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: Susan Garrett's Tip for Training Frantic Dogs: Stimulus Control

Does your dog get frantic, throwing all sorts of behaviors at you one after another when you want to train or teach a new trick? Helping your dog with stimulus control is the key to success. Stimulus control is when your dog does something until you give a release word or a new cue.

Visit us at shapedbydog.com

I set out to do a podcast episode explaining why I choose not to use an electric collar with my dogs and with my students' dogs. It sent me down a spiral of research and careful consideration. So, after nearly 40 hours reviewing videos from trainers who use e-collars, I'm sharing observations about the wide spectrum of electric collar use in the training world. From excellent conditioning protocols to concerning misuse, what I discovered may surprise both those who use shock collars and those who don't.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• About hours spent watching videos of training with electric collars.
• The types of electric devices available for dog training.
• About the growing e-collar market in North America.
• My thoughts about bans on dog training tools.
• About the possibilities of learning from each other.
• My observations on the use of shock collars.
• The question of dopamine and what’s really being reinforced for the trainer.
• Why all dogs need solid training foundations and layered learning.
• How reducing the divide in dog training helps us all.

Resources:

1. Podcast Episode 202: Getting A Happy Well Behaved Dog With The ABCs Of Dog Training - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/202/
2. Podcast Episode 214: England Banned Shock Collars, Here’s Why That Could Be Sad News - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/214/
3. Podcast Episode 234: How To Stop Puppy Biting: Avoid Mistakes With Susan Garrett’s Backup Plan - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/234/
4. Podcast Episode 232: Canine Predatory Motor Sequence: Understand Your Dog’s Prey Drive To Enrich Your Life Together - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/232/
5. Podcast Episode 40: Using A Head Halter On A Dog, Why My Approach Is So Different - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/40/
6. Podcast Episode 106: Consent In Dog Training: The Misuse, Misunderstanding And Misapplication - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/106/
7. Podcast Episode 145: 10 Ways To Teach A Dog To Lay Down And How To Shape It Without Luring - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/145/
8. Podcast Episode 21: The 5 Critical Dog Training Layers for Confidence with Anything - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/21/
9. DogsThat YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@DogsThat
10. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/ZRodYnFKMEA

Visit us at shapedbydog.com

How long should it take to train my dog? That’s a popular question I get, so I’m covering how to set realistic expectations for every age and stage of a dog’s life. Dogs are lifelong learners and learn with all their senses, so we’re looking at how to create success with intention rather than letting things around your dog train them, so you can avoid the frustration of needing to untrain anything.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• Why age and stage play such an important role in dog training success.
• Why dogs are lifelong learners and how that affects your training expectations.
• What the "honeymoon period" is in dog training.
• What to do when the honeymoon phase ends and distractions become a challenge.
• How to handle the 8-18 month phase when hormones take over.
• Why dogs can’t learn “don’t,” only what we want them to do.
• How the first 8 months of a puppy's life are the bulk of the training work.
• Why ongoing maintenance of your dog’s education is crucial for long-term success.

Resources:

1. Podcast Episode 197: Outsmarting Distractions: How To Use Environmental Reinforcement in Dog Training - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/197/
2. Podcast Episode 24: Distraction Intensity Index: Help For Dogs Who Chase Chipmunks, Bicycles, And Neighbor’s Cats - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/24/
3. Podcast Episode 218: Puppy Development Stages And Your Dog’s Behavior - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/218/
4. Podcast Episode 255: Rescue Dog Training: Priorities For Your First Week Together - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/255/
5. Shaped by Dog Podcast - https://shapedbydog.com/
6. Article: Early Spay/Neuter, Desexing Risks by Dr. Karen Becker - https://drkarenbecker.com/spay-neuter-and-desexing-for-dogs-veterinarian/
7. YouTube Playlist: Reactive or Aggressive Dogs: Key Insights with Susan Garrett - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy0Tbd6ZybIXgJk3mtpBLLk7&si=FR2taAxKQiMZZj-5
8. Podcast Episode 62: 12 Keys to Helping My Dogs Live a Long and Happy Life - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/62/
9. Podcast Episode 48: Potty Train Your Puppy in a Week (Easy 3 Step Process) - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/48/
10. Podcast Episode 254: Why Your Older Puppy Or Dog Is Not House Trained And What To Do About It - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/254/
11. Podcast Episode 109: Project Calm Dog: Prevent Over Enthusiastic Greetings - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/109/
12. YouTube Playlist: Puppy Biting Help with Susan Garrett - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy03hWZgAQfG1t5Q6YzGPi7z&si=aWLdw6Xfpd6kaegl
13. Podcast Episode 293: MRI: A Simple 3 Part Dog Training Formula To Fix Problems Like Counter Surfing, Reactivity And More - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/293/
14. YouTube Video: Susan Garrett’s 5 Games for Puppies - https://youtu.be/Hxd1sVEQp2Y
15. 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/
16. YouTube Playlist: Loose Leash Walking with Susan Garrett - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy1mGMfdVKXq_hiJ27Ej1shW&si=BmL3AN6YON62PhSM
17. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/mNnvP8QtMLA

