Your New Puppy: Dog Training and Dog Behavior Lessons to Help You Turn Your New Puppy into a Well-Behaved Dog

Debbie Cilento: Dog Trainer | Dog Behavior Consultant | Owner of Playtime Paws | Belly Rub Specialist
Your New Puppy: Dog Training and Dog Behavior Lessons to Help You Turn Your New Puppy into a Well-Behaved Dog

Your host, Debbie (owner of Playtime Paws), is a positive trainer with a passion for dogs, their behavior and helping you create a well-behaved dog. This is a dog training and behavior podcast that with help you and your new puppy build good healthy habits right from the start. It will also help you understand your dog’s behavior and build a strong, fulfilling, and fun relationship for years to come.

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    Replay: Behavior Changes as Your Puppy Gets Older

    If your puppy is experiencing some behavior changes now that they've reach adolescents, then this episode is for you. If you're feeling like your once (relatively) well-behaved puppy is suddenly turning into a bit of a troublemaker—you're not alone. And no worries, I'm here to help you navigate through it.In this replay episode, we’re diving deep into behavior changes that happen as your puppy gets older, specifically during adolescence (around 5 to 18 months). You might have thought the hardest part was the early puppyhood.  The truth is adolescence can be even more challenging.Your puppy can start to regress with behaviors you thought you had under control and may also come up with some new ones! And, of course, it happens the moment you thought you had it all under control.  Don’t worry, it’s completely normal.  There's nothing wrong with your puppy and you haven’t done anything wrong.  Sometimes just knowing that is enough it get you through it! Need extra support?  In addition to replaying this episode, I've also relaunched my popular Not-So-New Puppy Behavior Workshop.  In this virtual workshop I help a small group of adolescent dog parents trouble shoot all of the behaviors they're struggling with.  Over 4 weeks I give you practical advice and exercises to help you get back the confidence and control that you may have lost along the way.  Go here for more information and to sign up.What past students have said when asked what they loved about the workshop:--"Loved that it was a way to talk in real-time with a small group. Debbie, you’re great about bringing in themes and questions from prior weeks. It was great to go in-depth."--"I loved this workshop. It was so helpful for all the adolescent puppy issues we were facing. Debbie is great about not only bringing up common struggles for puppies and their humans but also going in-depth on participants’ questions. The small group environment was fun and allowed us to cover topics that may not be an issue for some pups now but could be in the future."--"It was great being among a group of people going through the same experiences. Debbie was thoughtful in her responses and always kind and helpful."--"The size of the group was wonderful! Topics covered were useful and relevant to me, and everyone had ample time to ask for advice on individual issues." In this episode I talk about:* What behavior changes to expect as your puppy grows.Why these behavior changes are happening and what's behind them.* How to stay patient as your dog goes through this phase of development. * How to manage your puppy's new energy levels.* Why consistency is key!* The relaunch of the Not-So-New Puppy Behavior Workshop.Enjoying this podcast?  Please rate and review it wherever you listen.  This helps other puppy parents find it.Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #049: Behavior Changes as Your Puppy Gets Older [Original Episode] Not-So-New Puppy Behavior Workshop:  A 4-week virtual workshop designed for dogs aged 5-18 months, offering you expert guidance on those frustrating adolescent behaviors. Together, we’ll troubleshoot common challenges like barking, leash pulling, counter-surfing, impulse control, and more. a href="http://www.playtimepaws.

    15 min
  2. 12/23/2024

    YNP #102: Three Simple Ways to Introduce Your Dog to Kids

    Introducing your dog to kids, especially ones you don't know, can be a tricky business.  You know it's important to keep the interaction calm and positive but how do you do that?  Whether you’re introducing your dog to kids at home, at the park, or during the holidays, I have three simple strategies can help ensure that your dog (and kids) feels safe, respected, and calm.What makes them so powerful is their simplicity and the fact that the kids don't need any prior knowledge of dogs. I also talk about recognizing when your dog might not be in the mood for interaction and how to advocate for your dog. Plus, if you’re gearing up for the holidays, these strategies are perfect for handling busy social gatherings with kids and dogs.In this episode I talk about:* Why positive interactions with kids are important.* How to make your dog feel safe and respected.* How to teach kids to pet "collar-to-tail". * Using "Pat-Pet-Pause" and tricks to help your dog feel comfortable and calm around kids.* How to tell if your dog in uncomfortable.* What to do if your dog is uncomfortable.Enjoying this podcast?  Please rate and review it wherever you listen.  This helps other puppy parents find it.Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YOUR New Puppy:  My signature new puppy course that has helped hundreds of new puppy parents raise their puppies into well-mannered, happy dogs. 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%2Fepisode102%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.playtimepaws.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F12%2FYour-New-Puppy-Podcast-Episode-102-introduce-dog-to-kids.png&description=YNP%20%23102%3A%20Three%20Simple%20Ways%20to%20Introduce%20Your%20Dog%20to%20Kids" style="font-size: 0px;width:24px;heigh...

