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It can be counter intuitive but when your puppy has a potty accident, we shouldn't punish them.You may feel that you need to do something to let them know "this is wrong".  Or maybe you know that you're not supposed to punish your puppy's potty accidents but you're not sure why.In general, I discourage using punishment as a form of teaching your puppy anything.  But this question comes up a lot around potty training. In Episode #10: (Complete Guide to Potty Training Your Puppy), I talk about what to do when your puppy has an accident.  Punishment is never part of it.  In this episode, I'm going to talk about why that is. In this episode I talk about:* Why I get this question around potty training.* What I mean by "punishment". * What we are supposed to do with potty accidents.* Why dogs learn better when told what to do (instead of what not to do).* How puppies don't know going potty inside is wrong (yet!).Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #010:  Complete Guide to Potty Training Your PuppyYNP #039:  The Most Common Potty AccidentsYNP #079:  Are You Still Struggling With Potty Training?Playtime Paws Academy:  A membership for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey. a class="synved-social-button synved-social-button-share synved-social-size-24 synved-social-resolution-single synved-social-provider-pinterest nolightbox" data-provider="pinterest" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" title="Pin it with Pinterest" href="https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.playtimepaws.com%2Fepisode92%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.playtimepaws.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F02%2FWhy-not-to-punish-pup...

When I receive multiple questions from my listeners around the same topic I know it's time to do a podcast episode about it.  But not all questions warrant a full episode but can still be useful to answer.So that's exactly what I did in this episode.  I gathered 5 questions that came from you, my listeners (through email and social media) and answered them here.If you like this format let me know and maybe we can make a series out of it!In this episode I talk about:* Older puppy (9 months) rejecting the crate overnight (1:19). * When its OK to leave your puppy for 2 weeks (4:02).* Can you move their crate around or use two different crates? (5:47).* How to deal with a picky eater (6:58).* How many litters should a breeder have at one time? (8:07).Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #018: Ditch the Bowl and Make Mealtime an EventYNP #084: My Favorite DIY Puzzle FeedersPlaytime Paws Academy:  A membership for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey. a class="synved-social-button synved-social-button-share synved-social-size-24 synved-social-resolution-single synved-social-provider-linkedin nolightbox" data-provider="linkedin" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" title="Share on Linkedin" href="https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.

When your dog refuses to go outside in the rain, it can be annoying and time consuming.  It's even worse when you're trying to potty train a young puppy that isn't going to hold it until the rain stops.  For most dogs they will learn to tolerate it but for others it may always be a struggle. We know we should stay positive to try and change their association but when you've been outside for the 10th time in the rain and they still haven't gone it's hard not to let that frustration show through. Different things will work for different dogs.  That's why in this episode I run through a bunch of things that may help you pup's relationship to being wet and cold so both of you can spend more time inside the toasty warm house.  In this episode I talk about:* Rain gear. * Creating a special place in your yard.* Using a potty cue.* Change their association with the rain and rain gear.* Why does your dog love to swim but hates the rain (or their bath).Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:Playtime Paws Academy:  A membership for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey. a class="synved-social-button synved-social-button-share synved-social-size-24 synved-social-resolution-single synved-social-provider-linkedin nolightbox" data-provider="linkedin" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" title="Share on Linkedin" href="https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?

Muzzle training your dog means exposing your dogs to wearing a muzzle in a positive, stress-free way (see resources below on how to do this).This is something that most of us never think (or want to think) about doing with our dog. It's understandable because muzzles have a bad rap and are thought of as a last resort for an aggressive dog.But there are many benefits beyond "controlling an aggressive dog".Any dog, when injured has the potential to bite.  Some dogs have a hard time handling the groomer or the vet.  These aren't "bad" or "aggressive" dogs.When we take away that bad stigma and don't hesitate to use one, it can bring all stress levels down and help everything go smoother.  My stance is, better to muzzle train your dog and never need it than be forced to put a muzzle on them for the first time in a stressful situation. As always, the resources I talk about in this episode are listed all below. In this episode I talk about:* Why every dog should be exposed to a muzzle regardless of their temperament. * Specific situations where we can reduce the stress of all involved by exposing our dog to a muzzle first. * Reasons to muzzle train that have nothing to do with aggression.* Reasons to use a muzzle while working on behavior modification.* Reasons not to hesitate to muzzle train your reactive dog.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:American Kennel Club: Dog Muzzles: When, Why, and How to Correctly Use ThemVet.Cornell.edu : Muzzle ChoicesMichael Shikashio: A video on how to Accumulate your dog to a muzzle (this is the guy to follow for ANY muzzle or aggressive dog content).Michael Shikashio: How to find the right fit for your dog.Playtime Paws Academy:  A membership for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey. a class="synved-social-button synved-social-button-share synved-social-size-24 synved-social-resolution-single synved-social-provider-reddit nolightbox" data-provider="reddit" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" title="Share on Reddit" href="https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.playtimepaws.

