Episodes

Dog training is about more than teaching sit and stay. In this episode of Puppy Talk, we break down what real dog training actually looks like in everyday life. We talk about why commands alone fall short, how understanding your dog changes everything, and the simple tools families need to create calmer, more confident dogs at home. If training feels frustrating or confusing, this episode will help reframe what really works. Episode Outline Why dog training is more than obedience commands The ...

I’ve done several episodes recently on the responsibility of raising a puppy. The main thing to remember once you take ownership of a puppy is that they need obedience training, and you have to practice with them. Follow the guidelines below to improve your practice sessions and the predictability of the puppy's learning of obedience skills. Daily practice is essential. Practicing once in a while will not work. You have to practice correctly, the way a professional dog trainer has taught you. ...

People call me to discuss puppy training, and their entire focus is on potty training. This happens a lot. The goal of this episode is to shift new puppy owners' focus to the bigger picture of raising a puppy beyond potty training and crate training. A dog trainer can only provide tips on potty training, crate training, play biting, and other issues because we don’t live with the dog. Most of the unwanted behavior stems from the environment and from the owners' lack of leadership. The bigger p...

My dog Dixie has been diagnosed with heart disease after a routine checkup before teeth cleaning. They found a heart murmur, then, from an X-ray, found an enlarged heart and congestion in her lungs. I have created a GoFundMe account link in the show notes with more details. Start-Up Fees: Including adoption or breeder fees, initial vet visit, microchip, supplies, and training. $2000-$8000 Monthly Expenses: Food Medication (heartworm, flea, and tick prevention) Daycare Dog Walker Grooming ...

Many people underestimate the level of responsibility needed to raise a puppy. Listen to my first episode of Puppy Talk called Owning a New Puppy is a Lot of Work. The Truth: Raising a young puppy starting at 8 weeks old is a part-time job. Hiring a dog trainer may not help. It’s not the solution. You have to do the work yourself, with the help of a coach. The Myths: Puppies only need affection and play Teaching your puppy the command “no” will solve everything Punishing the puppy by yelli...

Being an effective leader and building trust in your dog requires a skill set grounded in effective communication, temperament, and focus. What to do: Make sure your communication is crystal clear. Trim the fat. Tell the dog what you want and reward them for doing it. Set your dog up for success. Make it impossible for them to fail and let them have fun in the process. Stay focused on “teaching” the dog what you want them to learn. What not to do: DO NOT talk to them so much, especially with...

Building structure for your puppy in one of the best things you can do to help raise a happy, healthy, and obedient puppy. In this episode of Puppy Talk I discuss the why and how of puppy structure. Why? Structure creates calmness in the puppy. Structure creates an opportunity for the puppy to succeed, not fail Structure helps you, the puppy owner, have more control over the puppy’s behavior, obedience, and discipline. How? Stick to a routine: wake up, potty, short walk, training, eat, play,...

For dog owners: Always keep your dog on a leash. Listen to podcast episode 118. Never allow your dog to bark or lunge at another dog or people. Create distance immediately if this happens.Work with a trainer to prevent rectivity. Teach sit, wait, “watch-me” as alternative behaviors to reacting to stimuli. For parents of children: Never allow your child to pet a dog unless the dog is on a leash and calm.Never have your child reach their hand toward a dog's face or put their face clos...

Embarking on a career as a dog trainer may seem daunting. With vast knowledge to acquire and numerous pathways to explore, it can be challenging. Yet, by breaking it down into straightforward steps, the journey becomes manageable. In this episode, I will guide you through the essentials of starting out, from enhancing your expertise to establishing yourself as a reliable professional in your community. Purchase "The Business of Dog Training" on Amazon RESOURCES: Podcast Website: http://puppytal...

The Most Important Command to Teach Your Puppy is the "stay" command. This will help you control the puppies space in the house, prevent them from jumping, and prevent them from running away. In this episode, I explain why the "stay" command is so important and how to program the command into your puppy. Purchase "The Business of Dog Training" on Amazon RESOURCES: Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com Dale's books: https://www.amazon.co...

Puppy Socialization is the most important thing to teach your puppy from the ages of 8 to 16 weeks old. Everything that your puppy is exposed to during this time period will have a significant impact on preventing fear, anxiety, and stress in the future. Start socializing your puppy early. Take them to as many places as possible Be consistent with public outings. Purchase "The Business of Dog Training" on Amazon RESOURCES: Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com Sponsor Website: http://...

