As someone who has been educating dog owners on having a well-behaved dog and an amazing relationship with that dog, I think it’s important to share my failures. Learn, walk, listen and train ItsYerChoice with me as I talk about my big blunder that happened last week, the impact of judgement and critical questions we need to ask ourselves.
In the episode you'll hear:
- My mistake at the grocery store and why I went straight to judgement.
- Why to get curious when you find yourself judging.
- About outside dogs and littermates.
- How I got triggered and responded with a lack of filter.
- The way my subconscious kicked in and the thoughts I had when waking up.
- What congruency means to me.
- What a nose bridge is and how my puppy targets my hand.
- How we are all making judgements every day.
- Why to ask questions when you are irritated.
- About all the different views on dog training out there in the world.
- How sitting in judgement of our dogs or others has impact beyond us.
- Why I teach everything through games and its effectiveness.
- Quick training prompts with IYC, paw movement and reward delivery.
Resources:
- Learn How to Play ItsYerChoice
- Podcast Episode 70: Critical Info for Your Puppy’s First Day and Night at Home
- YouTube Video: Susan Garrett's Tip for Training Frantic Dogs: Stimulus Control (see the nose bridge)
- Podcast Episode 20: Bridging the Gap Between Blame and Kindness in Dog Training
- Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube


I just listened to the podcast and regardless of the error of judgement Susan had I like that she thought about how she could respond in a kinder way. I also like that she planned to make the effort and go back to the store and apologize then provide information on how to reach out to her via her website.
I would like to learn on a podcast how to teach my puppy to nose bridge. Thank you for more ideas on how to use IYC.
Thank you Susan. Not always easy to call yourself out but you have taught me a valuable life lesson….”when you get furious get curious”. Did I quote that right? The lesson is not only with my new pup but with people as well. Sit back, be patient and THINK! Instead of having a hair trigger. Thanks for the self check. Been a little nutty with our new pup and I forgot to take the time to problem solve instead of wallowing in frustration because I have had success with my first three dogs. Have a great weekend and looking forward to future podcasts.