Visit us at shapedbydog.com

Not seeing results in dog training? I’m breaking down why that happens and how layering your dog’s learning is the key to creating real-world success. We often believe our dogs are “trained” when things look great in controlled settings but when connection disappears, distractions take over, or confidence fades in new environments, it’s a sign that a layer of learning is missing. I’ll walk you through how the layers of the 5C Pyramid build lasting reliability and focus, a personal story from my own training, and how shaping behavior through intentional layers leads to long-term success in agility, sports, and everyday life.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• Why your dog might be great in training games but struggle in real-world situations.
• How building intentional layers in training leads to real-world success with your dog
• The concept of “real world success” and how it evolves as your relationship with your dog grows.
• A deep dive into the 5 Cs of dog training: Connection, Clarity, Confidence, Challenge, and Complexity.
• The difference between a connected, driven, and detached dog and why that matters.
• A powerful question to ask yourself in every training moment to stay aligned with your long-term goals.
• How intentional layers build deep connection and lasting success.
• A personal story about my own dog and how the layers of learning led us all the way to the world championships.

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

Learn How To Play ItsYerChoice:
Learn how to play the ItsYerChoice (IYC) Game - https://recallers.com/iycsummit-join/

Resources:

1. Podcast Episode 171: Dog Training With Layered Shaping: Why Classical Conditioning Must Come First - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/171/
2. Podcast Episode 21: The 5 Critical Dog Training Layers for Confidence with Anything - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/21/
3. Podcast Episode 202: Getting A Happy Well Behaved Dog With The ABCs Of Training - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/202/
4. Podcast Episode 18: 4 Puppy and Dog Training Games for Acquired Bite Inhibition - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/18/
5. Podcast Episode 68: 3 Easy Tricks Every Dog Should Know - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/68/
6. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/FGu03YVsN1k

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 Best Way To Talk To Your Dog Trainer When Things Aren’t Working

I'm sharing the best way to talk to your dog trainer when things aren’t working. This simple shift opens the door to better conversations, clearer feedback, and real progress in your training so you and your coach are working together to help your dog succeed.

Watch the full video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Y8lomnqt7Y

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!

Seamless Dog Training Sessions Start With This Simple Setup Plan

The key to seamless dog training sessions starts with this simple setup plan that keeps you organized and helps your dog stay focused and engaged. With a little planning, your sessions will be set up for success and your dog will love the clarity and confidence that brings.

Watch the full video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tcae85wYXBE