to answer that question and found an alarming answer. YES. Our dogs can and do pick up on the chemical changes in our bodies.
THE STUDY
The group started by having human participants watch either a clip that induced fear or happiness in the viewers. As they watched a clip, researchers collected a sample of their sweat.
The second part of the study is where the dogs became involved. In a room, the researchers placed a dog with 3 things in the room.
-
Their pup parent (not trying to interact with or sway the dog)
-
A stranger (not trying to interact with or sway the dog)
-
A sampling of the sweat collected from human participants
The sample of sweat was either (1) the "fear" sweat, (2) the "happy" sweat or (3) no sweat at all.
The dogs were hooked up to heart rate monitors. On top of that, the researchers were viewing to see where the dogs ventured, where they looked, etc.
The results were staggeringly clear.
When the dogs smelled the human "fear" sweat, their heart rates went up and they showed clear signs of fear and anxiety. The dogs would sometimes even try to hide or cower behind their humans.
When the dogs smelled the human "happy" sweat they had lower heart rates (than the "fear" test) and even showed more interaction with the strangers.
WHAT CAN WE LEARN?
A study like this has a couple of major takeaways.
First, our dogs DO pick up on changes in our emotions and feelings. Even when we may not think we are exhibiting new feelings or emotions, our body changes. And when the chemicals in our body change, our dogs take notice.
This is why dogs are so skilled at being emotional support animals because they can often sense problems before their human counterparts can.
Additionally, from a dog training and behavior standpoint, this study emphasizes the importance of our own emotions when we interact and train our dogs. If we are constantly feeling anxious or overwhelmed when training, our dogs will pick up on that and mimic those feelings.
Here is a link to the original study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28988316/
Do you think your dog picks up on your emotions personally? Let me know how you've seen that in your own life by leaving a review!
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Are you obsessed with the word "no" when it comes to training your dog? While the word 'no' can have a time and place in training, it isn't a 'behavior'.
Too often as pup parents, we become obsessed and often times overreliant on the word 'no'. The problem with the word 'no' is that it doesn't teach our dogs what we DO want them to do!
The key to training is communication, and if the only thing we communicate to our dog is 'no' or 'stop', we've only done half the work.
If your sports coach stopped practice and just yelled 'no, no, no' with zero explanation, would your team know what to do to improve?
No, you need your coach to tell you what went wrong and what they want you to do instead. And the same goes for our pups!
We have to change our communication from 'no, no, no' to 'do this' or 'try that'.
So if you're overwhelmed by your dog barking at the door, teach them what you want them to do when someone comes to the door... instead of just saying no.
If your dog jumps on people while on walks, teach them that you want them to sit and stay when they're being greeted... instead of just saying no.
If your dog pulls on the leash, teach them where you want them to be and reward heavily when they do that... instead of just saying no.
SMART x50
Kathy Sdao coined the phrase and technique called SMART x50.
SMART stands for See, Mark, And, Reward, Training.
This technique can help you overcome your reliance on 'no' and start to focus on the good things your dog is doing. Here is what you do!
Grab a bowl and put 50 treats (Pupford ones work great!) in the bowl out of your dog's reach.
Throughout the day, look for 50 opportunities to find good behaviors your dog is doing. This shouldn't be during 'dedicated' training sessions, but rather just moments when your dog is doing something good.
Here is an example.
See- Your dog comes and lays down by your feet without being asked
Mark- Use your marker word or clicker to let your dog know that behavior is desirable
Reward- Give your dog one of the 50 treats from the bowl
Then repeat that 50 different times throughout the day!
This act of focusing on the good can not only help reinforce good behaviors (which will make those behaviors happen more frequently), but it will also help you avoid using the word 'no' too frequently.
RECAP
It's not feasible to never use the word 'no' with your dog, but you shouldn't become too reliant on it.
Focus on teaching your dog what you DO want them to do! And of course, try out the SMART x50 method for at least a few days and see what it does for your communication and relationship with your pup!
Please review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/dogg-app
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Twice a day (or more often if you have a puppy) you have your dog's undivided attention... mealtime!
Unfortunately, we often let that opportunity pass by without using it to its full advantage. Because truthfully, mealtime should be much more than just something to check off your to-do list!
Here are some powerful ways to maximize your dog's mealtime.
MENTAL EXERCISE AND ENRICHMENT
Mental exercise, enrichment, brain work... whatever you call it, it's extremely important!
And during mealtimes, your dog's food drive is often at its peak, so take advantage. Whether you use a snuffle mat, Kong toy, lick mat, or any other puzzle toy, just make sure your dog gets some much-needed mental exercise during their meals.
Not only is it good for their brain, but it also helps slow down their eating to help avoid bloating and other digestive issues.
Every meal should include some brain work. Don't miss it!
TRAINING AND TRICKS
Again, right before mealtime your dog is hungry and anticipating food. So you should take advantage!
Grab a few pieces of their food (if you feed dehydrated or raw this might be a challenge) and set it aside to do some training. You can practice new tricks, reinforce recall, or just work on focus behaviors and listening.
And while I'm not promoting using ALL of their food for training, it's beneficial to use some.
When you have their focus and their food drive is high, it is the best time to reinforce and train new or challenging behaviors. Use their meal as a reward!
TRAIN IMPULSE CONTROL
This one is similar to the previous point, but it's important to specifically train impulse control as part of your dog's meals.
That can be as simple as waiting for a second before eating, or even staying in their place while you prepare the meal until being released.
Another fun game to play is the "See-Saw Game". Here's how to play!
Kneel or stand above your dog with the bowl of food in your hand. Start to lower the bowl.
As you lower, quickly raise the bowl the instant your dog lunges towards or tries to get the food. (Keep a safe distance so you can remove the bowl fast enough from your pup.)
Repeat this behavior until you can successfully lower the bowl all the way to the ground. Once that occurs, mark and reward that behavior by giving the meal!
This can often take many attempts and continued practice, so don't be afraid to just go for partial success in the beginning (ie, lowering the bowl to waist height without your dog moving) and rewarding for that.
PS- Get in-depth instructions as part of 21 Impulse Control Games here: https://pfrd.site/21games-here
RECAP
No matter what you feed your pup, make sure you do it with a purpose! Use that valuable mealtime as an opportunity to give mental exercise, extra training, and even some impulse control practice!
Please review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/1pup-app
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Why do dogs lick people..? If it isn't to be cute and hilarious, then why?!
Dogs lick people for many reasons, we will explore a handful of those reasons in this episode!
Affection and Love
One of the main reasons your dog might lick people is to show affection and love. Although we can't get inside our dog's brains, there seems to be strong reasoning that dogs lick people to show some love.
Our dogs can't talk or communicate their love, so they often find other ways to do that! Sometimes it is a lick on the leg, sometimes a snuggle, and sometimes just a tail wag when we're having a bad day.
Mothers often lick their young puppies to clean them and connect, and it is believed that action is passed on to their pups as well.
It's In Their DNA
Similarly, many wild dogs, coyotes, wolves, etc. will lick other members of their pack. This is often done by pups when a parent returns as a way to ask for food.
Our pups have many distant (and not so distant) similarities to those wild species, and that desire to lick is likely in their DNA.
Of course, just because your dog licks you doesn't mean they're looking for food! But it might be part of it, at least deep down in their DNA.
Attention
In my own opinion only, I think this is the main reason.
Again, our dogs only have limited ways of communicating with us and we often don't like some of those ways (looking at you, barking). So, naturally, our dogs learn to find ways to communicate so that it's more enjoyable to humans.
If my dogs are overly bored or wanting to do something fun, they'll often come up and lick my leg until they get my attention.
So if your dog is coming up and licking you a lot, you may need to give them just a little more attention!
You Taste Good
Alright, I know that is weird... but dogs are much different than humans! Their mouth is one of the main ways they explore the world around them.
And when they find something that has an interesting taste, they'll probably keep coming back! As humans, we do have a slightly salty taste to our skin, especially after sweating.
Weird, right? But dogs can do weird things.
Excitement/Nervousness
This can be lumped in with the 'attention' category, but oftentimes you'll see a dog lick a person more frequently when they are very excited! Again, it's a way to communicate.