    14 min
  3. 11/22/2024

    YNP #101: Can I Play Tug of War With My Dog?

    Tug of war is a game that dogs LOVE to play.  Yet I always get asked the question "Can I play tug of war with my dog?"The short answer is YES!  It's is great game for you and your pup.  It's easy to play, they love it, it burns lots of energy and tires out those heavy chewing jaws and nipping puppy teeth. So why is this a question?  Well, there's some misconceptions about tug of war that have been going around for a while. In this episode, I debunk the common myths, like the idea that it’s a dominance game or that you can't let your dog win.The vast majority of dogs can play tug of war with no problem.   There are some pups that need some rules to reduce any over stimulation or excitement.  No worries, I walk you through what to watch for if this is your pup—like vocal escalation or raised hackles.Plus, I’ve got a special video for you that shows how to use tug of war to teach your dog important skills like drop it and impulse control.So, grab your dog’s favorite toy and tune in to find out how you can safely enjoy this fun game with your pup! How to Use Tug of War toTeach Impulse ControlTug of war is not only a fun game that your dog loves but you can use it to teach your dog to control their excitement (also known as impulse control). As a bonus, I also talk a little bit about "drop it"It's a two-minute video that will give you and your pup hours of fun! REQUEST NOW! In this episode I talk about:* Can you play tug of war with your dog?* Why this is even a question.* Signs to look for if you need to put rules in place. * How tug of war can benefit your dog.* Free resource on how to teach your dog impulse control with a game of tug of war.Enjoying this podcast?  Please rate and review it wherever you listen.  This helps other puppy parents find it.Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #087: Is Your Dog Trying to Dominate You? YOUR New Puppy:  My signature new puppy course that has helped hundreds of new puppy parents raise their puppies into well-mannered, happy dogs. a class="synved-social-button synved-s...

    10 min
  4. 10/21/2024

    YNP #100: Things I Believed About Dogs Before I Became a Dog Trainer

    Welcome to Episode 100 of Your New Puppies Podcast! I’m thrilled to celebrate this milestone with you, my amazing listeners. As I reflect back, I started to think about what I've learned and the things I believed before I became a dog trainer.  I wanted to share some key lessons with you because unless you've become a dog trainer yourself, you may believe these same things.The three lessons I talk about:* Even if you've lived with dogs before, being the one in charge of their well being and training is a very different experience.* Puppies aren't a blank slate.* Dogs don't inherently get along, just because their dogs.In celebration of 100 episodes and to thank my listeners you will receive a free gift if you join one of my digital programs.I’m offering two special promotions for a limited time!* If you join my signature course, YOUR Perfect Puppy, receive a complimentary one-on-one 45 minute video session.* Join 14 Days to a Stronger Recall program and receive 14 Days to a Stronger Leave It free!YOUR Perfect Puppy is my signature 4 week puppy course designed to help raise your puppy into a happy, well mannered dog. You also get 6 months inside Playtime Paws Academy which is where you get direct access to me to support you through your puppy raising journey.14 Days to a Stronger Recall is a mini program designed to teach you the foundation you need to teach your dog to come to you every time you call in any environment.  With 14 Days to a Stronger Leave It you'll also learn how to teach your dog not to pick up everything on your walk!Note: Both 14 Days to a Stronger Recall and 14 Days to a Stronger Leave It are inside of YOUR Perfect Puppy.  So, if you can't decide, joining YOUR Perfect Puppy will get you all of the above!!If you have a questions about any of these programs or offers feel free to email me info@playtimepaws.comJoin me in this celebration as we embark on the next chapter together.In this episode I talk about:* How far the podcast has come.* Why I love working with new puppy parents.* Until we're in it, we don't fully understand what it's like to raise a puppy. * Why who your dog becomes is a combination of nature and nurture.* Socialization isn't about your dog learning to love other dogs, it's about learning how to communicate.* Two free gifts to celebrate 100 episodes and thank you, my listeners.Enjoying this podcast?  Please rate and review it wherever you listen.  This helps other puppy parents find it.Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #073: Does Your Dog's Breed Matter? YOUR New Puppy:  My signature new puppy course that has helped hundreds of new puppy parents raise their puppies into well-mannered, happy dogs.14 Days to a Stronger Recall:  Learn how to have the freedom and peace of mind when your dog comes to you every time you call! a class="synved-social-button synved-social-button-share synved-social-size-24 synved-social-resolution-single synved-social-provider-facebook nolightbox" data-provider="facebook" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" title="Share on Facebook" href="https...

