Visit us at shapedbydog.com

Why dogs "ignore" commands has less to do with defiance and more to do with education. When a dog doesn't respond, it's easy to label it as disobedience, but what that moment actually offers is feedback on what the dog has learned. In this episode, I'm breaking down the difference between commands and cues, how Antecedent, Behavior, and Consequence shape understanding, and why dogs respond to pictures rather than words alone. When cues are taught with intention, reliability grows naturally, and responses become confident, joyful, and consistent, wherever you are.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• The difference between giving a command and cueing a behavior.

• Why a dog not responding isn't disobedience, but feedback on their education.

• How Antecedent, Behavior, and Consequence work together in training.

• Why dogs think in pictures and not in words.

• What causes cues to fall apart in new situations.

• How food can unintentionally become the focus instead of the behavior.

• A real-world "sit" example with Kim's dog, Belief.

• Why reinforcement isn't about eliminating rewards, but about evolving what is reinforcing for the dog.

• What well-taught cues have in common under distraction and distance.

Resources:

1. Podcast Episode 245: Make Dog Training Easy! Quick Guide To Antecedent Arrangements - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/245/

2. Podcast Episode 177: Dog Training Outside The Box: Transfer Of Value Case Study - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/177/

3. Podcast Episode 135: Test Your Dog's Sit Stay Training - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/135/

4. Podcast Episode 205: The Hidden World Of Reinforcement For Dogs And Why You Need To Know - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/205/

5. Podcast Episode 144: Teach Your Dog To Listen No Matter What… Even If You Think They Are Stubborn - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/144/

6. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/uI5YtGIriRg

Visit us at shapedbydog.com

Loose leash walking starts without a leash. I would like you to think for a moment about what kind of an emotional experience it is to take your dog for a leashed walk. For some people there is lunging, jumping, spinning, barking, or zig-zagging. Different behaviors, same outcome. What is meant to be exercise, connection, and calm ends up feeling frustrating instead. In this episode, I'm sharing why leash walking fails so often and why it's not because you or your dog have done something wrong. Leash walking breaks down when expectations severely outpace education, and once you understand where that breakdown happens, you'll never approach walking your dog on a leash the same way again.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• What leash walking feels like for both ends of the leash. • The difference between what we expect from our dogs and what they've actually been taught. • Why leash walking is one of the most unnatural behaviors we ask dogs to perform. • How teaching leash walking in reverse sets dogs up to fail. • Why behavior does not grow in isolation. • The role the 5C Pyramid plays in building real-world understanding. • Why distraction is rarely the real issue on leash. • What changes when education catches up to expectations. • How seeing where leash walking breaks down changes everything.

Join J-Walking: Write to us at [email protected] with the subject line "Connected Walking" for a very special opportunity to join us in J-Walking.

Resources:

1. Podcast Episode 21: The 5C Pyramid - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/21/ 2. Podcast Episode 245: Make Dog Training Easy! Quick Guide To Antecedent Arrangements - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/245/ 3. Podcast Episode 144: Teach Your Dog To Listen No Matter What… Even If You Think They Are Stubborn - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/144 4. YouTube Video: Understanding Your Dog's Reinforcement Zone (RZ) with Susan Garrett - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OaUAScgaFAg&feature=youtu.be 5. Podcast Episode 74: Yes, Susan Garrett's Dogs Sniff On Walks - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/74 6. Podcast Episode 24: Distraction Intensity Index: Help For Dogs Who Chase Chipmunks, Bicycles, And Neighbor's Cats - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/24/ 7. YouTube Video: Susan Garrett's Perch Work Dog Tricks (Pivots and Spins) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=KvaVdO7pIZzFVCcc&v=O6sj6fTJnFc&feature=youtu.be 8. Fitness Planks from Galican - Coupon code SBD15 for 15% off - https://runitagilityequipment.ca/products/training-board 9. Podcast Episode 32: 20 Easy Ways to Exercise Your Dog at Home - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/32 10. Podcast Episode 317: 20 Exercises That Help Your Dog Live Longer: Start Today! - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/317 11. Podcast Episode 314: Dog Enrichment Secrets Part 1: Using Your Dog's Natural Instincts To Build Variety And Engagement - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/314 12. Podcast Episode 315: Dog Enrichment Secrets Part 2: 30 Day Enrichment Challenge + Free Planner PDF - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/315 13. Podcast Episode 176: Why Your Dog's Emotions Are A Critical Element Of Dog Training - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/176 14. YouTube Playlist: Loose Leash Walking with Susan Garrett - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy1mGMfdVKXq_hiJ27Ej1shW 15. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/sXjX6CkzEVI

Visit us at shapedbydog.com

When a new puppy arrives, the change in routine can create big feelings for an adult dog who has been part of every training session. Behaviors that look surprising are often signs of stress rather than spite or defiance. When we stay curious, it becomes easier to notice what our dogs may be trying to communicate. I'm sharing simple ways to support your adult dog so they can feel calm and confident while you focus on training your new puppy.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• Why dogs are not capable of spite the way we imagine.

