Sarah answers listener questions covering some of the most common puppy training challenges. From navigating puppy adolescence and recall struggles to how to prepare for a new puppy, separation anxiety, and multi-dog household dynamics, Sarah shares expert advice to help you build trust and confidence with your dog. Whether you're raising a brand-new puppy or fine-tuning training with an older dog, this episode is packed with actionable tips to make life with your pup smoother and more enjoyable!

In this episode of Life Unleashed, Sarah Hodgson chats with Margie, a real estate agent from New Hampshire, who recently brought home her tiny Havanese puppy, Atticus, on a snowy winter day. Margie shares her whirlwind experience of being completely unprepared, overwhelmed, and learning the ropes of modern puppy care. Sarah dives into the essentials—creating a rhythm, meeting a puppy’s five basic needs, and the importance of sleep—while helping Margie find balance and confidence. 

Why won't my dog listen to my commands? How do I potty train my dog in a high rise building? Is it possible to get my dog to stop barking? These questions and many more get answered on this week's episode of Ask Sarah!

Unlock a Stress-Free Vet and Groomer Experience for Your Dog! Join Sarah in this episode as she reveals expert tips to ease your dog's anxiety and make vet and groomer visits a breeze.

Welcome to another episode of Ask Sarah! This week Sarah answers a wide range of dog behavioral questions including how to calm your dog down, how to read dog body language, and what to do if your puppy is biting your hands.

In this weeks episode, Sarah explains the various reasons dogs hump and mount pillows, other dogs, and even you. Not all humping is inherently sexual, and there are many things you can do to discourage humping if it interferes with your daily life. 

Welcome to our first Q&A podcast, where Sarah takes your questions collected from instagram and gives her insight into your dog training and behavioral inquiries. Be sure to follow Sarah on instagram to submit your questions for next week's episode!

On this episode, Sarah gives us her opinion on negative reinforcement training, the foundations of a dog's sense of wellbeing, and how punishment and dominance mindsets can create irreversible damage to your dog.

Are you planning on adopting a dog or puppy but need help figuring out where to start? Are you considering which breed is best for your lifestyle? Wondering what products you'll need to get started? In this episode, Sarah walks you through everything you need to know before bringing home your new dog or puppy.

On this episode of Life Unleashed, Sarah lays out the universal do's and don'ts of dog parenting that every dog owner should know. 

For many of us, sleep is the foundation of our everyday lives. For many dogs, the importance of sleep is often overlooked. In this episode, Sarah discusses why sleep is critically important, the effects of poor sleep in dogs, and how to help your dog or puppy get the right amount of sleep.

It's official — Artificial Intelligence has found its way into the dog world. Sarah sits down with John Honchariw, CEO and founder of Companion, the first-of-a-kind AI dog training and enrichment device. Companion uses computer vision and artificial intelligence to train dogs and reinforce new skills. Listen to this week's episode to learn more!

In this episode of Life Unleashed, Sarah Hodgson answers your questions about common puppy challenges. Learn how to desensitize your dog to squirrels, curb nipping and leash biting, and stop demand barking—all while creating a stronger bond with your puppy. 

Does your dog have separation anxiety, social anxiety, travel anxiety, or noise sensitivity? In this podcast, Sarah helps you better understand your dog and provides tips, tricks, and practical advice to ease and rehabilitate any dog anxiety. 

On this special episode of Life Unleashed, Sarah sits down with "America's Veterinarian," Dr. Marty Becker, the founder of the Fear Free Movement, which provides pet professionals, and parents with the knowledge and tools to look after both a pet's physical and emotional wellbeing.

Housebreaking is one of the biggest concerns new pet parents have. Getting a puppy or dog accustomed to your rules and routines can seem challenging. In this episode, Sarah breaks down the fundamentals of housebreaking, what to expect, and how to structure a routine for a new puppy or older dog. 

On this episode, Sarah sits down with New York City-based dog trainer Brett Bailey. Together, they dive into the secrets of successfully raising a dog in the big city. Brett shares practical tips, proven techniques, and invaluable insights for navigating the unique challenges of urban dog training.

