Message From Susan

Hey everyone, it’s Susan, and you’re about to hear one of my training tips and tidbits. These are quick, actionable strategies to help you and your dog in everyday life or for dog sport. Often our short videos with tips are created from your most popular segments of podcast episodes. So, let’s dive in!

Training Tips from Susan: Reactive Dog Training: Help Dogs Move from Dysregulation to Self-Regulation Case Study

If you are training a reactive dog, there’s so much you can do to help them move from dysregulation in the face of triggers to self-regulation. I’ve got a case study of my previously reactive, dysregulated dog This!, covering the steps I took and how strategic co-regulation grew her confidence. Drawing from a game I created for my dog Buzz in the 1990s, a big help to This! was to have her look at what could trigger her and then for her to look back to me. The game is in my book, Shaping Success. For This!, I used a chin target so she was not taken by surprise. There’s more in the video!

Message From Susan

Hey everyone, it’s Susan, and you’re about to hear one of my training tips and tidbits. These are quick, actionable strategies to help you and your dog in everyday life or for dog sport. Often our short videos with tips are created from your most popular segments of podcast episodes. So, let’s dive in!

Training Tips from Susan: Catch Your Runaway Dog! Stop Chasing And Do This In An Emergency

If your dog slips their collar or gets away from you, use this tip to get your dog back! 

Stop chasing. Pop off a whistle or noise to get your dog's attention. Roll in the other direction keeping an eye on your dog. Repeat. When you and your dog meet, take their collar.

If you want your dog to come when called every time, check out our Recallers program - https://recallers.com/ 

For more on the roll of body pressure, check out our podcast video "The Invisible Bubble of Pressure and Your Dog" -  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E8nSFiqTalM&t=0s 

Message From Susan

Hey everyone, it’s Susan, and you’re about to hear one of my training tips and tidbits. These are quick, actionable strategies to help you and your dog in everyday life or for dog sport. Often our short videos with tips are created from your most popular segments of podcast episodes. So, let’s dive in!

Training Tips from Susan: How to Train Your Dog to Leave It with No Command: Susan Garrett's ItsYerChoice

There are many reasons to train your dog to “leave it” on command. Your puppy or dog might be grabbing scraps off the ground when you are out walking, raiding the garbage, stealing food off the table or counter. It’s not safe for your dog, and it is frustrating for you.

The downside of training “leave it” on command is that you’ll have to be there to say it to your dog for life. And perhaps one day your dog is off the lead, away from you, can’t hear your “leave it” and grabs something that is life-threatening. What I like to do is teach my dogs to leave things alone by making it their choice. It all starts with a game I call ItsYerChoice because it teaches dogs to make the choices we want them to make. It removes the need for us to always be micromanaging what our dogs are doing.

The ItsYerChoice game will even help your dog make great choices in the face of big distractions. You’ll be able to get your dog’s attention just by saying your dog’s name, or any word you want to use. I’ve got a demonstration of how it looks in the foundation stages here in this video with my dog Momentum.

ItsYerChoice has not only worked for me; it’s worked for tens of thousands of my students and their dogs of all ages, breeds, shapes and sizes and backgrounds. You can join us to learn one simple dog training game that will change your dog’s approach to distractions and release you from needing to say “leave it” and nagging your dog many times a day: https://recallers.com/iycsummit-join

When you join in, you and your puppy or dog will receive a free 20 minute training video and a step by step Play Book to help your dog get control over distractions. My foundation game teaches dogs HOW to make great choices to ‘leave’ food / toys / distractions. This is DIFFERENT! And because it’s a game, it’s fun, and we all learn best when we are having fun.

Looking forward to coaching you on how to get your dog to leave it because that is what your dog chooses to do. Join me to learn how IYC can change your life with your dog:

See you soon! 

https://recallers.com/y/iyc 

Visit us at shapedbydog.com 

Socially sensitive dogs can react to other dogs in many ways. Some shrink away, others get invigorated and overexcited, and some dogs are proactively reactive. When you know if your dog is in the green, yellow or red zone and the three phases to action, you can build their resilience and set them up for success so they can thrive in any environment. Understanding a dog’s response to other dogs and having a Code Yellow Protocol is key to helping them feel safe and confident.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• Why some dogs are socially sensitive and what that looks like. • The three phases to help your dog gain confidence. • How to grow confidence passively and actively. • Fun games to help your dog grow confidence in a safe way. • About the importance of the Relaxation Protocol. • The importance of a "Home Zone" for socially sensitive dogs. • Why dogs in a highly aroused state can’t learn. • About a dog’s Green, Yellow and Red Zones • How to use the Code Yellow Protocol to help your dog. • The role of reflection and recharging in your dog’s progress. • How to recognize when your dog is ready for the next step. • About turning everyday moments into confidence-building opportunities. • How Home School the Dog can give you the tools to support your dog’s progress.

