Dog Behavior And Diet: Recovery For This! Beyond Dog Training Part 2

In episode 203 - • Reactive, Unmotivated ... - I told the story of the behavior struggles I’ve had with my two-and-a-half-year-old Border Collie This! and the timeline of our challenges that were beyond dog training. And this episode is part two, covering how we began making changes to her diet, the practitioners who helped me help This!, and what I am doing now to ensure that This! has a life of joy. I also want to add a disclaimer that I am not a Veterinarian or Nutritionist. I just want to let you know the journey This! and I have been on together.
00:00 Part two of This!’s story.
00:36 Disclaimer: Consult a veterinarian and/or canine nutritionist. Do your own research.
01:46 You can’t dog train problems caused by diet.
02:28 Why I started taking photos of my dogs’ gums.
02:42 The raw food diet my dogs eat.
03:18 Formulating dog diets with Dr. Laurie Coger, DVM.
04:00 The gums of Border Collie littermates on lower protein diets.
04:18 Hyperacidity from excessive protein in North American commercial raw food diet.
05:30 Foods of ancestral origin impact nutrient digestibility.
06:39 Reaching out to Steve Brown, author of Unlocking the Canine Ancestral Diet.
07:45 Dr. Peter Dobias, DVM, heavy metal analysis of This!’s fur.
08:28 Narrowing down my dog’s culprits to nutrition and hormones.
08:40 Immediate results of my dog’s diet changes.
11:11 The naturopath and herbalist that helped balance my Border Collie’s endocrine system.
12:11 My training plan to recover my Border Collie’s lost time, create dopamine spikes and increase joy.
12:37 How flyball is growing my agility dog’s drive.
15:48 My dogs’ current nutritional protocol and meal prep hacks.
18:01 My hope for what a commercial raw food diet should look like.
19:24 This! enters World Team tryouts. Here’s my plan.
20:39 Comebacks are bigger than setbacks.
In the episode you'll hear:
• How I narrowed This!'s lack of drive and joy for work down to nutrition.
• That you can't dog train a problem that isn't a dog training problem.
• How an Austrian naturopath helped me help This!.
• Why my naturopath requested photographs of my dogs' gums and what they revealed.
• Why I believe a raw food diet is the best option for my dogs.
• The help I received from Dr. Laurie Coger, an integrative and functional medicine veterinarian.
• The role ancestral geographic origins have in nutrition.
• About our IC Peeps roundtable with Unlocking the Canine Ancestral Diet author Steve Brown.
• About Dr. Peter Dobias and the results of the heavy metal analysis of This!'s fur sample.
• My process for balancing This!'s diet and what I observed.
• How an herbalist used acupressure points to balance This!'s endocrine system.
• What I'm doing now in dog training to help This! have joy.
• How weekly Flyball classes are helping.
• What This! is eating now, and my hope for raw food manufacturers.
• The reason I entered This! into World Team Tryouts.
• Why I believe This!'s comeback will be bigger than her setbacks.
Resources:
1. Podcast Episode 203: Reactive, Unmotivated and Fearful: Finding Resiliency For This! Beyond Dog Training Part 1 - • Reactive, Unmotivated ...
2. Dr. Laurie Coger: The Healthy Dog Workshop - healthydogworkshop.com/about/
*3. Book: Unlocking the Canine Ancestral Diet by Steve Brown - geni.us/unlocking-ancestral
4. Dr. Peter Dobias Website - peterdobias.com/
5. Podcast Episode 183: What Does “Train The Dog In Front Of You” Really Mean? - • What Does "Train The D...
6. Podcast Episode 172: How To Teach Your Dog Anything With My Training Plan - • How To Teach Your Dog ...
7. Podcast Episode 174: Dopamine In Dog Training: Anticipation, Rewards, And The Transfer Of Value - • Dopamine In Dog Traini...
*Amazon Links Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Susan only recommends products she uses herself, and all opinions expressed here are her own. The link above is an affiliate link that, at no additional cost to you, we may earn a small commission if you purchase.
Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of veterinary medicine, animal nutrition, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical or dietary advice. The use of this information and the materials linked to this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content on this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, nutrition counseling, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining veterinary medical advice for any medical condition their dog may have, and they should seek the assistance of healthcare professionals for any such conditions
- - - - - - -
Our Website: dogsthat.com
Facebook: / susangarrettdogagility
Instagram: / susangarrettdogsthat
TikTok: / dogsthat

[@DogsThat]

Watch part one of This!’s story - kzbin.info/www/bejne/ppmTppdnjd1sf5o

[@dorothywilgus671]

Oh my! So much is like my boy's symptoms. We were training also for conformation and he totally shuts down. No attention to me, ears down. Yet at home only in the house he is amazing! Your description of This from puppy to 19 months is almost identical. I will review the other podcasts you mentioned also. Thank you so much! Question: How does this sit now?