Is your dog sensitive to fireworks, thunderstorms and other loud noises? In this episode, Sarah dives deep into sound sensitivity and how to help your dog or puppy cope with frightening noises. Special guest Dr. Sarah J. Cutler, VMD hops on to discuss additional medical treatments and more.

In this episode, we explore the question: "Why do dogs bite people?” Michael Shikashio joins us to discuss how we can better understand biting and prevent it from happening. Tune in to gain insights on creating safer environments for both dogs and humans.

Did you know training can be as simple as playing games with your dog? Play training is an effective, fun, and fear-free way to train your pet! This week, Sarah discusses training games and more with special guest Amelia the Dog Trainer.

Do you ever feel like walking your dog is more stressful than relaxing? Is your dog prone to pulling or becoming overly excited around other dogs and people? In this episode, Sarah dives into the reasons behind Leash Reactivity and provides practical guidance to transform your walks into enjoyable bonding experiences.

Your angry dog might be afraid! From spaying and neutering to it's roots in fear, Sarah talks dog aggression with special guest Dr. Stanley Coren. 

Welcome back to the second part of our discussion of separation anxiety. This episode, Sarah guides you on how to lessen your dog's isolation distress and how to properly leave your dog home alone. 

In this episode of Life Unleashed, Sarah Hodgson dives into the whirlwind of raising two puppies at once. Joined by her client Dan, she discusses crate training strategies, why schedules matter, and how to foster independence while building trust. Whether you're juggling one puppy or two, you'll find actionable advice and heartwarming stories to guide your training journey!

Does your dog struggle when left alone?  This week, Sarah explains why dogs develop separation anxiety,  what mistakes many pet parents make that reinforce their distress, and how to get your dog used to being alone.

Sarah explains the role socialization plays in creating a happy and healthy life for you and your dog. Learn how, when, and why to condition your dog or puppy to the sounds and stimulations of your everyday life.

Welcome to the first  episode of Life Unleashed! Sarah helps break down everything you need to know about raising a puppy, including brain development, the importance of sleep, and creating a schedule around your puppy's basic needs: to eat, drink, play, potty, and sleep.

In this episode of Life Unleashed, Sarah Hodgson tackles listener questions about common puppy challenges. Discover tips for preventing barking when chatting with neighbors, helping your puppy feel secure when left alone, teaching your pup to stop biting toes, and MUCH more!

In this episode of Life Unleashed, Sarah Hodgson shares expert advice on making the holidays enjoyable for your dogs and guests alike. Learn how to prepare your dog for the hustle and bustle of festive gatherings with practical tips to reduce stress and encourage calm behavior. From creating cozy spaces to engaging activities, Sarah’s holiday hacks will help you and your dog celebrate the season in harmony.

In this episode of Life Unleashed, Sarah Hodgson returns from her book-writing hiatus to explore the intricate connections between anxiety, aggression, and hyperarousal in dogs. Sarah breaks down the science behind these behaviors and offers practical insights to help dogs achieve balance. Discover how modern living impacts our dogs and learn  tips for creating a more harmonious life together. Don’t miss this informative episode—and grab a copy of Sarah’s new book Dog Anxiety For Dummies!

Does your dog bark incessantly at the doorbell? Maybe they're chasing squirrels or lizards while you're trying to go on a relaxing walk. In this episode, Sarah answers viewer questions and explains how one simple game can help your dog desensitize to all sorts of distractions.

We're all feeling some strong emotion going into this week's holiday. This podcast invites you to look at this season's celebration from your dog's point a view. I offer tips to make the festivities joyous no matter how many paws you walk on!

In this episode of Life Unleashed, Sarah breaks down the differences between positive and negative reinforcement training, how negative reinforcement can damage your dog's psyche, and the ways positive reinforcement shapes your dog's future for the better.