Home School the Dog: Write to us at [email protected] with the subject line “Socially Sensitive” for a very special opportunity to join us in Home School The Dog.

Learn How To Play ItsYerChoice: ItsYerChoice Summit - https://recallers.com/iycsummit-join/

Resources:

1. Podcast Episode 236: Understanding Dog Fear (Part 1): Genetics, Trauma, And Your Dog’s Well-being - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/236/ 2. Shaped by Dog Podcast - http://shapedbydog.com/ 3. Podcast Episode Search for ‘Reactivity’ - https://dogsthat.com/?s=reactivity 4. YouTube Playlist: Reactive or Aggressive Dogs: Key Insights with Susan Garrett - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy0Tbd6ZybIXgJk3mtpBLLk7&si=l3sqeZ-ZdglQrbzf 5. Podcast Episode 81: Sudden Aggression and Your Dog’s Thyroid - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/81/ 6. Podcast Episode 204: Dog Behavior And Diet: Recovery For This! Beyond Dog Training Part 2 - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/204/ 7. Podcast Episode 191: Get Your Dog To Calm Down With This Common Sense Protocol For Relaxation - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/191/ 8. YouTube Video: Susan Garrett’s Hand Target: Dog Training Games Within Games - https://youtu.be/_WH3nm9FR4A?si=1W4dY-qutc1KhoOx 9. Podcast Episode 18: 4 Puppy and Dog Training Games for Acquired Bite Inhibition - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/18/ 10. YouTube Video: Susan Garrett’s Perch Work Dog Tricks (Pivots and Spins) - https://youtu.be/O6sj6fTJnFc?si=XqtLyRfoHpEBzF18 11. YouTube Video: Understanding You Dog’s Reinforcement Zone (RZ) with Susan Garrett - https://youtu.be/OaUAScgaFAg 12. YouTube Playlist: Target Training for Dogs with Susan Garrett - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy3ylCyQ2bJQSCwo_ERiVHj3&si=mHzTcBxTZ0AqY-gA 13. Podcast Episode 278: Food Puzzles: Key Mistakes To Avoid And Strategies To Help Your Dog Best Deal With Frustration - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/278/ 14. Podcast Episode 227: My Foolproof Strategy To Overcoming Dog Training Challenges - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/227/ 15. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/DgMZRuNm_q8

Visit us at shapedbydog.com

Together, we’re overcoming emotional barriers so you can stop letting self-doubt and fear of criticism hold you back from becoming a better dog trainer. One of the most powerful tools I recommend for dog training is videoing your sessions, but it’s a big block for many people. I’m sharing tips on overcoming negative emotions, getting unstuck, and how to watch your video while silencing your inner critic. It’s time to give yourself grace and stop letting fear get in the way so you and your dog can start growing together!

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• What everyone needs to know about helping their dog grow. • How emotional barriers like perfectionism and self-criticism hold us back. • Ways to reframe negative emotions to embrace vulnerability and progress. • Why videoing your dog training is a game-changer for growth. • How negative thoughts keep us stuck and what to do to break free. • The importance of intentional training for building your dog’s drive and focus. • How I still find room to improve after nearly 40 years of dog training. • Tips for focusing on the positives in your videos to enhance your mechanics. • Why videoing reflects your dog’s experience with you and helps you grow together. • Opportunity to join Home School The Dog at 83% off. • How giving yourself grace can strengthen your connection with your dog.

Special Chance to Join Home School The Dog at 83% Off Write to us at [email protected] with the subject line “Self-Love” for a special opportunity to join Home School the Dog.

