Mountainside Mutts

06/06/2026

Thinking about Muttessori? Start here.
One of the biggest misconceptions about social dogs is that they simply need more opportunities to play with other dogs.
In reality, many dogs benefit from learning how to be calm, focused, and responsive around other dogs first.
That’s why not every dog is immediately ready for Muttessori.
Muttessori Prep helps dogs build the skills that make group learning successful:
✔ Attention around distractions
✔ Calmness and settling
✔ Appropriate social skills
✔ Handler engagement
The goal isn’t a tired dog. It’s a dog who can think.
Wondering whether your dog is ready for Muttessori? Send us a message and we’ll help you find the right starting point.
❤️🌟🐾

06/05/2026

A great post! Take time to get to know your new buddy. Dogs are as individual as we are and don’t come “pre-programmed” as Lassie. Time and consistency…..

🐾 Bringing Home a Rescue Animal: What to Expect 🐾

Adopting a rescue pet is exciting—but adjustment takes time.

The 3-3-3 Rule is a helpful reminder that many rescue dogs and cats need time to decompress, learn their new routine, and build trust in their new home.

🐶🐱 First 3 Days: Overwhelmed and adjusting.
🐾 First 3 Weeks: Settling in and learning the routine.
🏡 First 3 Months: Building trust and feeling at home.

Every animal is different. Some adjust quickly, while others need more time—and that's okay.

The most important things you can provide are patience, consistency, structure, and compassion. The bond you're hoping for often takes time to grow, but it's worth it. ❤️🐾

05/23/2026

More adventures. Less stress. Better teamwork.

Our Spring 2026 newsletter is here with exciting new classes for summer, Reactive Rover walks, “Polite in Public,” and practical training support to help you enjoy life with your dog a little more. Read more here: 👇🏻 https://mailchi.mp/mountainsidemutts/mountainside-mutts-spring-news-10614542

05/17/2026

One of the biggest misconceptions about puppy socialization is that it’s mostly about meeting lots of dogs and people.

That can certainly be part of it, but good socialization is really about helping a puppy feel safe, confident, and comfortable in the world they’re going to share with you.

That might involve:
• exploring new places
• hearing unfamiliar sounds
• calmly observing people and dogs
• learning to settle
• and staying connected to their person even when life is happening around them.

For some puppies, too much too soon can feel overwhelming. The goal isn’t to flood them with experiences, it’s to help them build positive associations at a pace they can handle.

And yes, social skills matter too. But socialization isn’t only about chaotic puppy play or greeting every dog and person on the street.

Often, one of the most valuable skills is simply learning:
“I can notice the world and still feel okay.”

That balance is a huge part of what we focus on in Puppy Start Right. 🐾 ❤️🌟🐾

05/13/2026

There’s a misconception that humane dog training means permissive dog training.

It doesn’t.

I absolutely want dogs to learn manners, boundaries, and life skills. I just don’t believe fear, intimidation, or discomfort are necessary to get there.

What I love about modern training is watching dogs actively want to participate. They’re not shutting down. They’re thinking, trying, engaging, and learning.

For many dogs, training becomes one of the best parts of their day.

That doesn’t mean progress is instant. Real life with dogs can be messy, emotional, frustrating, and inconsistent at times. But building trust and communication creates something far more valuable than quick compliance.

My goal has never been robotic obedience.

It’s helping people live more peacefully and successfully with their dogs.

If you’re looking for support with a new puppy, adolescent chaos, real life manners, or behavior concerns, I currently have openings for private coaching and summer programs at Mountainside Mutts.
❤️🌟🐾 r