Additionally, if dogs are shy, nervous, or submissive, you may see more licking than normal. Licking people (or dogs) can be a way for a dog to show that they are not a threat.
Is It Bad for Your Dog to Lick You?
Naturally, you may be wondering if it is bad for your dog to lick you...
The short answer, probably not. As long as you don't have open wounds or a weak immune system, you'll likely be fine!
But with that being said, dogs' mouths are kind of gross! Think about the different number of things your dog eats, licks, or puts in its mouth every day... That's why you wanna be a bit cautious with any licking near your mouth or face area.
Again, you will likely be fine but there have been rare instances (very rare) where people have gotten unique/obscure diseases from their dogs.
Recap
Overall, we don't know the exact reason why dogs lick people but it can often be for attention, affection, or just cause they like the taste of our skin!
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Intro music cred to Kevin May:https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Coming home to your dog after a long day can be extremely chaotic... I mean, enjoyable? 😉
If every time you walk in the door your dog goes crazy, then this episode is for you!
It can often be tempting to be overly excited and amped up when you get home, but that can be a huge mistake... Here are 3 tips to help make your coming home experience more enjoyable for both you and your dog.
Tip #1: Watch Your Energy
Dogs read our emotions and energy, much more so than you might think!
If you walk in the door and are amped up, talking in a high-pitched voice, and are overly excited then your dog probably will be too...
When you walk in, stay as calm as possible and avoid doing anything that may inadvertently reinforce your dog's unwanted behaviors. That can include giving attention, pets, or talking to your dog while they are jumping, barking, or acting hyper.
Give your dog time to calm down, and stay calm yourself.
Tip #2: Fake Exits & Practice Before the Real Thing
Practice makes perfect... and the same goes for door greetings!
It's beyond important to try out the training techniques for door greetings outside of the context of you coming home after being gone for a few hours.
Try leaving, locking the door behind you, etc, and then coming back in 30 seconds and practicing proper greetings. Do that at random times throughout the day for random short intervals.
If the only time you try to get your dog to sit when being greeted is when they're already amped up, you're doomed to fail!
Practice beforehand!
Tip #3- Redirection & Alternative Behaviors
Those first few seconds when you come home will set the tone for the rest of that greeting experience... So try to make that initial approach as easy as possible for your dog.
Here are a few things that have worked well in our home with 2 large labs that can be very hyper.
1. Right when you walk in, ignore your dog and then throw a handful of treats on the ground. This will get their nose to the ground, excited to find food. That 20-30 second distraction can really help reset their brain.
2. Go straight to play. Walk in and grab their favorite ball or toy then ask for a simple behavior like sit or look at me. Once they do, throw the toy/ball and have some simple fun. Again, those few moments of distraction/redirection can help reset your dog's brain.
3. Use a frozen treat or another treat. Right when you walk in, grab a frozen Lick Mat and give it to your pup. As he/she is distracted and happily licking the toy, you can give them pets and attention.
Recap
Calm door greetings take a LOT of time, effort, and practice. Remember that with all of these tips, the overarching tip/concept is to only reward the correct behaviors.
Be strict about not giving pets, attention, or praise when your dog is jumping, barking, or acting crazy.
By implementing these tips over an extended period of time you can achieve less chaotic door greetings!
Wanna learn more about impulse control?! Check out 21 Impulse Control Games: https://pfrd.site/21gamess
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Losing a dog is a terribly painful and difficult experience. We recently put our dog Buddy to sleep after he developed some severe health issues, he was 15 years old.
We had an amazing life with Buddy and he lived a life full of adventure, love, and plenty of mischief. Throughout this process of grieving his death, I've found a few "life lessons" that I think he wanted to pass along. Buddy will be forever missed but the lessons he taught will be with me forever, and hopefully, these 3 lessons will help you have a more enjoyable life with your pup.
Lesson #1 - Have Patience for Your Dog
In some of those final moments with Buddy, I ran through a lot of the regrets I had. One that constantly popped up was the times I got frustrated or became impatient with him and his mischievous deeds. Buddy LOVED to get into things. Especially things with food in them.
Even in his final weeks, he was still scavenging and searching for snacks (whether he was supposed to have them or not). It can be very difficult to have patience for our dog's "bad" behaviors, but you won't regret being more patient with your pup. It has been a good reminder for me that dogs truly are that... dogs! Yes, they are family, but they also love doing "dog" things. So when your dog knocks something over, gets into the trash, or gets overly excited on a walk, try to remember to be patient and let your dog be a dog. Our dogs give LOTS to us, so giving them some patience in return is a pretty fair trade.
Lesson #2 - Take More Photos and Videos
Buddy has been around for quite a long while, even before Instagram and iPhones were around (seriously). His early years didn't have a lot of photos, and it's quite a bummer! Of course, your camera roll is probably 90% pictures of your dog, but honestly, I would still take more.
When my wife and I start to miss Buddy (pretty much all the time), it is very comforting and enjoyable to pull up pictures and videos of him when he was healthy and running around! Capturing your dog's quirks, funny moments, and fun tricks will be something you will enjoy for years to come, even after they pass away.
Lesson #3 - Enjoy the Small Moments
As Buddy aged, he slowed down physically. A walk that would normally take 5 minutes would take anywhere from 10-20 minutes, depending on how many times he wanted to stop and pee. In some of those final weeks, he all but forced us to stop and slow down. It got us noticing things in our neighborhood we'd never seen before and gave us opportunities to chat with strangers (who of course wanted to pet Buddy).
Our dogs can be a lot of work, and often times that work can seem repetitious or boring. A lesson Buddy passed on to me and hopefully to you as well is to savor the small moments. Buddy took his time on walks, sniffing every cranny and finding the most obscure places to pee. That wouldn't have happened if he was always sprinting by.
Recap
Although the passing of Buddy has been one of the most painful experiences of my life, the experience as a whole has taught me some powerful lessons. I hope these little lessons will help you have a more enriching and powerful relationship with your pup. Remember that our dog's lives are short, and we really need to enjoy the moments we have!
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Should I say 'wait' or 'stay'? And what about 'leave it' or 'wait'?!
As a new (or not so new) pup parent, getting these cue words correct can feel confusing and often times unclear. Luckily, the words you use are just that... words!
But, let's break down some of the differences between these commonly interchanged behaviors!
1. Wait vs Stay
This is often the most confusing... wait vs stay! Because, isn't our dog essentially doing the same action with both?!
Basically, yes. Here is how I like to think about wait vs stay...
I use 'wait' when I'm asking for a brief pause and in less 'serious' situations. So like when I'm about to walk out the door with my dogs. Or, when I'm asking them to 'wait' to go eat their food.
On the other hand, I use the word 'stay' when I am asking for a longer, more sustained duration. I also use this if there is a more serious situation like if I need to be certain my dogs aren't going to leave where they are.
So again, they are VERY similar. But I use wait for shorter pauses and stay for longer, more consequential staying put.
2. Leave It vs Drop
These two seem similar, but the main difference is that you'll use drop when you want your dog to let go of something ALREADY in their mouth.
Leave it is used when you want to avoid your dog ever getting something into their mouth or grasp.
3. Leave It vs Wait
Again, this one may seem confusing but simply put if you don't want your dog to get it at all, EVER... then use leave it.
Leave it should be synonymous with never going after said object. Whether it's a treat, squirrel, or piece of food on the ground, it is off limits.
Wait, means your dog should wait... but once released they can go get said object.
The important thing to remember with this one is that when you train 'leave it' you should also use a different reward than what they are being asked to leave alone.
Important Point: Behaviors Over "Commands"
The important thing to remember is that words are just words. What is more important is that your dog is internalizing and understanding the behavior itself.
"Commands" or cue words are just requests for your dog. You could train your dog to 'sit' using the word 'microphone'... it's all just words!
It's important to focus on overall behavior change and things like impulse control, focus around distractions, etc.. The words we use are just tips for our dogs, not a "solution".
