PupStartDr. Sarah Kim
Veterinary Behaviorist
DVM, DACVB, CPDT-KA
Dr. Sarah Kim is a board-certified veterinary behaviorist with over 12 years of experience in positive reinforcement training. She specializes in puppy development and behavior modification.
Specializations
Articles by Dr.
The Daily Training Habit System: How Busy Owners Build Lasting Results in 5 Minutes
Build a lasting dog training habit in just 5 minutes a day using habit stacking and micro-sessions. Data shows consistent owners see 41% better retention.
Dog Behavior Explained Scientifically: Understanding How Your Dog Learns
Understand operant conditioning, stress thresholds, and emotional states in dogs. Science-based guide debunking dominance theory and alpha dog myths.
Leash Training a Puppy: From First Walk to Loose Leash
Step-by-step guide to leash training your puppy using positive reinforcement. From harness introduction to enjoyable, pull-free walks.
Positive Reinforcement Training: The Science Behind It
Discover why positive reinforcement is the most effective and humane dog training method, backed by decades of behavioral science research.
How to Stop Puppy Biting: 7 Vet-Approved Methods
Puppy biting is normal but manageable. Learn 7 vet-approved techniques to teach bite inhibition and redirect mouthy behavior.
Why Dog Training Fails: 7 Science-Backed Reasons and How to Fix Them
Discover the 7 most common science-backed reasons dog training fails — from inconsistent timing to trigger stacking — and a 7-day reset plan to fix them.
Best Dog Breeds for First-Time Owners
Choosing your first dog? These 7 breeds are known for being trainable, adaptable, and perfect for new dog parents.
Golden Retriever Training Guide: Breed-Specific Tips for a Happy Golden
A breed-specific training guide for Golden Retrievers covering their unique temperament, mouthy tendencies, exercise needs, and socialization approach.
What to Feed Your Puppy: Complete Nutrition Guide by Age
A veterinary nutritionist's guide to puppy feeding from 8 weeks to adulthood. Covers food types, portions, schedules, and common mistakes.
Puppies and Children: Building a Safe, Loving Bond From Day One
How to build a safe bond between puppies and children with supervision rules, age-appropriate interactions, and body language education for kids.
The Complete Puppy Education Roadmap: A Science-Based Guide From 0 to 12 Months
A science-based puppy training roadmap covering every developmental phase from birth to 12 months, with brain development insights and daily micro-sessions.
The Complete Puppy Training Guide: Week-by-Week Plan
A structured week-by-week puppy training plan from 8 weeks to 6 months. Covers basic commands, socialization, and building a strong bond with your new pup.
Crate Training Your Puppy: The Gentle, No-Tears Guide
A step-by-step guide to crate training your puppy using positive reinforcement. Make the crate a safe haven, not a punishment.
Your Puppy's First Night Home: What to Expect and How to Help Them Settle
Prepare for your puppy's first night home with a step-by-step plan for crate setup, managing crying, nighttime potty breaks, and building security.
Puppy Potty Training Timeline: What to Expect by Age
A realistic potty training timeline from 8 weeks to 12 months. Know what to expect and when to celebrate — accidents and all.
Puppy Fear Periods: When Your Brave Puppy Suddenly Gets Scared
Understand puppy fear periods — what triggers them at 8-11 weeks and 6-14 months, how to respond correctly, and what mistakes to avoid during these phases.
Puppy Schedule by Age: Daily Routines from 8 Weeks to 1 Year
Sample daily schedules for puppies from 8 weeks to 1 year. Know how much sleep, exercise, training, and play your puppy needs at every stage.
Puppy Socialization 101: The Critical Window You Can't Miss
Learn why the 3-16 week socialization window is crucial for your puppy's development and how to safely expose them to the world.