Growing Furever Families One Pup at a Time

How to Stop Your Dog from Pulling on the Leash Without Playing Tug of War

How to Stop Your Dog from Pulling on the Leash Without Playing Tug of War
Going for a walk with your dog should be fun. But if your pup pulls and drags you down the street, it can feel like a big struggle. Don’t worry—you are not alone! Many dogs pull on the leash, and with a little training, they can learn to walk calmly by your side.

Meet Max the Tugboat

One of my clients had a young Labrador we will call Max. Max is sweet, full of energy, and very strong. Max's mom told me that every time she clipped on the leash, she felt like she was being pulled by a tugboat. Walks that were supposed to be happy and relaxing made her feel tired and stressed.
When I met Max, I explained to her that he wasn’t being “bad.” He was just excited to sniff and explore, and no one had shown him how to walk politely on a leash. We worked on some simple steps together. After just a few weeks, Max was walking nicely, and his mom finally enjoyed her time with him. Now she smiles when she tells me their daily walks are her favorite part of the day.

Why Do Dogs Pull?

Dogs pull because the world is exciting! They want to get to that smell, sound, or spot as fast as they can. If pulling gets them there, they’ll keep doing it. That’s why it’s so important to teach them that a loose leash—not pulling—makes the walk move forward.

Easy Tips to Help Your Dog Walk Calmly

  1. Use the Right Gear
    A front-clip harness helps guide your dog back toward you when they pull. A simple 4–6 foot leash works best. Skip the long, retractable leashes while you’re teaching.
  2. Stop When They Pull
    The second the leash gets tight, stop walking. Wait until your dog relaxes or looks back at you. Then praise them and start again. They will learn that pulling makes the walk stop, but staying close makes it go.
  3. Reward Good Choices
    Bring yummy treats in your pocket. Every time your dog walks beside you or looks up at you, give them one. It shows them you love their good behavior.
  4. Turn Around
    If your pup keeps pulling, calmly turn and walk the other way. They will learn that rushing ahead doesn’t get them where they want to go.
  5. Keep It Short
    Start with five or ten minutes of practice in a quiet place. Little by little, add more time and new places as your dog improves.
Walking Together is Better
With patience and practice, your dog can learn to walk politely just like Max. You don’t need to feel pulled or frustrated anymore. Walking side by side makes every walk calmer, safer, and more fun. And best of all, it helps you and your dog feel even closer as best friends.

💛 Want even more help with your pup’s training?
Check out my
 Puppy Training Cheat Sheets & Progress Trackers. They’ll teach your puppy the 5 essential commands every family needs—sit, stay, come, down, and heel—with easy step-by-step guidance. Plus, they keep the whole family on the same page. All for just $9.97!

👉  Click HERE to learn more


The #1 Mistake in Potty Training a Puppy

The #1 Mistake in Potty Training a Puppy
Potty training a puppy is one of the biggest challenges new dog parents face. It takes time, patience, and consistency. But did you know most people make the same mistake over and over again? This mistake makes potty training take much longer — and causes stress for both you and your pup.

So what is the #1 mistake in potty training a puppy?


👉 Not giving your puppy enough chances to go outside.

Puppies have tiny bladders and very little control. They can’t “hold it” like older dogs. If you wait too long between potty breaks, your puppy will have accidents in the house. Over time, this teaches your pup the wrong lesson — that it’s okay to pee or poop inside.
When I brought home my golden retriever, Waffles, I learned this the hard way. On his second day, I thought I could run to switch the laundry before taking him out. By the time I came back, there he was — sitting proudly in a little puddle in the living room. That mess reminded me that puppies simply can’t wait, no matter how quick you think you’ll be!

How Often Should Puppies Go Out?