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Walking two dogs can be a serious challenge. I've been walking 3 dogs (currently 2, RIP Buddy) for the past 4 years and I've learned a trick or two to make walking 2 dogs much simpler and honestly, more fun
Of course, you've got to be patient. Patience, time, and consistency are vital to successfully walking two dogs at the same time. (Also, these tips are still helpful if you only have one dog!)
1. Train Individually
This isn't negotiable. You MUST train your dogs separately before you practice training them together.
Walking 2 un-trained dogs will lead to tangling, frustration, and not enjoyable walks.
Our dogs need that 1-to-1 focus, so put in the extra time and train each dog individually!
2. Use the Right Gear
Like any effort in life, having the right gear does make a difference. I've tried way too many harnesses and leashes and finally found which ones work best.
A double-leash with a waistband is vital. Once you're ready to walk both dogs together, having a double leash will make your life much easier.
And the waistband may seem awkward at first, but it helps tremendously.
This is the one I use: https://amzn.to/2SQk5yb
And I ALWAYS use the Freedom No-Pull Harness with all of my dogs. Every single walk.
Here is a link to try it out (measure twice, buy once): https://pfrd.site/harnesss
3. Reward Positive Moments
This is the most underrated leash walking tip... reward the good moments. I know it sounds overly simple, but I see people constantly only worrying about the "bad" moments and never rewarding the "good" moments out on walks.
You can't just constantly tell your dog what NOT to do... That's only one side of the equation.
When your dog gives you eye contact, mark and reward.
When your dog is by your side, mark and reward.
When your dog does NOT react to a dog, bike, skateboard, etc., mark and reward.
Reward ALL of the positive moments.
Again, practice patience and be consistent!
What else has helped you when walking two dogs?
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Fourth of July is almost here… you know what that means, BBQs, parades, time with family and friends, and you guessed it… FIREWORKS. (eek)
While we may be mesmerized by the bright lights that light up the night sky, our dogs might not share our same affinity to them.
From July 4th - 6th, we see a 30 - 60 % increase in missing dogs around the country.
So what can we do to keep our dogs safe around fireworks this fourth of July? Let’s dive right on in.
Desensitize Your Dog to the Sound of Fireworks
It’s important to train and gather the tools you need NOW to help your dog be more comfortable when they arrive.
The first thing we recommend is working on desensitizing your dog to the sound of fireworks.
Here is how you can introduce them to your pup:
- Start by playing firework sounds on your phone at a low volume. The Pupford App has 100+ desensitization sounds, like fireworks.
- As your pup hears the noise, ask for a "look at me" or even a sit, lay down, or stay. Just something to get their focus.
- When your pup makes eye contact, reward with treats.
- Repeat the steps all while slowly increasing the noise level
Other things that you can do now include:
- Making sure that your dog’s ID tags are up-to-date with all information clearly visible.
- Making sure you are stocked up on your dog’s favorite chews and treats
- Look into calming beds and shirts for your dog
- And if you have serious concerns about your pup’s firework fear, talk to your vet about medication or supplements.
Now that we have talked about things to do leading up to fireworks, it’s time to talk about things to do DAY OF.
On the actual day of the 4th, make sure you have a plan to set your pup up for success.
Wake up earlier than normal and take your pup on a long hike, run, fetch session or any other type of physical exercise.
And when the weather starts to heat up, have some indoor games ready that you can play with your dog like
- Hide and seek, an obstacle course, or tug of war
- Flirt poles, puzzle feeders, or snuffle mats
- Training that gets your dog moving and using their mind
Now the last thing that is crucial to remember, is that…
Fireworks are dangerous! But your dog won’t know that until it’s too late. So keep your dog in your home, as far away from fireworks as possible!
Set up a spot where your pup can feel safe, for many dogs, their safe spot is their crate or kennel.
For other dogs, it can be your human bed, a specific room with comfy blankets, or even the couch.
In their safe space, you can do one or as many of these things as you like:
- Set up a white noise machine
- Put up thicker curtains
- Close the blinds
- Play gentle music
- Turn on fans
- Head into a room that's further away from windows and doors
Keeping your pup safe on the 4th of July is a high priority!
By employing these tips, you'll keep your pup not only safe but confident and prepared for what the 4th brings.
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Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
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If your Instagram feed is full of cute puppies and you are thinking about becoming a dog parent, you MUST understand these 3 things first…
If you don’t understand these things, you may end up regretting getting a dog!
These are the 3 things I wish I knew before getting a dog!
#1- Dogs are expensive
#2- Dogs take a lot of time
#3- You will form an amazing bond with your dog
Dogs can be challenging, but the relationship you can cultivate makes all those hard moments worth it!
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Sorry to come at you like that, but I'm nearly certain you aren't using your dog's nose to its full advantage. It is likely your dog's strongest scent, yet as humans, we rarely use it to its full advantage and even sometimes discourage sniffing...
Our dogs understand the world around them through their nose. They can't speak to us and they sure can't read, so instead, they use their noses.
A dog's nose is said to be over 1,000 times stronger than the human nose. That's why there are drug-sniffing dogs and not drug-sniffing humans.
So instead of being bothered by your dog sniffing on a walk, here is what you can do.
First, try going on sniff walks. Don't pick a destination, just let your dog lead the way with their nose. This freedom and exploration will work wonders for your dog's mind!
Second, incorporate enrichment that uses their nose. That can be snuffle mats, foraging boxes, hide and seek, and so much more!
The main thing to remember is your dog's sense of smell should be encouraged! Let them explore, let them find new smells, let them explore on walks, let them be a dog!!
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Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
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Summer means hot days, and those hot days can pose specific challenges to you and your dog!
Bringing plenty of water, avoiding exercise during peak heat hours, and giving frozen treats are great ways to help keep your dog safe ☀️
Here are helpful links to articles referenced in the video!
How to Exercise Your Dog Indoors: https://pfrd.site/indoorexercises
How to Keep Dogs Cool: https://pfrd.site/staycool
Summer Dog Tips & Popsicle Recipes: https://pfrd.site/summertips
BBQ Foods Dogs Can and Cannot Eat: https://pfrd.site/bbq-safety
Don't forget to snag up to 50% off summer gear, treats, and training (deals end soon)! Shop here: https://pfrd.site/50-offsummer
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Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
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Your dog will be exposed to many new sounds/experiences that may cause them fear or shyness. Think construction sites, horses, vacuums, etc.!
Desensitization is the simple act of changing that stimulus from something that causes fear, to something that has a positive association.
Desensitizing your dog or puppy to sounds before they happen in 'real life' will help your dog's confidence and help avoid fear in their life.
The best way to learn how to desensitize your dog is by watching the video. Here is a quick overview ⤵️
Step 1- Play a sound at a low volume.
Step 2- As you play the sound, give your dog a treat.
Step 3- Slowly repeat steps 1-2 until you can reach full volume. If your dog gets nervous/scared at any point, lower the volume and try again.
Remember, this process can take weeks to months depending on your dog's history, fear level, and what the trigger might be... so be patient!
Be sure to download the Pupford App to access all of the sounds: https://pfrd.site/app-sounds
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Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
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Every relationship in your life is a bit of a balancing act... whether it's your spouse, best friend, or even your dog, there is always work to be done to keep the relationship healthy!
When it comes to our dogs, we often do a LOT of asking. We ask our pups to wait for their food, not jump on guests, not pull on leash, not bark, etc., etc. and all that 'asking' can add up quickly. So the question quickly becomes... are we balancing back the scales of our relationship with our dogs?
Are we finding ways to let them just be... dogs? You know, exploring, running off leash, barking, etc.
It's so important to do things every day to just improve your relationship with your dog. Don't focus on behavior, training, or anything... Just spend some time with your dog, letting them be a dog!
This simple mindset can really help improve your bond and therefore your communication with your dog!
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Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
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Moving with dogs can be an extremely stressful experience! I just moved from Utah to NYC with 3 dogs, and there were some parts that were truly difficult...
In this episode, I'll break down tips for before the move, during the move, and of course, settling into your new place.
Keep your eyes peeled on our YouTube channel for the full video as well!
Happy moving!
