The Christmas Puppy Decision: How to Prepare for a Puppy and Why Responsible Dog Ownership Matters
Bringing home a Christmas puppy seems magical, but the reality often looks very different once the excitement fades. In this episode of The Well-Mannered Mutt, I'm sharing the importance of responsible dog ownership and how to prepare for a puppy, along with five actionable steps you can take right now to decide whether a puppy as a gift is truly the right choice for your family. Some of the things we cover in this episode are: Why the idea of a Christmas puppy can lead to overwhelm and stress What responsible dog ownership actually looks like during the holidays Clear guidance on how to prepare for a puppy before the big day arrives When a puppy as a gift can work and when it backfires Practical alternatives that give you the joy of a future dog without rushing the process A Christmas puppy can be a wonderful addition, but only when you approach it with intention, planning, and true responsible dog ownership. By the end of this episode, you'll know exactly how to prepare for a puppy and how to make the puppy as a gift decision with clarity and confidence. Resources mentioned in this episode: HELP! My Puppy Is Biting Me! Connect with Staci Lemke: Website - www.mannersformutts.com Instagram & Facebook @mannersformutts
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From Fearful Puppy to Confident Dog: Gentle Steps That Work
In this episode of The Well-Mannered Mutt, I'm sharing the importance of helping your fearful puppy feel safe and eight actionable steps you can take right now to build confidence and connection through desensitization dog training. If your walks feel more stressful than joyful, or your puppy freezes, hides, or pulls toward home, this episode will give you the tools to rebuild trust and turn those moments into progress. You'll learn exactly how to build trust with your dog so you can help your fearful puppy grow into a calm, confident dog. Some of the things I cover in this episode are: Spot early signs of a fearful puppy and how to respond with calm support Use gentle desensitization dog training to help your pup relax and explore Create predictable routines that grow a confident dog Strengthen your bond and understand how to build trust with your dog Every puppy deserves to feel safe in their world, and every owner deserves a plan that works. With kindness, consistency, and science-based desensitization dog training, you can help your fearful puppy become a curious, confident dog ready to explore the world beside you. Thank you for taking the time to help your dog become a more well-mannered mutt! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive more training tips, canine wellness advice, and fun activities for dogs and their owners. If you have questions about today's episode, or if there's a topic you want to learn more about, come connect with me on Facebook and Instagram at @mannersformutts. If you enjoyed this podcast, head over to Apple Podcasts and leave a review. I'd love to hear what's been helpful for you and your canine friends. Talk to you next time! Resources mentioned in this episode: Easy Pee-sy Puppy Potty Training HELP! My Puppy Is Biting Me! But, My Puppy's Not Fully Vaccinated! Surviving Your Dog's Adolescence Program WAIT! Come Back! Rapid Fire Recall Connect with Staci Lemke: Website - www.mannersformutts.com Instagram & Facebook @mannersformutts
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The Trainer's Guide to Loose Leash Walking and Positive Reinforcement Training to Stop Leash Pulling for Good [Replay]
Does your dog turn every walk into a tug of war? You're not alone. In this episode, I'm sharing exactly how to stop leash pulling using the same positive reinforcement training methods I teach my clients every day. You'll learn the simple steps to create calm, enjoyable walks through consistent loose leash walking practice. If you've ever wondered how to stop leash pulling without using harsh corrections, this episode is for you. We'll talk about why dogs pull, what they're really communicating, and how positive reinforcement training helps your dog learn faster while keeping walks stress-free. You'll also hear how I approach loose leash walking with both new puppies and adult dogs who have never learned how to walk politely. Some of the things I cover in this episode are: The real reason your dog pulls and how to change it through positive reinforcement training Step-by-step guidance on loose leash walking that fits into your daily routine Clear answers to the most common questions about how to stop leash pulling Tools and treats that make loose leash walking easier and more fun Why consistency and kindness matter most in positive reinforcement training By the end of this episode, you'll know how to stop leash pulling the kind, effective way and feel confident using positive reinforcement training to turn every walk into a calm, connected experience through loose leash walking. Resources mentioned in this episode: Surviving Your Dog's Adolescence Program Connect with Staci Lemke: Website - www.mannersformutts.com Instagram & Facebook @mannersformutts
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Dogs on Halloween: How to Keep Them Calm, Confident, and Safe
Halloween might be fun for us, but for dogs on Halloween it can feel like the world has gone a little wild. Between doorbells, Halloween dog costumes, and glowing decorations, even confident pups can get overwhelmed. In this episode, I'm breaking down everything you need to know about Halloween pet safety so your dog stays calm, happy, and out of trouble. I'll share my favorite ways to prepare for puppy Halloween, introduce Halloween dog costumes the right way, and make sure dogs on Halloween have the confidence they need to enjoy the fun instead of fearing it. Here's what we'll cover: The biggest Halloween pet safety mistakes most owners don't realize they're making How to make Halloween dog costumes comfortable, positive, and stress-free My simple steps for introducing spooky sights and sounds during puppy Halloween prep How to manage dogs on Halloween night so they feel safe and secure Ways to protect your puppy's confidence while still joining in the celebration If you're planning your first puppy Halloween or just want to brush up on Halloween pet safety, this episode gives you everything you need to make the night calm, safe, and fun for everyone. Tune in and learn how to enjoy dogs on Halloween without the stress - just treats, training, and trust. Resources mentioned in this episode: Download our free guide – Preparing Your Dog for Halloween But, My Puppy's Not Fully Vaccinated! Connect with Staci Lemke: Website - www.mannersformutts.com Instagram & Facebook @mannersformutts
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What Is Small Dog Syndrome? How to Train Small Dogs So They're Confident, Not Cranky
People ask me all the time: what is small dog syndrome? Maybe you've seen a Chihuahua who barks at everything or a Yorkie that charges at bigger dogs. Too often, these little pups get labeled as a "small mean dog" – but that reputation isn't the full story. In this episode, I explain exactly what is small dog syndrome, why it happens, and most importantly, how to train small dogs so they're confident instead of cranky. With the right approach, you can prevent those common frustrations and enjoy life with a calm, cooperative companion. Here's what I'll cover: Why small dog syndrome shows up more often in toy breeds than in larger dogs The truth behind the "small mean dog" label and how to rewrite the story Everyday strategies for building confidence and independence in little dogs Smart socialization techniques that prevent small dog syndrome before it starts Proven tips on how to train small dogs so they thrive in the real world By the end, you'll not only know what is small dog syndrome, you'll also have clear steps on how to train small dogs with positive reinforcement so they grow into calm, capable adults. 👉 Listen now and see why no dog – not even a so-called "small mean dog" – is destined to struggle with behavior if they're trained the right way. Resources mentioned in this episode: Group Dog Training Classes WAIT! Come Back! Rapid Fire Recall Connect with Staci Lemke: Website - www.mannersformutts.com Instagram & Facebook @mannersformutts
Welcome to The Well-Mannered Mutt Podcast, the show for dog owners looking to improve their relationship with their canine friends. This podcast is designed to both train dogs and teach people, so there can be success and happiness at both ends of the leash.
Your host, Staci Lemke is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, retired Registered Veterinary Technician, and owner of Manners for Mutts Dog Training. With over 20 years of experience working with dogs and their people, Staci is the perfect guide to help you navigate the ups and downs of life with a dog.
So, whether you're a new dog owner or a seasoned pro, be sure to join Staci for each episode as she shares practical training tips, fun doggy adventures, and simple things you can do to strengthen the bond between you and your four-legged friend.
Connect with Staci:
Website - www.mannersformutts.com
Instagram & Facebook @mannersformutts
México