Socialization is the most important training you can do for your puppy.  It's also the most overlooked and misunderstood part of your puppy's training.When done correctly as a puppy, socialization creates a confident, well adjusted dog.  And who doesn't want that for their puppy?  I've gathered the 4 things I think are the most misunderstood about socialization to help correct any misconceptions.  This also serves as a crash course in socialization if you have no idea what it is. In addition, each topic has it's own podcast episode where you can learn even more.  As always, the resources I talk about in this episode are listed all below. In this episode I talk about:* What socialization is. * How socialization is about more than dogs.* How your puppy's experience matters.* How age matters.* When socialization is about dogs.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #074: How to Socialize Your Puppy Without Leaving Your House.YNP #063: My 7 Guidelines for Socializing Your DogYNP #021: Balancing Vaccines and SocializationYNP #013: Dog Park vs. Dog DaycareYNP #058: How to Recognize Appropriate Dog PlayPlaytime Paws Academy:  A membership for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey. a class="synved-social-button synved-social-button-share synved-social-size-24 synved-social-resolution-single synved-social-provider-pinterest nolightbox" data-provider="pinterest" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" title="Pin it with Pinterest" href="https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?

Is your dog trying to dominate you?  The short answer is no, they are not.  And though that might not come as a surprise to you, what isn't always clear is why it's not true.  Especially because this theory that dogs want to dominate us or some dogs are more "dominate" than others still comes up a lot in dog training. That's why I want to talk about where this dominance and alpha theory came from, how it's been debunked, and why it still persists even though we now know better. I believe this information is important because helps us better understand our dog and how they see the world so we can better communicate with them and teach them how we want them to behave in our human world.  As always, the resources I talk about in this episode are listed all below. In this episode I talk about:* Where the dominance and alpha theory came from. * How we now know that there's no such thing as an "alpha" dog in a natural wolf pack.* Why dominance and alpha theory is still (incorrectly) used.* What is actually happening when we think we see a "dominate" or "submissive" dog.* Why I think it's so important to understand the difference.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:International Wolf Center: An article by the organization that conducted the ordinal study on why they no longer use the term "alpha".Dave Mech (pronounced "meesh"): An article and video by the scientist that wrote the book that made the "alpha" theory popular on why it's no longer accurate. YNP #038: The One Thing You Need to Know About Dog Behavior.YNP #040: How to be Your Dog's Pack LeaderPlaytime Paws Academy:  A membership for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey. a...

Teaching your dog to come when called (recall) is arguably the most important skill you can teach your dog.  It's also one that we struggle with the most. That's because we try and teach it like we would any other cue like sit, down or stay.But that only gives us half the picture. Recall is a habit that you have to develop with your dog, not just a skill to teach them.  This means your behavior is just as important as the skills you teach your dog. Inside my program: 14 Days to a Stronger Recall I teach it in three distinct parts:The habits and behaviors you (as the human) need to develop and avoid.The skills you need to teach your dog (using an activity a day for 14 days)How to practice #1 and #2 and build your dog up to real world and challenging environments.When we think of it in this way we can understand that our every day interactions with our dog can make a big difference in strengthening our recall.  In this episode I talk about:* Why so many of us struggle with recall. * What we are missing when we teach our dog to come when called.* A different way to think about recall.* Examples of things we can do to reinforce our dog's recall everyday. * 14 Days to a Stronger Recall Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #004: 3 Things You Can Do Now to Teach Your Dog to Come Every Time You CallRover Round Robin: A family training game14 Days to a Stronger Recall: A compressive online program where you receive an activity a day to do with your dog while also learning the habits and behavior you need to increase your dog's recall 10x.Playtime Paws Academy:  A membership for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey. a class="synved-social-button synved-social-button-share synved-social-size-24 synved-social-resolution-single synved-social-provider-reddit nolightbox" data-provider="reddit" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" title="Share on Reddit" href="https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.playtimepaws.com%2Fepisode86%2F&title=YNP%20%23086%3A%20Why%20We%20Struggle%20with%20Recall" style="font-size: 0p...

Potty training can be overwhelming.  The good news is, one of the first things we can check off the list is getting our puppy to sleep through the night.  Potty training overnight is a little different than during the day.  Even though they can hold it longer overnight, they still aren't going to make more than 4 hours or so at first.  Our goal is to take them out as little as possible while still minimizing the risk for accidents.  I give you the steps to make this happen.I've seen puppies as young as 10 weeks sleep through the night but most will be closer to 16 weeks.Hopefully, this episode will get you closer to that uninterrupted night's sleep!Remember the one thing that trumps all else????  Say it with me WHEN IN DOUBT, TAKE YOUR PUPPY OUT!In this episode I talk about:* How long your puppy can "hold it" overnight. * What to do before bed to prepare for overnight potty breaks.* Why I recommend setting an alarm.* How to let your puppy sleep longer while lowering the risk of overnight accidents. * Additional tips to make overnights a little easier.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #010: Complete Guide to Potty Training Your PuppyYNP #079: Are you Still Struggling With Potty Training?Playtime Paws Academy:  A membership for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey. a class="synved-social-button synved-social-button-share synved-social-size-24 synved-social-resolution-single synved-social-provider-pinterest nolightbox" data-provider="pinterest" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" title="Pin it with Pinterest" href="https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.playtimepaws.com%2Fepisode85%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.playtimepaws.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F08%2F85Overnight.jpg&description=YNP%20%23085%3A%20How%20to%20Handle%20Potty%20Training%20Overnight" style="font-size: 0px;width:24px;height:24p...

