Shaped by Dog with Susan Garrett

Visit us at shapedbydog.com

"Just stop watching!" coming from Susan Garrett might surprise you, but I've got tips for mastering active learning when viewing dog training videos! Turn any training video into a powerful tool for success and discover how to get more out of dog training online with effective strategies to accelerate success for both you and your dog.

In this episode you’ll hear:

• How to watch dog training videos with a clear purpose to boost your success. • The difference between recognition and recalling information, and why it matters for dog training. • Tips for breaking down training videos into actionable steps. • 3 steps I use for intentional learning. • Why focusing on one skill at a time can make a huge difference in your dog's progress. • What to watch for to make your training sessions more effective.

Resources:

1. DogsThat YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@DogsThat 2. Podcast Episode 197: Outsmarting Distractions: How To Use Environmental Reinforcement in Dog Training - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/197/ 3. Podcast Episode 167: Reduce Your Dog’s Stress And Anxiety In Training - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/167/ 4. Podcast Episode 245: Make Dog Training Easy! Quick Guide To Antecedent Arrangements - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/245/ 5. Podcast Episode 266: Hot Zone And Stays – How One Dog Training Nuance Can Fix Anxiety And Duration - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/266/ 6. Podcast Episode 89: Why Dogs Should Not Tug: The Truth Revealed - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/89/ 7. Podcast Episode 125: Why Isn’t My Dog Learning What I’m Training? - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/125/ 8. Podcast Episode 131: How Would Susan Garrett Plan Your Dog Training Sessions? - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/131/ 9. Podcast Episode 119: The Rhythm Of Dog Training And How To End A Session - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/119/ 10. Podcast Episode 100: Dog Training: The Most Important Lesson I Can Share - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/100/ 11. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/SuwvDCye1LI

Visit us at shapedbydog.com 

The science of Matching Law is vital for everyone with a dog to understand for dog training and daily life so you can get consistent behavior without needing to use punishment. It’s something we can all use to our advantage as positive reinforcement based trainers! Knowing about Matching Law and its relationship to reinforcement value and your dog’s natural drives will help you get great behaviors and give you a strategy to turn not-so-great behavior around. 

In this episode you’ll hear:

• What Matching Law is and how it impacts your dog’s behavior. • About reinforcement value and recency. • How different parts of the predatory cycle influence a dog’s behavior. • Real-world examples of how reinforcement works. • Insights into training protection dogs and for bitey sports without punishment (training the out - with reference to my friend Matt Folsom of Modern Malinois). • The importance of understanding your dog’s natural drives. • Practical tips to use Matching Law to your advantage. • About Matching Law in day to day life and dog behavior. • How to use your dog's favorite reinforcements to your advantage.

Resources:

1. Podcast Episode 144: Teach Your Dog To Listen No Matter What… Even If You Think They Are Stubborn - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/144/  2. Podcast Episode 196: Why Mastering Reinforcement Is The Linchpin To Reinforcement Based Dog Training - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/196/ 3. Podcast Episode 24: Distraction Intensity Index: Help For Dogs Who Chase Chipmunks, Bicycles, And Neighbor’s Cats - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/24/ 4. Podcast Episode 232: Canine Predatory Motor Sequence: Understand Your Dog’s Prey Drive To Enrich Your Life Together - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/232/ 5. YouTube Video: DIY Puppy Bombs: Easy & Affordable Enrichment Toy for Puppies - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UBveJe2C2dA 6. Podcast Episode 265: Dog Training Community And Controversy: Can We Draw From Our Positive Reinforcement Values? - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/265/ 7. Podcast Episode 102: Transitioning Your Dog Training: From All That Is Wrong To That Which Is Right - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/102/ 8. The Modern Malinois YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@modernmalinois 9. Podcast Episode 6: The Art of Manipulation - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/6/ 10. Podcast Episode 205: The Hidden World Of Reinforcement For Dogs And Why You Need To Know - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/205/ 11. Podcast Episode 59: Why Your Treats Aren’t Working for Your Dog - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/59/ 12. Podcast Episode 11: The Power of Permission in Dog Training - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/11/ 13. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/qZSCQFapIww

Visit us at shapedbydog.com 

If you’ve ever had a setback in dog training, you are not alone! Setbacks can lead to frustration, but there’s a step-by-step process that harnesses the power of perception to reframe, reclaim, and revitalize our responses. I want to help you turn any setback you may have into an instant success for both you and your dog. When we are in control of our responses, it makes dog training so much easier and a far more positive experience for us, our dogs, and the people around us, even when things go wrong.

