Puppy Talk
Puppy Talk offers advice and training tips for new puppy owners. We cover topics such as potty training, play biting, basic commands, behavior problems, and leash training. Dale has trained thousands of puppies, as well as raising several of his own own. If you enjoy this podcast, please follow. Be sure to check out our website at http://puppytalkpodcast.com. This podcast is sponsored by http://www.topgundogtraining.com
How Decluttering Your Home Can Help Make Your Dog More Obedient
Could decluttering your home actually help improve your dog’s behavior? In this episode of Puppy Talk, we explore how reducing distractions, limiting access to tempting objects, and creating a more organized environment can make training easier and help your dog make better choices.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog Training
In-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.comSponsor We...Does Your Puppy Really Need a Backyard?
Many people assume that having a backyard is essential to raising a happy, well-behaved puppy. But the truth is, your puppy doesn't need a backyard to thrive. In this episode of Puppy Talk, we look at the pros and cons of having a backyard and why simply letting your puppy outside isn't a substitute for training, exercise, socialization, and spending quality time together. Whether you live in a house with a fenced yard or an apartment without one, you'll learn what your puppy really needs to grow into a happy, confident, well-adjusted dog.
If you need help...
Why Your Dog Is Reactive on Leash and What to Do About It
When your dog reacts to another dog or a person on leash, it can become very stressful, embarrassing, and exhausting. Many of the people I work with have leash-reactive dogs, and I have extensive experience addressing leash reactivity. It does take a long time to improve leash reactivity. It's not an overnight process. There's no quick fix. If your dog barks, lunges, freezes, growls, or completely loses their mind when they see another dog or a person, that is considered leash reactivity.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE...
The Best Leash Training Equipment for Your Puppy
Many people would love to have their dog walk beside them on a loose leash, never pulling or moving from side to side. Most dog owners never achieve this goal for a variety of reasons, including the wrong equipment, a lack of formal training, and bad habits formed early.
USE THESE:
Flat collar - buckle or snapPetSafe Easy Walk Harness6” snap leash - Mendota PetSlip lead in the houseStarMark Pro-Training Collar for some dogsDO NOT USE:
Rear clip harnessRetractable leashBungie leashMulti-handle leashChoke collarE-Collar (shock, vibrate, or tone)Watch so...
The Best Leash Training Equipment for Your Puppy
Many people would love to have their dog walk beside them on a loose leash, never pulling or moving from side to side. Most dog owners never achieve this goal for a variety of reasons, including the wrong equipment, a lack of formal training, and bad habits formed early.
USE THESE:
Flat collar - buckle or snapPetSafe Easy Walk Harness6” snap leash - Mendota PetSlip lead in the houseStarMark Pro-Training Collar for some dogsDO NOT USE:
Rear clip harnessRetractable leashBungie leashMulti-handle leashChoke collarE-Collar (shock, vibrate, or tone)The Biggest Potty Training Mistake New Puppy Owners Make
Waiting for the puppy to tell you they need to go outside is a mistake that can cause more accidents than almost anything else. New puppy owners often expect their puppy to bark at the door, scratch the door. whine, pace around, or sit and stare at them.
Here is a scientific method that I learned from a vet a few years ago. It sets the puppy up for success by allowing them only a small amount of water at a time, and then taking them outside to go potty shortly afterward.Â
Step 1: G...
Puppy Expectations vs. Reality: What Every New Puppy Owner Needs to Know
Bringing home a puppy is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming when reality doesn't match your expectations. If you've ever wondered why your puppy won't listen, keeps biting, has accidents in the house, or seems to have endless energy, you're not alone.
In this episode of Puppy Talk, Dale Buchanan discusses the biggest differences between what new puppy owners expect and what life with a puppy is really like. You'll learn why these behaviors are completely normal, how to adjust your expectations, and what you can do to help your puppy grow into a...
5 Easy Ways to Add Mental Stimulation to Your Puppy's Daily Routine
Raising a puppy is about more than exercise and play. Their growing brains need a workout too. In this episode of Puppy Talk, Dale Buchanan shares five simple and effective ways to add mental stimulation to your puppy's daily routine. You'll learn how easy activities like scent games, food puzzles, short training sessions, toy rotation, and problem-solving exercises can help reduce boredom, build confidence, and encourage better behavior. If you're looking for practical ideas to keep your puppy happy, engaged, and learning every day, this episode is for you.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy...
