As good dog trainers, we work systematically and methodically through the challenges that routinely stand in the way of fluent performance, including both routine environmental and novel distractions. However, our dogs aren’t the only ones involved in the training process; we are as well, and we face similar challenges as our dogs!
On the Mark or Not?
At ClickerExpo Portland (4/5 – 4/7) Michele Pouliot delves into two training choices: marking behavior or not marking behavior prior to reinforcement. As an enthusiastic clicker trainer, Michele constantly strives to utilize the power of a well-timed click. However, she also selectively sets the marker aside for specific reasons.
The Leash Belay Technique
If you have plans to train dogs as you grow older, this Learning Lab is perfect for you. It’s also suitable if you walk large dogs, have clients with strong and untrained dogs, want the freedom of a long line without the risk of rope burn, or simply desire an additional useful tool to make training more accessible.
Reward Placement and Resets
Learn about the benefits of thoughtful reward placement and reset treats through this real-time demo of cat and dog training at ClickerExpo Portland, OR (4/5 – 4/7)! Melissa Millett will showcase her trick cat, Sashimi, live, providing an opportunity to demonstrate the live acclimation of a cat, engagement/focus techniques, and management strategies for ensuring a cat enjoys herself at a dog event.
Learn The Rules So You Can Break Them: Balancing Structure With Innovation
In this LIVE Dem-OH!, learn to structure, assess, and continually improve training sessions while leaving room for innovation. Instead of getting stuck in the paralysis that can come from over-planning, discover the joy of letting your learner lead the way. Participants will each be given a training challenge.
Skateboarding: A Rad Window to the Soul of Training Decisions
A complex and super fun behavior, skateboarding is a perfect vehicle for examining some of the least obvious but most important trainer skills—how to break down behaviors and how long to reinforce a behavior before raising criteria. See just how many ways a behavior can be broken down!
Train That Chain: Behavior Chains
Behavior chains are powerful tools that enable the execution of complex tasks and provide flexible solutions. However, they are also a magnet for superstitious trainer behaviors and confusion. Laura VanArendonk Baugh emphasizes that chains don’t have to be as complicated as we tend to perceive them. Let’s embrace this challenge!
Cultivating Effective Reinforcers
Many trainers get stuck by thinking of reinforcement as a static entity. For Hannah Branigan, there are numerous ways to enhance existing reinforcers and even create new ones from scratch. By applying effective training principles and recognizing reinforcement processes as learnable skills, you gain greater control over the strength of your reinforcers and, consequently, enhance the power and efficiency of your training.
All Ears: Protocols for Dogs with Sound Sensitivity
An estimated one-third to two-thirds of dogs have noise aversions! If you saw 12 dogs last week, 4-8 of them are likely to develop noise sensitivities in their lifetimes. Not only can a fear of sounds be physiologically and emotionally damaging for dogs, but it can also strain the human-animal relationship.
Practical Lessons from Guinea Pigs
Are you ready to explore the fascinating world of training through the lens of adorable guinea pigs? Join Chirag Patel and his herd of 14 super cute guinea pigs at ClickerExpo LIVE as they Dem-OH the practical application of behavior science. Even if you don’t work directly with guinea pigs, it’ll be highly relevant, as the principles and strategies are universally applicable to all learners and can be adjusted and applied to the learners you work with.
This Dem-OH will be followed by another exciting learning experience as Eva Bertilsson and Ken Ramirez will use their coaching expertise to guide Chirag through interactive and engaging training sessions. This unique opportunity allows you to observe first-hand the effectiveness of coaching techniques and practical training in action.