Visit us at shapedbydog.com

Wondering why your off leash dog isn’t coming when called and what you can do to fix it? I’m busting the recall myth and sharing how to teach your dog to head whip and run to you as fast as they can every time you call, without force or frustration. Learn my fun, easy, and effective recall training approach that builds confidence and enthusiasm, so your dog wants to run to you with joy, speed, and reliability, no matter where you are.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• How to get a really reliable recall and train your dog to come when called, every time!
• Why recalls might fail and common mistakes dog owners make and how to avoid them.
• How to create value for your dog to recall fast, the first time you call.
• The power of the Premack Principle for things your dog loves.
• Easy games to boost your dog’s recall and confidence (ItsYerChoice, Crate Games, Call Once, Collar Grab Game, Hand Target, Restrained Recalls)
• What to consider when choosing the right recall cue for your dog.
• About downloading a free copy of my Restrained Recallers ebook.
• How to build a brilliant recall even with distractions around.
• Opportunity to join my Recallers program and take your dog’s recall to the next level!

Join Recallers:
Write to us at wag@dogsthat.com the subject line “I need my dog to come when called” for a very special opportunity to join us in Recallers.

Download Your Free Recalls eBook
Click HERE to get your Complete Guide to Playing Restrained Recalls - https://dogsthat.com/restrainedrecalls/

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

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

Resources:

1. Podcast Episode 255: Rescue Dog Training: Priorities For Your First Week Together - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/255/
2. Podcast Episode 24: Distraction Intensity Index: Help For Dogs Who Chase Chipmunks, Bicycles, And Neighbor’s Cats - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/24/
3. Podcast Episode 197: Outsmarting Distractions: How To Use Environmental Reinforcement in Dog Training - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/197/
4. Podcast Episode 214: England Banned Shock Collars, Here’s Why That Could Be Sad News - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/214/
5. Podcast Episode 301: When Dog Training Doesn’t Go As Planned: How To Make Adjustments To Find Success - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/301/
6. Podcast Episode 232: Canine Predatory Motor Sequence: Understand Your Dog’s Prey Drive To Enrich Your Life Together - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/232/
7. Podcast Episode 90: Premack, Dog Training and Transfer of Value - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/90/
8. Podcast Episode 52: The Five Most Common Words in Dog Training and Which Ones I Never Use - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/52/
9. Podcast Episode 18: 4 Puppy and Dog Training Games for Acquired Bite Inhibition - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/18/
10. YouTube Playlist: Target Training for Dogs with Susan Garrett - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy3ylCyQ2bJQSCwo_ERiVHj3
11. Podcast Episode 295: Fear Of Criticism? Why Facing The Camera Is The First Step To Becoming A Better Dog Trainer - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/295/
12. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/H8PL2bxL-fk

Visit us at shapedbydog.com

Recently, dog training advocate Zak George asked me about crossover dog trainers, and framed the question in such a different way that it inspired replying with a podcast episode. When I crossed over from balanced training to reinforcement based training in 1996, many people asked me why and told me it would not work. I'm sharing my start in dog training, pivotal moments, people and dogs that led me to change my approach, what I learned about myself along the way, and the reasons I never went back.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• About my transition to becoming a crossover dog trainer.
• The question from Zak George that inspired this episode.
• When I decided to leave balanced training behind.
• What I learned from my terrier puppy, Shelby.
• The book that changed my thinking - Don’t Shoot the Dog! by Karen Pryor.
• When I first saw true autonomy in dog training and how choice transformed my approach.
• About my "Shaping Badly" era.
• How learning from Bob and Marian Bailey helped me refine my training with clarity and intention.
• The shift to shaping with success.
• Why judgment holds trainers back.
• That change is possible.
• Reasons trainers resist crossing over to a positive reinforcement approach.
• A special offer for podcast listeners who want to be coached by me and my team.

Special Discounts to Join or Gift our Online Programs
Check out our 300TH Episode & 5th Anniversary Celebration Page - https://dogsthat.com/celebration-central/

Resources:

1. Zak George - https://www.youtube.com/@zakgeorge
2. Podcast Episode 146: Balanced Dog Training: Does It Really Exist? - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/146/
3. Book: Don’t Shoot The Dog! By Karen Pryor - https://shop.clickertraining.com/en-ca/products/dont-shoot-the-dog-karen-pryor?srsltid=AfmBOoqkL4DLKYAPB1xQMDtJGYDwa1AR0r-AdPOhXo5LFMYe2REoECS7&variant=33778264965258
4. Podcast Episode 34: Time Outs for Dogs: Does Your Dog Need One? - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/34/
5. Bob and Marian Bailey: Behavior by Bailey - http://www.behavior1.com/
6. Podcast Episode 245: Make Dog Training Easy! Quick Guide To Antecedent Arrangements - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/245/
7. Podcast Episode 71: Pro Dog Trainer’s Secret to Help Your Naughty Dog - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/71/
8. Podcast Episode 295: Fear Of Criticism? Why Facing The Camera Is The First Step To Becoming A Better Dog Trainer - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/295/
9. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior - https://avsab.org/
10. The International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants - https://iaabc.org/
11. Podcast Episode 297: Why In 2025 We Still Have Dog Trainers Who Believe “Reinforcement Dog Training Doesn’t Work” - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/297/
12. Podcast Episode 290: The Red Flag Of Dominance Based Training: Why It’s Hurting Your Dog And What To Do Instead - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/290/
13. DogsThat YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@DogsThat
14. DogsThat YouTube Playlists - https://www.youtube.com/@DogsThat/playlists
15. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/rajGh9u8gkw

