Puppy Talk

People call me to discuss puppy training, and their entire focus is on potty training. This happens a lot. The goal of this episode is to shift new puppy owners' focus to the bigger picture of raising a puppy beyond potty training and crate training. A dog trainer can only provide tips on potty training, crate training, play biting, and other issues because we don’t live with the dog. Most of...

My dog Dixie has been diagnosed with heart disease after a routine checkup before teeth cleaning. They found a heart murmur, then, from an X-ray, found an enlarged heart and congestion in her lungs. I have created a GoFundMe account link in the show notes with more details.  Start-Up Fees: Including adoption or breeder fees, initial vet visit, microchip, supplies, and training.  $2000-$8000 Monthl...

Many people underestimate the level of responsibility needed to raise a puppy. Listen to my first episode of Puppy Talk called Owning a New Puppy is a Lot of Work.  The Truth: Raising a young puppy starting at 8 weeks old is a part-time job. Hiring a dog trainer may not help. It’s not the solution. You have to do the work yourself, with the help of a coach. The Myths: Puppies only need affection a...

Being an effective leader and building trust in your dog requires a skill set grounded in effective communication, temperament, and focus.  What to do: Make sure your communication is crystal clear. Trim the fat. Tell the dog what you want and reward them for doing it. Set your dog up for success. Make it impossible for them to fail and let them have fun in the process. Stay focused on “teaching”...

Building structure for your puppy in one of the best things you can do to help raise a happy, healthy, and obedient puppy.  In this episode of Puppy Talk I discuss the why and how of puppy structure.  Why? Structure creates calmness in the puppy. Structure creates an opportunity for the puppy to succeed, not fail Structure helps you, the puppy owner, have more control over the puppy’s behavior, ob...

For dog owners: Always keep your dog on a leash. Listen to podcast episode 118.  Never allow your dog to bark or lunge at another dog or people. Create distance immediately if this happens. Work with a trainer to prevent rectivity. Teach sit, wait, “watch-me” as alternative behaviors to reacting to stimuli.  For parents of children: Never allow your child to pet a dog unless the dog is on a leash...

Embarking on a career as a dog trainer may seem daunting. With vast knowledge to acquire and numerous pathways to explore, it can be challenging. Yet, by breaking it down into straightforward steps, the journey becomes manageable. In this episode, I will guide you through the essentials of starting out, from enhancing your expertise to establishing yourself as a reliable professional in your commu...

The Most Important Command to Teach Your Puppy is the "stay" command. This will help you control the puppies space in the house, prevent them from jumping, and prevent them from running away. In this episode, I explain why the "stay" command is so important and how to program the command into your puppy. If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpupp...

Puppy Socialization is the most important thing to teach your puppy from the ages of 8 to 16 weeks old. Everything that your puppy is exposed to during this time period will have a significant impact on preventing fear, anxiety, and stress in the future. Start socializing your puppy early. Take them to as many places as possible Be consistent with public outings.    If you need help housebreaking...

You may be wondering what is best for your dog, whether you should keep them on or off the leash. Here are some reasons that you'll want to consider keeping your best friend on-leash and living their best life. Your dog stays safe Others stay safe In most places, it's the law In case of emergency It's the responsible thing to do If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit p...

Many people get confused when it comes to defining dog training. This episode should clear that up for you. Here is what we will cover today: Obedience Training, also known as dog training, involves teaching basic commands such as sit, down, and stay.  Obedience training is what most people refer to when discussing dog training. Although dog training is used by almost everyone across a broad spect...

You’ve witnessed your dog's transformation through our basic obedience program, where they mastered essential commands and established a solid foundation. So, what's the next step for the truly devoted dog and owner? The answer is found in the engaging and effective realm of advanced group obedience training. If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com...

Most behavior problems in adult dogs stem from fear or anxiety that started early and went unaddressed. Here are some tips to help prevent Fear, Anxiety, and Stress in your puppy: Early Socialization Create a Secure Environment Reading Body Language Building Confidence Through Training Avoiding Common Mistakes That Cause FAS If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpup...

Seasoned dog owners might feel like they have been through it all with one pup, and thus, they can tackle any challenge that comes their way. Don't let that fool you. Experience with one dog at a time is much different than juggling two or more. That being said, how do you know when the time is right to add a second pup to the family? Is it even a good idea to do so? If you need help housebre...

A study from the National Library of Medicine shows that overweight dogs are more likely to engage in unwanted behaviors.  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5468744/ How to prevent dogs from getting overweight Plenty of exercise  Plenty of enrichment and mental stimulation.  Monitor their food intake.  No Snacking.  If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy...

In this episode, I discuss how to set your puppy up for success by making better decisions to replace unwanted behaviors.  Stop directing them Allow them to decide independently - use leash training for this. Do the chair exercise. Praise them subtly when they make a good decision Target training, light agility training, and dog puzzles. Give them a chance to succeed. The chair exercise: https://w...

Dogs and cats are not naturally inclined to fight; that idea is a myth. Both animals can tolerate each other and even get along very well. However, you need to understand how their minds work. It's the personality that matters, not the breed Consider getting a puppy and a kitten together Help your dog with some training Give your cat his own private space Keep your dog away from the litter bo...

Here are three reasons why you never want to repeat commands to your puppy: The puppy loses respect for you as a leader The puppy gets confused and checks out You’re programming the number of times you say the command Say the command once, and allow the puppy enough time to do it.  If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources. Our Sponsor is To...

Choosing the perfect dog breed for you and your family can be challenging.  It is even more of a challenge when you live in an apartment or do not have a yard and must consider space. Five breeds that not only survive but thrive in an apartment lifestyle include:  Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Bulldog Poodle Greyhounds Great Dane If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyo...

It is essential to select the right dog trainer. Various options include in-home private lessons, classes, or board-and-train. Here are eight reasons why in-home training can lead to better and lasting results. Personalized Attention Familiar Environment Owner Involvement Faster Progress Flexible Scheduling Addressing Specific Issues Longer-Lasting Results Building Trust and Communication If you n...

There are seven things that I talk about in this episode on how to raise the perfect puppy. Follow these seven principles, and you will have great results.  Build your relationship from the first day Set the puppy up for success Set clear rules and boundaries Socialize your puppy early Don’t overuse corrections Don’t focus on what you don’t want - Teach the puppy what you want it to do. Don’t puni...

Many people need clarification about specialty training for their puppy or dog related to service dogs, therapy dogs, or ESAs (emotional support animals). In this episode, I discuss the definitions, training requirements, and roles each plays in human life.  Related article from AKC: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/service-working-therapy-emotional-support-dogs/ Alliance of Therapy Dogs...

How can you make your new puppy's first days at home as smooth as possible? On this episode of Puppy Talk, I, Dale Buchanan, will equip you with five essential tips to transform those initial nerve-wracking moments into a seamless bonding experience. Whether you're bringing home an older rescue or a brand-new puppy, we'll cover why taking a few days off work can make a world of diff...

Ever wondered how to keep your puppy from barking at every little thing? Discover practical strategies to manage and reduce inappropriate barking in this episode of Puppy Talk. We'll explore how to limit your puppy's access to windows and use effective management and training techniques to redirect their attention. Hear Tammy's heartfelt testimonial about her journey with her dog, Z...

Ready to make your home puppy-friendly and stress-free? This episode of Puppy Talk with Dale Buchanan offers invaluable tips you won’t want to miss. Learn how to create a safe haven for your new furry friend by puppy-proofing your space with essential items like outlet plug covers, cord hiders, and corner guards. Discover why a cozy and strategically placed crate is a must for your puppy's sl...