Here’s a simple rule: your puppy can usually hold it for one hour per month of age (up to about 6 hours).
  • A 2-month-old puppy → every 2 hours
  • A 3-month-old puppy → every 3 hours
  • A 4-month-old puppy → every 4 hours
This means you’ll need to take your puppy out a lot during the day — and even at night for very young pups

Want to know how to avoid the #1 mistake in potty training a puppy? Try these simple steps:
  • Stick to a schedule: Take your puppy out first thing in the morning, after meals, after naps, after playtime, and before bed.
  • Use a crate or playpen: Puppies don’t like to go potty where they sleep. This helps teach them to hold it until they’re outside.
  • Praise and reward: Every time your puppy goes potty in the right spot, use a happy voice and give a small treat. This teaches them where they should go.
The #1 mistake in potty training a puppy is waiting too long between potty breaks. By taking your pup out often and rewarding success, you’ll avoid accidents and build good habits fast.

 Pro Tip: Consistency is everything. The more chances your puppy has to go outside, the quicker they’ll learn to potty in the right place.

✨ Want more help with potty training?

Join my free Facebook group where I host the
 “3 Steps to a Potty Trained Puppy” workshop. 
In this free training, I’ll walk you through my 3 simple, proven steps to help your puppy understand where (and when!) to go potty—without stress, confusion, or endless mess.

You’ll learn:
✅ The “Hold Time” Rule – so you can set a realistic potty schedule
✅ The Power of Routine – how consistency builds faster success
✅ Crate Training Done Right – using it as a safe, supportive tool (not punishment)

Whether you just brought your puppy home or have been struggling for weeks, you’ll walk away with a clear plan you can start using the same day—and see results fast.


Join the group HERE— your puppy (and your floors!) will thank you. 🐾



The #1 Question to Ask Before Booking Any Trip (and Why It Can Save You Hundreds)

The #1 Question to Ask Before Booking Any Trip (and Why It Can Save You Hundreds)
Have you ever booked a trip, only to later find out you paid more than you needed to? I know I have — and it’s frustrating. You do the work of planning, you get excited about your destination, and then you see the exact same trip advertised for way less. Ouch.

That’s why I want to let you in on the one question I always ask before hitting that “Book Now” button:

👉 “Am I really getting the best value for my money?”
Notice I didn’t say the cheapest price. Those two things aren’t always the same.

Price vs. Value

Here’s the truth: you can find cheap travel everywhere — but cheap often comes with hidden costs. Maybe it’s inconvenient flight times, endless layovers, resort fees you didn’t see coming, or cancellation policies that lock you in with no flexibility. Suddenly, that “cheap” deal doesn’t feel so cheap.
Instead, I’ve learned to focus on value. Value means comparing what’s included and what’s guaranteed. It means asking:
  • Does this booking include perks like free breakfast, airport transfers, or resort credits?
  • Are taxes and fees included in the price? gratuity?
  • Am I protected if prices drop after I book?
  • Do I have flexible options if plans change?
When you start looking at travel this way, you’ll see how quickly the savings add up — not just in dollars, but in peace of mind.

A Personal Example

Last year, I priced out a hotel stay for my family. On a big-name site, it looked like the best deal — until I added up all the extras: parking fees, breakfast costs, and resort fees. When I compared it through my travel membership, not only was the base rate lower, but those extras were either included or heavily discounted. In the end, the savings were hundreds of dollars.
All because I asked the right question.

Your Turn

So before you book your next trip — whether it’s a quick weekend getaway or the bucket list adventure of a lifetime — pause for just a second and ask: Am I really getting the best value?

It’s a simple question, but it can save you stress, time, and yes — a whole lot of money.
Because the goal isn’t just to travel more. It’s to travel smarter. ✈️💡

If you want more ways to stretch your travel dollars and make every trip unforgettable, 
come join me inside my free Facebook group:
It’s where I share tips, tools, and real-life strategies to help families travel smarter, not harder.