In this episode you’ll hear:

• About perceptions and how to recognize and reframe frustration as an opportunity for growth in dog training. • Insights from Tony Robbins on reframing experiences. • The significance of establishing realistic expectations for your dog's learning and progress. • The impact of negative thinking on your training progress. • The difference between universal truths vs. personal perceptions in training. • How to focus on Action > Outcome > Response when you reframe your training. • Tips for determining what aspects of training are within your control. • How asking yourself better questions will lead you to an empowered outcome. • The value of seeking support from trainers and communities you align with. • Tips for evaluating your training sessions to identify areas for improvement and adjust your approach. • Why you need to start your training journey with self-compassion and understanding.

Resources:

1. Podcast Episode 250: Expectations Vs Reality: Navigating The Path To Dog Training Success - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/250/ 2. Shaped by Dog Podcast - https://dogsthat.com/podcasts/ 3. DogsThat YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/dogsthat 4. DogsThat Careers: Join Our Team - https://dogsthat.com/careers/ 5. Podcast Episode 133: Become Your Own Dog Training Coach With This Video Strategy - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/133/ 6. Podcast Episode 71: Pro Dog Trainer’s Secret to Help Your Naughty Dog - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/71/ 7. Podcast Episode 227: My Foolproof Strategy To Overcoming Dog Training Challenges - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/227/ 8. Podcast Episode 248: Milestones That Transform Your Dog’s Life! Goals To Achieve Dog Training Success - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/248/ 9. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/ha2hXKZDuA4

Visit us at shapedbydog.com 

Puppy frustrations! Everyone will be frustrated with a pup occasionally, but it doesn’t need to be a way of life. Here’s the good news. You can turn the anarchy of puppy problems around to create calm, cooperation and confidence with simple solutions for success with easy wins. Get my top tips to end the chaos and say goodbye to puppy keep-away, running off, picking up stuff on walks, and behavior challenges that can be overwhelming.

In this episode you’ll hear:

• Simple solutions to tackle common puppy frustrations. • Insights from my deep dive into what puppy ownership truly entails. • How to prioritize your actions:  If you’re frustrated, your puppy could be frustrated too. • The importance of the Training Den. • Why rehearsals of success matter and how they reinforce good behavior. • Tips on setting realistic expectations for a puppy's development. • The value of establishing a routine to engage your puppy’s brain. • Strategic games I use to set my puppy up for easy wins. • What to do instead of using long lines in distracting environments. • The "Bring Me!" game to say goodbye to puppy keepaway. • About your newly revised IYC Summit with foundational training games for everyday life.

Newly Revised ItsYerChoice Summit: Jump in now for free and play games of choice: ItsYerChoice Summit - https://recallers.com/iycsummit-join/

Get Crate Games Online: Crate Games Online - https://get.crategames.com/

Resources:

1. Podcast Episode 246: Susan Garrett’s Puppy Socialization Strategies For Raising Confident, Happy Dogs - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/246/ 2. YouTube Playlist: Puppy Essentials with Susan Garrett - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy2hywpv3Md3HbWWPPbVF8W5 3. Podcast Episode 120: The Rhythm Of Life With Puppies And Dogs - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/120/ 4. Podcast Episode 267: How To Use A Training Den To Fast Track Your Dog’s Success: No Space? No Problem! - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/267/ 5. Podcast Episode 278: Food Puzzles: Key Mistakes To Avoid And Strategies To Help Your Dog Best Deal With Frustration - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/278/ 6. Podcast Episode 218: Puppy Development Stages And Your Dog’s Behavior - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/218/ 7. Podcast Episode 164: The Danger Of Car Travel For Dogs: Evaluating Your Risk - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/164/ 8. YouTube Video: Understanding Your Dog's Reinforcement Zone (RZ) with Susan Garrett - https://youtu.be/OaUAScgaFAg 9. Podcast Episode 82: Resource Guarding in Puppies: When Your Puppy Biting Seems Aggressive - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/82/ 10. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/ZzU8YWBVDek

Visit us at shapedbydog.com

Is your puppy or dog stopping on walks? You're not alone! I’m sharing how to keep them moving with confidence and how to turn those hesitant moments into fun, forward motion. I’ve got practical solutions that will help you understand why your puppy or dog refuses to move on walks and what to do next. With easy-to-follow games and tips, you’ll not only keep your pup happily walking but also strengthen your relationship along the way!