Sarah sits down with Kim Katzovitz, proud mom to a spirited five-month-old Standard Poodle, River! Together, they reminisce about the journey from an eight-week-old bundle of energy to a well-mannered pup. Discover the transformative power of positive reinforcement, the importance of schedules, and the joys (and challenges!) of raising a social, adaptable dog. Whether you’re navigating puppyhood or curious about training techniques, you’ll find heartwarming stories and practical tips to enrich your own dog training adventure!

Sarah Hodgson discusses the change in podcast name from Life Unleashed to Raising Happy Dogs and answers listener questions on some of the most common dog training struggles. From calming an antsy pup and navigating puppy adolescence to tackling potty training in bad weather, managing multi-dog households, and much more. Sarah shares expert insights to help you create a happy, well-adjusted dog. Whether you're bringing home a new puppy or refining your dog's manners, this episode is packed with practical tips to make life with your furry friend easier and more enjoyable!

Sarah Hodgson is joined by therapist, parenting expert, author, and dog lover Stefani M. Cohen, LCSW, to explore a growing concern—children’s fear of dogs. Stefani shares her personal journey of helping her own daughter overcome dog anxiety, the power of education, and how her books provide kids with practical tools to feel more comfortable around dogs. Together, they discuss why modern dogs can seem overwhelming, how to read canine body language, and ways to create positive experiences for fearful children. Whether you're a parent, educator, or dog owner, this episode is packed with valuable insights on fostering safe and happy interactions between kids and dogs!

Find Stefani Here:

Website: Overcomefearofdogs.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/overcomefearofdogs/

Books: Overcoming Your Child's Fear of Dogs, How to Face My Fear of Dogs: An Activity Book for Kids to Feel Safe with Dogs

Sarah Hodgson tackles your top puppy training questions! From curbing excessive biting and barking to helping dogs adjust after a big move, she shares expert advice on creating structure, promoting calm behavior, and setting your pup up for success. Whether you're dealing with an overtired, nippy puppy or trying to ease the stress of a new environment, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you and your dog thrive. Tune in for actionable insights and a few fun stories along the way!

Website: https://www.sarahhodgson.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahsayspets

My Products: https://sarahsaysstore.com/

Sarah Hodgson sits down with Colleen and Eric to share their journey of adopting Lucy, a timid and reactive rescue dog. From her fearful beginnings to her struggles with reactivity on walks and in the home, they discuss the challenges of earning Lucy’s trust and helping her feel safe. Sarah dives into the importance of structure, home setup, and even the role of medication in supporting anxious dogs. Whether you're considering adopting a rescue or working through behavioral hurdles, this heartfelt episode is packed with insights on patience, training, and the incredible transformations that come with love and commitment.

Sarah Hodgson answers your top dog training questions! From stopping dogs from eating everything on walks to managing food aggression, introducing puppies to cats, and helping fearful dogs gain confidence, she shares expert strategies for common canine challenges. Whether you're dealing with a puppy who cries when left alone or a dog that goes squirrel-crazy on walks, Sarah offers practical, positive solutions to help you and your pup thrive. Tune in for valuable tips and real-life training advice!

Sarah Hodgson is back with another round of listener questions! This week, she tackles the challenge of loose leash walking—why some dogs bite the leash, cling to their owners, and turn walks into a tug-of-war. Sarah breaks down step-by-step strategies to make leash training a positive experience for both you and your pup. Plus, she shares tips on reducing jumping, improving focus, and keeping training frustration-free. If you want your question featured in a future episode, be sure to follow @sarahsayspets on Instagram and keep an eye on her stories!

Sarah Hodgson tackles the growing issue of off-leash dog encounters and how to handle them safely. She breaks down the different types of off-leash dogs, how to read their body language, and the best ways to react to prevent fights and injuries.

You'll also hear a firsthand account from a client whose dogs were attacked by off-leash neighborhood dogs, sharing what happened, how they responded, and what they wish they had known. Whether you're looking to prevent future incidents or help your dog recover from a past scare, this episode is filled with expert strategies to keep your walks safe and stress-free.

