The Well-Mannered Mutt Podcast

  Have you ever looked at your dog and wondered... is my dog overweight ?   You're not alone! In fact, dog obesity is a growing issue, with nearly 59% of dogs in the U.S. classified as overweight or obese. But how can you tell if you have an overweight dog , and more importantly, what can you do about it?   In this episode, I break down everything you need to know about dog obesity —from recognizi...

  Have you ever thought about online dog training but weren't sure if it would actually work for your pup?   With so many options available, from in-person classes to online dog training courses , it can be tough to decide what's best for you and your dog.   In this episode, I break down the pros and cons of online dog training , how it compares to in-person training, and what to look for in the b...

Ever wondered if your pet is truly a  stubborn dog or simply not understanding what you're asking?   In today's episode, I dive deep into why your dog isn't really a stubborn dog at all, but might just be struggling with clear communication. I'll show you how to deal with a stubborn dog by shifting your perspective and refining your training techniques.   I'll cover the four stages of dog training...

Have you ever thought about what you'd do if disaster struck and you were evacuating with pets ?   It's a scary thought, but being prepared can make all the difference. Living in a wildfire-prone area has opened my eyes to just how important it is to have a pet disaster kit and plan in place.   In this episode of The Well-Mannered Mutt Podcast , I dive into the essentials of disaster preparedness...

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by your dog's behavior and wondered if there's a fast-track solution to training?   Board and train programs promise just that – but are they really the magic answer? In this episode, I dig into the board and train pros and cons to help you decide if it's the right path for you and your pup.   Board and train programs can provide a structured, immersive training expe...

Adopting a rescue dog is an incredible experience, filled with joy, challenges, and countless rewarding moments. But how do you ensure your new furry friend feels right at home?   In this episode, I'll guide you through everything you need to know when bringing a rescue dog into your life. I'll share practical tips to help you navigate potential challenges and make this transition as smooth as pos...

Ever wonder how to keep the peace between your kids and dogs? Managing both can feel like a juggling act, but trust me—it's so worth it when everyone gets along!   In this episode of The Well-Mannered Mutt, we're diving into the world of kids and canines. Dogs can bring so much joy to your family, from teaching kids responsibility to being their furry stress-relief buddy. But let's be real—things...

  Should you allow your dog to greet other dogs while on leash?   It's a question many dog owners grapple with. While it might seem like a great way to socialize your pup, these interactions can sometimes do more harm than good.   In this episode, I tackle this important question. I'll share the pros and cons of on-leash greetings, explore how leash restrictions impact dog communication, and expla...

Have you ever felt that heart-stopping panic when you realize your dog is missing?   In this episode, we're diving into every pet owner's worst nightmare — the terrifying moment you realize your dog is lost. But more importantly, we're unpacking everything you need to know about what to do if your dog gets lost, from urgent first steps to long-term preventive strategies that help keep your dog saf...

Puppies do some pretty crazy things. As a new puppy parent, you may find yourself asking, "Is my puppy normal - or is their behavior something to be concerned about?"   In this episode, I dive into the nuances of puppy behavior, particularly in those under four months old. Drawing from over 20 years of experience, I share insights into common behaviors like biting and barking, and share importance...

Ever scroll through dog training tips online and wonder why they all seem to contradict each other?   It might be because dog training has changed a LOT over the years.   As someone who's been in the dog training world since the '70s—I've seen firsthand how the shift to more humane, science-based methods has not only changed the way we train but also deepened the bond we share with our furry compa...

Ever tried using treats to train your dog, only to find that they couldn't care less? It's frustrating, right? I get it—when your dog's not motivated by food, training can feel like an uphill battle.   Food is one of the most effective tools we have to reward good behavior, but if your dog isn't interested, it's time to dig deeper.   In this episode, I'll walk you through five possible reasons you...