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Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/downloadnow
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Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
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Adventure Pups deals up to 25% off here (ends May 7): https://pfrd.site/pups-adventure
Who’s ready for some summer adventures and hiking with your dog? As the days get warmer and longer you know the first thing we are thinking about is getting out of the house and into nature!
And that's why we're giving you essential dog hiking tips to keep your pup happy and safe.
Here are some important, helpful, and essential tips for bringing along your favorite four-legged friends on your explorations. Don't forget your camera!
PS- If you're looking for fun hikes in your area, AllTrails is a great resource. They even have an app!
Check out the full blog here: https://pfrd.site/hiking-dogs
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Searching for the right dog trainer can sometimes feel impossible! There are so many different certifications... different methods... different titles... different names for training styles... the list goes on! So, how can you decide confidently?
Of course, when choosing a dog trainer you should check out their experience and credentials. But, on top of that, I have two things you can do to help make a better decision about who will help train your dog!
1- Ask for their understanding of LIMA and if they practice that methodology
2- Be forthright and ask if they use punishments or aversive if you're on the fence about a trainer
Those 2 things are simple, but they can truly help you make a more informed decision about who to have help train your pup.
Learn more about LIMA here: https://m.iaabc.org/about/lima/
Check out Pupford Academy for a deeper dive into the Four Quadrants of Dog Training & LIMA (new video releases soon): https://pfrd.site/acad3my-access
Please review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/qapp-free
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Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
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A bored dog often results in problematic behaviors. I'm talking about things like barking, destruction, digging, chewing, etc. often happen when our dogs are bored! So, what can we do?
Here are 3 ways to keep your dog from getting bored!
#1- Exercise in the morning
#2- Quick and sporadic play/training sessions
#3- Mental exercise and enrichment
#1- Excercise in the Morning
This one is vital. You can't expect your dog to sit around for the bulk of the day calmly if they haven't had some exercise in the morning.
It doesn't have to be anything extremely intense, but at a minimum, your dog needs a walk in the morning. I take my dogs either on a run or to play fetch every single morning and it makes a huge difference in their behavior during the day.
#2- Quick and Sporadic Play/Training Sessions
Let me preface this by saying that dogs typically thrive under structure and a schedule. But that doesn't mean you can't randomly pull out a toy and play with your pup for 5-10 minutes during the day.
Keeping your dog on their toes as to when play/training might occur will help keep them excited throughout the day! Truly, sometimes it is more productive to play for 10 minutes 6 times per day (example only) rather than 60 minutes at once for all their play.
And the same goes for training, keep it short and keep it sporadic throughout the day!
#3- Mental Exercise and Enrichment
Your dog's breed was not bred for thousands (or hundreds) of years to sit on a couch. In most cases, dogs were bred to perform a job or task.
Retrievers helped with retrieving fallen animals during hunting, pulling out nets for fishing, etc... they had a job every single day! You don't need your job to have a 9-5, but your dog needs some tasks and "jobs" throughout the day.
You can do this with things like mental exercise toys, foraging, structured trick training, simple dog agility, and a whole host of other options!
Overall, the biggest key for a happy and not bored dog is to make sure their basic needs are met!
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Recall (aka come when called) is vital for your dog's safety. Unfortunately, it can be one of the most difficult behaviors for dogs to really understand and grasp.
One often under-used trick for teaching recall is to teach it with play. Yup, good old fun and games!
Scout (my Lab) is EXTREMELY ball-motivated. She loves all toys, but the ball is truly her life.
We struggled for years (honestly) to help her learn a solid recall because she just isn't that food motivated and we couldn't get her that interested in treats (no matter the treat) in high-distraction environments. The only thing she would focus on consistently while outside... her ball.
So, we decided to practice recall every single time we played fetch! Here is what we did...
We started indoors. There's no getting around that.
We would do a couple of fun throws with her ball, then we would take 1-2 steps away from her (after she dropped her ball) and call her to us (Scout, come). At first, she was slightly confused about that 'cue word' being introduced during play, but after a couple attempts she caught on.
So, again... 1-2 steps back, call her to us. Once she came to us it was a very quick mark (we use 'yes') and then throwing her ball.
After practice inside, we took it to our backyard. Practicing this fetch-recall-training, every time we played fetch.
Then, the same thing but at a park while on a 100-foot lead. Every 1-2 throws, she had to do a come when called to get the ball.
And guess what, it didn't magically improve overnight. Nope. It took about 6 months of practicing that almost every single day.
And now, she is almost perfect with recall.
The moral of the story... well there are 2.
-
Make recall (and all training) fun.
-
Find your dog's highest reinforcer, and use that ALL THE TIME.
Need more ideas for recall training? Check out the Recall Mastery course part of Pupford Academy here: https://pfrd.site/recall-game
Please review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/aapp-free
Subscribe on YouTube here: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube
Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Having patience for your dog's behavior might be one of the most difficult things in the world... but in this episode, I'm going to explain why that patience is key to your happiness when raising a dog!
There are two very important things to remember...
1. Every dog is different.
2. Your expectations/timelines don't matter to your dog.
Too often with our dogs, we expect things to happen overnight. But, newsflash... they aren't robots!
After moving across the country with my 3 dogs I was taught a powerful lesson in patience. I expected my dog Sunny to be the fastest at learning to go potty in a new environment, turned out she was the slowest of all 3 dogs! I let myself get frustrated and impatient because I had expectations that didn't match reality.
She really wasn't doing anything wrong... just adjusting!
So, learn from my mistakes and remember to be patient with your dog. Whether you're working on overcoming separation anxiety, biting, or leash pulling problems you will be better served to put in the training and be patient with your dog's progress.
Let me know (email hello@pupford.com) how being patient has helped your dog's behavior.
Please review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/appdownloadd
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Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Impulse control affects all parts of your dog's behavior. It's something you should be practicing and working on every single day!
In this episode, we will cover 3 aspects of impulse control training.
Part 1: What is impulse control? How should we be viewing our dog's ability to control their impulses?
Part 2: Why is impulse control important? What parts of your dog's behavior does impulse control affect?
Part 3: How can you improve your dog's impulse control? Here are 2 quick ideas you can do every day to help improve your dog's ability to control his or her impulses!
If you want a deep dive into impulse control, check out our 21 Impulse Control games part of Pupford Academy! Get access here: https://pfrd.site/impulse
Please like and subscribe!! Thanks for watching 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/app-downloadd
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Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
In this episode, I cover why you should have oral hygiene habits for your pup and what those habits should be.
Tons of people ask, how often should I brush my dog's teeth? What kind of toothpaste do I use? How do I make my dog like the toothbrush and more... Well, here are your answers!
And don't forget, you can snag a dog toothbrush from Pupford here: https://pfrd.site/toothbrush
Here's my favorite dog toothpaste that I've been using with my pups for over a year! https://amzn.to/2E3ryj1
Please like and subscribe!! Thanks for watching 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/pups-free-app
Subscribe on YouTube here: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube
Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Dog sports encompass everything from agility to dock diving and SO much more in between. Think dog sports are too advanced for your dog? Think again!
In this episode, we sit down with Trevor Smith to give an introduction to all things dog sports. We'll discuss how to get started with your dog, what competitions are like, and most importantly, how dog sports can help improve your dog's behavior and your bond with him or her!
Connect With Trevor Smith
Trevor is a CPDT-KA trainer who continually attends seminars and conferences to improve his knowledge of dog training, and all things dogs.
He is a strong advocate for pain and force-free methods and believes that we should all personally feel good about the methods we use to train our dogs.
When not training dogs, Trevor and his wife (a veterinarian) enjoy fun outdoor activities like scuba diving and zip-lining, taking their dogs on hikes, and playing video games.
Trevor is also a Certified Canine Fitness Trainer from the University of Tennessee.