Sarah Hodgson tackles your most pressing dog training questions! From stopping counter surfing to fearful dogs and curbing excessive licking, Sarah provides expert advice and practical solutions to common behavioral challenges. Whether you're dealing with puppy nipping, anxiety-related potty issues, or a dog that just won’t stop jumping, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you and your pup thrive. Tune in and get the answers you need to build a happier, well-behaved dog!

Sarah Hodgson takes on a brand new round of listener questions, covering everything from picky eaters to overexcited pups. She unpacks the challenges of traveling with dogs who have separation anxiety, and breaks down how much playtime puppies really need. You’ll also hear advice on curbing crate whining, stopping dogs from chasing cats, and what to do if your pup is eating dirt—or waking you up too early! Whether you're managing big emotions in a small puppy or just trying to make mornings a little easier, Sarah’s insights will leave you feeling informed, empowered, and supported.

Sarah Hodgson reflects on a powerful moment with her daughter Lindsay and their puppy that uncovered a universal truth: we often expect understanding without offering guidance. Through real-life stories and gentle insights, Sarah explores how tiny adjustments can lead to big shifts—in our homes, our relationships, and with our dogs. If you’ve ever caught yourself assuming someone “should know better,” this episode is a reminder that teaching is one of the purest forms of connection.

Sarah Hodgson is joined by Marique Schimmel for a jaw-dropping rescue tale—cross country travel from death row, unexpected puppies, and a crash course in canine behavior. From managing a reactive dog at the door with simple calm techniques to setting up a multi-dog home, Sarah walks you through the chaos and heart of a real-life rescue mission. You'll hear how one planned adoption turned into two—and then four!—and get tips on safe transport, puppy care, and the importance of knowing what you're bringing home.

Sarah Hodgson answers your most pressing puppy questions—from barking and bolting to crate woes and cat-chasing chaos. Whether you're dealing with a dog who wants to greet every pup on the street or a one-year-old who still snacks on poop, Sarah shares practical, kind, and effective training tips to bring more peace to your pup’s routine. If you're a first-time dog owner or just trying to curb some crazy behaviors, this Q&A episode is packed with the advice you’ve been waiting for!

In this episode of Raising Happy Dogs, Sarah Hodgson explores the emotional and practical journey of bringing a new dog into your life with her client Sara K. She walks you through the highs and hesitations of wanting a dog, how to evaluate online rescue profiles, and why having a trusted sounding board is key to making the right decision. From out-of-state adoptions and transport tips to the first days at home, Sarah shares how to match the right dog to your lifestyle—not just your heart. If you're thinking about adopting, this episode will help you prepare with clarity, compassion, and confidence.

Sarah Hodgson sits down with holistic veterinarian Dr. Jeff Feinman, founder of Holistic Actions. Together, they explore how true healing begins with energy, balance, and love. Dr. Jeff shares his personal health journey that led him to challenge conventional medicine and embrace a holistic approach—one that prioritizes behavior, energy, appetite, and mood (BEAM). From practical tools to deeper insights on how stress, environment, and nutrition affect well-being, this episode offers an eye-opening perspective on supporting your pet’s health naturally and compassionately.

Find Jeff Here:

https://www.holisticactions.com/

https://www.instagram.com/holisticactions/

https://www.facebook.com/holisticactions/

Sarah Hodgson tackles your most relatable dog training questions—from puppies who pee with excitement to dogs who bark at the TV (or rollerbladers!). Whether you're dealing with leash pulling, introductions, or sudden nighttime growling, Sarah offers compassionate, practical solutions to everyday behavior struggles. If you’ve ever wondered “Is it just my dog?”—this episode will reassure and empower you with the tools to raise a happier, more balanced pup.

Sarah Hodgson breaks down the pros and cons of today’s most popular dog training options, from private sessions to group classes to board-and-train programs. Whether you’re looking for personalized support, opportunities to socialize your pup, or a structured head start on routine-building, you’ll get clarity on what makes the most sense for you and your dog. Sarah also answers a listener question about helping dogs transition from rural life to city streets—so don’t miss this packed, practical episode to help guide your training journey!