Visit us at shapedbydog.com

Helping senior dogs live their best lives starts with simple, intentional choices that nurture their body, mind, and heart. In this episode, I'm sharing the four pillars that lead to longevity and how they can help your senior dog stay active, confident, and connected as the years go by. You'll discover how small daily habits can support lasting wellness and create a joyful, purpose-filled life for your dog, one where every stage of aging is celebrated and full of possibility.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• Why living with a senior dog is a privilege and how mindset shapes what's possible.
• The truth about what defines a senior dog and why age is more than just a number.
• How the four pillars (Physical Wellness, Nutrition, Emotional Connection and Joy, Cognitive Functioning) help senior dogs live longer, happier lives.
• Why "motion is lotion" applies to senior dogs just as much as it does to us.
• How maintaining a healthy weight can add years to your dog's life.
• Simple ways to boost your senior dog's energy and cognition through nutrition.
• How emotional connection and daily joy impact your dog's well-being.
• The importance of consent and respecting your senior dog's deep rest.
• Enrichment ideas to keep senior dogs mentally sharp and engaged.
• An opportunity to join Home School The Dog & Wag Nation.
• A special challenge to bring more purpose and fulfillment to your senior dog's life.

Join Wag Nation + Home School the Dog:
Write to us at wag@dogsthat.com with the subject line "Connecting with my senior" for a very special opportunity to join us in Wag Nation and Home School the Dog.

Resources:

1. Dogs That YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@DogsThat
2. YouTube Playlist: Feeding Dogs, Training Treats, Dog Food, Nutrition and Canine Behavior, Raw Diets with Susan Garrett - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy0ylVCv0BiSj27AeIdObb_q&si=QOwhqPDzbQs4ygUw
3. Podcast Episode 62: 12 Keys to Helping My Dogs Live a Long and Happy Life - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/62/
4. Podcast Episode 106: Consent In Dog Training: The Misuse, Misunderstanding And Misapplication - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/106/
5. Podcast Episode 314: Dog Enrichment Secrets Part 1: Using Your Dog's Natural Instincts To Build Variety And Engagement - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/314/
6. Podcast Episode 315: Dog Enrichment Secrets Part 2: 30 Day Enrichment Challenge + Free Planner PDF Shaped by Dog Podcast - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/315/
7. Shaped by Dog Podcast - https://dogsthat.com/podcasts/
8. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/518D-BzMFaQ

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!

Why I Don't Use The Word "No" With My Dogs And What I Teach Instead

I'm sharing why I don't use the word "no" in dog training and what I teach instead to create understanding and connection. Through clear communication and thoughtful reinforcement, we can help our dogs feel confident and know exactly what we DO want.

Watch the full video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bj5AeXdO4-4

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!

Shaping Q&A: Non-Reward Markers, Reinforcement Strategies, And Making Training Work For Every Dog

In this mini Shaping Q&A, I'm diving into your top questions about non-reward markers, reinforcement strategies, how to make training work for every dog, and more! You'll discover how to set your sessions up for success, keep motivation high, and make shaping easier and more enjoyable for both you and your dog.

Watch the full video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XOT8z4B81eg