The Perfect 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! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/perfect-pup/message

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.

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.

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 training 2- Try mini training sessions, every day 3- Routine-based training behaviors 4- Incorporate training into playtime 5- Use strong reinforcers & avoid mixed signals Training 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. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/perfect-pup/message

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. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/perfect-pup/message

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.

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! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message

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).

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.

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 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message

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…

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. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message

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.

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…

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?

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 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message

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 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message

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 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message

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!

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 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message

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 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message

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 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message

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…

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

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

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 Please follow our podcast and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message

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 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message

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?!

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 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message

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!! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message

While online learning is valuable beyond compare, there's something to be said about education through physical books (or ebooks if you must

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 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message

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

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!

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.

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!

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'.

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!

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. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message

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! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message

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! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message

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 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

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 ⬇️ 1. Vaccination information and other health documents 2. Hand vacuum 3. Dog shampoo, brush & towels (even if you don't think you'll need it) 4. Dog GPS tracker 5. 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. 1. Let your dog acclimate 2. Research dog-friendliness of hotel, restaurants, hikes, etc. 3. 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! 1. Vaccination information and other health documents 2. Hand vacuum 3. Dog shampoo, brush & towels (even if you don't think you'll need it) 4. Dog GPS tracker 5. 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! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message

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 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message

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

There is only one time when you shouldn't be training your puppy… When he or she is asleep!

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

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

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! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message

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! NOTE: If you haven't already, PLEASE leave a review on Apple Podcasts. It is extremely helpful and appreciated :) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/perfect-pup/message