The Well-Mannered Mutt Podcast

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

If your puppy won't listen unless you've got a treat in hand, you're in the right place. I'm diving into one of the most common concerns I hear from dog owners: the frustration of feeling stuck in endless treat training puppy mode. You'll learn why your pup might ignore you unless food is in sight - and what to do about it. We'll cover what happens when your dog becomes "treat dependent", how to get treats out of your hand without losing progress, and how to make dog training more reliable, even when you're empty-handed. You'll also get a simple 14-day step-by-step plan to start making the transition to dog training without treats - in a way that works and keeps things fun for both of you. By the end of this episode, you'll feel way more confident about reward training for dogs, understand how your puppy's brain works, and finally know how to ditch the treats without losing their attention. Here's what we'll explore in this episode: Why your puppy won't listen unless there's food around - and what it really means about your training process How to use the "slot machine" method to make treat training puppy more effective When it's safe to start dog training without treats - and when doing it too soon could cause your training to backfire Why reward training for dogs is about so much more than food - and how to use toys, play, and praise as powerful motivators My 14-day plan for reward training for dogs that takes you from treat-every-time to real-life rewards that last Knowing how to shift from treat training puppy mode to solid, reliable behaviors is a game changer. If your puppy wont listen, don't worry. I've helped hundreds of dog owners work through this, and with the right strategy, you can too. Listen now and grab your 14-day treat fading plan to start transforming your dog training without treats journey today. Resources mentioned in this episode: 14 Day Treat Fading Plan Surviving Your Dog's Adolescence Program Connect with Staci Lemke: Website - www.mannersformutts.com Instagram & Facebook @mannersformutts

What if you could understand what's going on in your puppy's brain - week by week? In this episode, I'm breaking down puppy milestones so you know exactly what to expect at every stage of your pup's first year. We'll walk through puppy milestones by week, explore what's happening developmentally inside that little fuzzy head, and talk about how you can best support them during their most sensitive stages - including the puppy critical socialization period. I'll help you understand puppy development like never before - because when you know better, you do better. And knowing these stages? It's a total game-changer for your relationship. Here's what we cover in this episode: What really happens during the puppy critical socialization period - and why missing it can have long-term effects. The truth about those early weeks: what puppy milestones matter most in shaping a confident, resilient adult dog. Why asking your breeder about puppy development practices isn't overkill - it's essential. When is the best time to start training and socializing your puppy? (Hint: it's earlier than you think!) What surprises you can expect during adolescent stages, and how knowing puppy milestones by week helps you stay sane through it all. Whether you're in the newborn snuggle stage or the teenage chaos phase, this episode will give you the tools - and the mindset - to navigate puppy development with more clarity, compassion, and confidence. What's one piece of advice about puppy development that you've ditched or reconsidered? Head over to Instagram @mannersformutts and DM me your story or tag me in your post. Resources mentioned in this episode: But, My Puppy's Not Fully Vaccinated! Easy Pee-sy Puppy Potty Training Surviving Your Dog's Adolescence Program WAIT! Come Back! Rapid Fire Recall Connect with Staci Lemke: Website - www.mannersformutts.com Instagram & Facebook @mannersformutts

Has your sweet, snuggly puppy ever turned into a little growling gremlin when you reached for their favorite toy? If so, you've had a front-row seat to resource guarding - and you're not alone. In this episode, we're digging into resource guarding in puppies, why it happens, how to prevent it, and most importantly, how to stop resource guarding in puppies without fear, punishment, or power struggles. Whether you're dealing with full-on growling or just subtle signs of discomfort, this episode will help you understand the why behind puppy resource guarding - and what to do next. Using positive reinforcement and proactive techniques, I'll share exactly how to build trust and stop resource guarding before it becomes a habit. We'll cover: Why resource guarding in puppies is more common than you think - and how early life experiences play a big role. The red flags of puppy resource guarding that are easy to miss (and what they mean for your dog's comfort level). What to do instead of grabbing things from your puppy's mouth - and the trade game that can make your dog want to give things up. How to prevent resource guarding from ever starting, with simple daily habits that build trust and confidence. When to reach out for help - and why resource guarding in puppies is totally fixable with the right approach. Whether you're seeing early signs or just want to get ahead of things, this episode is packed with practical tools and reassuring insight. If you've ever Googled how to stop resource guarding in puppies, this one's for you. Listen now and learn how to build a more trusting, respectful relationship with your pup - and keep the peace around the food bowl, the toy bin, and beyond. What's a piece of advice you were told about resource guarding that you've since ditched? Head over to Instagram at @mannersformutts and let me know! Resources mentioned in this episode: Easy Pee-sy Puppy Potty Training HELP! My Puppy Is Biting Me! Connect with Staci Lemke: Website - www.mannersformutts.com Instagram & Facebook @mannersformutts

