What if you could understand what’s going on in your puppy’s brain - week by week? In this episode, I’m breaking down puppy milestones so you know exactly what to expect at every stage of your pup’s first year. We’ll walk through puppy milestones by week, explore what’s happening developmentally inside that little fuzzy head, and talk about how you can best support them during their most sensitive stages - including the puppy critical socialization period. I’ll help you understand puppy developm...
Aug 12, 2025•20 min•Ep. 56
Ever found yourself asking, "Why does my puppy act this way?" If someone told you that your pup is a blank slate and it’s all in how you raise them - this episode is going to challenge that idea in a big way. Today, we’re digging deep into puppy behavior , and how understanding your dog’s nature can change everything about how you train and connect with them. The truth is, puppy behavior is shaped by more than just training - there are powerful influences like genetics, temperament, and early li...
Jul 29, 2025•13 min•Ep. 55
Has your sweet, snuggly puppy ever turned into a little growling gremlin when you reached for their favorite toy? If so, you’ve had a front-row seat to resource guarding - and you’re not alone. In this episode, we’re digging into resource guarding in puppies, why it happens, how to prevent it, and most importantly, how to stop resource guarding in puppies without fear, punishment, or power struggles. Whether you’re dealing with full-on growling or just subtle signs of discomfort, this episode wi...
Jul 15, 2025•8 min•Ep. 54
Dogs in the summer don’t always have it easy - and if you’re raising a puppy, you already know how fast hot weather can turn fun into frustration. In this episode, I’m giving you practical advice on keeping dogs cool in summer and staying safe when the heat is on. I’m breaking down real-world summer safety tips for dogs that every pet parent should know - whether you’re heading to the park, the pool, or just hanging out in your backyard. You'll learn how to prevent emergencies and still have fun...
Jul 01, 2025•19 min•Ep. 53
Ever been told your dog is trying to be the alpha dog just because they jumped on the couch or ran through the door first? That came straight from dominance theory—and in this episode, we’re breaking down it doesn't hold up. I’m explaining how dominance theory in dogs and the alpha dog myth became so popular, why it was wrong from the start, and how it’s still showing up in today’s dog training myths. We’re taking a hard look at what it really means when your dog jumps, growls, or steals your so...
Jun 17, 2025•25 min•Ep. 52
Thinking of getting a puppy? Before you do, ask yourself the one question many new dog owners forget: can i afford a puppy? It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement, but how much does a puppy cost—not just to bring home, but to raise well—is something every future pet parent needs to know. In this episode, I’m breaking down the real costs of puppy ownership—from initial adoption or breeder fees to gear, training, vet bills, and surprise expenses. I walk you through the full picture of first ...
Jun 03, 2025•15 min•Ep. 51
Are you bringing home a new puppy and wondering what to teach a puppy first? You’re not alone! Many new puppy parents feel overwhelmed by all the advice out there, but don’t worry - I’ve got you covered with the essentials for training your puppy. In this episode, I break down the top 10 things to train your puppy to set them up for success from the start. Whether you’ve just welcomed a wiggly bundle of fur into your life or you’re trying to teach your growing pup some manners, this episode is p...
May 20, 2025•8 min•Ep. 50
Is crate training your puppy turning into a battle of guilt, barking, and second-guessing? In this episode, I’m sharing practical and effective puppy crate training tips that will help you and your dog feel more confident and calm—without the chaos. The truth is, when done with patience and positive reinforcement, crate training a puppy is one of the most powerful tools for raising a calm, resilient dog. In fact, the benefits of crate training a puppy go far beyond giving yourself a break—it’s a...
May 06, 2025•17 min•Ep. 49
If you’re constantly apologizing for your dog jumping on people, I get it. It’s frustrating, exhausting, and even a little embarrassing—especially when you’ve tried to fix it, but nothing seems to stick. In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how to train your dog not to jump on people—without yelling, pushing, or scolding. Whether you’ve got an enthusiastic greeter or puppies jumping up with those deceptively cute little paws, I’ll help you understand what’s really going on and walk you thr...