Visit us at shapedbydog.com

Looking for fast and easy dog training solutions? A quick fix won’t get the dog behavior you really want long term, so I’m covering what to do instead! Whether you have a new puppy or are working through challenges with an older dog, reinforcement and management are key to creating a successful solution for a well-behaved dog in a way that aligns with your heart.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• Why “fast and easy” in dog training often fails and what actually works.
• How to bridge the training gap and set your dog up for success.
• A special lesson from my father beyond dog training.
• The difference between behavior challenges and emotional challenges.
• The role of reinforcement and management in success.
• How reinforcement shapes your dog’s choices every day.
• The power of management and why it’s the key to long-term success.
• My approach to growing confidence before introducing big challenges.
• Why finding the right trainer matters and how to know who to trust.
• A special opportunity to join Wag Nation and Home School the Dog!

Resources:

1. Podcast Episode 20: Bridging the Gap Between Blame and Kindness in Dog Training - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/20/
2. Podcast Episode 97: Overwhelm in Dog Training: How to Take Action on Challenges - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/97/
3. Warwick Schiller Attuned Horsemanship - https://warwickschiller.com/
4. Podcast Episode 298: The Dog Training Quadrants We Don’t Talk About: Are We Using Them More Than We Know? - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/298/
5. Podcast Episode 297: Why In 2025 We Still Have Dog Trainers Who Believe “Reinforcement Dog Training Doesn’t Work” - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/297/
6. YouTube Playlist: Puppy Essentials with Susan Garrett Dog Training - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy2hywpv3Md3HbWWPPbVF8W5&si=UdgWP3VEaFvURChz
7. Podcast Episode 131: How Would Susan Garrett Plan Your Dog Training Sessions? - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/131/
8. Podcast Episode 267: How To Use A Training Den To Fast Track Your Dog’s Success: No Space? No Problem! - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/267/
9. Podcast Episode 30: Why Dog Crates Are Not Dog Cages - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/30/
10. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/zUFgD1yGO0w

Visit us at shapedbydog.com

I sometimes receive comments that some dogs need all 4 quadrants of dog training. But what does that mean, why does it matter for your dog, and what does science tell us? We all need to be aware of the blurred lines between quadrants, so I'm discussing each. Plus, I'm sharing experiences and insights on what unintentional punishment can be for dogs and how to avoid it, what reinforcement really is, and how it's possible to reinforce a dog for behavior you don't want.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• How the four quadrants of operant conditioning apply to everyday dog training.
• An explanation of Positive Reinforcement, Positive Punishment, Negative Punishment and Negative Reinforcement - +R, +P, -P, -R
• How to recognize what quadrant you are training in and my experiences.
• The importance of reinforcers and using what’s reinforcing for your dog.
• How I built value for my dog Swagger to watch other dogs work.
• Control and lessons from B.F. Skinner.
• How negative reinforcement works.
• The blurred lines between the quadrants.
• Debunking the “we must be alpha” narrative in dog training.

Resources:

1. Podcast Episode 297: Why In 2025 We Still Have Dog Trainers Who Believe “Reinforcement Dog Training Doesn’t Work”- https://dogsthat.com/podcast/297/
2. Podcast Episode 146: Balanced Dog Training: Does It Really Exist? - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/146/
3. Podcast Episode 95: How Playing with Your Dog Like a Puppy Can Reduce Fear - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/95/
4. Podcast Episode 107: Pedicure Please: 3 Steps To Dog Nail Trimming Or Grooming Success At Home! - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/107/
5. Podcast Episode 34: Time Outs for Dogs: Does Your Dog Need One? - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/34/
6. Podcast Episode 251: Should We All Stop Using Non-Reward Markers In Dog Training? - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/251/
7. Podcast Episode 181: Training Multiple Dogs To Wait Turns And Relax - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/181/
8. Paper: B.F. Skinner's Theory of Performance Excellence: A Radical Behavioral Perspective - https://digitalcommons.du.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1333&context=capstone_masters
9. YouTube Short: Do We Really Need All Of The Quadrants? - https://www.youtube.com/shorts/MTwuelH2sX4
10. Podcast Episode 40: Using A Head Halter On A Dog, Why My Approach Is So Different - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/40/
11. Podcast Episode 153: Dog Muzzles: Everything You Need To Know And How To Muzzle Train Dogs - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/153/
12. Shaping Success Book by Susan Garrett - https://dogsthat.com/product/shaping-success-2/
13. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/k1wcwfeUBFc