Connect with Trevor via his website here: https://www.thedoggiedojo.com/
Connect with Trevor on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/doggiedojo/
Connect with Trevor on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/thedoggiedojo/
Connect with Trevor on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/user/thedoggiedojo
Check out Trevor's podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-with-your-dog/id1493425125
Please like and subscribe!! Thanks for watching 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/3app-free
Subscribe on YouTube here: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube
Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Separation anxiety is a complex topic. Amber Aquart joins us on today's episode to help break down what separation anxiety in dogs really is, and what pup parents can do about it. Again, this is an overview. Separation anxiety is complex. If you want to learn more from Amber, check out her full video Separation Anxiety Course here: https://pfrd.site/course-sa
Connect With Amber Amber's Website: https://amberaquart.com/ Amber's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCB3Tg2iozTjF_LJRVmSv8rA Amber's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amberaquart/
Please leave a review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾 Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/reapp-free Subscribe on YouTube here: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Raising a puppy (or older dog) can be very difficult... many of us face the 'puppy blues' from time to time. We may even question if having a dog or puppy is the right choice!
The puppy blues can be a real struggle, but it's important to remember perspective! Here are a couple of important points... ⤵️
-
The beginning stage of anything new is always the hardest.
-
Laying a foundation of training will pay massive dividends in the long run.
Stick with it, the bond you can build with your pup will be worth it in the long run!
Please review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/ez-app-free
Subscribe on YouTube here: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube
Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
The age-old question of 'why do dogs eat grass?'. Here's the simple answer... we don't completely know why dogs eat grass.
There are some theories and ideas as to why, which we will discuss in this episode.
And of course, the next question is, is it okay for my dog to eat grass?
Again, short answer... it's probably not a huge deal. BUT, we will look at some potential problems from eating grass and discuss how to reduce it.
Next time your pup eats grass, you just might know why 😉
Links to Sources/Research on Why Dogs Eat Grass
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17675815/
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/240398429_Reduction_in_grass_eating_behaviours_in_the_domestic_dog_Canis_familiaris_in_response_to_a_mild_gastrointestinal_disturbance
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0168159107001827
- http://barf-raw-feeding.fr/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/WhydogogsandcatseatgrassGrassVetMed2008-2.pdf
Please review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/app-free1
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Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
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What gets rewarded, gets repeated. So the next question is, what can you use to reward your dog?! And what if your dog isn't really food motivated, then what?
Luckily, each of our dog's have their own "currencies". For some dogs, it is treats, while for others it may be a ball for fetch. The key is to figure out what your dog finds most valuable, and training accordingly.
Don't lock yourself into the trap of thinking that your dog has to take a treat to do training... there are so many other options!
Please review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/ztrain-app
Subscribe on YouTube here: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube
Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Has your dog started resource guarding? Maybe they growl when you try and take a toy or bone... or maybe they get defensive of their treats around other dogs. No matter what type of resource guarding your dog may be doing, it's important to understand the behavior and help stop it early on!
Simply put, a dog guard resources out of a natural fear that the resource may go away. Resource guarding can happen with toys, bones, treats, food, or even their own body (a resource).
In this episode, we sat down with Jocelyn Walls (CPDT, CTC) of Muttineer Dog Training to discuss what to do if your dog starts to resource guard.
IMPORTANT NOTE: If your dog starts to show any signs of resource guarding or food aggression, you should get the help of an in-person, force-free dog trainer immediately.
In this episode, Jocelyn also discusses things you can do now to help prevent any resource guarding by your dog in the future!
Connect With Jocelyn
Jocelyn's Website: http://www.muttineer.com/
Jocelyn's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFt4sAiMx5WdFfU6V2tFnXg
Jocelyn's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muttineerla/
Please leave a review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/reapp-free
Subscribe on YouTube here: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Teaching your dog to greet people politely is all about practicing before the situation occurs!
It can be really embarrassing when your dog jumps up on people while out on walks or in your home. In this episode, we sat down with Holly Ovington (certified dog trainer) to discuss ways you can teach your dog to greet people politely whether inside or outside.
We discuss how to handle your dog when they start jumping, and also, how you can explain to people how you want them to act when greeting your dog.
Connect With Holly Ovington
Holly has been passionate about dogs from the get-go! Holly was part of 4-H dog clubs from a young age, learning to train and show her own dogs.
Holly is certified with the Karen Pryor Academy, a Fear-Free Certified Trainer, an Instructor for Dog Biz Dog Walking Academy, and Walks N' Wags First Aid Certified and runs Positive Paws Training in the Vancouver area.
Holly's next goal is to complete a certification in separation anxiety (which she is working on now!).
Connect with Holly via her website here: https://positivepaws.ca/
Connect with Holly on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/positivepawstraining/
Please review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/xapp-free
Subscribe on YouTube here: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube
Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Grooming your dog at home can be a money-saver, but it also comes with its own challenges and potential problems.
In this episode, we interviewed Quinci Cole (almost 15 years of grooming experience) to discuss some of the common mistakes she sees pup parents make when grooming at home.
Some of those mistakes include not using the right tools, not doing enough research, and of course, not being careful enough with tasks like clipping your dog's nails!
She breaks down some important "do's and do not's" for grooming your dog at home!
Connect With Quinci Cole
Quinci Cole has been grooming dogs since 2007 and has won Groomer of the Year twice in her home state of Utah.
She is also a board member of the Utah Professional Pet Groomers Association which strives to raise the grooming standards in Utah (and other partnering states).
Connect with Quinci on Instagram here.
Connect with Quinci on Facebook here.
Check out the video about dog brush types that Quinci made for our YouTube channel here.
Please leave a review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/app-freee
Subscribe on YouTube here: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube
Check out the audio version of the podcast here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Many people wonder if (and how) they should use a clicker for their dog's training! In this episode, we sat down with Holly Ovington to break down the benefits and drawbacks of using a clicker to train.
And of course, Holly teaches us how to use a clicker effectively when training our dogs.
Connect With Holly Ovington
Holly has been passionate about dogs from the get-go! Holly was part of 4-H dog clubs from a young age, learning to train and show her own dogs.
Holly is certified with the Karen Pryor Academy, a Fear-Free Certified Trainer, an Instructor for Dog Biz Dog Walking Academy, and Walks N' Wags First Aid Certified and runs Positive Paws Training in the Vancouver area.
Holly's next goal is to complete a certification in separation anxiety (which she is working on now!).
Connect with Holly via her website here: https://positivepaws.ca/
Connect with Holly on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/positivepawstraining/
Please review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/trainingapp-freee
Subscribe on YouTube here: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube
Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Barking can be extremely frustrating and bothersome for people around you.
In this episode, we’ll discuss why dogs bark and what we can do about it!
We'll dive into what our dogs are really searching for when they bark.. and by knowing that, we can over time get our dogs to stop barking!
Connect With Nick Franco
In Nick’s words, he is an animal addict on a journey to learn everything he can about pet behavior, nutrition, and products so that he can spread the word and improve the lives of as many pets as he possibly can.
Connect with Nick via his website here: https://www.hypawthesis.com/
Connect with Nick on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/hypawthesis/
Please review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/freeapp-pup
Subscribe on YouTube here: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube
Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
The 'dog park debate' is truly one of the most divisive aspects of being a pup parent. While dog parks can be a powerful tool for giving your pup physical exercise, they can also quickly turn into a dangerous trap.
In this episode, we break down some of the positive parts about dog parks and how they can benefit your pup. We also explore the dangers, negatives, and scary parts of taking your pup to a dog park.
We included quotes from 4 professional dog trainers about their opinions on dog parks.
Spoiler alert... most trainers are apprehensive about dog parks.
Want to share your dog park experience? Send us a message on Instagram!
Shoutout to Kayla Albu (via YouTube comments) for recommending this episode idea!
Please review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/doggy-app
Subscribe on YouTube here: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube
Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
In this episode we’re going to talk about what to expect for bringing home a new dog… we’ll cover what your expectations should be, setting ground rules, and of course, how to set your new dog up for success!
Connect With Erika
Erika's Website: https://www.fromdusktilldog.com/
Erika's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChGLy20lhLasdOZMOAILPsQ
Erika's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/FromDuskTillDog/
Erika's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fromdusktilldog
Erika's Podcast: https://anchor.fm/dogtrainingaudioex/
Please review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/newpup-app
Subscribe on YouTube here: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube
Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Feeling fa-la-la-la festive this time of year? Whether you are decorating the Christmas tree, lighting candles on the Menorah, or wrapping presents for family, friends, and neighbors, tis' the season to spread some Holiday cheer. But there are some things that can put a damper on the festivities... Luckily, there are things that you can do to make sure these special items go untouched by the wrong paws.
