Claim OwnershipRaising Happy Dogs with Sarah Hodgson
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© Sarah Hodgson
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Join author, dog trainer, and behavior expert Sarah Hodgson as she provides training advice, talks to other experts, and demystifies dog behavior one podcast at a time!
raisinghappydogs.substack.com
raisinghappydogs.substack.com
72 Episodes
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In this episode, I explore how winter reshapes a dog’s sensory world and why cold weather can disrupt routines that usually feel easy. I answer listener questions about dogs refusing to potty in the snow, lifting their paws on icy sidewalks, struggling with excess energy, and eating snow nonstop. These aren’t training issues—they’re sensory challenges. I share simple strategies to help your dog feel warmer, safer, and more confident all season long.Book a Session with Me: https://www.sarahhodgson.com/Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisinghappydogsCheck Out My Recommended Products: https://shopmy.us/shop/sarahhodgson This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com
Every year around November, many pets start to unravel—pacing, barking, stealing food, or having accidents seemingly out of nowhere. In this episode, I break down why the holidays are so hard on our animals and how small, thoughtful adjustments can prevent overwhelm. You’ll learn how visitors, noise, routines, and tempting smells trigger stress—and what you can do to create calm, supportive spaces before things spiral. With a little planning and empathy, your dog can enjoy the season as much as you do.Book a Session with Me: https://www.sarahhodgson.com/Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisinghappydogsCheck Out My Recommended Products: https://shopmy.us/shop/sarahhodgson This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com
In this episode, I sit down with Clara Hewson to discuss the evolution of dog ownership, the importance of muzzles in modern society. How can they give dogs more freedom and safety? Clara shares her experience in founding the Muzzle Movement, stressing the need for muzzles that are comfortable and welfare-friendly. They examine different uses for muzzles, including preventing scavenging, managing behavior around children, and making veterinary visits easier. The conversation emphasizes the importance of muzzle training as a skill for all dogs and the need to shift public perceptions about muzzles.Visit the Muzzle Movement: https://themuzzlemovement.comBook a Session with Me: https://www.sarahhodgson.com/Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisinghappydogsCheck out my Recommended Products: https://shopmy.us/shop/sarahhodgson This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com
Welcoming a new puppy into your home is a big moment—equal parts excitement and adjustment. In this episode, I share how thoughtful preparation can make those first days smoother for both of you. You’ll learn what essentials to have on hand, how to set up your home for calm and safety, and why small routines and consistent cues help your puppy settle in with confidence. With the right start, you’ll build a bond rooted in trust and understanding.Book a Session with Me: https://www.sarahhodgson.com/Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisinghappydogsCheck Out My Recommended Products: https://shopmy.us/shop/sarahhodgson This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com
Bringing a new puppy home is both exciting and unpredictable. In this episode, I explain how a puppy’s temperament, instincts, and environment shape who they become. I share what early temperament tests really reveal, why nipping and chasing are part of normal development, and how to use calm structure to build confidence and trust. With patience, guidance, and clear routines, you can help your puppy feel safe, connected, and ready to grow into their best self.Book a Session with Me: https://www.sarahhodgson.com/Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisinghappydogsCheck Out my Recommended Products: https://shopmy.us/shop/sarahhodgson This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com
In this episode of Raising Happy Dogs, I sit down once again with holistic veterinarian Dr. Jeff Feinman, author of Path to Pet Wellness: The Holistic Vet’s Guide to Thriving Pets and Empowered Pet Parents. Together, we explore a new way of thinking about healing, seeing symptoms not as problems to fix, but as messages from the body and spirit.Dr. Feinman shares insights on BEAM (Behavior, Energy, Appetite, and Mood) and the Animal-Centered Treatments movement, which brings compassion and consciousness back to pet care.We also discuss Maya’s story, a fearful shelter puppy who found safety through joy, and introduce Jeff’s Micro-Engagement Plan: a simple two-week rhythm of short, joyful moments that help dogs build trust and resilience.Learn More about Holistic Actions Here: https://www.holisticactions.com/Pre-Order Path To Pet Wellness and Gain Access to the November 4th Fireside Chat Here: https://www.holisticactions.com/book/Book a Session with Me: https://www.sarahhodgson.com/Check Out my Recommended Products: https://shopmy.us/shop/sarahhodgson This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com
