Puppy Basics

Why does your dog lick you? A professional dog trainer explains what licking means — affection, attention, taste, stress, or a signal worth watching — and how to manage it.

A professional dog trainer's step-by-step method for potty training a puppy on pads — setup, schedule, common mistakes, and how to transition outdoors later.

Is your dog slow to come when called? TeleTails trainers share 3 proven ways to build a faster, more reliable recall.

Protect your dog's paws from heat, ice, and injury with booties, paw wax, and year-round care tips from TeleTails vets.

5 expert-backed tips to help anxious or shy dogs build confidence — from TeleTails certified dog trainers.

Signs, causes, and treatment options for liver failure in dogs and cats — what every pet parent needs to know.

The first 24 hours with a rescue dog are critical. Here's exactly what to do to help your dog settle in safely.

Human pain meds can be fatal to pets. A TeleTails vet explains the risks and safe alternatives for pain relief.

Dogs who get distracted on walks need structured practice. TeleTails trainers share a proven approach to building focus.

Corneal ulcers are painful and worsen quickly. A TeleTails vet explains the signs and why early treatment is critical.

Does your cat scream for food? Learn why it happens and how to stop the behavior without compromising their health.

All dogs can learn to love their crate. Our trainers share a step-by-step guide to crate training adult dogs at home.

Food bowl aggression between dogs is fixable. A TeleTails trainer explains why it happens and how to manage it.

FLUTD is one of the most common cat health issues. Learn the signs, causes, and when to call a vet.

New to dog training? A TeleTails certified trainer walks you through the basics of building a well-behaved dog from home.

Cognitive decline affects many senior dogs. Learn the signs of canine cognitive dysfunction and how to support your aging dog.

Heat stroke can kill dogs quickly. A TeleTails vet explains the warning signs, emergency steps, and how to prevent it.

Tired of your dog stealing food? Our certified trainers share positive techniques to stop counter surfing for good.

Practical exercises to help shy dogs build confidence at their own pace — from TeleTails certified behavior specialists.

Fireworks terrify cats too. A TeleTails veterinary nurse shares practical tips to keep your cat calm during loud events.

Expert advice from TeleTails on leash walking basic. Trusted guidance from our in-house veterinary professionals and certified dog trainers.

Whether your dog is new to your home and new to their name or if they just don’t listen, here are 3 tips to help you get a better response from your dog.

Hot spots appear fast and are very painful. A TeleTails vet explains causes, treatment, and how to prevent recurrence.

Still getting dragged on walks? TeleTails certified trainers share 5 proven techniques to stop leash pulling for good.

Teaching your dog to relax on cue is one of the most useful skills you can build. Here's how to do it.

From understanding common ear issues to learning how to gently and thoroughly clean the ears, we provide insights to help you prevent infections and discomfort.

Every pet parent needs a first aid kit. Learn exactly what to include and how to use it in a pet emergency.

A reliable recall could save your dog's life. Learn the 3 foundational skills that make come when called work every time.

Many dogs hate grooming. A TeleTails trainer explains how to desensitize your dog to handling and grooming tools.

Does your dog get distracted on walks? Use these 4 trainer tricks to keep your dog focused during their walks.

Feline obesity causes serious health problems. A TeleTails vet explains how to safely help your overweight cat lose weight.

Puppies love chewing mulch — but it can be dangerous. A TeleTails trainer explains how to stop the behavior safely.

Intestinal parasites are surprisingly common in household pets! Learn the signs and symptoms and how to managed this intestinal invaders in your dogs and cats.

Drop it and leave it are different commands with different uses. A TeleTails trainer explains when and how to use each.

Trick training isn't just fun — it has real emotional and physical benefits. Here's why every dog should learn new tricks.

Does your dog sit slowly or need bribing? A TeleTails trainer explains how to build a fast, reliable sit command.

Many spring plants are toxic to pets. A TeleTails vet lists the flowers and plants to keep away from dogs and cats.

Separation anxiety is often misunderstood. A TeleTails trainer debunks the 5 most common myths about managing it.

Training with kids makes dogs and children safer together. TeleTails trainers share fun, effective tips for the whole family.

Everything you need to know about guinea pig care — nutrition, housing, enrichment, and health tips from TeleTails.

Separation anxiety is common and treatable. A TeleTails trainer explains the first step every pet parent should take.

80% of dogs over 3 have dental disease. A TeleTails vet shares the best at-home tips for keeping your pet's teeth clean.

A strong recall gives your dog more freedom. TeleTails trainers walk you through the steps to build a reliable come command.

Teaching your dog to "drop it" and to "leave it" aren't just useful skills to have, they can be essential skills to keep your pup safe! Learning to drop or leave it can prevent exposure to toxins or other gross things that could make your dog sick. In this week's module learn how to start teach these skills and discover some common toxins so you know what to avoid.

Exercise is essential for a well-behaved dog. TeleTails trainers share how to build movement and activity into your routine.

Teaching your dog to hold still is the foundation for advanced training. Here's how to start from the basics.

Focus is the foundation of all good dog training. TeleTails trainers share how to teach your dog to pay attention on cue.

Is your dog great at home but distracted everywhere else? TeleTails trainers explain how to build focus in new environments.

Discover how you can include your pet in your holiday celebrations but keep them safe at the same time!

House training an adult rescue dog is very doable. A TeleTails trainer shares a step-by-step guide to get it done.

The socialization window closes fast. A TeleTails trainer explains exactly how and when to socialize your puppy safely.