Ever been told your dog is trying to be the alpha dog just because they jumped on the couch or ran through the door first? That came straight from dominance theory—and in this episode, we're breaking down it doesn't hold up. I'm explaining how dominance theory in dogs and the alpha dog myth became so popular, why it was wrong from the start, and how it's still showing up in today's dog training myths. We're taking a hard look at what it really means when your dog jumps, growls, or steals your socks—and trust me, it's not alpha dog behavior. This episode is packed with practical, positive strategies that help you ditch outdated dominance theory in dogs and build the relationship you actually want with your pup. Because let's face it—the alpha dog mindset is holding us back. In this episode, I'll cover: Where dominance theory in dogs really came from—and why the science doesn't back it up anymore Why your dog's behaviors aren't about alpha dog behavior, and what they're really trying to communicate Seven common myths fueled by dominance theory, including doorways, mealtime, and who's allowed on the furniture What actually works to raise a confident, well-behaved puppy—without needing to be the alpha dog Why dominance theory debunked isn't just about dog training—it's about trust, connection, and better communication If you're ready to move beyond outdated advice and discover training that builds trust—not fear—this episode is for you. Listen now to hear why dominance theory doesn't work, and what to do instead. If this episode challenged something you've heard before or if you've tried one of these old-school dominance theory rules, I wanna hear from you. What's a piece of advice you were told about dominance that you've since ditched? Head over to Instagram @mannersformutts and let me know! Resources mentioned in this episode: Surviving Your Dog's Adolescence Program Connect with Staci Lemke: Website - www.mannersformutts.com Instagram & Facebook @mannersformutts

Are you bringing home a new puppy and wondering what to teach a puppy first? You're not alone! Many new puppy parents feel overwhelmed by all the advice out there, but don't worry - I've got you covered with the essentials for training your puppy. In this episode, I break down the top 10 things to train your puppy to set them up for success from the start. Whether you've just welcomed a wiggly bundle of fur into your life or you're trying to teach your growing pup some manners, this episode is packed with practical training your puppy tips and exactly what to teach a puppy first to make your life easier and your pup happier. In this episode, you'll learn: What to teach a puppy first to build a solid foundation for communication and trust. (Hint: It's not just "sit" and "stay"!) Why training your puppy to respond to their name is one of the most important skills you can teach - and how to make it stick. The secret to stress-free potty training (no more midnight messes!) and how to set up your home for success. How to handle those sharp puppy teeth and teach your dog to chew on toys instead of your fingers. Why crate training and learning to be alone are crucial for your puppy's long-term confidence and comfort. If you've ever wondered how to train your puppy without overwhelm or frustration, this episode is for you. I'll share practical advice and real-life examples to make the training your puppy process smoother, whether you're a first-time dog owner or a seasoned pro. Ready to raise a well-mannered mutt? Hit play and learn the top 10 things to train your puppy today! And don't forget to share this episode with a fellow puppy parent who might need a little extra guidance. Resources mentioned in this episode: Easy Pee-sy Puppy Potty Training HELP! My Puppy Is Biting Me! But, My Puppy's Not Fully Vaccinated! WAIT! Come Back! Rapid Fire Recall Connect with Staci Lemke: Website - www.mannersformutts.com Instagram & Facebook @mannersformutts

If you're constantly apologizing for your dog jumping on people, I get it. It's frustrating, exhausting, and even a little embarrassing—especially when you've tried to fix it, but nothing seems to stick. In this episode, I'm breaking down exactly how to train your dog not to jump on people—without yelling, pushing, or scolding. Whether you've got an enthusiastic greeter or puppies jumping up with those deceptively cute little paws, I'll help you understand what's really going on and walk you through how to train a dog not to jump in a way that actually works. In this episode, we'll cover: Why puppies jumping up becomes a habit so quickly—and why it's often something we've unintentionally rewarded… The three things most pet parents do that accidentally reinforce dog jumping on people (yep, you're probably doing one of them)… My go-to 4-step method for how to train your dog not to jump on people—and why it's more about what you do want than what you don't… How to set up training scenarios that teach calm greetings before guests come over… Why I don't rely on the "off" cue—and what I teach dogs instead when I'm working on how to train a dog not to jump… If you're tired of being tackled every time you walk through the door, or you just want calm greetings without your dog jumping on people, this episode is for you. Resources mentioned in this episode: HELP! My Puppy Is Biting Me! Connect with Staci Lemke: Website - www.mannersformutts.com Instagram & Facebook @mannersformutts

Ever wondered when can you leave a puppy alone without supervision? Are you considering leaving dog out of crate while at work but aren't sure if they're ready? In this episode, I'll walk you through a puppy training schedule by age to help you determine the right time to grant your pup more freedom. From training puppy to be alone for short periods to preventing a destructive dog, I cover everything you need to know about safely expanding your puppy's world. I'll cover: The biggest mistake puppy parents make when giving too much freedom too soon—and how to avoid it. When can you leave a puppy alone? How to tell if your puppy is ready for more freedom, based on their puppy training schedule by age. A step-by-step plan to transition from crate training to free-roam safely. Why training puppy to be alone properly is key to preventing a destructive dog. The common signs that your puppy may need more time before leaving dog out of crate while at work. Giving your puppy more freedom is an exciting milestone, but it needs to be done at the right pace. If you want to know when can you leave a puppy alone and set your puppy up for success and avoid accidents, destruction, or setbacks, tune in now! 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 @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: Your puppy training schedule by age: Step-By-Step Plan for Giving Your Puppy More Freedom WAIT! Come Back! Rapid Fire Recall Connect with Staci Lemke: Website - www.mannersformutts.com Instagram & Facebook @mannersformutts