    19 min
  5. 09/17/2024

    Why Not to Give a Puppy as a Holiday Gift

    The holiday season is a popular time to bring a new puppy into the family.  But how we do it can make a big difference in the well being of all involved. Now before I totally burst your bubble, I'm not saying you shouldn't get a puppy this time of year (though there are things to consider while making that decision).    What I'm going to talk about here is why you shouldn't surprise someone (kids or adult) with the actual puppy on a specific day - Christmas morning, for example. We think of it as a special magical moment where a puppy comes out of a box and our kids or family member is overwhelmed with joy.  But the reality is, this can be a stressful experience for a puppy who is also meeting their new family for the first time. If you're considering getting a puppy around the holidays, this episode will help you keep the time special while making sure it's a joyful and stress free experience for both humans and puppies!Enjoy!In this episode I talk about:* What to think about when giving a puppy as a gift.* Why you shouldn't plan a surprise with an actual puppy. * The importance of building trust with your puppy during the first few days home.* The importance of preparing your family before bringing a puppy home.* Alternative ways to make the holiday special without surprising someone with an actual puppy.Enjoying this podcast?  Please rate and review it wherever you listen.  This helps other puppy parents find it.Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #060: Kids and PuppiesThe 3 Phases to Bringing Your New Puppy Home - Video seriesBook a virtual session with DebbieYOUR New Puppy:  My signature new puppy course that has helped hundreds of new puppy parents raise their puppies into well-mannered, happy dogs. a class="synved-...

    17 min
  6. 08/16/2024

    Why Your Dog Isn't Listening

    Why your dog isn't listening depends on a bunch of factors including what your asking them to do, where they are, what you've taught them previously, and more.It's one of the most common questions I get but it's also one of the hardest to answer.  I usually need ALOT more information.  From my experience, I've narrowed it down to 5 reasons.  They are not mutually exclusive.  In fact, chances are it's a blend of a few reasons.  The five reasons are:* You haven't taught them what you're asking for.* You skipped some steps in their training.* You haven't practiced in this environment.* They've already learned they don't have to listen.* Today is just not the day. Once we can pinpoint the reason (or reasons) we can start to figure out what to do next. Enjoy!In this episode I talk about:* Expectations you should have for puppies.* The five reasons your dog is not listening. * Examples of each reason.* How to tell which reason your dog isn't listening.* What your next step is.Enjoying this podcast?  Please rate and review it wherever you listen.  This helps other puppy parents find it.Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #057: How to Teach Your Dog to Listen With DistractionsYNP #064: The Downside of a Fenced-in YardYNP #080: Why I Don't Teach "Off"YOUR New Puppy:  My signature new puppy course that has helped hundreds of new puppy parents raise their puppies. 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%2Fepisode98%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.playtimepaws.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F08%2Fyou-new-...

    15 min
  7. 07/12/2024

    Hot Weather Activities for Your Dog

    Just about every dog is going to have some trouble with the hot weather.  For some dogs even a slight elevation in temperature will find them seeking out the shade and wanting shorter walks. The heat itself can be tiring for a dog so it tends to shorten walks and activity.  This will result in us having to find creative ways to entertain our dog and burn some energy. For this episode I reached right into my Enrichment Database (available with YOUR Perfect Puppy) to find some activities that are perfect for a hot day.  I have you covered if you want to play with water, sit in the shade with a frozen treat, or stay inside and avoid the heat altogether.Enjoy! In this episode I talk about:* Dogs that are sensitive to the heat.* How to recognize heat stroke in a dog. * Different types of water activities to try with your pup.* Different types of frozen treats to make for your pup.* Indoor activities to avoid the heat all together.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:Articles on heat stroke in dogs:* https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/heat-stroke-in-dogs* https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/heatstroke-in-dogs/Rover Round Robin:  A fun family recall game you can turn into hide and seek (request the step by step directions)YOUR New Puppy:  My signature new puppy course that has helped hundreds of new puppy parents raise their puppies. 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.

    15 min
  8. 06/05/2024

    Is Pet Insurance Worth It?

    Pet insurance isn't the most interesting topic I've ever talked about but it is important.Most often I get the question "is pet insurance worth it?"  And I think this is the wrong question.We most often compare it to our own health insurance.  But there are key differences that mean we have to think about pet insurance in a different way. Is it going to save you money?  Maybe, maybe not.  Is it going to protect you and your pet? Hmm, now we're getting closer!My goal with this episode is to help you decide if pet insurance is right for you.  And if it is, where to go next.I also go into why I don't have pet insurance right now, but it is something I would think about in the future.   In this episode I talk about:* The key differences between our health insurance and pet insurance.* How to think about the question "is pet insurance right for me?" * How insurance works in general.* The different components that affect the cost of pet insurance.* Where to go next if you want to research pet insurance further.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:Pet Insurance University: a wealth of knowledge from a veterinarian about what to look for with pet insurance. Forbes.com: A place to compare pet insurance quotesYOUR New Puppy:  My signature new puppy course that has helped hundreds of new puppy parents raise their puppies. 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.

4.8
out of 5
841 Ratings

About

Your host, Debbie (owner of Playtime Paws), is a positive trainer with a passion for dogs, their behavior and helping you create a well-behaved dog. This is a dog training and behavior podcast that with help you and your new puppy build good healthy habits right from the start. It will also help you understand your dog’s behavior and build a strong, fulfilling, and fun relationship for years to come.

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