Worried about the canine respiratory illness going around? A TeleTails vet explains the symptoms, risks, and what to do.

Muzzles get a bad reputation — but they're a valuable safety tool. A TeleTails trainer debunks the top 5 muzzle myths.

Do you dread when visitors first come over because you dogs jumps and barks and can't wait to say a very personal hello to each person? Learn how to teach your dog not to jump and discover some of the common problems that come during this training.

Expert advice from TeleTails on cold weather pet safety. Trusted guidance from our in-house veterinary professionals and certified dog trainers.

There are lots of questions when it comes to training your dog! What is the best way, the best treats, and rewards? Get your questions answered and learn the best way to use treats and rewards in your dog's training.

Our vet team provides tips on how to prepare for cold weather and what things you can do to ensure your pets stay warm and safe all winter long!

Sit is one of the most useful skills a dog can learn. Start here with TeleTails' step-by-step sit training series.

This is the first lesson in our Pup U series, Teaching Your Dog to Sit. In this lesson you will learn to use a food lure to position your dog properly. 

Ready to wean off the treat lure? TeleTails trainers explain how to fade the lure so your dog sits on command alone.

This is the third lesson in our Teaching Your Dog to Sit series. In this lesson you will learn how to add a verbal or signal cue to your dog’s sit behavior. 

Halloween decorations can terrify dogs. A TeleTails trainer shares how to desensitize your dog to inflatables and spooky decor.

Dogs eating from the litter box is gross and unhealthy. A TeleTails trainer explains why they do it and how to stop it.

Teaching drop it doesn't have to be a battle. TeleTails trainers share 3 fun games that make your dog want to let go.

Toys on sticks are great for exercise and focus. A TeleTails trainer explains how to use them safely and effectively.

This is the second lesson in our PuPU series, Playful Pup. In this lesson, you will learn how to get your dog to let go of the toy when playing tug-of-war. 

Expert advice from TeleTails on playful pup 101 tugofwar basics. Trusted guidance from our in-house veterinary professionals and certified dog trainers.

Playing the right way strengthens your bond and improves behavior. TeleTails trainers share how to play with your dog well.

Unlock the ultimate puppy training guide by week. Start your puppy's journey to a well-trained, happy adulthood with expert insights.

Puppies bark for so many reasons! Learn why, and what you can do to reduce barking and reinforce quiet behaviors in your pup!

How to get a dog to stop barking. Enjoy peace without constant alerts. Learn how to calm your canine's barking habit.

Chewing is a normal dog behavior, but puppies often go through a chewing phase. Finding safe items to chew can train your puppy to stop chewing on everything.

Puppies can get into trouble! Crate training a puppy at night is a great way to keep your pup safe until they are old enough to have more freedom, and teach them they always have a safe space to go.

Master puppy house training with a proven schedule. Build a strong foundation for your furry friend's bathroom habits. Get started now!

Ringworm is contagious and spreads quickly. A TeleTails vet explains the signs, treatment, and how to stop it from spreading.

Struggling with positive dog reinforcement training not working? Learn about effective dog training methods here.

Discover the secrets of how to leash train a puppy for a stress-free walk. Learn the right tools and rewarding techniques for success.

Puppy biting and mouthing is normal behavior, but there are plenty of different strategies you can use to train your puppy to stop biting such as play and naps.

Still pulling after training? A TeleTails trainer identifies the top 3 reasons leash training fails and how to fix each one.

Fall is a great time to explore with your dog. A TeleTails vet shares seasonal safety tips every pet parent should know.

The right reward changes everything in training. TeleTails trainers explain how to identify and use what motivates your dog.

Treats aren't the only reward that works. A TeleTails trainer explains how to use praise, petting, and play in training.

Is your dog only good when treats are visible? TeleTails trainers explain how to phase out treats without losing compliance.

The right treat makes training faster and more effective. A TeleTails trainer explains exactly what to look for.

Cats hide pain well. A TeleTails vet explains the subtle behavioral and physical signs that your cat may be hurting.

Hiking with your dog is rewarding with the right prep. TeleTails vets share what to bring, watch for, and avoid on trails.

Senior dogs need extra care. A TeleTails vet shares the key changes to make as your dog ages to keep them comfortable.

Think you know the right way to walk your dog? A TeleTails trainer challenges the most common dog walking myths.

Down is one of the most useful dog commands. TeleTails trainers share 3 effective methods to teach your dog to lie down.

Preventative vet care keeps cats healthier longer. A TeleTails vet explains what's needed at every stage of your cat's life.

Hand touch is one of the best starter tricks. A TeleTails trainer explains how to teach it step by step.

1 in 3 pets get lost in their lifetime. A TeleTails vet explains why microchipping matters and what every owner should know.

Thinking about probiotics for your pet? A TeleTails vet reviews the top options and explains when they actually help.

Discover the dangers of blue-green algae for pets. Learn how to spot the signs of blue-green algae and how to keep pets safe around water.

Discover great ways to keep your cat's nails short, healthy, and trimmed at home, such as nails trimming, claw caps, and scratching posts.

Would your dog dominate the A-frame or weave like a pro? Get step-by-step exercises to get started with agility training at home!

Distractions are the biggest challenge on walks. TeleTails trainers show you how to turn a distraction into a training win.

In Lesson 2, it’s time to take your leash walking skills to different environments so your dog can learn it works everywhere, not just where you started.

Every good walk starts with the right foundation. TeleTails trainers explain the basics of leash walking from day one.

This Loose Leash Walking series will teach your the foundation skills and how to implement them in new and distracting environments.