Trevor, CDPT-KA and CCFT, from The Doggie Dojo demonstrated ways that we can get our pups to stay away from holiday decorations and THEN how to redirect that behavior to whatever you need them to.
Watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUKEloF-cEI
TEACH YOUR DOG HOW TO LEAVE THINGS ALONE
- Use both lower value and higher value reinforcements, to distinguish for the dog what they should be leaving and what they get in return
- This will teach them that when they leave something alone, they will get something else in return
- Increased reinforcement teaches them that when they leave X alone they will get something better
- Reward them for good behavior
START WITH TREATS IN YOUR HAND * Use an iron fist, keep fist closed and introduce reinforcement to your dog, praise and treat them * Repeat until they are getting better * Open hand and see if they will leave it
GET YOUR DOG TO LEAVE IT ALONE ON THE FLOOR * Start by covering the treat with your hands * As they get better you can move the treats around * Treat and praise them when they do what you want
INVOLVE TOYS IN THIS GAME * Now add some toys in the mix! * Praise them and treat when they leave items that you want them to leave alone
NOW INTRODUCE CHRISTMAS ORNAMENTS / OTHER DECOR * Start with getting out toys you want your dog to play with * Then add in the ornaments, presents, etc. * Move them around the room, etc. Again, reward them for "Leaving It"
TIPS FOR LEAVING IT AROUND THE HOLIDAYS * Dogs love to forage! Christmas presents and trees are a great place to forage - in their minds. To encourage foraging elsewhere, try something like a Snuffle Mat so that they can forage and look for reinforcement. * Get long lasting dog chews (like Bully Sticks, Beef Tendon, or Himalayan Chews) to redirect problem behavior and to get them something to do! * Give your dog an environment they can succeed in. + Don't leave food items underneath the Christmas tree + Put barriers around the tree or put it on a table
Please review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/holiday-download
Subscribe on YouTube here: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube
Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
In this episode, we sat down with Richard Gonzalez (certified dog trainer) to discuss why it can be SO difficult for our dogs to understand behaviors in new environments.
Plus, we break down specific things you can do to help your dog better understand and grasp behaviors no matter the distractions or environment!
Introduction of Richard
Richard Gonzalez, has been learning dog behavior since 2010 when he was introduced to a service dog organization in San Diego California while on active duty as a Marine. He was undergoing medical recovery due to combat-related wounds and injuries. During this time is when he discovered his love for learning animal behavior and learning theory. It has been a huge part of his recovery from wounds and reintegration back into society from being in the military.
Richard recently graduated the Applied animal behavior program at the University of Washington (UW-AAB) is a graduate of the Karen Pryor Academy(KPA-CTP), is a Certified professional dog trainer through the CCPDT,(CPDT-KA) and is also an AKC good citizen evaluator (AKC-CGC). He was a lead dog trainer at Petco and went through their certification program and puppy start right instructor through the Karen Pryor academy
He tries to attend 1 annual conference a year, and he likes to stay up to date with continuing education in the dog training field.
Some fun facts about Richard are:
-He’s been to over 30 different countries and states
-He’s trained horses, fish, cats, goats, chickens and dogs
-His first service dog licked Former First lady Michelle Obama’s leg
-He served in the Us Marine corps for 12 years and was retired due to his wounds sustained from combat.
-He resides in the Pacific Northwest with my 3 malinois.
-His oldest Malinois was born on the day he was wounded and his middle Malinois was born on the day he went into that battle
Connect with Richard
Website (coming soon): https://thedomesticateddog.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedomesticateddog/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedomesticateddog/
Please review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/get-app-freedownload
Subscribe on YouTube here: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube
Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Wondering how long you should train your dog each day? In this episode we sat down with Holly (certified trainer) to discuss how long you should be training your pup every day (hint... it's not what you're expecting).
Remember, short bursts of training are often better than long, drawn-out sessions!
Connect With Holly Ovington
Holly has been passionate about dogs from the get-go! Holly was part of 4-H dog clubs from a young age, learning to train and show her own dogs.
Holly is certified with the Karen Pryor Academy, a Fear-Free Certified Trainer, an Instructor for Dog Biz Dog Walking Academy, and Walks N' Wags First Aid Certified and runs Positive Paws Training in the Vancouver area.
Holly's next goal is to complete a certification in separation anxiety.
Connect with Holly via her website here: https://positivepaws.ca/
Connect with Holly on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/positivepawstraining/
Please review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/freeapp-down
Subscribe on YouTube here: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube
Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Obesity in dogs is one of the most common causes of health problems and earlier deaths in our pups.
In this episode, we sat down with Dr. Sylvalyn Simpson DVM to discuss the challenges our dogs face when they become overweight.
We also answer questions like... ⤵️
How do I know if my dog is overweight?
How do I help my dog lose weight?
Can obesity hurt my dog?
How many dogs are obese nationwide?
And so many more!
Connect With Dr. Sylvalyn Simpson
Dr. Sylvalyn Simpson is a veterinarian, aka Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, and strives to provide the highest quality of medicine and care to her patients and their humans. She believes in a fear-free approach and in practicing evidence-based medicine.
Dr. Simpson received her undergraduate degree in Veterinary Sciences from the University of Arizona and her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Texas A&M’s College of Veterinary Medicine.
She also puts out daily vet tips on her Instagram @thehonestvet.
Connect with Dr. Simpson on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/thehonestvet/
Please review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/4app-free
Subscribe on YouTube here: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube
Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
BLACK FRIDAY DEALS HERE: https://pfrd.site/best-deals
Here is a very quick overview of Thanksgiving foods your dog can and can't eat.... and remember when in doubt do NOT give it to your dog!
Quick Principles
- Avoid spices/herbs
- Avoid butter and high fat
- Avoid sugars (and especially xylitol)
- Avoid alcohol
- The simpler, the safer
Thanksgiving Foods Your Dog Can Eat
- Plain turkey (no spices and NO bones)
- Plain sweet potatoes and normal potatoes (baked or boiled)
- Green beans (again, no seasonings)
- Apples (no core or seeds)
- Pumpkin (again, plain with no seasonings)
Thanksgiving Foods Your Dog CANNOT Eat
- Turkey bones
- Gravy
- Onions, scallops, chives, etc.
- Butter
- Seasonings and herbs
- Raisins/grapes
- Desserts
- Alcohol (even food cooked in alcohol)
Also, here is the phone number for the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center number: 888-246-4435
And check out this fun recipe made specifically for your pup (from The Bark)
Ingredients:
3lb cooked turkey, skin and bones removed
1 cup cooked oatmeal
1lb cooked sweet potatoes
2tbs cranberry sauce (this is safe for dogs in small amounts, as long as it doesn’t contain any sweeteners. You can opt for chopped apples for a safer choice)
Mix all ingredients together and heat in the oven!
This recipe is simple and packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients! Your dog will certainly be thankful for that.
Please review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/appclass
Subscribe on YouTube here: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube
Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
A lot of people wonder if positive reinforcement training actually works...
And many of those people also wonder if they can get away with just some punishment-based methods (looking at you e-collars).
In this episode, we sat down with Holly to help clarify just how effective positive reinforcement can be when training your dog.
AND we talk about some of the seriously frightening things that can happen to your dog if you choose to use punishment and fear-based methods...
Tune in!
Connect With Holly Ovington
Holly has been passionate about dogs from the get-go! Holly was part of 4-H dog clubs from a young age, learning to train and show her own dogs.
Holly is certified with the Karen Pryor Academy, a Fear-Free Certified Trainer, an Instructor for Dog Biz Dog Walking Academy, and Walks N' Wags First Aid Certified and runs Positive Paws Training in the Vancouver area.
Holly's next goal is to complete a certification in separation anxiety.
Connect with Holly via her website here: https://positivepaws.ca/
Connect with Holly on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/positivepawstraining/
Please review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/appnow-download
Subscribe on YouTube here: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube
Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Sometimes we watch our dogs do certain things and are left wondering... why in the world is he doing that?!