  What's one of the most common questions I get from my clients? "Staci, how do I stop my dog from fill in the blank ?" You name it—jumping, digging, barking, or that Houdini act of darting out the door.   If you've ever caught yourself asking that, you're in the right place.   In today's episode, we're diving into something that might just be your secret weapon—management. No, it's not magic, but...

Ever wondered why your dog seems to forget all their training the moment you step outside?   In this episode, I delve into the reasons why dogs often ignore commands in distracting environments.   But don't worry—I'm not just here to tell you why it happens. I'm here to help you fix it. I'll break down practical, step-by-step strategies to train your dog to focus on you, no matter what's going on...

Ever wondered why your dog barks so much?   Whether it's a constant stream of barking at the doorbell, every passerby, or just out of sheer boredom, excessive barking can quickly become a headache for you and your neighbors.   Here's the thing - barking is more than just noise. It's your dog trying to communicate, and understanding why they're barking is the first step to managing it effectively....

  Curious about the pros and cons of spaying or neutering your pet?   There's a lot of mixed opinions on this topic, that's why in this episode I'm breaking down all the facts we know about spaying and neutering so you can make the best decision for your furry friend.   I tackle common questions about the appropriate age for these procedures, their health implications, and behavioral effects. I al...

  Have you ever come home to find your favorite pair of shoes chewed up or your furniture scratched to bits? If so, your furry friend might be dealing with separation anxiety.   In this episode of The Well-Mannered Mutt Podcast, I dive into the complex issue of separation anxiety in dogs. We'll unravel the mystery behind those chewed-up shoes and scratched furniture, helping you recognize the subt...

As a new puppy parent, you want to do everything you can to keep your puppy safe and healthy right from the start.   But... it can get confusing when you realize there is so much conflicting information out there about what is and isn't safe for puppies when it comes to vaccinations and socialization.   In this episode, I dive into everything you need to know about vaccinating your puppy. I break...

Have you tried positive reinforcement dog training before and it didn't seem to work? It might have been because positive reinforcement was not actually happening...   That's why in this episode, I dive into common challenges many dog owners face when attempting positive reinforcement training, and share practical tips to overcome them.   I emphasize the importance of avoiding punishment and intim...

Service dogs, emotional support dogs, and therapy dogs all serve important roles in helping people with various needs. But do you know what the differences between them are?   I often get asked, "How do I make my dog a service dog, emotional support dog, or therapy dog?" It's important to know the differences, both in what jobs they do and what legal protections they have. In this episode, I demys...

When I brought home my first puppy, I remember asking myself... now what?   Bringing home a new puppy can be overwhelming, no matter how well prepared you think you are. But don't worry, I've got you covered.   The first week with your puppy will set the tone for the months to come, so in this episode, I lay out a plan for you to support and comfort your new puppy while they adjust to their new su...

Thinking of bringing another dog home? Adding a second dog can be a whirlwind of fun, but it's not without its hurdles.    In this episode, I dive into the highs and lows of having a multi-dog household. I share my experiences and insights as a certified dog trainer, guiding you through the process of growing your furry family. From the selection of compatible companions to the crucial moments of...

While dog parks are fantastic places for exercise, they're not without their risks.   In this episode, I'm taking you on a journey through the world of dog parks. We'll explore the origins of these canine playgrounds, the benefits they bring to our furry friends, and the challenges they might present.   As a certified dog trainer and veterinary technician, I've seen firsthand how dog parks can be...

As dog lovers, we're always looking for ways to include our furry companions in our adventures. Did you know that planning a trip with your pup in tow requires some special considerations?   In this episode, I'm diving into the nitty-gritty of hitting the road, skies or sea with your dog. From the essential pre-trip preparations to finding pet-friendly accommodations, I've got you covered. I share...

Have you ever wondered what causes dogs to be fearful or aggressive? It likely has something to do with how they were socialized as a puppy.   In this episode, I dive into the essential world of puppy socialization. I talk about the critical period for socializing your puppy, which is between three to sixteen weeks of age, and how this coincides with their vaccination schedule. I share some invalu...