When a Well‑Behaved Dog Acts Out

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When a new puppy arrives, the change in routine can create big feelings for an adult dog who has been part of every training session. Behaviors that look surprising are often signs of stress rather than spite or defiance. When we stay curious, it becomes easier to notice what our dogs may be trying to communicate. I'm sharing simple ways to support your adult dog so they can feel calm and confident while you focus on training your new puppy.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• Why dogs are not capable of spite the way we imagine.

• Two questions to ask ourselves that shift how we understand behavior.

• My student's story about an adult dog's unexpected behavior.

• The cognitive bias behind assuming dogs are 'spiteful.'

• Why curiosity strengthens connection and removes blame.

• How stress changes physiology, with 2 personal real life examples.

• The importance of ruling out medical conditions before assuming behavior issues.

• Other stressors that can affect behavior.

• How to support your adult dog during the puppy transition using the 3 E's (Exercise, Engagement, Enrichment).

• A step-by-step plan to create calm and confidence for your older dog while your puppy is being trained.

• How to use Hot Zones, Crate Games, and relaxation strategies to prevent stress in your adult dog.

• The power of choosing curiosity to understand what your dog is communicating.

Get Crate Games Online:

Crate Games Online - https://get.crategames.com/

Resources:

1. Podcast Episode 189: All The Things That Influence Your Dog's Behavior And What Behavior Tells You - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/189/

2. Podcast Episode 154: Car Vacations With Dogs: Tips To Make Holiday Road Trips Safe And Fun For All - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/154/

3. Podcast Episode 128: Reduce Stress For Dogs During Holiday Celebrations - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/128/

4. Podcast Episode 72: Preventing Dog Aggression: Introducing Dogs or Puppies with Project Togetherness - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/72/

5. Podcast Episode 181: Training Multiple Dogs To Wait Turns And Relax - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/181/

6. Podcast Episode 266: Hot Zone And Stays – How One Dog Training Nuance Can Fix Anxiety And Duration - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/266/

7. Podcast Episode 191: Get Your Dog To Calm Down With This Common Sense Protocol For Relaxation - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/191/

8. Podcast Episode 314: Dog Enrichment Secrets Part 1: Using Your Dog's Natural Instincts To Build Variety And Engagement - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/314/

9. Podcast Episode 315: Dog Enrichment Secrets Part 2: 30 Day Enrichment Challenge + Free Planner PDF - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/315/

10. *West Paw Zogoflex Toppl Treat Dispensing Dog Toy Puzzle - https://geni.us/toppl

11. Podcast Episode 317: 20 Exercises That Help Your Dog Live Longer: Start Today! - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/317/

12. Podcast Episode 20: Bridging the Gap Between Blame and Kindness in Dog Training - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/20/

13. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/1mTcpGgSB4Y

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Susan only recommends products she uses herself, and all opinions expressed here are her own. The link above is an affiliate link that, at no additional cost to you, we may earn a small commission if you decide to buy from it. Thank you!