The best part is, as we strive to better understand why our dogs do certain things we can better understand how to stop those unwanted behaviors.
Although you don't need a degree in dog psychology, taking steps to think about the why will help you improve your dog's behavior.
In this episode with Nick Franco, we talk about why our dogs act the way that they do. Plus, we discuss some real-life examples of how understanding the 'why' can help us improve that specific behavior!
Connect With Nick Franco
In Nick’s words, he is an animal addict on a journey to learn everything he can about pet behavior, nutrition, and products so that he can spread the word and improve the lives of as many pets as he possibly can.
Connect with Nick via his website here: https://www.hypawthesis.com/
Connect with Nick on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/hypawthesis/
Please review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/appdownload-now
Subscribe on YouTube here: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube
Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
When bad weather hits, it can make exercising your dog really challenging!
If your normal exercise routine involves long walks, trips to the park, or fetch, that can all go out the window during bad weather. Some things just aren't really possible during bad weather!
In this episode, we sat down with Trevor Smith, CPDT-KA & Certified Canine Fitness Trainer, to discuss creative and effective ways to exercise your dog during bad weather.
Connect With Trevor Smith
Trevor is a CPDT-KA trainer who continually attends seminars and conferences to improve his knowledge of dog training, and all things dogs.
He is a strong advocate for pain and force-free methods and believes that we should all personally feel good about the methods we use to train our dogs.
When not training dogs, Trevor and his wife (a veterinarian) enjoy fun outdoor activities like scuba diving and zip-lining, taking their dogs on hikes, and playing video games.
Trevor is also a Certified Canine Fitness Trainer from the University of Tennessee.
Connect with Trevor via his website here: https://www.thedoggiedojo.com/
Connect with Trevor on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/doggiedojo/
Connect with Trevor on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/thedoggiedojo/
Connect with Trevor on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/user/thedoggiedojo
Check out Trevor's podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-with-your-dog/id1493425125
Please review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/dogappfree
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Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Halloween is right around the corner... is your pup ready? 🎃
With these 3 tips, you'll be prepped for Halloween! (You already bought your pup a costume, right?)
TIP #1- Prepare your home. If you need to keep your dog behind a baby gate, or in another room... then do it! If your dog can't handle an open door with children asking for treats, then don't give them access!
Additionally, you can use a white noise machine. And remember, close your blinds and windows. It's the little things that can help you set your dog up for success :)
TIP #2- Work on a strong leave it. Hopefully, you've already started this behavior. If so, take it to the next level by ensuring your dog can 'leave' items dropped on the ground. Come Halloween, it may happen that a piece of chocolate falls on the floor...
If you practice leave it, your dog will be able to leave that treat alone until you pick it up!
TIP #3- Teach the 'place/settle' behavior. First off, this behavior takes LOTS of practice, effort, and time. So, if you are starting from step 1 with this behavior, understand that you may not be where you'd hope for by Halloween (this episode launched 11 days before Halloween 2020).
BUT, you can still lay a strong foundation!
Check out 21 Impulse Control Games here for a deep explanation of teaching place!
Please leave a review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
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Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
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Building trust with your dog takes time, patience, and of course, a level of understanding on your end as the human!
If you want the trust between you and your dog to improve, do things that allow them to trust you!
That includes things like using positive reinforcement methods and not using inhumane methods, spending time with your dog doing things they enjoy, and being consistent with how you treat them and what you expect of them.
Connect With Nicole Ellis
Nicole is a certified professional dog trainer and pet lifestyle expert, seen on Amazon’s The Pack. She focuses on helping you build a lasting relationship with your dog through training.
Her dogs (and horse) join on all her favorite adventures.
Be sure to check out her book, Working Like a Dog here!
Connect with Nicole on Instagram here.
Connect with Nicole on Facebook here.
Connect with Nicole on her website here.
Please leave a review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/appfree-now
Subscribe on YouTube here: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube
Check out all podcast episodes here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Have you ever wondered what happens if you DON'T groom your dog? We interviewed Quinci Cole (15+ years of dog grooming experience) to help us all better understand what can happen if you neglect your dog's grooming!
And be aware, some of the potential negative side effects can be very harmful to your dog.
Of course, that isn't to say you need your dog groomed every week, but consistency is key.
Connect With Quinci Cole
Quinci Cole has been grooming dogs since 2007 and has won Groomer of the Year twice in her home state of Utah.
She is also a board member of the Utah Professional Pet Groomers Association which strives to raise the grooming standards in Utah (and other partnering states).
Connect with Quinci on Instagram here.
Connect with Quinci on Facebook here.
Check out the video about dog brush types that Quinci made for our YouTube channel here.
Please leave a review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/dog-trainapp-free
Subscribe on YouTube here: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube
Check out the audio version of the podcast here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Getting a 2nd dog is no easy decision... there are pros and cons to adding another pup to your home!
Here are 3 fascinating reasons you should get a 2nd dog.
- Your dogs will always have a playmate
- Your dogs will be less bored
- You get double the puppy love, cuddles, and fun!
Here are 3 reasons you should NOT get a 2nd dog.
- Double the expenses... it can add up
- Potential dog-dog aggression or resource guarding
- Behavior mirroring (often in a bad way)
Overall, adding a 2nd dog to your home should be a decision you make very carefully. It can bring about a lot of fun and joy, but also a lot of stress at the same time!
Please leave a review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/trainyourdog
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Check out the audio version of the podcast here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
SMART x 50 is an extremely simple and powerful dog training technique that will help you improve your dog's behavior! SMART x 50 "forces" you as the pup parent to capture and reward naturally occurring good behaviors.
SMART x 50 stands for See, Mark, And, Reward, Training. SMART.
Again, the SMART x 50 method originated from Kathy Sdao. Learn more about her book "Plenty in Life is Free" https://amzn.to/32PQ8k3
Please leave a review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/dogfree-app
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Check out the audio version of the podcast here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Puppy biting can be extremely challenging and painful!! In this video interview with Erika Gonzalez, Professional Dog Trainer, she breaks down everything you need to know about puppy biting!
We discuss what your expectations should be, what NOT to do, and most importantly, 3 surefire techniques to help reduce puppy biting!
Connect With Erika
Erika's Website: https://www.fromdusktilldog.com/
Erika's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChGLy20lhLasdOZMOAILPsQ
Erika's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/FromDuskTillDog/
Erika's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fromdusktilldog
Erika's Podcast: https://anchor.fm/dogtrainingaudioex/
Please leave a review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/dog-training-appfree
Subscribe on YouTube here: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube
Check out the audio version of the podcast here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
MYTH #1- Dogs are pack animals, some behaviors occur because my dog is trying the be the alpha or dominate me.
MYTH #2- It’s better to get a puppy with a clean slate vs a rescue dog because you don’t know their background.
MYTH#3- My dog knows when they’ve done something wrong, they totally look guilty!
Connect With Jocelyn
Jocelyn's Website: http://www.muttineer.com/
Jocelyn's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFt4sAiMx5WdFfU6V2tFnXg
Jocelyn's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muttineerla/
Please leave a review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here:
Subscribe on YouTube here: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube
Check out the audio version of the podcast here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Our hope is that you never have to use this information about emergency preparedness for dogs.
Even with that being said, the most important step to be ready for an emergency is to prepare now. Not when the emergency is happening, but now!
In this episode, we will break down what you need to do to be ready for an emergency.
Here's what we will cover ⤵️
-Things to do NOW (biggest section)
-What to do when the emergency comes
-What to do after the emergency
For links and relevant info, please check out the full article here: https://pfrd.site/emergency-prep
Please leave a review and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/trainapp-free
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Check out the audio version of the podcast here: anchor.fm/perfect-pup
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
It's finally here... your first day with a new dog! He might be a puppy, or she might a rescue dog... either way, hooray!! If you're like me, the two words you would probably use to describe your feelings are terrified and ecstatic. In this episode, we interviewed certified trainer Traci Madson CPDT-KA. She has over 20 years of experience with new puppies, foster dogs, and rescue dogs from some of the most difficult of backgrounds/histories. Simply put, she knows exactly what to do on your first day with a new dog.