Resources:

1. Podcast Episode 294: Survey Shows 63% Of Dog Owners Currently Don’t Use This Essential Dog Training Tool - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/294/ 2. DogsThat YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/dogsthat 3. Podcast Episode 133: Become Your Own Dog Training Coach With This Video Strategy - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/133/ 4. Podcast Episode 247: Redefining Expertise In Dog Training And What Counts More Than Years Of Experience - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/247/ 5. Podcast Episode 28: Why It Hurts Me When I Say “Dog Training” - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/28/ 6. Podcast Episode 157: Dog Body Language: Understanding Canine Communication Signals And Emotions - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/157/ 7. Podcast Episode 287: The Power Of Perception: Reframing Dog Training Setbacks Into Successes - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/287/ 8. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/bKvRI8XDSWU

Visit us at shapedbydog.com 

We recently did a poll on social media channels, and I was taken aback when the survey showed that 63% of dog owners currently don't use a dog training tool that I consider essential! Not only will this tool help prevent dog training mistakes, it will help you get results faster and save you time. It's videoing your training sessions, and I'm here to help you get started with tips and real examples so you can embrace video as the most essential tool for training your dog.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• About the one thing that would exponentially improve every single person's dog training. • Why videoing your dog training is a game-changing tool for improvement. • Surprising survey results revealing that 63% of trainers don’t regularly video their sessions. • Insights from Dr. Bob Bailey on how video transformed animal training. • Reasons why people might not be videoing their training and my goal for 2025! • Common barriers to videoing your training and how to overcome them. • Real-life examples of how video can dramatically speed up your dog’s learning. • Practical tips for setting up and reviewing your training videos with ease.

Resources:

1. Podcast Episode 133: Become Your Own Dog Training Coach With This Video Strategy - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/133/ 2. Podcast Episode 131: How Would Susan Garrett Plan Your Dog Training Sessions? - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/131/ 3. Podcast Episode 125: Why Isn’t My Dog Learning What I’m Training? - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/125/ 4. Recallers - https://recallers.com/ 5. Handling360 - https://connect.handling360.com/ 6. Home School The Dog - https://homeschoolthedog.com/ 7. Podcast Episode 210: Tips On Finding Time To Dog Train When Life Is Busy: Chat With Natalia Nizker - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/210/ 8. Podcast Episode 190: Using Daily Quickies To Fast Track Your Dog Training And Grow Your Dog’s Skills - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/190/ 9. DogsThat YouTube Channel Playlists - https://www.youtube.com/@DogsThat/playlists 10. DogsThat YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/DogsThat/ 11. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/Bq5fF89IJo4

Visit us at shapedbydog.com 

Counter Surfing and other naughty dog behavior problems can feel unsolvable, but they don't have to be! I'm sharing an easy 3-step formula every dog owner needs to know for what to do. The challenges any one of us could have with our dogs will vary with our dog's age and experiences. But no matter if we have a puppy, rescue dog, or a dog who has been in our family for years, the MRI approach can be applied to any problem that needs to be solved. And don't worry, I'm not really suggesting an MRI, but it's a handy and memorable acronym to put into action, and it's all in this episode for you.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• How to apply the 3-step formula to solve any naughty dog behavior or challenge. • The ABC’s (Antecedent, Behavior, Consequence) of dog behavior and training. • A real-life example of using MRI to stop counter surfing with puppy Waffles. • Everything you need to know to Manage, Redirect, Intensify (MRI) • The importance of redirecting your dog’s attention onto more appropriate behaviors. • How to ‘Manage The Don’t, Intensify The Do’ in your training for better long-term results. • My approach to turn common dog behavior challenges into training opportunities. • How to use games like ItsYerChoice, Hot Zone, Reinforcement Zone. • How to be intentional about using all the things that are really reinforcing to your dog when your focus is on intensifying the ‘do.’

Learn How To Play ItsYerChoice: ItsYerChoice Summit - https://recallers.com/iycsummit-join/

Resources:

1. DogsThat YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@DogsThat 2. Podcast Episode 202: Getting A Happy Well Behaved Dog With The ABCs Of Training - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/202/ 3. Podcast Episode 245: Make Dog Training Easy! Quick Guide To Antecedent Arrangements - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/245/ 4. Podcast Episode 33: How Do I Stop My Dog Counter Surfing?! - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/33/ 5. YouTube Video: Understanding Your Dog's Reinforcement Zone (RZ) with Susan Garrett - https://youtu.be/OaUAScgaFAg 6. Podcast Episode 176: Why Your Dog’s Emotions Are A Critical Element Of Dog Training - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/176/ 7. Podcast Episode 197: Outsmarting Distractions: How To Use Environmental Reinforcement in Dog Training - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/197/ 8. Podcast Episode 158: Stop Your Dog’s Unwanted Behaviors With This Positive Interrupter - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/158/ 9. Podcast Episode 71: Pro Dog Trainer’s Secret to Help Your Naughty Dog - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/71/ 10. Recallers - https://recallers.com/ 11. Home School the Dog - https://dogsthat.com/home-school 12. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/MZsEnFSh7mY

