Shaped by Dog with Susan Garrett

Do you think your dog only obeys for treats? Break that myth! Discover a five-step process that helps your furry friend learn anywhere with joy. Learn how to effectively use your relationship bank with your dog and transfer food value to toys and activities. Real-life examples, including training tips and surprise reinforcement strategies, showcase how to reshape behaviors. Plus, find out what to do when your pup becomes demanding. This is training evolution at its best!

Discover the fascinating 5P Test, a straightforward method to evaluate if your dog truly understands commands. It highlights the importance of consistency in training and how context affects your dog's responses. Find out how distractions can influence understanding and learn ways to improve command reliability in everyday situations. This practical approach ensures that your pup is not just hearing commands but effectively comprehending them, making training more effective and enjoyable!

Explore the debate over reinforcement-based training and its effectiveness against high prey drive behaviors. Learn about the Canine Predatory Motor Sequence and how it can transform dog communication. Discover why suppressing behaviors isn't true training, and uncover effective strategies like predatory redirection. Hear real-life success stories of dogs overcoming distractions and chasing instincts through relationship-building games. Plus, get insights on utilizing tools like head halters for better focus during walks!

Explore the surprising power of language in dog training! Learn how the words you use can strengthen the bond with your furry friend. Discover the emotional energy behind your language, and how positive phrasing can transform your interactions. This discussion underscores the importance of trust and joy in training, reminding us that communication goes beyond commands. Tune in for actionable tips that can enhance both everyday life and dog sports!

Learn how to manage your dog's frantic behaviors with effective stimulus control techniques. Discover the importance of patience and consistency in training, allowing your dog to focus and learn at their own pace. By establishing calmness, you can set a strong foundation for teaching new tricks or commands. These actionable tips will help enhance your daily interactions with your dog, making training sessions more enjoyable and productive.

Dive into the heated debate over electric collars in dog training. Discover the shocking range of practices from effective conditioning to alarming misuse. Learn about the booming e-collar market in North America and the implications of banning such tools. Hear insights on the importance of solid training foundations for all dogs. Explore the concept of dopamine and its role in reinforcement for trainers. This discussion encourages collaboration and understanding among dog trainers to bridge the divide in training philosophies.

Discover the nuances of dog training timelines and the significance of setting realistic expectations. Learn why dogs are lifelong learners and how their stages of development significantly impact training success. Explore the challenges of the 'honeymoon period' and coping strategies when distractions arise. Delve into the critical training phase during the first eight months of a puppy's life, and understand the importance of ongoing education to ensure lasting behavior success for your furry friend.

Discover why your dog might not be coming when called and learn to fix it! The discussion delves into the common mistakes owners make and how to avoid them. Techniques for building a reliable recall using fun, motivating strategies are explored. You'll hear about easy games that boost your dog's confidence while mastering the recall. The podcast covers choosing the right cue and emphasizes building joy and speed in your dog’s response. A special opportunity to join a training program for advanced recall skills is also highlighted!

Ever felt stuck in dog training? Discover how to troubleshoot and turn challenges into successes. Explore essential strategies like the Relationship, Recall, Retrieve, and Reinforcement Zone. Learn fun training games such as ItsYerChoice and Tug Games that boost confidence. Find out why clarity is key in communication with your pup. Plus, uncover the magic of taking a pause to make impactful adjustments when things go awry. Embrace the journey of nurturing a strong bond with your furry friend!

A compelling discussion unfolds around the journey of transitioning from balanced training to positive reinforcement. Insights are shared about pivotal moments, including the influence of a terrier puppy and a transformative book. The challenges and resistance faced by trainers are explored, along with the profound impact of autonomy in dog training. Listeners also discover the importance of judgment in holding trainers back and the exciting possibility for change. Plus, there's a special offer for those interested in coaching!