In this episode, I’m diving into one of the most common struggles dog parents face: separation anxiety. You sent in thoughtful, heartfelt questions, and I’m answering them all: when to consider medication, why some dogs panic only when one person leaves, whether getting another dog can help, and what kinds of pre-departure exercises truly make a difference.I’ll share practical ways to help your dog feel calm and safe when you walk out the door, as well as how to shift from control to connection when anxiety takes over.Then, at the end of the episode, I sit down with Roger’s mom (the dog from last week’s separation anxiety video) to talk about what it’s really like living with and loving a dog who struggles to be alone.This one’s all about empathy, understanding, and small steps toward peace for both you and your dog.Follow My Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisinghappydogsSign Up for Training With Me: https://www.sarahhodgson.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com
When a young puppy cries out as you walk away, it’s not disobedience; it’s biology. Before its anxiety, it’s longing. In this episode, I explore what puppies really experience when left alone, how early stress differs from clinical separation anxiety, and simple ways to nurture confidence without over-comforting. Because when dogs feel safe in solitude, they don’t just stop crying, they start growing. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com
If your dog barks in the car, growls at visitors, or goes wild on walks, you’re not alone. In this listener Q&A, I address five real-world questions about reactivity, ranging from car meltdowns and nighttime barking to leash explosions and unexpected bites.You’ll learn how to recognize the emotions beneath the behavior, create safety through small daily shifts, and turn stressful moments into chances for trust and calm.Because when we stop reacting to our dogs and start listening with them, everything begins to change.Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisinghappydogsBook a session with me: https://www.sarahhodgson.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com
Sarah Hodgson continues her deep dive into reactivity with the remarkable story of Hannah and her boxer, Ranger. Once on the verge of being rehomed, Ranger barked, lunged, and snapped his way through daily life—until a few simple shifts changed everything.Sarah shares how reframing his behavior from “bad” to “burdened” unlocked a new path forward. Through structure, safety, and play, Ranger learned to relax, trust, and reconnect with his family. You’ll hear how setting boundaries, creating calm routines, and letting go of constant correction turned tension into teamwork.Whether your dog guards the window or pulls on every walk, this heartfelt episode shows that reactive dogs aren’t broken—they just need clarity, compassion, and a little help finding their calm.Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisinghappydogs Book a session with me: https://www.sarahhodgson.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com
Sarah Hodgson unpacks the roots of reactivity, explaining why so many dogs bark out of windows, lunge on leash, or guard the front door as if it’s their job. Far from being stubborn or mean, these dogs are overwhelmed, carrying the heavy burden of keeping everyone safe.This episode examines how territorial behavior develops at home, why it often intensifies when on leash, and what approaches are ineffective when trying to correct it. Instead, she offers a framework built on clarity, distance, and trust, giving your dog permission to step back while reassuring them you’re in charge of safety.This is Part I of a multi-part series on reactivity, laying the groundwork before we meet Ranger, a boxer who transformed from lunging and snapping to calm and connected. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com
Sarah Hodgson explores the foundation of raising a calm, confident dog, creating a safe and secure puppyhood. She shares why puppies struggle when left to sleep alone, how their central nervous system drives behavior, and why sleep is the cornerstone of emotional balance. With simple adjustments like where your puppy rests, what comforts they have nearby, and how you support their early routines, Sarah shows how small changes can prevent anxiety, hyperactivity, and sleepless nights. Whether you’re bringing home a new puppy or looking to reset old habits, this episode will help you create the calm, happy dog every family dreams of.Book a Session: https://www.sarahhodgson.com/Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahsayspetsOrder a Leash Here: https://sarahsaysstore.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com
Sarah Hodgson reimagines the leash from a dog’s perspective, where every walk is less about destination and more about discovery. She explores why pulling occurs, how to balance sniffing with structure, and simple ways to turn leash time into a shared experience rather than a power struggle. Also included are listener questions tackling real-life challenges, from excited jumping to bolting at the door, with tips on harnesses, threshold training, and calm walking cues. Whether you’re managing a playful puppy or a strong puller, you’ll find practical strategies to make walks safer, smoother, and more enjoyable for you both.Buy my leashes here: https://shop.sarahhodgson.com/Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisinghappydogsBook time with me: https://www.sarahhodgson.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com