Are You Stressing Out Your Puppy Without Realizing It?
Could your own stress be making your puppy fearful or anxious? In this episode of Puppy Talk, we explore how puppies pick up on our emotions, common ways owners unintentionally create stress, and simple changes that help puppies feel safe, confident, and eager to learn. If you want to build a stronger relationship with your puppy while preventing fear and anxiety, this episode is for you.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog Training
In-home...
The Secret to a Well-Behaved Puppy: Build the Relationship First
A well-behaved puppy starts with a strong relationship. In this episode of Puppy Talk, we explore why trust and connection are the foundation of successful training. You'll learn simple, practical ways to strengthen your bond with your puppy through everyday interactions, play, training, and communication. Whether you've just brought home a new puppy or want to build an even better relationship with your dog, this episode will help you create a partnership that lasts a lifetime.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
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Start Socializing Your Puppy Early
It's very important to start socializing your puppy as soon as you bring them home. They need to be introduced ot a variety of people, places, sights, and sounds. In this episode, I discuss why this is so important and the consequences of not socializing a puppy.Â
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog Training
In-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: h...Should Strangers Pet Your Dog in Public?
In this episode of Puppy Talk, I discuss whether or not you should allow people to pet your dog in public locations on field trips. The answer may surprise you.Â
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog Training
In-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.comSponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.comDale's books: https://www.amazon.com/author/dalebuchananPotty Training Your P...Why Punishing a Puppy Doesn't Work
Should you punish your puppy for accidents, chewing, biting, or jumping? In this episode of Puppy Talk Podcast, Dale Buchanan explains why punishment often creates confusion and fear instead of teaching puppies what we want them to do. You'll learn why puppies make mistakes, how they learn best, and practical positive reinforcement strategies that build trust, confidence, and better behavior. If you're raising a puppy and want effective, humane training methods, this episode is for you.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
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Your Dog Is Not Giving You a Hard Time. Your Dog Is Having a Hard Time.
Many behavior problems are rooted in stress, confusion, fear, frustration, or overstimulation, not stubbornness or “bad” behavior. Owners often misread what their dogs are actually communicating. Dogs cannot explain emotions with words, so behavior becomes communication.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog Training
In-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.comSponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.comDale's books: https://www.amaz...Is Your Dog Bored?
Dogs need more than just food and shelter. They also require mental and physical stimulation. A bored dog might appear to be lazy or a troublemaker, but in many cases, it is boredom leading to frustration that gives rise to problem behavior. Spotting the signs early in that process and offering enriching activities prevents restlessness and keeps your dog healthier and happier.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog Training
In-home dog training services in the Huntsville...
Keep Training Simple for Your Puppy
In this episode I talk about why and how to keep the training simple for your puppy early in their training program.Â
Why it’s best to keep it simple. Focus on the foundational skills and make them perfect before attempting to add more commands, behaviors etc.What happens when you make training to complex too early. You would not try to get a kid in college at 10 years old. What a basic puppy program looks like.Intermediate programAdvanced programIf you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE re...
22 Awesome Tips for New Puppy Owners
These are the same tips that we give all my clients when they hire me to help train their puppies. I suggest listening to this episode multiple times and reading the transcript if provided.Â
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog Training
In-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.comSponsor Website: http://www.topgundogtraining.comDale's books: https://www.amazon.com/au...How Dog Owners Teach Bad Habits Without Realizing It
In this episode of Puppy Talk, we talk about how many common dog behavior problems are accidentally taught by the owners themselves. Jumping, barking, leash pulling, and attention-seeking habits often continue because, from the dog’s perspective, the behavior works. Dogs repeat what gets a result, even when the owner is trying to stop it. We break down a few everyday situations where people unknowingly reinforce bad habits and explain how a simple shift in awareness can help owners start teaching the behaviors they actually want.Â
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for...
What Calm Looks Like in a Dog (And Why Most Owners Miss It)
Most dog owners think calm means a dog that is tired or doing nothing, but real calmness is something different. In this episode of Puppy Talk, we talk about what calm behavior actually looks like, why many dogs never learn how to settle, and how owners often encourage excitement without realizing it. You’ll learn how to recognize true calmness in your dog and simple ways to help your dog relax and behave better at home.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is...
Should You Teach Your Puppy Tricks?