I love puzzle feeders as a way to "ditch the bowl" and make mealtime an event.  If you search "puzzle feeder" or "slow feeders" online countless options come up.  I have my favorite store bought feeders (see my Supplies page) but there's also many ways to DIY it!In fact, I have three that you can make with stuff you were going to throw out anyway.  Young puppies as well as older dogs can benefit from using these feeders to enrich their meal time.  As always, safety first!  Not every enrichment activity is appropriate for every dog.  Use your discretion and always supervise!In this episode I talk about:* What puzzle feeders are.* Why I recommend puzzle feeders. * Three DIY feeders you can make with stuff around your house.* Adjustments for young puppies. * As always, safety first.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #018: Ditch the Bowl and Make Mealtime an EventDebbie's Recommended Supplies (including my favorite store bought treat balls and feeders)Playtime Paws Academy:  A membership for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey. a class="synved-social-button synved-social-button-share synved-social-size-24 synved-social-resolution-single synved-social-provider-linkedin nolightbox" data-provider="linkedin" target="_blank" rel="nofo...

I hope you never need this podcast episode.  Chances are, you will. Having a lost pet is a stressful and upsetting experience.  Sometimes we don't think of the obvious things and sometimes we don't even know the resources that are availableI talk about the most effective things you can do, who you should call, where you can make one of those "lost dog" posters, and where to post them.   This also applies to any lost pet!  Cats are more likely to be lost than dogs!I also highly recommend you also check out my last episode YNP #082: Let's Update Your Dog's Microchip if you haven't already. In this episode I talk about:* The first things you should do when your dog (or any pet) is lost.* Where to make a lost dog poster. * Who to call.* Where to send the poster or picture of your lost pet. Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #082: Let's Update Your Dog's Microchipwww.Canva.com: A free design tool to help you make your lost posters.Playtime Paws Academy:  A brand new program for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey. a class="synved-social-button synved-social-button-share synved-social-size-24 synved-social-resolution-single synved-social-provid...

A microchip is a tiny device that is placed below your pet's skin.  It has a unique 15 digit code that you register along with your contact information.  This way if your pet ever gets lost, shelters, veterinarians, police stations, and others can scan the microchip and access your contact info and help return your pet to you.  Think of it like a tag that can't get lost or fall off.  Microchipping your dog is a pretty standard and safe practice nowadays.  Most breeders and rescues automatically chip their dogs before sending them to their forever homes.  In certain place like the UK, Canada, and some cities within the US require your dog to be microchipped.  That is how effective it is at keeping dogs (and cats!!) out of shelters.Unfortunately, one problem persists.  It is extremely common for a lost pet to stay lost simply because the microchip information is out of date or not registered in the first place.That is exactly what we're going to prevent happening to you and your pets! I'm going to walk you through everything you need to know to make sure your dog's microchip is registered and up to date even if your unsure if your dog has one or what the number is. In this episode I talk about:* Why you should microchip your dog.* How to figure out if your dog is microchipped.* Where to go to find the number (or get your dog microchipped). * How to register or update your information.* Where to go if you don't know where or if the microchip is registered. Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:Animal Humane Society: List of websites where you can register your pet's microchipMicrochip Registry Look Up (www.petmicrochiplookup.org): A registry where you can find where your microchip is registered.Playtime Paws Academy:  A digital membership for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey. a class="synved-social-button synved-social-button-share synved-social-size-24 synved-social-resolution-single synved-social-provider-reddit nolightbox" data-provider="reddit" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" title="Share on Reddit" href="https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.playtimepaws.com%2Fepisode82%2F&title=YNP%20%23082%3A%20Let%E2%80%99s%20Update%20Your%20Dog%E2%80%99s%20Microchip" style="font-size: 0px;width:24px;height:24px;margin:0;margin-bottom:5px;marg...

When we thing of what our dog's walk should look like we think of them walking by our side without being distracted by anything and only sniffing when we say it's ok.  Spoiler alert!  There is NO "should".I'm here to let you off the hook.  Your walk doesn't have to be perfect.  As long as your dog is 6 feet from you, you and your dog are enjoying the walk, and everyone around you is safe, then I don't care what your walk looks like. No we don't want them dragging us down the street (then we wouldn't be enjoying the walk) but we also don't need them in a "heel" position the whole time (then they wouldn't enjoy the walk).It's about finding the balance that works for you and your dog. In this episode I talk about:* What my rules for what your dog's walk should look like.* What my rules aren't. * Why every dog should know "heel".* Why I encourage your walk to NOT be perfect. * A note about puppies and when your dog should have strict rules.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #011: Reasons to Leave Your Retractable Leash at HomeYNP #050: Three Most Common Leash Walking QuestionsPlaytime Paws Academy:  A brand new program for dog and humans no matter where you are in your training journey. a class="synved-social-button synved-social-button-share synved-social-size-24 synved-social-resolution...