THE ONE MISTAKE EVERYONE MAKES WITH THEIR PUPPY

º

Hey there,

So let’s talk puppies, okay? Everybody knows they’re cute as a button, but what people sometimes forget is that these little furballs need sleep. A whole lot of it, just like human babies.

I get it, the moment you bring that puppy home, everyone wants a piece of the cuteness. You want to hold them, play with them, show them off to the neighbors, and probably take a gazillion pictures. But guess what happens? The pup starts getting cranky, starts biting more, and then—boom!—you discover a yellow puddle on your carpet. Not fun, right?

So here’s my quick advice, which sometimes makes folks go silent when I tell them on the phone: Keep your puppy crated when they’re in the house. Yeah, I know it sounds harsh, but hear me out.

You’re not locking ’em up and throwing away the key. Nah, you’re actually giving them a safe space where they can chill out and, most importantly, catch some Zs. Every 2-3 hours, let ’em out for some action—whether it’s a potty break, a short walk, or some good ol’ playtime. But otherwise? Let them nap in their crate.

A lot of people are surprised when I say it’s totally okay to crate the pup. They’ve read all the how-tos and manuals, and then suddenly, they’re drowning in puppy chaos. They’re always wondering, “Where’s the puppy? What’s it doing? Oh God, what’s that in its mouth?!” That’s no way to raise a pup—or keep your sanity.

So, here’s the deal: crate your puppy, stick to a schedule for playtime and potty breaks, and you’ll find that not only is your pup happier, but you’ll also reclaim some of your own time and peace of mind.

Got questions about puppies or anything else? I’m all ears. Just hit me up!

Take care!

-Bethany

More Tips

Check out our other posts

Protective or Possessive? The Truth About Dogs That Guard Their Owners

Is your dog truly protecting you, or are they acting out of fear and possessiveness?

Many owners mistake controlling behaviors for loyalty, but allowing your dog to make decisions about who can approach you can lead to stress, anxiety, and even aggression. In this guide, you’ll learn how to recognize the difference between protective and possessive behavior, why teaching trust is the key to a calm and confident dog, and the training techniques that create lasting results.

Whether you’re searching for expert dog training in Utah County or Salt Lake City, Utah, these practical tips will help you build a safer, happier relationship with your dog.

Read More »

Mental Fatigue vs. Physical Fatigue in Dogs: The Key to Better Behavior

Have you ever taken your dog on a long walk only to come home and watch them race around the house with endless energy?

You’re not alone. Many dog owners focus on physical exercise to tire out their dogs, but mental stimulation is often the missing piece. In this article, you’ll learn the difference between mental and physical fatigue in dogs, why activities like training, sniffing, and problem-solving can be just as exhausting as a long walk, and how balancing both types of exercise can reduce unwanted behaviors like pulling on the leash, jumping, barking, and destructive chewing.

Whether you have a playful puppy or an energetic adult dog, these simple strategies will help you raise a calmer, happier, and more well-behaved companion.

Read More »

Is Your Dog Too Trained? Why Constant Commands Can Backfire

Most dog owners think more training leads to better behavior—but that’s not always true.

If your dog only listens when you’re giving commands, they may be relying on you instead of learning self-control.

Discover how overtraining can create dependence, why constant correction often backfires, and how teaching your dog to make good decisions leads to calmer, more reliable behavior at home and in the real world.

Read More »

The Surprising Reason Your Dog Mirrors Your Emotions

Ever wonder why your dog seems to get more excited, anxious, or reactive when you’re stressed?

Dogs are experts at reading human emotions, and your body language, tone of voice, and energy can directly influence their behavior.

Discover why calm humans create calm dogs and learn simple training habits that lead to less pulling, less barking, and a more confident, well-behaved companion.

Read More »