One of the most common pieces of advice new puppy guardians hear is, “Just ignore them, they’ll learn eventually.”
It’s often said kindly. It’s often said confidently. And it’s often wrong.
When a puppy cries, they aren’t being naughty, manipulative, or dramatic. They’re communicating distress. And what happens in those moments matters far more than many people realise.
In this week’s episode of Paws and Pawsitivity, I unpack why crying it out doesn’t build emotional strength or independence, and what puppies are actually learning when their distress goes unanswered. We talk about nervous systems, emotional safety, and why silence doesn’t always mean calm.
This episode isn’t about shaming past choices or making anyone feel guilty. It’s about helping puppy guardians understand what supports confidence long-term, and how early experiences around being alone can shape future behaviour, including separation-related struggles.
If you’ve ever sat outside a door feeling torn, unsure whether you were doing the right thing, this episode is for you.
🎧 Listen now on the Paws and Pawsitivity podcast, available on YouTube under @PTA_Dog.
If this resonates, please share it with another puppy guardian. And if you’d like personalised, force-free support with early independence or alone-time foundations, you can book directly via http://www.pta.dog.
Guiding paws, one step at a time.
If you’re ready to level up your dog’s training and unlock their full potential, hit that play button and join me for this exciting episode of Paws and Pawsitivity! 🐾
🎧 Listen to the full episode now!
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Enrich Your Dog’s Day, Every Day
Before you go, treat your pup to something special. K9 Connectables offers mental stimulation and enrichment that aligns perfectly with a force-free training lifestyle. Because a tired dog isn’t always a happy one – but a fulfilled dog is.
CLICK HERE or on the image below to explore K9 Connectables and enjoy 10% off, thanks to our special partnership with K9 Connectables. Your dog will thank you for it! Or simply use code PTA10 at checkout!
It’s one small change that can make a big difference, starting today.
