Feel like the more you try to fix your dog’s behavior, the worse it gets?

If you’re dealing with barking, leash pulling, jumping, or flat-out ignoring commands, the problem might not be your dog: it might be what you’re accidentally reinforcing without realizing it.

In this episode, I’m joined by professional dog trainer and behavior consultant Bradley Phifer, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KSA, Executive Director, CCPDT to unpack the everyday mistakes that teach dogs to keep misbehaving, even when you're trying your best to stop it.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL FIND OUT:
• How unintentional habits like acting excited when you get home, high-pitched baby talk, or ignoring jumping up periodically can reinforce bad behavior
• Why “management” isn't a shortcut, it’s a critical part of lasting training
• What to do when your dog training tips fail and your dog’s behavior is taking over your life (and how to get it back) 

Whether you have a rescue dog or got a puppy from a reputable breeder, if your dog’s behavior is going from frustrating to unmanageable, and nothing you’ve tried is working, this episode will show you where things are breaking down and how to shift the pattern starting today.

CONNECT WITH BRADLEY PHIFER
WEBSITE | https://bradleyphifer.com/

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers: https://www.ccpdt.org/

LOOKING FOR A GREAT CRATE? I focused on benefits in this episode, but one of my top picks is Impact Dog Crates. They’re an investment, but built to last a lifetime of safety and security for your dog. 

Holiday guests coming who don’t love your pets? Don’t miss the December 3rd Quick Fix bonus episode. Amy shares simple ways to set expectations, create boundaries, and shut down holiday drama before it even starts. Listen in and keep everyone in your house off the naughty list. 

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Pet parenting is tough, but we give you pet advice and real pet parenting solutions for the daily issues you’re facing. Each week, we share pet cost hacks and tips for pet care on a budget, along with smart ways to save money on pet care and pet food savings that really work. If you’re stressed about vet bills, unclear pet nutrition advice, dog anxiety, or cat anxiety, you’ll get practical support right away.

You'll hear expert pet advice on dog training and managing pet behavior, cat care insights, pet care advice, pet food safety tips, and strategies to keep multi-pet homes calm. We also cover pet nutrition advice, stress-free vet visits, home cleaning with pets, and simple shifts that help you protect your wallet without sacrificing your pet’s wellbeing.

Follow so you can stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with your pets.

Contact: Amy@petparenthotline.com ©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro