Shaped by Dog with Susan Garrett

Visit us at shapedbydog.com   Ever wonder how world champion agility dogs are made? I’m sharing how to build dog agility foundations and train skills right in your living room! From simple daily games to fun exercises, discover the secrets that helped all 11 of my dogs reach the top, while creating a confident and focused dog that makes brilliant choices. Whether you’re new to agility or already competing, you’ll discover practical ways to bring out the best in your dog while having fun together.   In this episode, you’ll hear:   • How all 11 of my dogs achieved top-level success in agility. • My early beginnings in the sport and my experiences. • Why so-called “naughty” dogs can shine in agility. • The common myths about what makes a good agility dog. • How to build value for multiple reinforcers: food, toys, and most importantly, YOU. • Why “learning how to learn” is an important skill for dogs. • About the role of recall and Reinforcement Zone in developing focus. • How to build attention even in distracting environments. • Why “Spotlights” (location-specific reinforcement markers) create clarity and confidence. • How simple choice games like “This or That” accelerate learning. Free ItsYerChoice Summit Learn How to Play ItsYerChoice - https://recallers.com/iycsummit-join/   Resources:   1. Podcast Episode 177: Dog Training Outside The Box: Transfer Of Value Case Study - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/177/ 2. Nina Ottosson’s Puzzle Toys - https://www.nina-ottosson.com/products/all-products/ 3. 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/   4. Podcast Episode 242: Help! Why Won’t My Dog Pay Attention? (Secrets Of Focus) - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/242/ 5. YouTube Video: Understanding Your Dog’s Reinforcement Zone (RZ) with Susan Garrett - https://youtu.be/OaUAScgaFAg 6. Blog Post: How to Use the Distraction Intensity Index to Help Your Dog - https://susangarrettdogagility.com/2020/09/distraction-intensity-index/ 7. Podcast Episode 6: The Art of Manipulation - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/6/ 8. Podcast Episode 151: How Location Specific Reinforcement Markers Will Improve Your Dog Training! - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/151/ 9. Podcast Episode 32: 20 Easy Ways to Exercise Your Dog at Home - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/32/ 10. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/gLiRTY9iNrc

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!   The Kind Of Relationship That Leads To Real Connection With Your Dog I’m sharing how to build the kind of relationship that creates real connection with your dog, bringing out the best in both of you. This grows into a bond that strengthens over time, adding joy and clarity to everything you do together. Watch the full video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SdCQuzXcm2M

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!   Inadvertent Time Outs In Dog Training: What They Are, Why They Matter, And How To Avoid Them In dog training, inadvertent time outs happen more often than many realize, so I’m sharing what they are, why they matter, and how to avoid them. Being aware of these moments can help you stay present with your dog and keep training and everyday time together more connected and engaging. Watch the full video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5TIcuLA_Z4U

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!   Feeling Unmotivated? How To Regain Your Training Drive And Help Your Dog Thrive Feeling unmotivated? We’ve all been there! I’m sharing how to regain your training drive and help your dog thrive with quick reset strategies to turn low-energy days into productive, purposeful sessions that leave you feeling focused and ready to train again. Watch the full video at  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h6X6wzQyngk

Discover how ranking different rewards transforms dog training sessions. Learn why your dog's motivation is like currency and how to use it effectively. Explore the impact of desensitization to common rewards and why varied motivators can boost engagement. This quick guide offers actionable strategies to make your training more focused and successful!

Discover the vital role of 'rehearsals of success' in shaping your puppy’s future behavior. Learn why every interaction counts, even outside formal training sessions. Hear practical tips on managing excitement during training and setting realistic expectations. This engaging discussion emphasizes how structured activities can foster positive behaviors, making your training efforts a pathway to long-lasting success.

Discover how to transform your relationship with your dog using strategic reinforcement techniques. The discussion emphasizes turning feelings of overwhelm into confidence for both new and experienced dog owners. Learn about effective training methods that foster desirable behaviors through environment management and interactive bonding. Small adjustments in training can lead to significant improvements in behavior and connection, helping you create the dog of your dreams!

Visit us at shapedbydog.com    Hot Take: You don’t need to say “stay” in dog training! I’m sharing how clear release cues give dogs greater clarity and confidence. I’ll take you through how I introduce this concept early with my puppies, how Crate Games helps build a strong foundation, and what it all looks like in everyday training, including when working with more than one dog. When our dogs truly understand what’s expected, they gain confidence and confident dogs make brilliant choices.   In this episode, you’ll hear:   • Why I don’t use the word “stay” and what inspired this episode. • How cues get eroded over time. • What “controlled behaviors” mean for dogs. • How I introduce the release word to my puppy. • What my dogs’ cues are for leaving position (and why they don’t need “stay”). • Why I never use “sit” to stop my dogs at the door. • Why I teach “go chill” separately from control positions. • Step-by-step training for clarity when working with two dogs. • The difference between outdated “stay” training and modern-day release cues. • Why Crate Games builds impulse control and clarity from the start. • How release cues help build reliability and understanding. Crate Games Get Crate Games Online - https://get.crategames.com/ Resources:   1. Podcast Episode 52: The Five Most Common Words in Dog Training and Which Ones I Never Use - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/52/ 2. Podcast Episode 155: 10 Ways To Teach A Sit WITHOUT A Food Lure! Unreal Results For Puppies And Dogs Of All Ages - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/155/ 3. Podcast Episode 151: How Location Specific Reinforcement Markers Will Improve Your Dog Training! - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/151/ 4. Podcast Episode 266: Hot Zone And Stays – How One Dog Training Nuance Can Fix Anxiety And Duration - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/266/ 5. YouTube Video: Target Training for Dogs with Susan Garrett - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy3ylCyQ2bJQSCwo_ERiVHj3 6. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/C8BaOL7LB4Q

Discover the key developmental stages of your dog’s life and how they impact training. Learn about essential behaviors at each phase, especially during the energetic adolescent period. Find out how aligning training with your dog’s growth fosters clarity, builds confidence, and strengthens your bond. These actionable insights can transform your relationship with your furry friend into one that lasts a lifetime.

Discover how your dog's behavior reveals their unmet needs. The discussion dives into five core areas: emotional, physical, social, mental, and daily thrive. Misbehavior could be a cry for help! Learn about common struggles dog owners face and how they relate to these needs. Explore the significance of psychological safety alongside physical well-being. Nutrition, sleep, and exercise also play key roles in your dog's happiness. Shift from frustration to understanding and create a deeper bond for a well-behaved dog.