• Two questions to ask ourselves that shift how we understand behavior.

• My student's story about an adult dog's unexpected behavior.

• The cognitive bias behind assuming dogs are 'spiteful.'

• Why curiosity strengthens connection and removes blame.

• How stress changes physiology, with 2 personal real life examples.

• The importance of ruling out medical conditions before assuming behavior issues.

• Other stressors that can affect behavior.

• How to support your adult dog during the puppy transition using the 3 E's (Exercise, Engagement, Enrichment).

• A step-by-step plan to create calm and confidence for your older dog while your puppy is being trained.

• How to use Hot Zones, Crate Games, and relaxation strategies to prevent stress in your adult dog.

• The power of choosing curiosity to understand what your dog is communicating.

Get Crate Games Online:

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

Resources:

1. Podcast Episode 189: All The Things That Influence Your Dog's Behavior And What Behavior Tells You - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/189/

2. Podcast Episode 154: Car Vacations With Dogs: Tips To Make Holiday Road Trips Safe And Fun For All - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/154/

3. Podcast Episode 128: Reduce Stress For Dogs During Holiday Celebrations - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/128/

4. Podcast Episode 72: Preventing Dog Aggression: Introducing Dogs or Puppies with Project Togetherness - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/72/

5. Podcast Episode 181: Training Multiple Dogs To Wait Turns And Relax - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/181/

6. Podcast Episode 266: Hot Zone And Stays – How One Dog Training Nuance Can Fix Anxiety And Duration - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/266/

7. Podcast Episode 191: Get Your Dog To Calm Down With This Common Sense Protocol For Relaxation - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/191/

8. Podcast Episode 314: Dog Enrichment Secrets Part 1: Using Your Dog's Natural Instincts To Build Variety And Engagement - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/314/

9. Podcast Episode 315: Dog Enrichment Secrets Part 2: 30 Day Enrichment Challenge + Free Planner PDF - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/315/

10. *West Paw Zogoflex Toppl Treat Dispensing Dog Toy Puzzle - https://geni.us/toppl

11. Podcast Episode 317: 20 Exercises That Help Your Dog Live Longer: Start Today! - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/317/

12. Podcast Episode 20: Bridging the Gap Between Blame and Kindness in Dog Training - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/20/

13. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/1mTcpGgSB4Y

*Amazon Links Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Susan only recommends products she uses herself, and all opinions expressed here are her own. The link above is an affiliate link that, at no additional cost to you, we may earn a small commission if you decide to buy from it. Thank you!

Visit us at shapedbydog.com

A lick mat can feel like magic when it brings instant peace to a whiny or restless puppy, but sometimes that calm comes after a buildup we don't even notice. I'm taking a closer look at what drives that rising anticipation and how small, thoughtful changes can shift the pattern toward calm, confidence, and comfort. With a bit of intention, lick mats can become tools that support your puppy's emotional well-being rather than fuel anxious routines or unwanted behaviors.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• Why puppies start whining, circling, pawing, bouncing, or barking before you deliver a lick mat.

• The "thing before the thing" and how anticipation becomes reinforcement.

• What to do first when your puppy is anxious, whiny, or restless.

• The different stages of using a lick mat to support wanted behavior.

• How to prepare lick mats without triggering excitement.

• How to create a new trigger so calm behavior predicts the lick mat.

• Ways to use lick mats for fear, visitors at the door, and environmental distractions.

• Why lick mats should not be a lifelong crutch and how to use them with intention.

Resources:

1. Podcast Episode 16: The Thing Before Your Dog's Thing - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/16/

2. Podcast Episode 314: Dog Enrichment Secrets Part 1: Using Your Dog's Natural Instincts To Build Variety And Engagement - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/314/

3. Podcast Episode 315: Dog Enrichment Secrets Part 2: 30 Day Enrichment Challenge + Free Planner PDF - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/315/

4. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/U5zFK_WkHpY

Visit us at shapedbydog.com

If you've ever had someone twist your training philosophy into something it's not, you've likely run into a Straw Man argument. In this episode, I'm breaking down ten of the most common ones aimed at positive reinforcement-based dog training, why they're not valid, and what you can do to create genuine conversations with people who hold a different view of dog training than you, all while staying centered and calm.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• What Straw Man arguments are and why they show up in dog training conversations.

