Loud sounds like thunder, fireworks, sirens, or even the vacuum cleaner can cause anxiety in young puppies—but it doesn’t have to stay that way! In this episode, Amy shares how to prevent and reduce sound sensitivity using positive reinforcement, gradual exposure, and confidence-building techniques.

Learn how to introduce your puppy to new sounds the right way, including step-by-step guidance using a vacuum as an example. Plus, discover why leaving your puppy home from summer fireworks events is the best choice for their emotional wellbeing—and how to help them feel safe and calm while you’re away.

This episode is full of practical, force-free strategies to help your puppy grow into a confident, resilient adult dog. Tune in and set your pup up for sound success!

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Do you have a puppy that bounces, barks, or grabs for anything they want? You're not alone! In this episode of Paws & Reflect, host Amy Jensen from BAXTER & Bella dives into one of the most important life skills we can teach our dogs — patience.

Discover why puppies struggle with impulse control, how waiting leads to better behavior and safety, and exactly how to teach your puppy to pause before good things like meals, leash walks, and play. Amy shares easy-to-follow steps, positive reinforcement techniques, and fun games like “Treat on the Floor" and “Doorway Wait” that make learning enjoyable for both you and your pup.

Perfect for new puppy parents or anyone who wants to raise a calm, polite, and thoughtful dog. 🎓🐾

➡️ Resources, training guides, and weekly live classes available at www.baxterandbella.com/learn-more

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Is your dog nervous, reactive, or just unsure around new people? You're not alone — and this episode is for you! In today’s show, Amy walks you through why some dogs struggle with strangers and what you can do to help them feel safe and confident using positive reinforcement and force-free training methods.

Whether your dog is fine out and about but struggles at home, or they just don’t like being touched by people they don’t know, you’ll learn:

✅ The common causes behind fear of strangers
✅ What NOT to do (and why forcing it can make things worse)
✅ How to change your dog’s emotional response using simple, trust-building exercises
✅ Practical training games like Look & Treat, Stranger Toss, and Pattern Games
✅ Tips for in-home guest setups, managing space, and setting your dog up for success

Join us as we replace fear with confidence — one treat, one step, and one success at a time.

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In this episode, Amanda, a professional trainer here at BAXTER & Bella, coaches a client through a powerful behavior-changing technique known as the 10-1 rule. If your dog struggles with things like car rides, leash walks, harnesses, crates, baths, or nail trims, this episode is for you. Amanda breaks down how to shift your dog’s emotional response to these common stressors by creating more positive associations and building trust over time. Learn how to apply this simple yet effective strategy to help your dog feel more confident, calm, and cooperative.

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In this eye-opening episode, we’re tackling one of the most controversial topics in dog training: shock collars and invisible fences. Are these tools truly effective—or are they causing more harm than good?

Join us as we uncover:
⚠️ The rise of electronic collars and containment systems
🌍 Global bans and why many countries are saying no
🧠 The physical and psychological risks to your dog
🏡 Why physical fences are a safer solution
🐾 The power of positive reinforcement training

Whether you’re considering training tools or simply want to understand the science and ethics behind them, this episode will empower you to make informed, compassionate choices for your pup.

Listen in and reflect—because a well-trained dog starts with trust, not fear.

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Looking for ways to make the most of the sunny season with your dog? We’ve got you covered with a guide full of exciting, safe, and fun-filled activities—from mountain hikes to beachside play.

In this episode, we’ll explore:
🥾 How to prep for dog-friendly hikes
🛶 Tips for kayaking with your pup
🐕‍🦺 Fun dog sports to try this summer
🌳 Park visits & more
🚗 Road trip and beach safety
🧊 Smart ways to beat the heat

Whether you’re an outdoor explorer or a weekend wanderer, this episode is packed with practical tips to make this summer unforgettable for you and your dog.

Grab the leash, pack some treats, and let’s get ready to play! 🐾

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Today we're diving into one of the most exciting—and sometimes overwhelming—chapters of puppy parenthood: the first week at home.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to lay the foundation for a trusting, loving bond with your new dog. We’ll cover:

🐾 Building a Bond – Simple ways to help your puppy feel safe, secure, and connected to you from day one.
🛏️ Crate Training 101 – How to make the crate a calm, comforting place your puppy will love.
🚶‍♂️ Teaching Independence – Step-by-step tips to ease your puppy into being alone without fear.
🧸 Keeping Them Engaged – Toys, routines, and smart strategies to channel that puppy energy.
😴 Managing Expectations – Why patience, flexibility, and a sense of humor go a long way.

Whether you’re a first-time puppy parent or just need a refresher, this episode is packed with practical, professional advice to help you and your pup start off on the right paw.

💡 Bonus: Here's a link to our in-depth Crate Training class and THE FIRST WEEK TOGETHER learning module.

https://www.baxterandbella.com/the-crate-class

https://www.baxterandbella.com/step-by-step-programs

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Every puppy parent faces the same challenge: balancing freedom with safety. That delicate dance between letting your puppy explore their world while protecting them (and your home) from potential disasters. What if there was a simple solution that creates harmony for both you and your growing puppy?

Playpens are the unsung heroes of puppy raising. Far from being a "cage" or prison, a properly introduced playpen serves as your puppy's personal apartment - their safe haven where they can relax, play with appropriate toys, and learn crucial life skills. As trainers Amy Jensen and Amanda explain, this management tool creates the perfect environment for your puppy to thrive while preventing unwanted behaviors from developing in the first place.

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