

Shaped by Dog with Susan Garrett
Susan Garrett
Susan Garrett, world-renowned dog trainer, multi-time champion of dog agility, and leading educator on all things canine shares everything related to dogs! Susan understands dog behaviour and wants you and your dog to have the best life together possible.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 11, 2025 • 6min
Training Tips From Susan: Training Challenges Are Feedback: What to Do When Things Don't Go To Plan
Transforming challenges into opportunities is key in dog training. Techniques to reframe your approach can improve the bond between you and your furry friend. Discover how to turn discouragement into empowerment, ensuring motivation stays high on your training journey. Embrace the feedback that comes when things go awry, and learn actionable strategies to overcome obstacles together.

4 snips
Jul 9, 2025 • 7min
Training Tips From Susan: Matching Law In Dog Training: Why Your Dog Chooses One Behavior Over Another
Discover the fascinating concept of Matching Law in dog training. Learn how a dog's past experiences influence their behavior choices and decision-making. Understand the importance of reinforcement values and how they can shape desired behaviors. Explore effective training strategies that focus on your dog's natural drives while steering clear of punishment. This insight can revolutionize the way you train and connect with your furry friend!

Jul 4, 2025 • 4min
Training Tips From Susan: How To Tell If A Dog Trainer Is The Right Fit For You And Your Dog
Discover essential tips for choosing the right dog trainer! Learn about key factors like trainer passion and alignment with your training goals. The importance of trainers fostering independent problem-solving in dogs is highlighted. Engaging trainers who celebrate successful outcomes can make a huge difference. Equip yourself with knowledge to help your furry friend thrive!

Jul 2, 2025 • 10min
Training Tips From Susan: Why Your Dog Might Be Barking Excessively And What You Can Do To Help
Discover why your dog might be barking excessively. Dive into the emotional and breed-related triggers behind constant vocalizations. Learn practical strategies to promote calmness using positive reinforcement. You'll find tips for helping your furry friend feel more relaxed and content while recognizing the importance of self-entertainment. Transform your dog's barking from a source of stress into a path toward emotional well-being!

Jun 27, 2025 • 4min
Training Tips From Susan: The Hope Method Of Dog Training: What Your Dog Is Really Learning When You're Not Teaching
Discover the intriguing 'Hope Method' of dog training, where dogs absorb lessons from their surroundings even when we're not teaching! Learn how dogs pick up on patterns and why environment plays a crucial role in their education. Gain insights into common misconceptions about dog training, emphasizing the necessity of structured learning. With actionable strategies, you'll be equipped to enhance your training approach and foster a better relationship with your furry friend.

Jun 26, 2025 • 9min
Training Tips From Susan: The Truth About Over Aroused Dogs And What Shapes Their Emotional Responses
Explore the fascinating world of over-aroused dogs and how their emotions can eclipse everything around them. Uncover the challenge of training high-energy breeds, particularly in competitive settings. Discover how understanding genetic predispositions and 'The Frustration Theory' can reshape your approach to training. Dive into how diet, early socialization, and tailored training techniques play a vital role in managing hyperactivity. With actionable insights, you can better support your furry friends and enhance your bond!

8 snips
Jun 20, 2025 • 9min
Training Tips From Susan: Want Your Dog To Listen From Far Away? Here's Where That Training Really Begins
Unlock the secrets to getting your dog to listen from afar! Dive into essential training techniques that emphasize the importance of mastering close-up commands first. Discover actionable tips that help build your dog's clarity and confidence, ensuring they respond reliably whether you're nearby or at a distance. Learn how precise cues and solid trainer mechanics can create a stronger connection with your furry friend.

Jun 18, 2025 • 4min
Training Tips From Susan: Why Recalls Fail And The Common Mistakes That Get In The Way Of A Reliable Response
Discover the top reasons why dog recalls often fail. Explore the common mistakes that hinder a reliable response and learn how undesirable behaviors can be reinforced. The importance of environmental management is emphasized, along with a critical view of reliance on training tools. This insightful discussion aims to help you develop a dependable recall that truly works when it matters most!

Jun 13, 2025 • 18min
Not Seeing Results In Dog Training? Why Layers Of Learning Lead To Real World Success #307
Struggling with dog training results? Discover why training success often vanishes in real-world scenarios. Learn how layering your dog’s learning through the 5 Cs—Connection, Clarity, Confidence, Challenge, and Complexity—can create lasting results. Unearth the difference between a connected and detached dog, and how these dynamics affect training. Hear a personal story of triumph that illustrates how intentional layers transformed the journey all the way to the world championships.

4 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 5min
Training Tips From Susan: The Best Way To Talk To Your Dog Trainer When Things Aren't Working
Discover effective communication strategies to enhance your dog training experience. Learn how to talk to your trainer when things aren't going as planned, fostering a supportive atmosphere for problem-solving. This insightful discussion emphasizes collaboration and clarity, helping you and your coach work together towards your dog’s success. Tune in for actionable tips that can make a real difference in your training journey!