And if you’re curious about the platform I use — the one that guarantees I never have to wonder if I’m getting the best deal (and even gives 150% back if you find it cheaper) — then you’ll love exploring the Travel Smarter Method with us. Because the truth is, it’s not about booking another trip. It’s about creating trips that matter. 🌍✈️💛



How to Tire Out a Puppy Without Going Outside: Easy Indoor Games That Work

How to Tire Out a Puppy Without Going Outside: Easy Indoor Games That Work
Got a puppy with too much energy and no way to run it off? This will help...

Rain, snow, or a busy schedule can make outdoor walks tricky — but that doesn’t mean your puppy has to bounce off the walls. The good news is you can provide just as much stimulation indoors. In fact, learning how to tire out a puppy without going outside is a lifesaver for new dog parents. With the right mix of mental games and quick activities, you’ll have a calm, content pup in no time.

🐾 Short Bursts of Training Games

Training isn’t just about obedience — it’s one of the easiest ways to use up puppy energy indoors.

  • Keep sessions short: just 1–3 minutes to match their attention span.
  • Focus on simple cues like sit, down, stay, come, or leave it
  • Reward instantly with tiny treats or kibble pieces.
    • As a puppy nutritionist and Waffles' mom, I recommend these.
These mini training games double as mental workouts, which can be more tiring than physical play. 
Do a few sessions throughout the day and you’ll notice your puppy’s energy levels drop.


🧩 Puzzle Feeders or Treat-Dispensing Toys

When you want to know how to tire out a puppy without going outside, puzzle toys are your best friend. Mental stimulation challenges your pup’s brain, leaving them satisfied and ready for a nap.

  • Try a stuffed Kong, snuffle mat, or rolling treat ball.
  • Rotate toys daily so your puppy stays interested.
  • Bonus: slows down fast eaters and helps prevent destructive chewing.
Think of puzzle feeders as brain exercise — a powerful way to calm an active pup indoors.


🎾 Tug-of-War & Hide-and-Seek

For a quick energy release, try play-based games.
  • Tug-of-war: Burn energy while building your bond. Use a rope toy and add a release cue like “drop it.” Remember to let them win often for confidence.
  • Hide-and-seek: Cue your puppy to stay while you hide, then call them to find you or a favorite toy.
Both games work on impulse control and provide fun exercise — no backyard required.

If you’re wondering how to tire out a puppy without going outside, remember it doesn’t take hours of exercise — just the right activities. Rotate short training games, puzzle feeders, and play sessions to create a routine that leaves your pup happy, calm, and ready to rest.

 Pro Tip: A tired puppy is a well-behaved puppy — and that’s a win for the whole family

✨ Want to make training easier (and more fun)?

Download my Puppy Training Cheat Sheets & Trackers — printable guides with step-by-step instructions for teaching the 5 basic commands and keeping your puppy on track.

👉 Grab your Cheat Sheets here and start seeing progress today!


Fireworks & Furry Friends: How to Keep Your Dog Calm and Safe on the Fourth of July

Fireworks & Furry Friends: How to Keep Your Dog Calm and Safe on the Fourth of July
The Fourth of July is full of fun for us—BBQs, parades, and dazzling fireworks—but for dogs, it can be a night of fear and anxiety. Loud booms, flashing lights, and unfamiliar smells can send even the calmest pups into a panic.

As a dog mom and Certified Canine Nutritionist, I’ve helped many families prepare for holidays like this. Here’s how you can protect your pup and enjoy a stress-free celebration with confidence.

🔥 Why Fireworks Are So Scary for Dogs

Dogs have incredibly sensitive hearing—up to four times more acute than humans. Combine that with the unpredictability of fireworks, and you’ve got a recipe for stress, fear, or even escape attempts.

Common signs your dog is anxious during fireworks:
  • Panting, drooling, pacing
  • Whining or barking
  • Hiding or trying to escape
  • Trembling or clingy behavior

✅ Fourth of July Dog Safety Checklist

Use this simple checklist to make the night safe and calm:

1. Secure Your Home and Yard

  • Double-check gates, doors, and windows.
  • Keep ID tags and microchip info up to date.
  • Avoid outdoor time after dusk—many dogs run away during fireworks.