Please review the podcast and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾 Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/free-download Subscribe on YouTube to watch the episodes as well: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Huge thank you to Dr. Greg Sunvold for joining us for today's episode to talk about our dog's gut health and what we can do to improve it!
If you'd like to hear more about Greg's work, please check out his website: https://microbiomenexus.com/
Be one of the first pup parents to try Super Pup (formulated by Dr. Sunvold) here: https://pfrd.site/superpup-gut
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Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
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The Center for Canine Behavior Studies is working hard to help better understand dog behavior through research and studies! Their goal is to help reduce the number of dogs that are euthanized and/or end up in shelters due to behavioral problems.
Learn more about Allie & her work here: https://www.centerforcaninebehaviorstudies.org/about
Donate and take part in the CCBS' current studies here: https://www.centerforcaninebehaviorstudies.org/
Please review the podcast and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/trainingapp-free
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Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Improving your timing when you train your dog can help increase the speed at which he or she learns!
Focus on marking behaviors the instant they happen to help your dog best understand when they've done something correctly!
Today's Pupdate
Supporting your dog's psychological well-being improves your own well-being! https://www.psypost.org/2020/06/supporting-your-dogs-psychological-needs-can-boost-your-own-well-being-and-reduce-distress-57114
Please review the podcast and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/dog-appfree
Subscribe on YouTube to watch the episodes as well: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Dogs eating poop is DISGUSTING!! Luckily, there are some steps you can take to help reduce it.
In this episode, we will dive into why dogs eat poop, some studies around the topic, and of course, how you can help stop it!
Wanna read a similar version of this episode? Check it out here: https://pfrd.site/dogs-eat-poop
Today's Pupdate
A service dog named Dolly Pawton, amazing! https://www.kcci.com/article/stitch-dolly-pawton/32983196#
Please review the podcast and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/training-app
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Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
We are so excited to have Traci back for Part 2 of her interview. In this episode, we dive deeper into why Traci stopped using aversive methods.
We also discussed techniques like the Chin Rest Method & Fear-Free Training.
Overview of the Chin Rest Method:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K2lnaerPR5o
Fear-Free Training Resources:
https://fearfreepets.com/
https://fearfreeshelters.com/
Books We Discussed:
The Culture Clash: https://amzn.to/2zkFju6
Don't Shoot the Dog: https://amzn.to/2xFHHey
Please review the podcast and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/pupfordapp-free
Subscribe on YouTube to watch the episodes as well: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Traci Madson is a CPDT-KA dog trainer who also holds memberships and certifications in aggression training and is an AKC evaluator. She has been training dogs for over 15 years.
Her story showcases an amazing journey of continual learning and being involved in her community with rescues and other organizations. Learn more about Traci and reach out to her on her website: https://threelittlepits.com/
Keep an eye out for Part 2 of Traci's story coming out in the next week or so!
*Disclaimer: Traci Madson is now a 100% advocate for Positive Reinforcement training methods. If you only listen to the first 5 minutes, you may be confused :)
Please review the podcast and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/pupfordapp-free
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Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
In today's episode we answer questions like: can dogs get coronavirus, can my dog give me the coronavirus, can I walk my dog right now, and many more!
The majority of information relayed in this episode comes directly from the CDC (Center for Disease Control). https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/animals.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fprepare%2Fanimals.html
Please please express caution and do your part to help slow down the spread of COVID-19!
*Disclaimer: Please refer to the CDC & WHO's guidelines for the most recent updates.
Please review the podcast and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/freeapp-get
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Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
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We asked the Facebook community the worst dog training advice they've ever heard... and the answers were crazy!
It's sad that some of these have actually been given as real advice... 👎 We hope you'll remember to listen to science-backed methods and always treat your dog with love 👍
Here is the original post from the Facebook group if you want to add your own or see others' stories!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/30.day.perfect.pup.with.zak.george/permalink/601727267291792/
Pupdates for Today- Lab gives birth to a lime green dog! Apparently it can happen from something inside the womb but will fade in time. Of course, they named the puppy Hulk. https://www.wistv.com/2020/01/16/nc-dog-gives-birth-lime-green-puppy-who-family-names-hulk/
Please review the podcast and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/freeapp-download
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Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Avoiding your dog becoming a picky eater is vital for your sanity (and their health)
Here's a few simple points for helping your dog be less picky of an eater:
- Stick to a schedule
- Cut the table scraps
- Be consistent
- Don't free feed
- Make mealtime fun
Full article about picky eaters here: https://pupford.com/what-to-do-dog-doesnt-like-food-picky-eaters/
Pupdates for Today: A fun list of weird and strange world records held by dogs! https://dogtime.com/lifestyle/50313-12-weirdest-world-records-held-dogs
Please review the podcast and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/freeappdownload
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Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Quick recap of why dogs destroy things 👇
- Too much freedom
- Not enough exercise
- Anxiety/stress
Dive into this episode to learn how to fix these problems!
For more info on Happily Home Alone Pup, head to this link: https://pfrd.site/anxiety-help
Pupdates for Today: Amidst the terrible fires in Australia, dogs are being used to sniff out Koala Bears to help rescue them!https://abcnews.go.com/International/dogs-saving-koalas-australia-wildfires/story?id=68170040
Please review the podcast and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: https://pfrd.site/get-app
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Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Oh, the puppy "teenage phase". One of the most frustrating and difficult times as a pup parent!
YOU CAN DO THIS.
This episode gives 2 powerful reasons why your pup is digressing in their training and behavior.
On top of that, I'll line out 3 ways to fix your puppy not listening to you or your pup digressing in their potty training or other bad behavior etc.
Above all, do NOT give up or think you won't be able to overcome this phase!
Please review the podcast and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: http://pfrd.site/free-app-here
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Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Positive Reinforcement training is the most effective and humane route to train your dog. Be sure to check out the studies below!
Links to Relevant Articles and Studies About Types of Training:
- What Is LIMA? https://m.iaabc.org/about/lima/
- Aversive Methods Lead to Signals of Stress. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1558787814000070
- Punishment Makes Dogs Less Playful. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0168159111000876
- AVSAB's Position Statement on Punishment. https://avsab.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Punishment_Position_Statement-download_-_10-6-14.pdf
Pupdates for Today: Dogs in the classroom improve reading scores, cognitive learning and more!https://www.weareteachers.com/dogs-in-the-classroom/
Please review the podcast and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: http://pfrd.site/free-app-here
Subscribe on YouTube to watch the episodes as well: https://pfrd.site/subscribe-youtube
Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Calming down a hyper dog is tough... But there is hope, so don't worry!
Here are 5 tips (but be sure to listen all the way through for detailed ideas):
- Mental Exercise
- Place/Settle Training
- Physical Exercise
- Trick Training
- Impulse Control
Pupdates for Today: https://www.rover.com/blog/disneys-live-action-lady-and-the-tramp-features-an-all-rescue-cast-of-dogs/
Awesome High-Energy Dog Winning Agility Course: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=80NQLXXQwRM
21 Impulse Control Games: https://pfrd.site/impulsegames
Please review the podcast and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: http://pfrd.site/free-app-here
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Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
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Sometimes we like to think that our dog understands a specific behavior completely, but do they?
Just because your dog knows "recall" inside the home, does that mean they "understand" recall?
Listen to today's discussion and let us know what you think!!
Pupdates for Today: https://www.washingtonpost.com/science/2019/10/13/woman-is-reunited-with-missing-dog-years-later-miles-home/
Please review the podcast and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: http://pfrd.site/free-app-here
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Intro music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message
Prepping your home for a new kid or a new puppy can be stressful! In this episode, we cover how you can prepare a new dog when you have a young kid, teach your kid proper manners when greeting dogs, and so much more!
Pupdates for Today: https://www.cnn.com/2019/10/08/health/dogs-help-us-live-longer-wellness/index.html
Please review the podcast and subscribe!! Thanks for listening 🐾
Download the free Pupford app here: http://pfrd.site/free-app-here
Music cred to Kevin May: https://soundcloud.com/kevin_may
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message