This week, I talk to Mary Stompe of Mary’s Angels Dog Training. Mary talks to us about clicker training and why it’s such a successful dog training strategy for families. We discussed why clicker training works, games kids can play to improve their timing, and simple dog activities to get families started.
About Mary
Mary grew up training dogs, and her experience shows in her natural communication with dogs and their owners. Mary became a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner in May 2018. The Karen Pryor Academy is a rigorous 6 month course that includes instruction in the science of learning as well as hands-on experience teaching people and multiple species of animals.
Resources
- Learn more about Mary’s Angels Dog Training
- Watch some of Mary’s training videos on her Facebook Page.
- If you are interested in learning more about clicker training, you can visit the Karen Pryor Academy.
Summary
- All dogs find different items rewarding (food, toys or affection)
- The most effective reward may depend on context and level of distraction
- Clickers are effective with all family members because it sounds the same, no matter who is using it
- Some dogs are sensitive to the sound of the clicker – if that’s the case for your dog, you may need to pick a different marker (or try clicking a pen instead)
- The timing of the click is critical. We want to click the instant the dog does the desired behavior.
- Clickers are really helpful with dogs in motion so that they can identify when they did what you want.
Category: Podcast