2. Create a Safe Space

  • Use a crate, cozy room, or covered space your pup loves.
  • Play calming music or white noise. (HERE is an inexpensive portable one that is nice b/c you can set it near the dogs area or if you have it you can use an Alexa or google device)
  • Add favorite blankets or a worn shirt that smells like you.

3. Exercise Early

A long walk or play session during the day can help burn off extra energy and make it easier for your pup to rest later.

4. Feed a Comforting Meal

Some pups skip meals when stressed, so try offering dinner early. Include calming add-ins like:

  • Turkey (natural tryptophan)
  • Chamomile-infused treats (ask your vet first)
  • A frozen KONG with peanut butter or plain yogurt and mashed banana: KONG makes a variety of freezable dog toys in different colors—each designed for specific chewing strengths. I always go for the black ones because they’re the toughest and most durable, perfect for powerful chewers or nervous pups who need serious distraction during fireworks.
Bonus Tip: Add a few calming herbs to dinner (like parsley or ginger) to help digestion and ease nerves.

5. Try Natural Calming Aids

  • Calming chews (with ingredients like L-theanine or melatonin) such as THESE (be sire to pick a protein your pup can have)
  • CBD oil for dogs (always ask your vet, use vet-approved, pet-safe brands)

❌ What Not to Do on the 4th of July

  • Don’t bring your dog to the fireworks display.
  • Don’t leave your dog alone outside.
  • Don’t scold fearful behavior—comfort and support instead.

🐾 Bonus: Calming Treat Recipe

Try this easy Frozen Firework Treat to keep your dog cool and calm:
Ingredients:
  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • ½ banana, mashed
  • 1 tsp peanut butter (xylitol-free!)
  • Sprinkle of ground flaxseed
Mix and freeze in silicone molds or ice cube trays.

💬 Your dog doesn’t understand fireworks, but they do understand safety, routine, and you. With a little prep, your pup can feel secure even when the sky lights up.

Want more dog care tips like this? Explore my blog for natural calming options, nutrition hacks, and real-life tips for raising a happy, healthy pup.
And if you're new here—welcome! I help overwhelmed dog moms confidently nourish and care for their pups—one bowl and one bark at a time



 
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Meet Linda May Myers

 
Linda is a devoted dog enthusiast, Certified Canine Nutritionist, professional dog walker, proud dog mom to Waffles—her beloved golden rescue pup—and a passionate travel ambassador. As a LEO wife of over 22 years and a “retired homeschool mom” to two amazing young adults—one of whom is now a professional dog groomer—she finds deep joy in helping families welcome and raise puppies that truly become part of the family, while also inspiring others to explore the world and experience the beauty of God’s creation.

A follower of Jesus, Linda brings love, compassion, and purpose to everything she does. She believes dogs aren’t just pets—they’re furever family members. Her journey with dogs has taught her how much joy, comfort, and healing they bring into our lives. And just as she helps families build lasting bonds with their pups, she also encourages them to create lasting memories through meaningful travel and adventure.

Linda is passionate about helping pet parents make confident, informed decisions about what to feed their dogs—especially during the critical puppy years. She’s committed to breaking down the overwhelm around dog food labels, marketing myths, and special dietary needs so families can raise nourished, happy, and healthy pups from mealtime to lifetime.

A self-proclaimed N.E.R.D. (Never Ending Reading Diva), Linda is always learning and loves sharing what she discovers to empower others. She understands the challenges of busy households and offers practical, heart-centered support that makes puppy parenting feel doable—and joyful.
Her mission is simple: to help keep dogs in loving homes and out of shelters by supporting families in raising happy, healthy dogs—starting at mealtime and lasting a lifetime. Through this work, she’s also building a business that gives back—funding rescues, foster networks, and community programs so more dogs can find—and stay—in their furever families.

Because every dog deserves a full bowl, a full heart, and a life filled with adventure. 💛🌍







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