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 perf ...
…
continue reading
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-pers…
…
continue reading
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 technique…
…
continue reading
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 i…
…
continue reading
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…
…
continue reading
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 chal…
…
continue reading

1
Kids and Canines, Creating Harmony in Your Home
14:54
14:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:54Ever 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 furr…
…
continue reading

1
Should You Allow Your Dog to Greet Other Dogs While on Leash?
11:19
11:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:19Should 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 rest…
…
continue reading
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 p…
…
continue reading
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 behavio…
…
continue reading
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 d…
…
continue reading
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…
…
continue reading
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…
…
continue reading

1
How to Get Your Dog to Listen Even With Distractions
11:07
11:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:07Ever 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 d…
…
continue reading

1
Why Dogs Bark and What You Can Do About It
14:55
14:55
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:55Ever 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 …
…
continue reading
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 healt…
…
continue reading

1
Please don't go! Does your dog have separation anxiety?
13:40
13:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:40Have 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 scrat…
…
continue reading
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 …
…
continue reading

1
I tried positive reinforcement training, it didn't work.
14:42
14:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:42Have 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 t…
…
continue reading

1
Service Dog, Emotional Support Dog, Therapy Dog. What's the Difference?
13:59
13:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:59Service dogs, emotional support dogs, and therapy dogs all serve important roles in helping people with various needs. But do you know what the differences between them are? I often get asked, "How do I make my dog a service dog, emotional support dog, or therapy dog?" It's important to know the differences, both in what jobs they do and what legal…
…
continue reading
When I brought home my first puppy, I remember asking myself... now what? Bringing home a new puppy can be overwhelming, no matter how well prepared you think you are. But don't worry, I've got you covered. The first week with your puppy will set the tone for the months to come, so in this episode, I lay out a plan for you to support and comfort yo…
…
continue reading

1
Are You Ready To Add a Second Dog To Your Household?
13:50
13:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:50Thinking of bringing another dog home? Adding a second dog can be a whirlwind of fun, but it's not without its hurdles. In this episode, I dive into the highs and lows of having a multi-dog household. I share my experiences and insights as a certified dog trainer, guiding you through the process of growing your furry family. From the selection of c…
…
continue reading
While dog parks are fantastic places for exercise, they're not without their risks. In this episode, I'm taking you on a journey through the world of dog parks. We'll explore the origins of these canine playgrounds, the benefits they bring to our furry friends, and the challenges they might present. As a certified dog trainer and veterinary technic…
…
continue reading
As dog lovers, we're always looking for ways to include our furry companions in our adventures. Did you know that planning a trip with your pup in tow requires some special considerations? In this episode, I'm diving into the nitty-gritty of hitting the road, skies or sea with your dog. From the essential pre-trip preparations to finding pet-friend…
…
continue reading
Have you ever wondered what causes dogs to be fearful or aggressive? It likely has something to do with how they were socialized as a puppy. In this episode, I dive into the essential world of puppy socialization. I talk about the critical period for socializing your puppy, which is between three to sixteen weeks of age, and how this coincides with…
…
continue reading

1
What to Expect When You're Expecting a Puppy
11:50
11:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:50Planning for a new furry addition to your family? In this episode, I dive into the essentials of preparing for your furry bundle of joy. Just like baby-proofing, puppy-proofing your home is crucial to keep your little one safe. I'll walk you through securing potential hazards and making sure you have all the necessary supplies, from bowls and crate…
…
continue reading
Have you ever wondered how you can deepen your bond with your dog while keeping them physically and mentally stimulated? In this episode, I dive into the thrilling world of dog sports. Historically, humans bred dogs to perform specific tasks—herding, hunting, guarding, you name it. But as society has evolved, the need for these canine jobs has dimi…
…
continue reading
How do you choose the perfect dog trainer for your furry friend? In this episode, I'm diving into the essential steps to find the right fit for you and your pup. Whether you're looking for basic obedience training or more complex behavior modification, I share my professional insights on how to navigate the search process. I discuss the various tra…
…
continue reading
Have you ever wished there was a quick fix for your dogs problem behaviors? Maybe you've even seen some of those quick fixes advertised by other "dog trainers" online... In this episode, I dive deep into the reasons why quick fix methods aren't the best route when it comes to training your dog. I discuss the dangers of punishment-based methods and …
…
continue reading
Ever heard the myth that "one human year of age equals seven dog years"? It might surprise you to learn that the age at which a dog becomes a senior actually varies by size and breed! So join me to learn when your dog will enter it's senior years, and how you can take care of them when they do! In this episode, we're diving into the golden years of…
…
continue reading
Ever heard the saying "they fight like cats and dogs"? Well, in this episode, I'm here to explore whether it's possible for these furry friends to live happily together. If you're a fan of both dogs and cats, you might be curious about how to make their cohabitation work smoothly. Join me as I break down the differences between our canine and felin…
…
continue reading

