Shaped by Dog with Susan Garrett

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!

Exploring the pitfalls of quick fixes in dog training, a focus on reinforcement reveals what truly cultivates well-behaved pups. The discussion highlights the distinction between behavioral and emotional challenges. Emphasis is placed on management as a key to lasting success and building confidence before tackling bigger hurdles. Listeners are encouraged to seek trustworthy trainers and embrace a community-driven approach to deepen their bond with their dogs. Plus, a heartfelt lesson from family adds a personal touch to the training journey.

Explore the four quadrants of dog training and their real-life implications. Discover how positive and negative reinforcement can shape behavior, sometimes in ways we don't realize. Learn about the blurred lines in training methods and the importance of tailoring reinforcers to your dog's needs. Hear personal stories that illustrate the concepts, including one trainer's journey to help her dog find value in observing others. Unravel the myth of the alpha approach and gain insights from operant conditioning science.

Discover the truth behind the misconceptions of positive reinforcement in dog training. Learn about the biggest mistakes trainers make that lead to frustration. Dive into techniques like desensitization and counter-conditioning, essential for success. Hear relatable examples of training reactive dogs and handling distractions effectively. Explore why simply masking emotions with treats won't cut it and uncover the pitfalls of cookie-stuffing. Get ready to transform your dog's training journey with practical insights!

Discover effective strategies for training reactive dogs to move from chaos to calm. A fascinating case study reveals how co-regulation and patience can transform a dog's reactions. Dive into techniques like using a chin target to alleviate surprises during walks. The episode draws on a classic game that enhances focus and confidence, showing that with the right approach, even the most dysregulated dogs can thrive in their environment.

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! Training Tips from Susan: Understanding Your Adolescent Dog: Teenage Hormones, Emotions, and Behavior Watch the full video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDmQBOA-bCA&t=0s And check out our playlist on emotional regulation in dogs for all the insights to help you help your dog no matter what their age - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy0ZnXC_lczh942HhB0Vdo5v When your puppy enters adolescence, it's a new ballgame when it comes to their hormones, emotions and behavior. The teenage dog transformation begins at roughly six months through 18 months with environmental factors like vaccines and nutrition also influencing this phase. Managing expectations and prioritizing your dog's emotional well-being while educating yourself as a dog owner will help you navigate the transition from puppy to adulthood with your relationship intact.