[@lollypop2413]

You are an inspiration! I have a working line ddr shepherd...i want to give her as much Joy as possible...im following you for sure!

[@cindyclark3969]

I remember when you said you knew which puppy was yours even before she was born. Now we know why This came to you. She needed someone to make sure her life was filled with joy. It brought tears to my eyes hearing the story of your journey. This kind of karma will be with you when you most need it.

[@rosieleat6868]

I was thinking the same thing. xxx

[@rosieleat6868]

I love that your primary focus is happiness for the dog. These two videos have been so interesting and brought tears to my eyes. 'You can't fix something that isn't a dog training problem with dog training' (paraphrasing can't remember already the exact quote), is fab. and, 'make your come-backs bigger than your setbacks' is just brilliant. Animals do their best, it is such a relief to see someone doing their best by the dog and asking 'why' instead of blaming the dog. Xxxxx

[@DogsThat]

Than you, Rosie, for your kindness and gems 💎. We now have an episode on This! first agility competition that we think you'll love: kzbin.info/www/bejne/haaqmoiOirCVetk

[@rosieleat6868]

@@DogsThat - oooo thank you! I’ll head over there now! Xx

[@Doktracy]

Bri,my little girl,loves kittens,chasing her mother and brother and swimming. And she has many,many of the same symptoms as This. Thank you!

[@jasonford6595]

These 2 episodes are really intense. I had to watch the first twice just to make sure I caught everything and now I'm left so emotional about how much we don't actually know and understand about canine nutrition and husbandry. Also, best of luck. So happy for your progress with This and looking forward to hearing about how things go.

[@seranno5900]

I have been concerned about my puppy's extreme hyperactivity and reactivity and realized that in addition to feeding a raw diet I was giving her freeze dried meat/fish training treats that were also high in protein. I have since added vegetables and the occasional grain (oatmeal or rice - the FDA reversed it's decision that grains can lead to cardiomyopathy) to her diet and have found low protein training treats with no sugar (not easy to find!). Her protein content is now closer to 30%. I have seen an improvement in her self-control and am looking forward to less reactivity as we move forward. Thank you for offering a window into some of the challenges you have been facing. It resonated with me so strongly when you said, "Let your dreams be bigger than your challenges."

[@keechpeach2863]

This is my girl too! I fondly call her my ADHD girl, and we love her, but it hasn't always been easy. So excited to have a path forward!

[@ellenpowers8037]

Wow. I’m amazed and impressed at all that you do for your dogs. As just an ordinary pet owner who loves my dog, I wish there were an easier answer to how to feed her and know I’m giving her the best nutrition I can that fits within my budget and the time available for food prep. It’s something I do worry about. If you come up with any recommendations, I’ll look forward to hearing them!

[@RebeccaAnnFord]

Agreed! The dog food industry is a bit overwhelming and confusing for ordinary pet owners!

[@johanna8206]

This completely resonates with me. I had a pittie mix who experienced a complete 180 in her behavior after early spay and multivalent (7) shots. She went from sweet and confident to fearful and fear-aggressive towards all strangers in less than a week. I wish I had known about the hair mineral analysis, but I did do some research on heavy metal detox and put her through two rounds of ALA (cutler protocol) and noticed an immediate improvement in her self-regulation. Even some neighbors noticed and commented on the difference in her. From that point, she was better able to understand and to retain our training and made even bigger leaps. We never got 100% back to where she was in the beginning, but I'm so proud of all she accomplished and thankful for all that she taught me. I lost her last July at 13 yrs and it still hurts terribly. More recently I got a new puppy who is having some serious self-regulation issues at times. I'm trying some of your recommendations from other videos and seeing improvements but I cant help but wonder if his initial shots at 6wks are playing a role in his behavior as well. He's also on a high protein diet (sometimes raw, sometimes cooked), and basically high-carb homemade treats for training when I'm not using his meals (Im now wondering what you use for training treats with This! I cant use tug or toys as these are way too overstimulating for him right now 😳). He eats great and seems to digest well, but is always eating grass and dirt so I've been wondering about his stomach/gut for a while. Im excited to try adjusting the diet and seeing what that does. Not sure if you'll ever see my comment, but I'd love to know more about how you addressed detoxing the heavy metals with This! if you would care to share. Saying prayers for you and This!, your devotion to your dogs is inspirational! ❤

[@nrowland4103]

From Part 1 the description of the sound sensitivity rang a bell for me. My older (6 yrs) Corgi is very worried about thunder and gun shot noises (even miles away) while my younger Corgi (14 months) isn’t bothered at all but failed his CGC for the dropped shopping bag. I will address nutrition changes. Very interesting presentation, thank you! May I ask have the dogs’ gums changed in appearance since the nutrition changes?