In this episode you’ll hear:

• My top tips for keeping your puppy moving confidently during walks. • How to overcome puppy plunking during walks. • Common reasons why dogs hesitate and stop on walks. • Tips for building value by your side. • Games to encourage your dog to move with you. • Strategies for approaching triggers that cause plunking. • How to gradually increase walk lengths after playing interactive games at home. • How to use positive reinforcement to encourage forward motion. • Strategies for building value for walking in a way that your puppy loves! • How Tater-Salad used to plunk himself down and refuse to move when he first came to live with us.

Resources:

1. YouTube Playlist: Loose Leash Walking with Susan Garrett - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy1mGMfdVKXq_hiJ27Ej1shW 2. YouTube Playlist: Fearful Dogs Help with Susan Garrett - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy0KAsqgnkMWv0v-5JGjNQG_&si=YDCmLdJ-TnmOiK45 3. YouTube Playlist: Target Training for Dogs with Susan Garrett - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy3ylCyQ2bJQSCwo_ERiVHj3&si=jFejxDe3f8ovJMLz 4. Podcast Episode 16: The Thing Before Your Dog’s Thing - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/16/ 5. Podcast Episode 53: Stop Your Dog Pulling on Leash and Start Walking Together - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/53/ 6. YouTube Video: Understanding Your Dog's Reinforcement Zone (RZ) with Susan Garrett - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OaUAScgaFAg 7. Podcast Episode 76: Leash Walking: Distracted, or Reactive Dog? These Games Will Help! - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/76/ 8. YouTube Playlist: Dog Training Games with Susan Garrett - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy2TzttCtZVFwzwMGayAsaYe&si=ZcVYK_vaNaJea13Y 9. Podcast Episode 218: Puppy Development Stages And Your Dog’s Behavior - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/218/ 10. YouTube Video: Susan Garrett’s Perch Work Dog Tricks (Pivots and Spins) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O6sj6fTJnFc 11. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/YPV8ODXipkI

Visit us at shapedbydog.com 

Harnessing excitement in dog training and understanding arousal lets you create better focus from your dog! Whether your dog gets over the top or seems super laid back, knowing their emotional pathway and what you can do to help them get in the optimal zone will make a world of difference to your training and life with your dog.

In this episode you’ll hear:

• How understanding arousal levels can improve your dog’s performance in training. • The impact of the Yerkes-Dodson Law on dog behavior and anxiety. • Practical strategies to harness and manage excitement during training sessions. • Insights into recognizing different emotional states in dogs. • Techniques to help calm an over-aroused dog during training. • The importance of building a strong relationship with your dog for effective training. • How to create a balanced training environment for your dog • Tips for identifying the signs of an overly excited dog and how to bring them back to a calm state.

Recallers Opportunity: Write to us at [email protected] with the subject line Pathways

Resources:

1. Podcast Episode 86: How to Train Unmotivated or Overexcited Dogs - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/86/ 2. Podcast Episode 88: Barrier Frustration: Help for Fence Fighting, Leash, Reactivity and Window Guarding - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/88/ 3. Podcast Episode 109: Project Calm Dog: Prevent Over Enthusiastic Greetings - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/109/ 4. Podcast Episode 219: Self- Regulation Helping Shy, Hyper, Anxious Or Fearful Dogs To A Better Life - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/219/ 5. Podcast Episode 191: Get Your Dog To Calm Down With This Common Sense Protocol For Relaxation - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/191/ 6. YouTube Playlist: Target Training for Dogs with Susan Garrett - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy3ylCyQ2bJQSCwo_ERiVHj3&si=k36JyMfxaVRmNo8T 7. YouTube Video: Understanding Your Dog’s Reinforcement Zone (RZ) with Susan Garrett - https://youtu.be/OaUAScgaFAg 8. ItsYerChoice Summit - https://recallers.com/iycsummit-join/ 9. Crate Games Online - https://get.crategames.com/ 10. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/J6UhcWPl7CM

Visit us at shapedbydog.com 

Answering your top questions on reactivity, dog behavior, agility, frustration, sports dogs, neutering and more! You'll hear tips on training multiple dogs, strategies for improving focus, impulse control, and drive, and how to handle things like lunging, growling, nipping and jumping up. If you have any other questions I didn’t cover, jump over to YouTube and let me know in the comments. Your questions are always so insightful!

