Barks, Boundaries, and the Protective Instinct

Sarah Hodgson explores what barking and guarding behaviors are really about—from post-trauma triggers to resource guarding and mealtime meltdowns. Through listener questions and real-life stories, she reframes barking not as defiance, but as a dog’s attempt to feel safe and understood.Sarah dives into the difference between behavior and belief, unpacking why our dogs may act out when they feel overwhelmed or overly responsible. With practical advice and thoughtful reflection, this episode will help you respond with empathy, not just correction—and turn chaos into connection. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com

Sarah Hodgson unpacks one of the most misunderstood parts of dog parenting: housebreaking. Sharing a story about a dog who refused to pee on walks (and the frantic client who spent three hours waiting), Sarah highlights why housebreaking isn’t just about stopping accidents, it’s about teaching clear, consistent habits.From understanding your dog’s natural rhythms to defining safe spaces and managing anxiety when you’re away, Sarah offers practical steps to transform potty struggles into a smooth, stress-free routine. You’ll also hear why dogs (and even people!) don’t just “know better” without guidance. As well as how your leadership can set everyone up for success.Whether you’re raising a new puppy or working with a rescue, this episode will help you rethink what it really means to be housebroken—and how to get there with patience and clarity. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com

Sarah Hodgson reveals the unexpected secret to raising a confident, well-adjusted puppy: sleep. Drawing from her years of imprinting young pups in her own home, she explains why a solid sleep schedule is the foundation for calmness, confidence, and easier training.Sarah also answers your top questions about setting up your home, introducing puppies to kids, preventing separation anxiety, and more. Whether you’re preparing for a new puppy or looking to build a smoother routine, this episode will help you start strong and stay balanced.Learn More and Book a Session Here: https://www.sarahhodgson.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahsayspets/reels/?hl=enOrder my Leashes: https://sarahsaysstore.com/Buy the E-Books I Mention in this Podcast Here: https://sarahsaysstore.com/collections/ebooks This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com

Sarah Hodgson shares a story we can all relate to, a well-meaning dog parent struggling with nonstop whining and a pup that “just doesn’t get it.” But it’s not that the dog didn’t understand it’s that the human wasn’t listening in the right way.From the overlooked moments of quiet communication to the Five Key Talking Points of every dog. Sarah unpacks how dogs use posture, stillness, and subtle cues far more than sound to express their needs. You'll learn how to tune in, respond without reinforcing unwanted behavior, and communicate in a way your dog truly understands.If you’ve ever felt confused or frustrated by your dog’s whining, this episode will help you shift your perspective and your connection, for good.Book Time, Join a Class, and Learn More About Sarah Here: https://www.sarahhodgson.com/Follow on Instagram to stay up to date: https://www.instagram.com/sarahsayspets/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com

Sarah Hodgson sits down with Laurie Hood, founder of Alaqua Animal Refuge, to talk about the power of compassion and the urgent need for change in animal welfare. Laurie shares her journey from animal lover to legislative advocate, the challenges of rescuing at scale, and why empathy is key to lasting reform. From puppy mills to policy-making, you'll learn how real progress starts with education, community, and a willingness to speak up. If you’ve ever wondered how to help, this episode will leave you feeling informed, inspired, and ready to act.Donate to Alaqua Animal Refuge: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/sfcpsj/Learn More: https://alaqua.org/Follow Laurie: https://www.instagram.com/lauriehhood/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com

Sarah Hodgson breaks down the pros and cons of today’s most popular dog training options, from private sessions to group classes to board-and-train programs. Whether you’re looking for personalized support, opportunities to socialize your pup, or a structured head start on routine-building, you’ll get clarity on what makes the most sense for you and your dog. Sarah also answers a listener question about helping dogs transition from rural life to city streets—so don’t miss this packed, practical episode to help guide your training journey! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com

Sarah Hodgson tackles your most relatable dog training questions—from puppies who pee with excitement to dogs who bark at the TV (or rollerbladers!). Whether you're dealing with leash pulling, introductions, or sudden nighttime growling, Sarah offers compassionate, practical solutions to everyday behavior struggles. If you’ve ever wondered “Is it just my dog?”—this episode will reassure and empower you with the tools to raise a happier, more balanced pup. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com

Sarah Hodgson sits down with holistic veterinarian Dr. Jeff Feinman, founder of Holistic Actions. Together, they explore how true healing begins with energy, balance, and love. Dr. Jeff shares his personal health journey that led him to challenge conventional medicine and embrace a holistic approach—one that prioritizes behavior, energy, appetite, and mood (BEAM). From practical tools to deeper insights on how stress, environment, and nutrition affect well-being, this episode offers an eye-opening perspective on supporting your pet’s health naturally and compassionately.Find Jeff Here:https://www.holisticactions.com/https://www.instagram.com/holisticactions/https://www.facebook.com/holisticactions/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com

In this episode of Raising Happy Dogs, Sarah Hodgson explores the emotional and practical journey of bringing a new dog into your life with her client Sara K. She walks you through the highs and hesitations of wanting a dog, how to evaluate online rescue profiles, and why having a trusted sounding board is key to making the right decision. From out-of-state adoptions and transport tips to the first days at home, Sarah shares how to match the right dog to your lifestyle—not just your heart. If you're thinking about adopting, this episode will help you prepare with clarity, compassion, and confidence. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com

Sarah Hodgson answers your most pressing puppy questions—from barking and bolting to crate woes and cat-chasing chaos. Whether you're dealing with a dog who wants to greet every pup on the street or a one-year-old who still snacks on poop, Sarah shares practical, kind, and effective training tips to bring more peace to your pup’s routine. If you're a first-time dog owner or just trying to curb some crazy behaviors, this Q&A episode is packed with the advice you’ve been waiting for! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit raisinghappydogs.substack.com