[@Singinggirl66]

I very much relate to your experience! We thought we were doing the absolute best by feeding our dog raw, but over time started to see behaviour and health changes in our sweet girl! I recently stumbled upon an approach called rotational monofeeding which advocates for many of the ideas you've discussed in terms of diet: Less protein, whole meat vs ground, and more fruits and veg. They also advocate for fasting, which sounds extreme at first, but very much aligns with what would be happening in the wild. We are just starting on this new diet but are seeing great changes already. Thank you for putting out this great content!

[@cboconnor1]

Where can I find out more about this?

[@PoojaPednekar]

I was really amazed when you said THIS's joy is more imp than the trials.. Not many people would say that.. All the best for your trials. I know THIS is gonna make you proud ❤

[@desullivan]

Brought me to tears w your connection w the phrase don’t let setbacks be greater than your comebacks❤️

[@anks257]

Thank you ❤❤❤

[@egbun]

This story is epic and a great example for us to learn from. Such patience, perseverance and persistence - based on love - loads of respect for you!

[@rogehnimunoz4327]

Your video is awesome. Your love for your dog is unmeasurable. You’re not after for the trophies but for the joy of your fur babies. You’re simply amazing. God bless and more power to you and your dogs.

[@sherrenehiggins6181]

I love that you named your dog 'This' after Stanzin in Hugh Van Cuylemberg's Finding Happiness book. My Son bought me this book for Christmas. What a profound effect it had on me. It is great to see Hugh and Stanzin are making a difference to so many people and dogs all over the world.

[@kat200214]

I'm really happy for you and This! She's very lucky that you have the contacts, funds, and knowledge to find all those professionals and run all those tests. I wish that all dog pawrents had those opportunities/abilities! But, as you said, pawrents can even make small changes that will really benefit their dog.

[@onceuponawonderland]

The specialists & holistic vets I see here in Oz have had these dietary opinions for some years. My holistic vet has guided us on very much the same principals you’ve discovered. It’s phenomenal the difference the food energetics makes, also in conjunction with the season. We are fortunate to have some great vets who have created supplements so we can add to the meat chunks with the fruit & veges. But hopefully your platform can reach out to manufacturers to better consider ratios & remove organ meats. Easier to add in if desired than having to work around. Thanks for the share. This is brilliant info

[@marybethsabol1350]

This is so interesting. My dad had elevated levels of heavy metals as well. We found this out when he was diagnosed with ALS.

[@marybethsabol1350]

I would never have expected a diet could make this much difference. If I can help my dog Obi who is reactive I would do just about anything. I just had knee replacement surgery so hopefully I can get back on my feet and be able to run again. Thanks do much for these 2 episodes.

[@watchmoivies123]

There is a test you can do and I’m thinking on doing it also with my dog that tells you exactly what they are genetically predisposed of conditions and what to stay away from anyone knows the name of this can you help me out also, this woman also probably would love to get this test done

[@labantics5456]

​@@watchmoivies123 I would love to know what test this is as well 😅

[@clairekeating2514]

My favourite 2 podcasts you have ever done. ❤

[@DogsThat]

Thank you, Claire! ❤

[@emmah3604]

So informative! My dog has food allergies. She is a Labrador Retriever and her breeder informed me they were trained to retrieve fish to the boats. (Her grandmother came from Canada.) I put her on a fish based diet and she is doing good minus any wheat. You are what you eat is so true!!! Thanks.

[@desullivan]

I’m so happy for you & This. I only wish I had the funds to go this deep for my beasties. Congrats on the progress you’ve both made!🎉 I wish you both tons of joy at the upcoming trials.💕

[@donnarunnestrand7228]

Thank you Susan so much for sharing this story. As a Recallers member I've often wondered what your challenges with This! have been. After watching, I'm absolutely convinced that my GSD/Lab would benefit tremendously with a diet change. However, many of us just don't have the funds to see all of these specialists, but still want desperately to find the right diet for our pup. From what you have experienced with This!, would you please suggest which type of specialist you think would be the most beneficial to contact in order to 1) Figure out our dogs specific needs based on tests, and 2) Who to then see to help formulate a nutrition plan. I'm wondering if my vet would be able to test her hormones and metals etc. and then consult a dog nutritionist possibly? I would love to get your opinion. I need to use my limited funds wisely and efficiently. Thank you so much!

[@makb5354]

If in US, Parsley Pet is top notch. Also, as far as diet: Dr Coger, or join Keep the Tails Wagging and see her list (including Dr Coger) of certified dog food formulators.