1
8 Tips to Help Your Shy Dog Gain Confidence
15:06
15:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:06Struggling with a shy or fearful dog? In this episode, I share expert tips and personal experience on this topic as a dog trainer and vet tech. I discuss the reasons behind a dog's fearfulness, such as genetic predisposition and lack of socialization, and provide eight tips to build their confidence. I also share my personal journey with my dog, Ro…
…
continue reading
Ever wondered why your dog reacts more than expected when they see other dogs or humans while on a walk? It's called reactivity, and no, it's not them misbehaving intentionally. In this episode, delve into the topic of reactivity in dogs. Reactivity is often misunderstood as protective behavior, but it is actually a fear-driven response. There are …
…
continue reading
Have you ever wondered what it's like to raise two puppies at the same time? In this episode, I dive into the challenges of raising littermates. We discuss the concept of 'littermate syndrome' and the potential problems that can arise when raising two puppies together. I emphasize the importance of individual training and socialization for each pup…
…
continue reading

1
Big Life, Small Space: Apartment Living with Dogs
16:37
16:37
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:37Have you ever wondered how to make apartment living work for your furry friend? In this episode of The Well-Mannered Mutt Podcast, I dive into the unique challenges and needs of dogs living in apartments. Join me for valuable insights and tips to make apartment living a positive experience for both you and your furry companion. Choosing a dog breed…
…
continue reading

1
6 Tips to Help You if Your Dog Pulls on the Leash
15:56
15:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:56Does your dog pull like crazy on the leash when you're walking him? Do you dread walking your dog because the constant pulling hurts your arms and shoulders? Do you wish you could just take a long, relaxing stroll around the neighborhood with your dog? If this sounds like you, then you're going to want to stay tuned. Because in this episode, I'm go…
…
continue reading
Becoming a new puppy parent? Here's something to remember: the training and socialization process should start as soon as possible! There's a crucial "training gap" that often gets overlooked. As a certified professional dog trainer and registered veterinary technician, I've seen firsthand the importance of early training and socialization for pupp…
…
continue reading
Have you ever wondered if traditional obedience training is really the best approach for building a strong bond with your dog? In this episode, I dive into this topic and challenge the conventional methods of obedience training. I believe that it's time to shift our thinking and focus on teaching dogs the skills they need to be confident, stable, a…
…
continue reading
So, I've noticed something pretty interesting lately - there's been a rise in behavior problems among our furry friends. And you know what? It's all because of the disconnect between their genetic makeup and the modern world we live in. Let's take a trip down memory lane, shall we? Dogs have been our loyal companions for ages, but back in the day, …
…
continue reading
Calling all pup parents struggling with the world of potty training! Get ready for an episode that'll transform your puppy parenting game! In this episode, I share top five mistakes even the savviest new pup parents stumble upon during this important training phase. Avoiding these mistakes is crucial for a successful potty training experience, but …
…
continue reading
If you've ever turned to the internet for answers to your dog training questions, chances are you've come across some information that's either outdated... or just plain wrong. In this episode of The Well-Mannered Mutt Podcast, we're diving into some common dog training myths that have been wagging their tails around for far too long. I debunk thes…
…
continue reading

1
My Most Frequently Asked Dog Training Questions
22:02
22:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:02Struggling with leash pulling, jumping, or barking? In this episode of The Well-Mannered Mutt Podcast, I tackle some of the most commonly asked questions that I receive as a professional dog trainer. From leash pulling to jumping, barking and puppy biting, I cover it all! Get answers to your most commonly asked dog training questions in this episod…
…
continue reading
Is your precious pup turning into a teenage tyrant? Not to worry, learn how to navigate the challenging adolescent phase of your dog's life in this must-listen episode of The Well-Mannered Mutt Podcast. Join me as I discuss the challenges of raising adolescent dogs and give insight on why your teenage dog behaves this way. I also share the differen…
…
continue reading

1
The Most Essential Behaviors All Dogs and Puppies Should Learn
12:50
12:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:50Want a well-behaved pup, but not quite sure where to start? Whether you're dealing with a puppy or an adult dog, this episode has got you covered. You wouldn't teach your two year old child how to drive, and the same logic goes to differentiating between what puppies and adult dogs should learn. While it can be exciting to teach your puppy all of t…
…
continue reading

1
How Veterinary Medicine Led Me To Dog Training
8:03
8:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
8:03Calling all puppy parents and dog lovers! Looking for tips on canine wellbeing and training? Look no further! Welcome to the first episode of The Well-Mannered Mutt Podcast! In this inaugural episode, I share a little bit about myself and how I got into dog training as well as more about my passion for helping you have a better relationship with yo…
…
continue reading
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 Veterina…
…
continue reading