Many people get a new puppy and immediately start teaching it to shake, high-five, and roll over. In this episode of Puppy Talk, I am going to explain the advantages and disadvantages of teaching your puppy tricks before they learn obedience.Â
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog Training
In-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
Podcast Website: http://puppytalkpodcast.comSponsor Website: http://www.t...Is Your Dog Confused or Disobedient?
Most owners think their dog is being stubborn, ignoring them, or choosing not to listen. But in many cases, the dog is not being disobedient at all. The dog is confused. In this episode of Puppy Talk, we will discuss the following:
Why confusion happensWhat confusion looks like in real lifeWhat real disobedience actually looks likeHow to reduce confusionIf you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog Training
In-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at...
Leash Reactivity: Why Walks Fall Apart and What Actually Helps
If your dog barks, lunges, freezes, growls, or completely loses their mind when they see another dog or person on leash, this episode is for you. In this episode, I will talk about:
What leash reactivity actually isWhy leash reactivity happensHow owners accidentally reinforce leash reactivityWhat not to do with a leash reactive dogWhat to do insteadWhy calming exercises must start at homeIntroducing triggers the right waySetting realistic expectationsWhen to get helpIf you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog...
Three Habits To Begin With Your New Puppy on Day One
Most of us focus on the cute parts of bringing home a puppy. Cuddling, playing, and taking lots of photos. What if we focused on the habits that prevent behavior issues from forming?
This episode is taken from an Instagram post of Canyon Creek Aussies. Link to their page in the show notes. https://www.instagram.com/canyoncreekaussies?igsh=MXJxYW5uaHgxbDd3YQ==
Here are some habits to begin day one with your new puppy.Â
Use a house line from day one. I suggest a skip lead.Daily socialization done the r...More Than Sit and Stay: What Dog Training Is Really About
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 commandsThe gap between training sessions and real-life behaviorHow understanding your dog’s mindset improves re...How to Practice Obedience Training With Your Puppy
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. Short training sessions several times a day are better than a single long session.
...
More Potty Training Tips
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 picture includes:
Setting rules an...How Much Does it Cost to Own a Dog?
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.Â
Start-Up Fees:
Including adoption or breeder fees, initial vet visit, microchip, supplies, and training. $2000-$8000Monthly Expenses:
Food Medication (heartworm, flea, and tick prevention)DaycareDog WalkerGroomingTreats and toysPet InsuranceFor Dixie, this is about $700/monthAnnual Exp...
The Responsibility of Raising a Puppy
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.Â
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 playTeaching your puppy the command “no” will solve everythingPunishing the puppy by yelling or using f...Does Your Dog Trust You?
Being an effective leader and building trust in your dog requires a skill set grounded in effective communication, temperament, and focus.Â
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, espec...Building Structure in Your Puppy’s Routine
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.Â
Why?
Structure creates calmness in the puppy.Structure creates an opportunity for the puppy to succeed, not failStructure 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, potty again, and nap.Your pupp...Child Safety Around Dogs - Part 2
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.ÂFor 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 close to a dog's face.Only a...Getting Started As A Dog Trainer
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.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog Training
In-home dog training services in...
The Most Important Command to Teach Your Puppy
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.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog Training
In-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
3 Tips For Better Puppy Socialization
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 possibleBe consistent with public outings. ÂIf you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog Training
In-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at...
5 Reasons to Keep Your Dog on a Leash
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 safeOthers stay safeIn most places, it's the lawIn case of emergencyIt's the responsible thing to doIf you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog Training
In-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http...
The Difference Between Obedience Training and Behavior Modification
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 Behavior ModificationBehavior Modification (BeMod) is a systematic approach to change unwanted severe behaviors such as fear, anxiety, stress...The Benefits of Group Training
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.
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog Training
In-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
Podcast We...How to Prevent Fear, Anxiety, and Stress in Your Puppy
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 SocializationCreate a Secure EnvironmentReading Body LanguageBuilding Confidence Through TrainingAvoiding Common Mistakes That Cause FASIf you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog Training
In-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
RESOURCES:
...Are Two Dogs Better Than One?
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?
If you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is...
Behavior Issues with Overweight Dogs
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.ÂIf you need help housebreaking your new puppy, visit pottytrainingyourpuppy.com for FREE resources.
Our Sponsor is Top Gun Dog Training
In-home dog training services in the Huntsville, AL area at http://www.topgundogtraining.com
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