Sarah Hodgson unpacks one of the most common canine quirks, barking! From dogs who sound the alarm at every passerby to pups who greet guests like rockstars, Sarah shares why barking happens and how to respond without losing your cool. You’ll learn why rest cycles matter, how environment shapes behavior, and simple strategies like leash control, redirection, and the “party in the kitchen” game. Whether your dog barks for attention, excitement, or frustration, you’ll discover practical ways to restore calm and keep communication positive! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com
Sarah Hodgson shines a spotlight on one of the most overlooked yet powerful cues in dog training: Wait. Unlike stay, which asks for stillness, wait teaches your dog to pause, a moment of mindfulness before action.Sarah breaks down why wait is essential for impulse control, leash manners, and everyday harmony. You’ll learn when and how to use it, why it helps dogs develop frustration tolerance, and simple steps to teach it at home. From mealtime to doorways to sidewalk pauses, discover how this small cue can create big changes in your dog’s behavior and your bond.Book a Session: https://www.sarahhodgson.com/Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahsayspetsOrder a Leash Here: https://sarahsaysstore.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com
Sarah Hodgson unpacks one of the most important (and misunderstood!) cues in dog training: Come. Over time, many dogs start to associate recall with the end of fun, confinement, or frustration, making them hesitate when it matters most.Through real-life stories and simple, joy-based training techniques, Sarah shows you how to rebuild Come as a word your dog loves to hear. From anchoring it in positive moments to turning it into a game, you’ll learn how to make recall a celebration, not a command. By the end, you’ll have tools to create a faster, happier response—one rooted in trust, connection, and excitement to be by your side. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com
Sarah Hodgson takes you inside two urban dog cases she has encountered, first we have Henry the reactive beagle and Cassie the overwhelmed dog who just moved into the city. Through these real-life stories, she breaks down how stress, fear, and sensory overload shape behavior, and what you can do to help. Tune in to learn how the “canine arrow,” red-yellow-green zones, and simple games can turn reactivity into resilience. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com
Sarah Hodgson explores what barking and guarding behaviors are really about—from post-trauma triggers to resource guarding and mealtime meltdowns. Through listener questions and real-life stories, she reframes barking not as defiance, but as a dog’s attempt to feel safe and understood.Sarah dives into the difference between behavior and belief, unpacking why our dogs may act out when they feel overwhelmed or overly responsible. With practical advice and thoughtful reflection, this episode will help you respond with empathy, not just correction—and turn chaos into connection. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com
Sarah Hodgson unpacks one of the most misunderstood parts of dog parenting: housebreaking. Sharing a story about a dog who refused to pee on walks (and the frantic client who spent three hours waiting), Sarah highlights why housebreaking isn’t just about stopping accidents, it’s about teaching clear, consistent habits.From understanding your dog’s natural rhythms to defining safe spaces and managing anxiety when you’re away, Sarah offers practical steps to transform potty struggles into a smooth, stress-free routine. You’ll also hear why dogs (and even people!) don’t just “know better” without guidance. As well as how your leadership can set everyone up for success.Whether you’re raising a new puppy or working with a rescue, this episode will help you rethink what it really means to be housebroken—and how to get there with patience and clarity. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com
Sarah Hodgson reveals the unexpected secret to raising a confident, well-adjusted puppy: sleep. Drawing from her years of imprinting young pups in her own home, she explains why a solid sleep schedule is the foundation for calmness, confidence, and easier training.Sarah also answers your top questions about setting up your home, introducing puppies to kids, preventing separation anxiety, and more. Whether you’re preparing for a new puppy or looking to build a smoother routine, this episode will help you start strong and stay balanced.Learn More and Book a Session Here: https://www.sarahhodgson.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahsayspets/reels/?hl=enOrder my Leashes: https://sarahsaysstore.com/Buy the E-Books I Mention in this Podcast Here: https://sarahsaysstore.com/collections/ebooks This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com
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