[@CuriousCat8010]

The test my vet had us do for the heavy metals is by Dr. Dobias and called the HairQ test. I don’t know if it’s the same Susan did but it’s an option my vet recommends and has helped us gain insight for my girl and then build a plan. H they collected the hair sample at the vet and sent the test off. You also fill out some behavioral info along with it. He then consulted with a professional as to what supplements and diet changes to make but I’m not sure what type of professional that was. You also can order the test yourself and purchase some supplements from the same website. My vet has my girl doing different supplements but the ones on the site may be good as well

[@ellenkingrice3997]

Fantastic detective work! It can be hard to keep an open mind but also not go down a rabbit hole of hard sales. (And the various dog food companies/health advice people can have very strong marketing talents). Your record keeping and careful observations had to help sort which paths were productive. Bits that may be helpful to others here: the veggie mix should not include onions, garlic, grapes or raisins; stool testing for parasites is an easy good step; the simple act of a fast diet change to ANYTHING can cause upset (we mix 1/4 new for two days, then 1/2 new, etc); there can be one or more proteins that are problematic. It may be necessary to go to a hydrolyzed protein diet for a month and then test proteins one at a time (lamb this week. Back to hydrolyzed diet for a week. Then turkey test. etc. All this takes bags of time). Lastly, what is most beautiful of all in This’s story is that you consistently see her as a spirit with value. Having faith that this isn’t “being lazy” or “kinda stupid” or “what a screwball” is huge, huge, huge. Thank you for sharing the details of your very challenging journey. Much love!

[@deborahtressler6281]

I REALLY enjoyed Episodes 203 and 204, Susan! It shows your commitment to your dogs’ welfare. Like you, I am always open to whatever will help my dogs. Thank you for sharing all of that interesting information.

[@desullivan]

Love your reference to Paul Harvey too.🤣

[@yuminagaoka515]

I was going to wait for a month to see if there would be any difference, but it was so obvious that I can say the change I made according to this video was just the right thing. What is described here goes very well with what I hear from those who are into the Oriental medicine. Looking at my dog's background, I decided to go with more carb and vegetable and less meat with just a little less oil. Now he is motivated, more communicative, and sleeps less during the day. He runs more as well, I think. I began feeding him raw from kibbles, so feeding the whole prey model was a good idea then. But his gums are getting darkened especially the bottom. If it was because of hyper acidity, it also makes a lot of sense that he used to wake up during the night making chewing and licking noise with his mouth. He does not do that any more after I began feeding him less protein. I am also feeding him pumpkin seeds continuously. THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH for this information.

[@SallyBushwaller]

I am having the same issue with my Weim. I also feed raw and make my own, but she backs away from it like it's poison, while my other dog gobbles it down. I've tried so many diets, so help but now she is worse again. She sleeps all day, and by her third run in agility class is exhausted. I can't afford to go to the lengths you've gone to, so I'm starting with Steve Brown's book. Thanks for highlighting This's issues. If I can't adjust her diet without help, I'll start saving up to do a consult with Dr. Coger. I love your podcasts and recommend them to my students all the time.

[@DogsThat]

Thanks so much, Sally! You're doing great by feeding them the best diet you can, and trying to solve her challenge. Hopefully you can have more answers soon, we'll love to hear about the progress you make ❤️‍🩹

[@elisasegal8153]

I love that you prioritize your dogs' joy. Love to you all. ❤❤❤

[@DogsThat]

❤❤❤❤❤

[@4SweetFeet]

What a wonderful story! I have a wonderful equine nutritionist who has helped me for the last 11 years. Now to get help from a dog nutritionist before my May puppy arrives! Thank you for your open, honest sharing.

[@DE-ss5ks]

Susan, thank you so so much for sharing this and This! and all that you are doing to making life better for her and your other dogs. All your podcasts are thought provoking. This one is different from your training ones, of course, and extremely thought provoking in getting the best out of our dogs. Health is number one. Best of luck to you two.

[@TiltTV1]

I am a huge fan of Dr. Dobias!!! When you find that manufacturer that sells human grade chunked meat please share asap. I have the same issue … everything is minced … the four dogs that currently live with me all eat a different diet. Rawwild sells organ free elk/venison but it is ground with bone … I’m not big on feeding organ meat to adults and my dogs live on average to 15-19 … they are all rescue dogs that had horrible conditions before I adopted them … they always go through gentle detox sometimes for several years after adoption … fabulous podcast as usual …

[@RaptorsGirl]

You’re amazing!

[@imercier4046]

I am also a huge fan of Dr. Dobias! I feed his fab 4 (suppliments) with raw but now I see that the raw has too much protein. When Susan mentioned the black spots I put this video on pause and checked my two dogs...hahaha....yup...one had one spot the other several. I am so thankful to you Susan...this might be the most important video/podcast I've seen so far.