In this episode, I’m answering your great questions:

• Do dogs benefit from being in a multi-dog household or are they happy with human company? • I'm struggling with drive to show my dog that agility is fun. • I suspect my dog is having early takeoff at agility. Can I still do the sport? Is it selfish to want to continue? • Over arousal in the agility ring. • How often a sport dog should see specialists and which ones? • Neutering. When or when do I not neuter? Also, how to handle high sexual arousal for intact dogs.  • I feel like crap when I lose my patience. • How do I train more than one dog at a time? • Reactivity, reactive dogs. Reactivity, if you don't have the ability to keep a dog away from all the triggers. • I need help practicing greeting people on leash when my dog shows leash reactivity, lunging, growling, jumping.  • How do I set my dog up for even more success if he gets easily frustrated? • How do I use play to reinforce a cue? Can play replace food as a reinforcer? • Herding, nipping when overexcited and herding breeds.

Resources:

1. DogsThat YouTube Channel Playlists - https://www.youtube.com/c/DogsThat/playlists 2. Podcast Episode 282: How To Walk Multiple Dogs: Step-by-Step Guide To Stress-Free Walks - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/282/ 3. YouTube Livestream: Dog Agility: Create FUN & SUCCESS with These FOUR Focuses - https://www.youtube.com/live/uv3dxW-7ZHU 4. YouTube Video: Transforming Dog Behavior - The Story Of This! So Far: Dog Training, Agility, Nutrition And Beyond - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1UlHPe2R3uE 5. Dr. Laurie Coger Healthy Dog Workshop - https://healthydogworkshop.com/about/ 6. Healthy Dog Expo - https://www.healthydogexpo.com/ 7. Kim Collins: Pawsitive Steps Canine Sports Centre - https://www.pawsitivesteps.ca/instructors.html 8. 2024 APDT Annual Conference - https://www.apdtconference.com/ 9. Podcast Episode 262: Shaping Tips For High Drive, Frantic, Hyper Dogs To Stop Dog Training Frustration - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/262/ 10. Canapp Sports Medicine - https://www.canappsportsmed.com/ 11. Podcast Episode 230: Finding Joy Amidst Frustration And Shame In Dog Training – DeCaff’s Story Part 2 - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/230/ 12. Podcast Episode 181: Training Multiple Dogs To Wait Turns And Relax - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/181/ 13. YouTube Playlist: Reactive or Aggressive Dogs: Key Insights with Susan Garrett - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy0Tbd6ZybIXgJk3mtpBLLk7&si=_-WvD5zovQjWtecA 14. YouTube Playlist: Target Training for Dogs with Susan Garrett - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy3ylCyQ2bJQSCwo_ERiVHj3&si=ptH9TKBCjz6x4MqW 15. YouTube Playlist: Dog Training Games with Susan Garrett - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy2TzttCtZVFwzwMGayAsaYe&si=97o0_XtEK0wBXcXb 16. YouTube Playlist: Help for Over-Aroused, Over Excited, Hyper, Frantic, High Drive or Out of Control Dogs with Susan Garrett - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy3tN5Z336OeZkYoF2dJ7gNY&si=nyxLfoYNt90QkcLx 17. Book: Frustration Theory- An Analysis of Dispositional Learning and Memory - https://www.amazon.com/Frustration-Theory-Analysis-Dispositional-Behavioural/dp/0521247845 18. Podcast Episode 281: How Vito’s Thinking Games Will Transform Your Dog Training - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/281/ 19. Podcast Episode 215: What Your Destructive, Lunging, Nipping Or Hyper Dog Or Puppy Is Trying To Teach You - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/215/ 20. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/sWuYFA32IkM

Visit us at shapedbydog.com 

"How do I walk multiple dogs?' is a popular question. I'm sharing my tips and step-by-step guide to walking more than one dog at once so walks are stress-free and enjoyable for everyone. The process I've got for you is how I teach my dogs to walk together calmly and happily, no matter what distraction is nearby.