• Why these arguments misrepresent decades of science and practical application.

• Ten common Straw Man claims made about positive reinforcement-based training and my response to each one

- Straw Man Argument #1 - "Reinforcement trainers are just cookie pushers"

- Straw Man Argument #2 - "Positive training won't work with high-drive dogs"

- Straw Man Argument #3 - "Reinforcement takes too long, punishment is faster"

- Straw Man Argument #4 - "Dogs need leaders, not more cookies"

- Straw Man Argument #5 - "Dogs need punishment to learn what's wrong"

- Straw Man Argument #6 - "Training only works if the dog can see the cookie"

- Straw Man Argument #7 - "Positive trainers care more about the dog's emotion than outcomes"

- Straw Man Argument #8 - "Your dog will never recall reliably without correction"

- Straw Man Argument #9 - "A head halter is just another punishment tool"

- Straw Man Argument #10 - "Positive trainers avoid punishment because they don't understand it"

• How to stay centered, respond constructively, and keep conversations productive.

Resources:

1. Podcast Episode 146: Balanced Dog Training: Does It Really Exist? - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/146/

2. YouTube Playlist: Reinforcement, Permissions and Transfer of Value - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy1IUj_4P54q2PIuLNtnXjFO

3. Podcast Episode 6: The Art of Manipulation - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/6/

4. Podcast Episode 245: Make Dog Training Easy! Quick Guide to Antecedent Arrangements - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/245/

5. Podcast Episode 182: The Game Within The Game: How To Multiply Your Dog's Reinforcements - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/182/

6. Podcast Episode 302: The Recall Myth: Why Your Off Leash Dog Isn't Coming When Called And How To Fix It - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/302/

7. Podcast Episode 40: Using A Head Halter On A Dog, Why My Approach Is So Different - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/40/

8. Podcast Episode 304: Let's Talk About E-Collars: Why Dog Trainers Are So Divided - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/304/

9. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/dvAyGtpv2Mw

Visit us at shapedbydog.com

Many dogs start spinning, barking, or rushing when the leash comes out or you head toward the door, but what if the hidden source of that on leash chaos actually begins earlier than you think? In this episode, I'm sharing how to uncover what is reinforcing your dog's unwanted behaviors and how to build calm, connected exits using simple conditioning strategies and games so every walk begins with confidence and connection rather than chaos and pulling.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• Why some dogs react long before the walk even starts. • What "follow the money" means and how it reveals the real reason your dog is getting overexcited. • A real-life example of reinforcement patterns we often miss. • How picking up the leash becomes a conditioned emotional trigger for many dogs. • Ways to create a positive C.E.R. around touching the leash. • Why the connected Collar Grab is valuable for creating calm focus. • How adding the cue "connect" helps dogs check-in reliably. • What connected exits look like at low distraction levels. • How toys, bowls, and movement create opportunities to strengthen connection. • Why creating small daily "moments of connection" builds great habits. • How a simple Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) can set every walk up for success.

Resources:

1. Podcast Episode 16: The Thing Before Your Dog's Thing - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/16/ 2. YouTube Playlist: Help For Dogs Jumping Up and Excited Greetings: Creating Calm with Susan Garrett - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy3KQXSC-3IzEdBgBetrl2YP&si=VfdPaAqO4mRgJs7i 3. Podcast Episode 18: 4 Puppy and Dog Training Games for Acquired Bite Inhibition - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/18/ 4. Podcast Episode 176: Why Your Dog's Emotions Are A Critical Element Of Dog Training - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/176/ 5. Podcast Episode 24: Distraction Intensity Index: Help For Dogs Who Chase Chipmunks, Bicycles, And Neighbor's Cats - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/24/ 6. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/GX7-sJna-Cc

Visit us at shapedbydog.com

Your dog's movement can reveal a lot about their long-term comfort and health. That's why I'm sharing more than 20 simple fitness exercises to help support your dog at every stage of their life, so they can move better, stay strong, and age with confidence. You'll discover the four key categories of canine fitness and how each one builds strength, balance, flexibility, and awareness in ways that support your dog's lifelong mobility.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• Why your dog's movement reveals so much about their long-term health. • The 20 simple exercises I use with all my dogs from puppyhood to senior years. • The prerequisites that make fitness exercises easier and safer (Nail Trims, ItsYerChoice, Crate Games). • The four key categories of canine fitness (Proprioception, Strength and Stability, Flexibility, and Conditioning) and why each one matters. • The importance of a vet check and establishing a baseline before starting any fitness plan. • A special opportunity to join Home School the Dog and Wag Nation for more step-by-step support.