[@laurenaupton1162]

Thank you for putting these videos out. I’ve been saying that our dog Shilo doesn’t seem happy, except when he is having zoomies. When we got him at 10 weeks, within 24 hours of having him, I realized he wasn’t doing well. Took him immediately to the vet and found out he had parvovirus. He had a quick, 2 day recovery. We chose to keep him at our home and only allow access to the backyard until he was fully vaccinated and past his virus shedding period. He missed out on some socialization and built some fears. I’ve also noticed, if he over ate, he would have loose stools. I changed his food to a sensitive stomach formula which helped. Now I’m wondering how to get a better diet for him. Thank you again. I believe his nutrition needs to change to fit his needs

[@rosieleat6868]

I Have come back to this again as I have had a puppy for five months (he is now 8 months old), I feed raw and he has always been a very picky eater. In desperation I would give him boiled chicken or dog roll just to get the calories into him, but he is just very picky with everything, and actually lost weight this month. I think I have made him worse by chopping and changing a bit. I took him to the vet again yesterday and he had blood tests done. Currently looking for a dog naturopath and a raw feeding vet is going to talk to my vet about what we can do. It is very stressful to say the least! I had forgotten about the raw in regards to being minced. My adult dog eats anything and everything! So grateful for these podcasts. It was 'This's' story that alerted me to the fact that my puppy wasn't 'quite right'. "Let your dreams be bigger than your challenges" - going to focus on that!

[@outdoorsincornwall2060]

What a wonderful pair of podcasts! I love how you've turned such a worrying and frustrating situation into something where you and This! can feel joy together. Totally inspirational. Good luck at the tryouts!

[@kandrisa]

Here for a part 2. Also just reached out to a behavioral scientist today. Appreciate it! I hope there’s a part 3 on joyful activities and all the other changes you made.

[@trishbech9082]

Wow! Wow! Wow! Amazing info… ALL of it! I have been noticing different things off and on with my puppy… moody etc and I was thinking at the time, it’s probably what he ate or “stage”. Because there were no other answers, maybe cutting teeth. I am going to take all this valuable info to heart and investigate his breed, who was also a line from the UK. I am on a mission. I always felt sick giving him kibble and would through in human food but it’s not balanced. I like how you linked it to humans reacting negatively to certain foods or proportions…not feeling well or performing their best when experiencing issues. It all makes sense! I don’t have the funds to go as deep as you did, but I’m going to do the best I can and investigate which areas to focus on. It is all so interesting. Thank You for such detail Susan! You get bits and pieces from different people but not such a comprehensive look at the whole picture. I know every dog needs different things, so the mission is on! By the way - The transformation of This! is unbelievable!!!!!!! Over the moon happy for you and This! Everything from your life together to competing! She is one very fortunate girl to have you such an observant and helpful mom that moves heaven and earth to find the solution! Love your quote at end, “Never let your setbacks be bigger than your comebacks”. I really needed to hear that today. ❤ Also, I totally cracked up with your opening phrase, “The rest of the story”. I used to be glued to the radio listening to Paul Harvey every weekday” Lol 🤗 Again thanks so much Susan. I feel so very blessed by these recent podcasts. Much love to you and your doggos! ❤🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾

[@RaptorsGirl]

❤❤❤

[@teartamother1892]

Excellent info thank you

[@judyives1832]

Question, I feed a varied raw diet but I use kibble for training outdoors because how do you carry raw food with you? The kibble makes up about 1/3 of their daily diet because a lot of the skills I’m training are done outdoors. My three boys are labs so I have to carry a large amount and kibble is lightweight and compact. What do you use for training? That isn’t too expensive? Suggestion: for the beef chunks, why not buy a quarter of beef off a local farm? I buy directly from farmers rather than from a company. That way it’s less expensive and you can have it cut any way you want it. You can have the whole side cut into stewing beef sized chunks and then freeze it in containers of the size that works for you.

[@lindaf3888]

Good luck Susan and This!❤ I have changed from kibble to raw after episode about Relaxation Protocol cause I had no idea that diet had anything to do with dog's behavior. So thanks alot for sharing. I need to work through relaxation and hoping diet will contribute to that in a positive way. I already see a MUCH calmer dog after one night of further conditioning and capturing on target blanket so thank you for your amazing podcast.

[@sophiesmith5922]

ooo! So happy This! will get a chance to show off a bit. I love the concept of FEO, so she can gain the experience without the pressure. Hopefully the experience gives her that sense of pride and joy. My dog LOVES the rally-o ring, because she has an audience. No audience, no work. (Little twit)

[@DogsThat]

Thank you, Sophie ❤

[@yuminagaoka515]

Makes sense!! Thank you very much for sharing this. This!!!

