This Or That's: Why Most Dogs Never Become Decision-Makers #331

This Or That's: Why Most Dogs Never Become Decision-Makers #331

July 15, 2026 · 15 min · Episode 331

About this episode

This episode discusses the importance of decision-making in dog training and how it can enhance a dog's confidence and reliability.

Visit us at shapedbydog.com What if most dogs never become great decision-makers because decision-making is one of the most overlooked skills in dog training? In this episode, I introduce the philosophy behind my This Or That games and share why the choices dogs rehearse every day become the ones they rely on when it matters most. You'll discover what creates a "decision deficit" and how giving dogs opportunities to make choices builds the confidence, understanding, and reliability we all want in real life. 🎉 If you've been thinking about training with us, now's a wonderful time to get started. Save 35% to 85% on many of our online programs through midnight PT on July 16. Explore the Joy of Training Celebration here . In this episode, you'll hear: • Why teaching decision-making may be one of the biggest missing pieces in modern dog training. • What a "decision deficit" is and how it develops. • Why the choices dogs rehearse become the ones they rely on when it matters most. • The difference between controlling choices and teaching dogs how to choose. • Why inexpensive mistakes are essential for building confidence and better decision-making. • Two real-life stories that reveal…

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Host: Susan Garrett

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