Visit us at shapedbydog.com 

Do over 99% of dogs really have behavior problems? For claims like this we should be unpacking the truth and looking behind the headlines! We all want our dogs to reach their full potential, so I’m doing a deep dive into the study that sparked the “99%” headline and exploring the dog behavior problems cited like aggression, separation anxiety, and fear. When we understand our dog’s behavior we can help them live their best life and shine.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• About the claim that over 99% of dogs have moderate to severe behavior issues. • 3 key reasons a dog might be off kilter and the role of nutrition, pain, and illness. • That there are no naturally good dogs. • Why we need to embrace curiosity and seek solutions when facing behavior struggles. • My personal experiences with behavior challenges in my dog, This! • What’s behind the “99%” headline. • Why it’s important to dig deeper into your dog’s challenges to help them.

Resources:

1. Article: The prevalence of behavior problems in dogs in the United States - https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S155878782400090X?fbclid=IwY2xjawHOHCRleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHe1mnO4PVLgeHhe-Xc-EVNJnxy7WjARLZvcr3tvAAGfixgm6vGTxE2JAAw_aem_1LfznvF2oUDuVG3_bnAr_A 2. YouTube Playlist: Helping Your Rescue Dog After Adoption: Success Strategies for Rehomed Dogs - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy1uFZJTuWdJCjQYmjjOguax 3. Podcast Episode 250: Expectations Vs Reality: Navigating The Path To Dog Training Success - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/250/ 4. YouTube Playlist: Puppy Biting Help with Susan Garrett - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy03hWZgAQfG1t5Q6YzGPi7z 5. YouTube Video: WHY Do Puppies Bite? - https://youtu.be/cMXTH8RvfaA 6. Podcast Episode 203: Reactive, Unmotivated and Fearful: Finding Resiliency For This! Beyond Dog Training Part 1 - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/203/ 7. Podcast Episode 204: Dog Behavior And Diet: Recovery For This! Beyond Dog Training Part 2 - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/204/ 8. Podcast Episode 200: Solve Your Dog’s Separation Anxiety With FRIDA: Expanding Calm With Functional Relaxation - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/200/ 9. YouTube Playlist: Fearful Dogs Help with Susan Garrett - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy0KAsqgnkMWv0v-5JGjNQG_ 10. YouTube Playlist: Reactive or Aggressive Dogs: Key Insights with Susan Garrett - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy0Tbd6ZybIXgJk3mtpBLLk7 11. Podcast Episode 189: All The Things That Influence Your Dog’s Behavior And What Behavior Tells You - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/189/ 12. YouTube Playlist: Resource Guarding In Dogs and Puppies - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy1JqsmK9_tnBuTQpBXFfYXi&si=qfmOgzSLIIal2j49 13. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/HpVAhfE0ud8

Visit us at shapedbydog.com 

Do dogs really test us? It can sure seem that way when a dog's behavior is not what we expect and they show inconsistency and fluctuations in what they do. My stance on this topic has changed over the years, and I’m sharing why, along with perspectives on why dogs might seem to be testing us, and the first thing I usually do if my dog surprises me with an unexpected response.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• My answer to the question: “Do our dogs test us?”  • About my journey in dog training, including my experiences with different breeds and dog sports. • Why I believe dogs are not intentionally testing us, but rather responding to incomplete education or changing environments. • The importance of understanding the ABCs of dog training - antecedents, behavior, consequences - and how they influence dog behavior. • How to approach behavior when it's in flux vs. when it's fluent. • The role of curiosity in dog training and why I always strive to be a lifelong learner. • What I do when a trained behavior surprises me and goes back into flux. • Why reacting with correction may not be the fastest solution. • How adopting a mindset of compassion and curiosity can transform your relationship with your dog.