You may be wondering what is best for your dog, whether you should keep them on or off the leash. Here are some reasons that you'll want to consider keeping your best friend on-leash and living their best life. Your dog stays safe Others stay safe In most places, it's the law In case of emergency It's the responsible thing to do Purchase "The Business of Dog Training" on Amazon RESOURCES: Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com Dale's ...

Many people get confused when it comes to defining dog training. This episode should clear that up for you. Here is what we will cover today: Obedience Training, also known as dog training, involves teaching basic commands such as sit, down, and stay. Obedience training is what most people refer to when discussing dog training. Although dog training is used by almost everyone across a broad spectrum, including veterinarians and doggie daycare, “Your dog needs training”…when in fact they need ...

You’ve witnessed your dog's transformation through our basic obedience program, where they mastered essential commands and established a solid foundation. So, what's the next step for the truly devoted dog and owner? The answer is found in the engaging and effective realm of advanced group obedience training. You can purchase my book here: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan RESOURCES: Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com Dale's...

Most behavior problems in adult dogs stem from fear or anxiety that started early and went unaddressed. Here are some tips to help prevent Fear, Anxiety, and Stress in your puppy: Early Socialization Create a Secure Environment Reading Body Language Building Confidence Through Training Avoiding Common Mistakes That Cause FAS You can purchase my book here: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan RESOURCES: Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundog...

Seasoned dog owners might feel like they have been through it all with one pup, and thus, they can tackle any challenge that comes their way. Don't let that fool you. Experience with one dog at a time is much different than juggling two or more. That being said, how do you know when the time is right to add a second pup to the family? Is it even a good idea to do so? You can purchase my book here: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan RESOURCES: Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com...

A study from the National Library of Medicine shows that overweight dogs are more likely to engage in unwanted behaviors. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5468744/ How to prevent dogs from getting overweight Plenty of exercise Plenty of enrichment and mental stimulation. Monitor their food intake. No Snacking. You can purchase my book here: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan RESOURCES: Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining....

In this episode, I discuss how to set your puppy up for success by making better decisions to replace unwanted behaviors. Stop directing them Allow them to decide independently - use leash training for this. Do the chair exercise. Praise them subtly when they make a good decision Target training, light agility training, and dog puzzles. Give them a chance to succeed. The chair exercise: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DDK-H52SBgm/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Target Tr...

Dogs and cats are not naturally inclined to fight; that idea is a myth. Both animals can tolerate each other and even get along very well. However, you need to understand how their minds work. It's the personality that matters, not the breed Consider getting a puppy and a kitten together Help your dog with some training Give your cat his own private space Keep your dog away from the litter box Make sure there is no competition over food Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Pup...

Here are three reasons why you never want to repeat commands to your puppy: The puppy loses respect for you as a leader The puppy gets confused and checks out You’re programming the number of times you say the command Say the command once, and allow the puppy enough time to do it. RESOURCES: Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan

Choosing the perfect dog breed for you and your family can be challenging. It is even more of a challenge when you live in an apartment or do not have a yard and must consider space. Five breeds that not only survive but thrive in an apartment lifestyle include: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Bulldog Poodle Greyhounds Great Dane RESOURCES: Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.com Sponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.com Dale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchanan

It is essential to select the right dog trainer. Various options include in-home private lessons, classes, or board-and-train. Here are eight reasons why in-home training can lead to better and lasting results. Personalized Attention Familiar Environment Owner Involvement Faster Progress Flexible Scheduling Addressing Specific Issues Longer-Lasting Results Building Trust and Communication Purchase The Complete Puppy Training Manual here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BFBZYXMR RESOURCES: P...

There are seven things that I talk about in this episode on how to raise the perfect puppy. Follow these seven principles, and you will have great results. Build your relationship from the first day Set the puppy up for success Set clear rules and boundaries Socialize your puppy early Don’t overuse corrections Don’t focus on what you don’t want - Teach the puppy what you want it to do. Don’t punish, yell, or get mad at your puppy Click here to purchase my new book, The Complete Puppy Tra...

Many people need clarification about specialty training for their puppy or dog related to service dogs, therapy dogs, or ESAs (emotional support animals). In this episode, I discuss the definitions, training requirements, and roles each plays in human life. Related article from AKC: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/service-working-therapy-emotional-support-dogs/ Alliance of Therapy Dogs website: https://www.therapydogs.com/ Discover a simple and effective method for loose-leash walk...