In this episode you’ll hear:

• The most important skill before walking multiple dogs. • All about the cues I use, such as “with me,” “side,” and “close”,when walking dogs  • Why to use "pee mail" and “sniff” to make walks enjoyable for both you and your dog • How to build value for a Reinforcement Zone by your side. • How to use paw targets for great dog walking foundations..  • How to test your dog’s understanding of the reinforcement zone. • How to use multiple targets to grow your dog’s understanding. • How to start moving targets, adding turns, and off-leash training. • How to introduce a garbage can prop and teach your dogs inside and outside turns. • Keep your dog's focus on walks by teaching a smooth left-to-right transition. • Tips for managing distractions and giving dogs sniff breaks. • Why and how to use each dog's name when you are walking.

Resources:

1. YouTube Video: Understanding Your Dog’s Reinforcement Zone (RZ) with Susan Garrett - https://youtu.be/OaUAScgaFAg 2. YouTube Video: Susan Garrett’s Target Stick Training for Dogs Part One – All About Targeting - https://youtu.be/MzePo7RSQu4  3. YouTube Video: Susan Garrett’s Target Stick Training Part Two - Step by Step Plan - https://youtu.be/TqsEEWCXze0 4. YouTube Video: Susan Garrett’s Perch Work Dog Tricks (Pivots and Spins) - https://youtu.be/O6sj6fTJnFc 5. Podcast Episode 32: 20 Easy Ways to Exercise Your Dog at Home - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/32/ 6. YouTube Playlist: Loose Leash Walking with Susan Garrett - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy1mGMfdVKXq_hiJ27Ej1shW 7. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/rkP1AiRdWpY

Visit us at shapedbydog.com 

Want an easy, fun way to boost your dog's skills, strengthen your bond, and lay the foundation for advanced training while having fun? Look no further than Vito's Thinking Game! I'm sharing how to play and why it has so much power. Whether you're a seasoned dog trainer or a first-time puppy or rescue dog owner, this game is perfect for dogs of all ages and skill levels. 

In this episode you’ll hear:

• How Vito’s Game builds your dog’s focus and confidence. • A step-by-step guide to playing Vito’s Game with your dog. • The benefits of letting your dog make training decisions. • Tips to adapt Vito’s Game to any dog’s personality. • How Vito’s Game reduces the need for your constant intervention. • Why Vito’s Game is perfect for every dog and trainer. • How one easy game gives your dog multiple skills.

Resources:

1. Podcast Episode 151: How Location Specific Reinforcement Markers Will Improve Your Dog Training! - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/151/ 2. Podcast Episode 174: Dopamine In Dog Training: Anticipation, Rewards, And The Transfer Of Value - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/174/ 3. YouTube Playlist: Dog Training Games with Susan Garrett - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy2TzttCtZVFwzwMGayAsaYe 4. Podcast Episode 276: What No One Tells You About The Best Place To Train Your Puppy Or Rescue Dog - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/276/ 5. Podcast Episode 191: Get Your Dog To Calm Down With This Common Sense Protocol For Relaxation - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/191/ 6. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/tIEhIhQOWyI

Visit us at shapedbydog.com 

Imagine there's a secret booster button we could press, and our dog would suddenly turn into a superhero, and we'd have dog training superpowers. Guess what? I've got that booster button for you, and am sharing how to activate it. It all starts with being present to our presence, hacking for our self talk, and knowing a simple exercise to instantly shift our emotional state. Each of us has a mind capable of brilliance! And with a few little tweaks, we can all unleash that mindset power to make dog training better.

In this episode you’ll hear:

• How to activate your inner booster button. • What my friend, Simon Bowen means by “Being present to your presence.”  • The importance of understanding belief loops. • An easy exercise for mindset shifts leading to better results. • How Self Talk and Pup Talk influence your dog training. • Why words elevate your training sessions and strengthen your bond with your dog. • The connection between emotional regulation and successful training. • How following mentors and role models can grow your skills. • Techniques to overcome self-doubt and maintain confidence in your training. • The three biggest gifts you can give your dog. • Steps to take action to get what you want with your dog. • “Do the Thing” with inspiration from a poem.

Resources:

1. The Wisdom of… Show with Simon Bowen - https://thesimonbowen.com/show/ 2. Podcast Episode 8: Get Your Dog in the Belief Loop of Awesome - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/8/ 3. Poem at Strangest Loop: “Things That Aren't Doing the Thing” - https://strangestloop.io/essays/things-that-arent-doing-the-thing 4. YouTube Playlist: The Heart / Mind Connection Side of Dog Training with Susan Garrett - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy1ruLW0CujlHgzCiTLK2Rfh 5. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/QiTAa1WkQ6w