Apr 22, 2025•12 min•Ep. 48
Thinking about bringing home a puppy, but not sure how it’ll go with your kids? You’re not alone! I get this question all the time: “ A m i ready for a puppy ?” And when kids are in the picture, the answer gets even more layered. In today’s episode, we’re diving into everything you need to know about the beautiful chaos of raising a puppy and kids under one roof. I’ll help you assess whether your family is ready for the responsibility of a new puppy, how to prep your home and your kids, and most...
Apr 08, 2025•13 min•Ep. 47
Ever wondered when can you leave a puppy alone without supervision? Are you considering leaving dog out of crate while at work but aren’t sure if they’re ready? In this episode, I’ll walk you through a puppy training schedule by age to help you determine the right time to grant your pup more freedom. From training puppy to be alone for short periods to preventing a destructive dog, I cover everything you need to know about safely expanding your puppy’s world. I’ll cover: The biggest mistake pupp...
Mar 25, 2025•11 min•Ep. 46
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 recognizing the signs to taking action with an effective dog obesity treatment plan. We’ll dive into how to use a dog ...
Mar 11, 2025•12 min•Ep. 45
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 best online dog training courses. If you’re dealing with common issues like leash pulling, potty training, or...
Feb 25, 2025•10 min•Ep. 44
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 that every dog owner should know, and I’ll reveal how to communicate with your dog to lead to a stronger...
Feb 11, 2025•16 min•Ep. 43
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 for pets. From assembling a well-stocked pet disaster kit to crafting a foolproof evacuation plan, I cove...
Jan 28, 2025•12 min•Ep. 42
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 experience tailored to your dog’s specific needs. But they’re not without challenges. We’ll talk about what ...
Jan 14, 2025•12 min•Ep. 41
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 possible. Plus, stick around for some fun holiday gift ideas for your dog that will bring joy to both of ...
Dec 17, 2024•13 min•Ep. 40
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 don’t always go smoothly. That’s why I’m here to help you understand dog behavior, prevent those scary...
Dec 03, 2024•15 min•Ep. 39
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 explain why not all dogs enjoy meeting others. Plus, I’ll provide actionable tips for managing these encounters...
Nov 19, 2024•11 min•Ep. 38
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 safe. Tune in to learn more about: Immediate steps to take within those crucial first hours when your dog...
Nov 05, 2024•11 min•Ep. 37
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 of early recognition of concerning signs such as excessive fear or aggression. Here’s what we’ll cove...
Oct 22, 2024•16 min•Ep. 36
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 companions. But unless you know about the most up-to-date training methods, you might be pretty confused. Tha...
Oct 08, 2024•18 min•Ep. 35
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 your pup might be turning up their nose at food rewards and, more importantly, what you can do to change th...
Sep 24, 2024•13 min•Ep. 34
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 it’s pretty close. We’re talking about how to manage your dog’s environment to prevent those pesky unwant...
Sep 10, 2024•11 min•Ep. 33
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 around them. Tune in to learn: The surprising factors that might be causing your dog to lose focus when ...
Aug 27, 2024•11 min•Ep. 32
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. In this episode, I'll help you decipher the reasons behind your dog's barking and, more importantly, how...
Aug 13, 2024•15 min•Ep. 31
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 also highlight recent research findings that suggest the timing of spaying and neutering can influence the i...
Jul 30, 2024•15 min•Ep. 30
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 subtle (and not-so-subtle) symptoms of this issue. Join me as we explore strategies and treatment options de...
Jul 16, 2024•14 min•Ep. 29
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 down the science behind vaccines, the importance of early socialization, and how to navigate conflicting...
Jul 02, 2024•13 min•Ep. 28
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 intimidation, focusing instead on understanding what rewards are meaningful to the dog. You'll leave this epi...
Jun 18, 2024•15 min•Ep. 27