[@1lebc4me]

So complicated after the DCM scare. “Balance” seems to be the key word, and the reminder that dogs are individuals. I really enjoyed the two podcasts. The “minced” vs “chunks” of beef makes perfect sense to me. The organ meet threw me, though, I thought it was a great thing to provide. Sigh. So appreciate your willingness to share and teach. Thank you and Bless you and yours! Would you consider sharing some of your pup smoothy recipes?

[@bdwor8693]

Hi, first thank you so much for sharing! 💜 When I watched part one I was shouting - "this" ;) is exactly my dog! Exactly the same problems - I have two dogs of the same breed. One is super active(always complaining when it's not her turn to train) , has an awesome endurance and is doing really well with my training methods and the other is totally exhausted even after 2 minutes of training and laying on her side for hours. Never minding that I am throwing a ball next to her. She has problems to work in buildings, but is much better outside, she is extremely motivated at the racing track(chasing). She loves the exercise - walking between my legs- it's is the only exercise she offers to do on her own. I am trying to teach her a nice "sit" position for a very long time now, using targets and balance tools but she always rolls back on her hip. (the other dog sits like a champion and I didn't even put in half the effort :P) Several vets checked her heart and joints because I thought maybe she was in pain- all clear. So in the end I went to a chiropractor and changed her diet( I stopped giving her a diet high on protein and did a 50/50 ratio vegetables and minced meat, I also started to add whole chickennecks and "iodine"(sea algae powder) to her diet and everything started to improve. She does learn really well with few repetitions and "jackpotting" I do 3-5 repetitions and once or twice in this session she gets a much bigger portion of treats or a super tasty treat (i don't make the jackpot depend on her performance, just on chance) What I wanted to ask you - could you please post a link of the Austrian health - consultant? (we live in Austria and I would like to contact her) 😊 maybe she can help us to get even better.

[@MaryPoppyMom]

Thank you, Susan for sharing your journey with This. With our own challenges here, as we grow together, you have given me allot to consider and look into, with Poppy. I see a Naturopath, whom I hold in high regard…my dog can too! Thank you for showing me how you and This worked through these challenges. You inspire me every day. 🥰

[@claudiamattaliano7333]

These 2 episodes are incredibly informative and interesting! Thanks Susan! Would it be possible to have the name of the Austrian naturopath who helped you with the diet?

[@CuriousCat8010]

My 14 month old working English cocker had the same test done last fall and is full of heavy metals! She’s now on supplements and a diet change too to help clear the heavy metals. The vet said her over excitement and difficulty calming down is due to her parasympathetic nervous system not working right due to the heavy metals. We have a long way to go but the diet change alone has helped her calm down some and be able to think better. THANK YOU so much for this episode!! I haven’t found anyone else who’s heard of the test and certainly no one who has had a dog and dealt with it personally! Wow thank you!!

[@deSeriosa]

Hi, where did you get this test? Is it the box one where you send in a hair sample, or is it from the vet? If so, what is the formal name for the test if it's at the vet? Sorry for asking too many questions, my dog just has the same symptoms and I'm curious

[@alexialmitchell]

Amazing! Thank you for sharing This!'s story. You are so inspiring . Best of luck for next week Susan and This! Have a ball :)

[@trainingtabbykinna]

I’m so so happy for Susan and This! This was an emotional podcast to listen, and I’m thankful for a happy “ending!” Best of luck during the trials but, most importantly, lots of JOY ❤

[@DogsThat]

Thank you ❤

[@azogal53]

I am so energized and intrigued by This! 's story and the lengths you have gone to in order to help her. My 13-yo Maltese/poodle has dark blotchy gums and Addison's disease. She's good with thunder and lightning but has odd startle responses to I know not what. She doesn't use her left rear leg to descend stairs but vets say she is sound and in excellent health. Thanks to you, I have some other ideas to explore. Wishing you and This the very best and do, please, keep us posted. 🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪

[@Calouha]

Just love the way you explain things clearly Susan!!! Fingers all crossed for This, hope she keeps finding Joy in what she does with you!!!

[@DogsThat]

Thank you so much! ❤️❤️❤️

[@allisontraynor2870]

Great podcast ❤

[@imercier4046]

Oh my....I am steaming veggies now....and will cut their raw in half and supplement with veggies. This is a confirmation of what I have been thinking...that raw could be too much protein. Thank you Susan!

[@laurieglencross128]

Awesome info! Thanks so much for This!

[@hal7ter]

Excellent excellent - thank you so much for taking the time to tell us all this!!!

[@joannaexley3388]

I'm so extremely happy you shared this podcast Susan. Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge and experience with us, we all grow together. Your amazing ❤

[@Sunshine-hv1eu]

So eye opening. I can’t thank you enough. ❤

[@pennypiper5857]

Thanks great video

[@bethellingworth7814]

Wish you both luck!

[@Lilithliin]

Thank you Susan!!!

