Getting your dog to come back when called can sometimes feel like a negotiation with someone who’s already checked out. They hear you, they register the sound, but actually responding is not on today’s agenda, and you’re left standing there wondering if “come” actually means something else.

Let’s be honest — the dog training world can get weirdly political. People want to know what kind of trainer you are: Are you force-free? R+ only? Balanced?

If you’ve just got a new puppy, then welcome to the wild, unpredictable, often exhausting but always rewarding world of puppyhood. I’ve been there myself (and with plenty of clients), so here are ten things I think you really should know to make your life easier, your pup’s journey smoother, and maybe save you a little sanity along the way.

Hi, I’m Summer, and if you’d told me years ago I’d end up running my own dog walking and training business, I probably would’ve said, “Sounds fun — but not likely… unless the world throws me a curveball or two.” (Plot twist: it did).