Frequently Asked Questions

Calm dogs start with calm owners. These are some of the most common questions we receive about training, anxiety, and everyday canine behavior. Click a topic to jump to the answer.

1. How can I stop my dog from barking when I leave?

Excessive barking when left alone is a classic sign of separation anxiety. The key is gradual desensitization — teaching your dog that departures are safe and temporary. Start with short absences and pair them with a calm cue or toy. Avoid punishment; it increases stress and confusion. For step-by-step guidance, see our Separation Anxiety Guide.

2. Do calming pheromones or anxiety chews actually work?

They can help — but only as part of a complete behavior plan. Pheromones (like Adaptil) mimic the scent mother dogs release to calm puppies, while chews with L-theanine or chamomile can take the edge off. They don’t “cure” anxiety, but they support progress when paired with training. We’ve reviewed our top picks on our Calming Aids page.

3. What should I do if my dog growls at strangers or other dogs?

Growling is communication — a sign of fear or discomfort, not “dominance.” Instead of punishing it, give your dog more distance and teach them calm alternatives using counterconditioning and desensitization. Our Aggression & Reactivity Hub explains how to rebuild confidence safely.

4. Can I fix leash reactivity?

Yes, but it takes time and consistency. Use distance, food rewards, and predictable patterns. The goal isn’t to suppress barking — it’s to change the emotional response behind it. Read Teaching Calm Behavior on Walks for the full plan.

5. How do I potty train my puppy fast?

Consistency is everything. Take your puppy out every 2–3 hours, after meals, naps, and play. Reward within 2 seconds of finishing — timing is crucial. Crate training can help prevent accidents by building natural “hold” instincts. See our full potty training guide for schedules and troubleshooting.

6. My dog suddenly started peeing indoors again — why?

Regression can stem from stress, medical issues, or schedule changes. Rule out infection first, then retrace your training steps. Use an enzymatic cleaner to remove lingering scent triggers. Check our regression checklist.

7. Why does my dog chew everything when I’m gone?

Destructive chewing is often a mix of boredom and anxiety. Rotate chew toys, provide daily mental enrichment, and avoid scolding — it only adds tension. Browse our Durable Chew Toy Picks and Enrichment Activities.

8. How can I stop my dog from pulling on the leash?

Use a front-clip harness to reduce pulling pressure and teach “loose leash” walking using short, focused sessions. Reinforce calm walking, not speed. Every step is feedback. Read our Positive Leash Training Guide for the daily plan.

9. What are the five essential commands every dog should know?

The core five are: Come, Stay, Heel, Leave It, and Place. These build impulse control, recall reliability, and calm focus. You can find simple, step-by-step tutorials for each on our Training Commands page.

10. How long does dog training really take?

It depends on the dog and consistency. A single command can take a few days; complex emotional issues may take months. Training isn’t about speed — it’s about clarity and repetition. Explore our realistic training timeline for guidance.

Still Need Help?

Can’t find your question here? Reach out directly — we’re happy to guide you toward the right resource.