[@jacquiehumphrey3701]

This is invaluable, thank you for sharing. x

[@AnitaSelent-hx6dx]

Thank you, Susan for sharing! It takes courage to be real and I'm convinced you are the real deal! I've only been following your training for about 18 months and I'm grateful for every moment. Keep sharing your training and knowledge with us. We need you and love you -THIS does most of all!

[@bash3681]

Thank you so much for this wonderful content! I really admire the things you do for your dogs. The efforts you take to see the joy in your dogs is absolutely stunning. You are the best! And good luck on the trial

[@janeranke1737]

So impressive- the extent you went to figure out what was happening with This. It brought tears to my eyes! Most of us would not be able to do all that. But hopefully we do what we can to make sure our dogs live happy lives. Although you didn’t speak of the emotional aspect of her road to wellness I’m sure she “ showed” you how grateful she is. You are not just a dog trainer- you are a dog advocate and that why I’ve stated my 2 in your classes. Thank you. ( new to Recallers)

[@DogsThat]

Thank you Jane ❤️❤️❤️ Welcome to Recallers! 🐾

[@ldavis-henry5065]

Thanks for sharing! Really interesting. So glad that you persevered and now on the road to much more joy for This! Sounds like quite the challenges - you are so awesome! Wishing you a positive outcome at trials and lots of Joy for This!

[@CatsTales]

Thank you Susan for sharing this video! In the previous video when you described some of This!’s behavior it resonated. My dog is not in agility, however, much of This!’s behavior mirrored my pupp’a. I was feeding him a commercial raw food - which he liked. He’s a very, very picky eater but he ate this raw. There had been issues with him throwing up but when his behavior changed I became very concerned. Sadly, my veterinarians have me down as an over worrier/complainer - so did not listen at all when I tried to discuss with them. And I deeply believe these videos helped save him and helped us so much. My gratitude is overwhelming! Thank you! PS Bilbo happily walked 1.3 miles today. Some thing he hasn’t done in months.

[@DogsThat]

❤❤❤❤

[@inezhoffman3807]

Good luck, Susan and This! ❤

[@thezenofchaos]

Thank you for sharing your struggles with This! The heavy metal toxicity must have been horrible for you to discover. I hope she continues to improve. I have a new puppy, and his diet is the thing that concerns me the most. I’ve been doing a lot of research, but there is a lot of conflicting information out there. 😢

[@watchmoivies123]

Hello Anne, I was wondering if you would be kind enough to let me know what you’re gonna be feeding your new puppy a raw or kibble

[@katekate8586]

This is such a lucky pup. Thank you Susan. Fascinating. You are so very generous with sharing your experiences and knowledge.

[@trudymoffat1572]

That is great information. That makes sense! I love that you are honest and upfront about not being a nutritionist, etc., refreshing. Good luck with This' progress!

[@jeantemplemeyer366]

What a great teacher you are and thank you for sharing all your knowledge about your dogs!So sorry for your loss.

[@JoseeDubois-lm9zm]

Good luck to you and This! ❤Thank you so much for all this info.

[@danielavalois4549]

What an incredible human being! Thank you for what you've done for your dogs and for sharing all this great knowledge with us❤

[@johndunn-ig6hl]

Was so impressed and amazed in watching this. Will go to Part 1!

[@teristruthers8041]

I love that joy is goal!

[@sandegeorge542]

Thank you for sharing This's story with us. Have lots of fun at the trial.

[@sweetbarksandberries4556]

I am routing for This.

[@marinakavatha6665]

This is another helpful and detailed podcat. Thank you for your time and knowledge shared. I would like to ask everyone if somebody know a veterinarian specialized in dog urinary incontinence. I live in Southern Europe and we have tried many paths but nothing is permenent. Thank you all!

[@debbiestrang7774]

So happy for This and you! Nutrition so important for a healthy dog and person. 😊

[@jillconnolly1722]

Best luck Thissy! and Susan.

[@gregorybielle-bidalot8107]

Zinc and selenium deficiencies due to low cereal consumption lead to delayed development of the newborn, fatigue, muscle weakness that can cause cardiomyopathy as for humans. Glad to see you found the solution for This and I wish you all the best for the future❤

[@Fortheloveofdog]

Wow! This is amazing, both the podcast and the border collie! I am definitely going to make some adjustments at my house!

[@cboconnor1]

I should say as well, Susan and This! have fun at the competition!

[@erickakinsey3288]

What an amazing journey! This! Is so lucky to be in your life(and I’m sure, vice versa). I have a fearful lab mix who is very serious unless we are playing. Thar’s when I see joy in her. After listening to this podcast, I’m going to make sure she experiences even more joy! Thank you!

