Adding a puppy to a home with cats, birds, or other animals? This episode dives into how to safely introduce, train, and manage puppies in multi-species households—without stress, chaos, or unrealistic expectations.

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If you’re raising a puppy right now—or planning to—you’re probably already thinking about walks, playtime, and basic training. And that’s great. Physical exercise absolutely matters.

But today, we’re talking about something that’s just as important—and often overlooked:

Mental exercise.

Because a tired puppy isn’t just one who’s walked a lot.
A tired puppy is one who’s thought, problem-solved, and learned.

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In this episode of the Puppy Training Podcast, we go beyond basic behaviors like sit and stay to focus on the life skills that truly shape a well-behaved, confident dog.

Many puppy parents work hard on cues, but struggle with everyday challenges like stressful car rides, difficult vet visits, grooming battles, noisy vacuums, or overly excited greetings with guests.

Amy walks you through the essential “good citizen puppy” skills every dog needs, including calm car riding, positive crate training, grooming and handling tolerance, confidence around household noises, and polite behavior when visitors arrive. You’ll learn why these skills matter so much and how to start teaching them early in a positive, stress-free way.

This episode is perfect for new puppy parents or anyone looking to prevent fear, anxiety, and behavior issues before they begin — and to raise a dog who’s comfortable navigating real life.

🎄 Holiday Note: This is the final episode of the year. Amy and the BAXTER & Bella team wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! New episodes of the Puppy Training Podcast will resume in January.

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Facebook @TheOnlinePuppySchool
YouTube @BAXTERandBella

Subscribe to our site for FREE weekly training tips!

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Join our membership here.