Join Wag Nation + Home School the Dog: Write to us at [email protected] with the subject line "Home School and Wag Bundle Please" for a very special opportunity to join us in Wag Nation and Home School the Dog.

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

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

Resources:

1. Susan Garrett's Dog Training Blog: Cutting Your Dog's Nails: How Important Is It Really? - https://susangarrettdogagility.com/2013/08/cutting-your-dogs-nails-how-important-is-it-really/ 2. Podcast Episode 266: Hot Zone And Stays – How One Dog Training Nuance Can Fix Anxiety And Duration - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/266/ 3. YouTube Playlist: Target Training for Dogs with Susan Garrett - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy3ylCyQ2bJQSCwo_ERiVHj3&si=Pe6C9uZGvjlzoolB 4. YouTube Video: Susan Garrett's Perch Work Dog Tricks (Pivots and Spins) - https://youtu.be/O6sj6fTJnFc 5. Susan Garrett's Dog Training Blog: How to Train Your Dog to Stand on Cue - https://susangarrettdogagility.com/2020/10/train-your-dog-to-stand-on-cue/ 6. Dogs That YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@DogsThat 7. YouTube Playlist: Sit, Down, Stand, Stay! Dog Training Duration Behaviors with Susan Garrett - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy2cY7Fg3MLUaobkSdnVx0jt&si=b_kVPMzPxg5jffFX 8. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/vMkEJo5zfLM

Visit us at shapedbydog.com

Helping senior dogs live their best lives starts with simple, intentional choices that nurture their body, mind, and heart. In this episode, I'm sharing the four pillars that lead to longevity and how they can help your senior dog stay active, confident, and connected as the years go by. You'll discover how small daily habits can support lasting wellness and create a joyful, purpose-filled life for your dog, one where every stage of aging is celebrated and full of possibility.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• Why living with a senior dog is a privilege and how mindset shapes what's possible. • The truth about what defines a senior dog and why age is more than just a number. • How the four pillars (Physical Wellness, Nutrition, Emotional Connection and Joy, Cognitive Functioning) help senior dogs live longer, happier lives. • Why "motion is lotion" applies to senior dogs just as much as it does to us. • How maintaining a healthy weight can add years to your dog's life. • Simple ways to boost your senior dog's energy and cognition through nutrition. • How emotional connection and daily joy impact your dog's well-being. • The importance of consent and respecting your senior dog's deep rest. • Enrichment ideas to keep senior dogs mentally sharp and engaged. • An opportunity to join Home School The Dog & Wag Nation. • A special challenge to bring more purpose and fulfillment to your senior dog's life.

Join Wag Nation + Home School the Dog: Write to us at [email protected] with the subject line "Connecting with my senior" for a very special opportunity to join us in Wag Nation and Home School the Dog.

Resources:

1. Dogs That YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@DogsThat 2. YouTube Playlist: Feeding Dogs, Training Treats, Dog Food, Nutrition and Canine Behavior, Raw Diets with Susan Garrett - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy0ylVCv0BiSj27AeIdObb_q&si=QOwhqPDzbQs4ygUw 3. Podcast Episode 62: 12 Keys to Helping My Dogs Live a Long and Happy Life - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/62/ 4. Podcast Episode 106: Consent In Dog Training: The Misuse, Misunderstanding And Misapplication - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/106/ 5. Podcast Episode 314: Dog Enrichment Secrets Part 1: Using Your Dog's Natural Instincts To Build Variety And Engagement - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/314/ 6. Podcast Episode 315: Dog Enrichment Secrets Part 2: 30 Day Enrichment Challenge + Free Planner PDF Shaped by Dog Podcast - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/315/ 7. Shaped by Dog Podcast - https://dogsthat.com/podcasts/ 8. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/518D-BzMFaQ

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!

Why I Don't Use The Word "No" With My Dogs And What I Teach Instead

I'm sharing why I don't use the word "no" in dog training and what I teach instead to create understanding and connection. Through clear communication and thoughtful reinforcement, we can help our dogs feel confident and know exactly what we DO want.

Watch the full video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bj5AeXdO4-4

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!

Shaping Q&A: Non-Reward Markers, Reinforcement Strategies, And Making Training Work For Every Dog

In this mini Shaping Q&A, I'm diving into your top questions about non-reward markers, reinforcement strategies, how to make training work for every dog, and more! You'll discover how to set your sessions up for success, keep motivation high, and make shaping easier and more enjoyable for both you and your dog.

Watch the full video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XOT8z4B81eg