[@milenadisilvestre5872]

What a beautiful love story 💖💖💫🌙✨

[@ImprovPerformanceLab]

Good luck to you two 😊

[@azogal53]

I have always believed diet is one of the most important things you can do for your dogs and yourself. What a fabulous network of caring professionals you have been able to call upon. I hope you continue to share This! 's journey with us -- I'm happy to learn things have turned around for you and This! 🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪

[@nancyhooper1742]

So extremely Happy she is better and praying you both have a Great time at the trials and Both of you enjoy ❤❤ Going to work on changing what feeding my Bosties for Trex has a more sensitive stomach and he has teeth problems too so working on it. God bless you always ❤❤❤❤❤🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪

[@katherinecollmer1094]

Best wishes to both of you! I look forward to hearing about the next segment of your journey with This! and gathering more information about ways to build confidence. My takeaways from this podcast came from the portion where you described the activities that built excitement and confidence for This! (walking between your legs and speaking). And I realized that these are the areas that are important to my journey right now with Win. I have been gathering my courage to build confidence and our relationship by adding in more tricks and canine conditioning activities. So thank you for guiding me in that direction. I would enjoy a podcast that talked about these types of activities if you have time to put one together. Have fun at the event!

[@estherdegraaf5254]

Good luck!

[@RebeccaAnnFord]

Wow. I just sat and watched both parts back-to-back. Thank you for sharing your journey with This! so far; it is fascinating and so well told. And it IS encouraging . . . but still a little daunting because, if you---who have been doing this for years, and know the checklist of things to look for, not to mention gaits, and steps, body movements, games, fitness etc.---have this much challenge getting to the heart of the matter, it's no wonder that many give up. Moreover, when my dogs do something that looks like This!'s breakdown, I just assume it's my own novice training and mechanics. Your story inspires me to pay more attention to the relationship between the food I am feeding my dogs, and their behavior and joy....

[@janetteash8155]

Thank you for sharing this sensitive and sometimes controversial topic regarding food. I am on the journey of trying to figure out the best nutrition for my dog and appreciate all the information I can gather.

[@bheemskerk9836]

Wow! Lots of food for thought. I have been struggling with weight gain in my 8 yr old Aussie. I made the switch to raw 3 yrs ago, cut back the amount to half recommended amount, include fruit and vegetables but no change. I have been 'stuck'. Now, thanks to hearing your challenge with This, has given me alternatives to look into. Although I don't have the financial resources to go to those lengths, I now have alternatives to check out Thank you for sharing your ongoing journey❤

[@davidjones7665]

I thoroughly enjoyed these two podcasts, Susan... my four year old "Fly" has some similar issues. Thank you

[@winklepaws]

Thank you so much for sharing This! and this. I have an over the top smooth BC and nutrition is not something I considered as being part of her equation. Super helpful to hear your story.

[@anneg1193]

Susan I would wish you could live forever, because you bring so much benefit to the dog world. How does cancer and overacidity refer to each other and what can be done to help?

[@heronponie]

Super interesting comments on the percentages of protein. I have come across this issue in other species as well (for me, it’s horses) who just cannot tolerate the high levels of protein that we humans consider to be “performance” feeding, or even “normal” feeding. It is fascinating stuff. Thank you for bringing it up!

[@boxergirls1132]

Super excellent and informative podcast. My Boxer is very similar and I feed raw. Going to try some slight food changes in ratio. Thanks so this trip with This. It's going to help many.

[@barmuckitymutts999]

Totally absorbing! I've watched both episodes and what I'm taking from them is, think outside the box. Or if something isn't working try something different. And in Susan's case consult the best people to help! My girl is 15 months old and during that time I've been diagnosed with heart failure. I was not able to train her very much from 6 months to 13 months. My Husband has been walking them and doing his best to follow Susan's training methods. Since my strength has returned to a degree I've found my girl to be lacking in confidence with some training I've been doing [recallers.] I've put this down to lack of connection with me plus perhaps a period of fear. I could be absolutely right in both these assumptions. However I will consider everything from now on. Her diet is raw with green juice and sardines but I've also noticed her nose has gone pink. I'm told this lack of pigment is due to low Ion. She is on elderflower and nettle now hopefully this will help. But now I'm asking why the loss of ion if that is the case? I'm feeding a top quality raw diet that costs more than the food I eat! Thank you Susan, I'm not jumping on any conclusions, but you have really made me think and analyse what I do now. I also want my girl to be happy, confident and Joyful when training with me. Because that is her name-JOY!

[@jaspoon15]

An amazing story and your dedication to finding the problem and solutions shows such love. In the video and others you talk about “seeing joy” in your dogs. As a first time dog owner I’m not sure what that looks like I’m not sure she finds joy in agility class but I’m pretty sure she finds joy in barn hunt, or does she act this way because I act excited and she is happy to spend time being with me? Am I making it too complicated?