Resources:

1. Podcast Episode 290: The Red Flag Of Dominance Based Training: Why It’s Hurting Your Dog And What To Do Instead - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/290/ 2. Podcast Episode 46: Is Your Dog Trying to Dominate You and What You Can Do About It - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/46/ 3. DogsThat YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/dogsthat 4. Podcast Episode 247: Redefining Expertise In Dog Training And What Counts More Than Years Of Experience - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/247/ 5. Book: Shaping Success By Susan Garrett - https://dogsthat.com/product/shaping-success-2/ 6. YouTube Short: Do Dogs Test Owners Or Are Owners Tested By Their Lack Of Understanding Of The Science Of Learning? - https://www.youtube.com/shorts/PObEop2LdPk 7. Podcast Episode 202: Getting A Happy Well Behaved Dog With The ABCs Of Training - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/202/ 8. Podcast Episode 245: Make Dog Training Easy! Quick Guide To Antecedent Arrangements - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/245/ 9. YouTube Video: Dogs See In Pictures: Understanding Their View For Training Success - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ePkaYKt_8qs 10. Podcast Episode 118: Same Home Different Rules: Will Reinforcement Based Dog Training Work? - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/118/ 11. Podcast Episode 164: The Danger Of Car Travel For Dogs: Evaluating Your Risk - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/164/ 12. Podcast Episode 150: Adding Mindset To Your Dog Training Tools: Who Do You Become? - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/150/ 13. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/MqePQug7d0g

Visit us at shapedbydog.com 

If you hear dog training advice based on the Dominance Theory, it’s time to rethink that approach. I’m diving deep into what you need to know about dog trainer red flags and choosing a method to prevent harmful mistakes that lead to lasting success for you and your dog. I’m sharing why these outdated, force-based beliefs can damage your relationship with your dog. Plus, what everyone needs to know to choose dog training built on trust, empathy, and kindness, which creates a deep, lasting bond with dogs and effective training results. 

In this episode you’ll hear:

• Why dominance theory is outdated and harmful to dogs. • How belief systems create confirmation bias in dog training. • The Fight, Flight, Freeze, Please responses in dogs facing conflict. • Whether problem behaviors are solved or just masked in training. • How to recognize red flags when choosing a dog trainer. • Steps to recognize and address emotional issues in dogs before beginning training. • Strategies for teaching incompatible behaviors to overcome challenges like jumping or chasing. • The importance of understanding your dog’s body language for better communication. • How to create a kinder, more compassionate bond with your dog. • More about what kind of relationship you want with your dog. • Why dogs learn to live by your rules, even if it is unfair. • Why dogs don’t understand “stop” and what to do instead. • Steps to create value for the behaviors you want. • Why dog training is a conversation between two friends. • About my special opportunity to join Home School the Dog.

Home School the Dog Opportunity: Write to us at [email protected] with the subject line “New Outcome”

Resources:

1. DogsThat YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@DogsThat 2. Podcast Episode 46: Is Your Dog Trying to Dominate You and What You Can Do About It - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/46/ 3. Podcast Episode 280: The Boost Button For Dog Training Happiness: Activate Your Mind’s Superpowers - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/280/ 4. Podcast Episode 224: Unleashing Fluency In Dog Training: Cracking The Canine Communication Code - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/224/ 5. Podcast Episode 163: Unsolicited Dog Training Advice: How To Protect Your Confidence And Your Dog - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/163/ 6. Podcast Episode 176: Why Your Dog’s Emotions Are A Critical Element Of Dog Training - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/176/ 7. YouTube Playlist: Dog Body Language, Communication Signals, and How to Read Dogs with Susan Garrett - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy2IwzRwAWcG0yK8oez1nPU0 8. Podcast Episode 112: Stressed Dog? How Trigger Stacking Might Be Putting Your Dog Over Threshold - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/112/ 9. Podcast Episode 184: Proofing Vs Generalizing In Dog Training To Grow Skills And Confidence - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/184/ 10. Podcast Episode 219: Self-Regulation Helping Shy, Hyper, Anxious Or Fearful Dogs To A Better Life - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/219/ 11. Podcast Episode 121: How To Stop Dogs Jumping Up On People - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/121/ 12. Podcast Episode 16: The Thing Before Your Dog’s Thing - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/16/ 13. Podcast Episode 109: Project Calm Dog: Prevent Over Enthusiastic Greetings - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/109/ 14. YouTube Playlist: Planning Your Dog Training with Susan Garrett -  https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy3bIhKLPQApN0x_2PjNJgkG 15. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/3UBygK6xeFk