Reviews of ClickerExpo

"When was the last time three days changed YOUR life?! Amazing. I will be back.” - Attendee

2024

2023

2022

2024

ClickerExpo LIVE (virtual)

“I love it! And the opportunity to connect to an entire community of people dedicated to an R+ and force free/fear free approach to animal learning is so good for the soul.”

“Amazing presentations, demos, panels, and ideas. I get lightbulbs every session. I feel inspired afterward. It's a great combination of all of the above!”

“First time attending, I had heard that it was fantastic but I think it was an understatement. I learned so much and there wasn't a session I didn't want to attend. ”

“ClickerExpo LIVE always leaves me feeling energized and excited. I love being part of such a supportive community. The reinforcement I received ensures I will repeat this behavior in the future!”

“I had high hopes and they were vastly exceeded.”

Portland, OR (in-person)

“Such a great, comprehensive, and entertaining experience! I came away with pages of notes, business cards from colleagues I met, and felt re-inspired to get back to my clients!”

“Top leaders in the industry, fascinating and current discussions, networking opportunities, and a whole lotta fun.”

“It's the most friendly, approachable, family feeling, supportive conference I can possibly imagine! And that's on top of it being an amazing learning opportunity. Even if I take a class that doesn't specific interest me I still find it interesting and I'll take something away from it.”

“I came into the conference feeling completely burnt out and discouraged. I needed a break. By the time I left Sunday, I was full of smiles. I feel energized, inspired, and optimistic.”

“There is always something new to learn, but the conversations you can have with like-minded people are incredible. Meeting someone new and being able to share ideas is always a great part of this conference.”

2023

ClickerExpo LIVE (virtual)

“This was my 3rd ClickerExpo LIVE. To be honest, I almost didn't register just to save a little bit of money, but the FOMO got to me. Man, I'm SO glad I changed my mind! AMAZING again!! ”

“I feel like I became a much better trainer over the 3 days. The speakers were enthusiastic, and my fellow attendees were so welcoming and supportive. Everyone behind the scenes was helpful, calm, and efficient. It's clear that everyone believes in and uses positive reinforcement in their lives.”

“I often think I understand what the speaker said but seeing it in action either reinforces or corrects my understanding. Very valuable! Plus, with the LIVE format, I can watch it again. "Is that what she said?" "Oh I get it now!"”

“This was my all-time favorite conference! I loved the opportunity to shadow real-life consults, and to see live demos with trainers and their dogs! Plus—all the amazing speakers! ”

“It is such an amazing experience and opportunity for learning. There is something for everyone. Whether you are just starting on your training journey or are an experienced trainer, you can always pick up new ideas or ways to improve your training. I also think it is so validating to see that what I am already doing in my classes is what is recommended by such high-level trainers.”

“I just love this event! It was my second year and just as helpful as last time in extending on my existing knowledge and skill base. Everything about this event is excellent. ”

Washington, DC (in-person)

“It’s the most relevant, accessible, and fun opportunity to connect with like minds in the field of operant conditioning. It’s a unique joy to have my worldviews both challenged and validated in an environment that is equal parts safe and thrilling. Doesn’t get better than this!”

“It is my click/treat for working so hard all year long! I feel like I'm coming "home" to a community when I arrive at ClickerExpo.”

“Even if you think you’ve heard it all before, you will always walk away with something new, feeling a renewed sense of excitement and motivation.”

“If you feel a little bit lost in your life or practice, this weekend allows you to think about what is possible. It gives energy, it makes you cry, it makes you laugh, and, most of all, it makes you see that there is still enough compassion and kindness in this world to forget about everything else for a moment.”

“ClickerExpo is an incredible way to delve deeper into the type of animal training that interests us, but it’s also a place to find community and understanding. It’s where brains, hearts, and souls are more likely to be vibrating in a frequency similar to our own than what we generally find in the world at large. To me, this is the most important reason to attend and why I recommend that others go.”

“The camaraderie and knowledge shared at ClickerExpo is so inspiring. It recharges my battery!”

2022

“The knowledge, enthusiasm, and passion of all the presenters just blows through the screen. I really appreciate that they all put so much effort into their presentations, do the working Labs, and make it so much fun. Y'all do such a great job putting on an excellent show!”

“Extremely impressed with the quality and selection of content. I really enjoyed the versatility of being able to practice the concepts along with my dog or just sit and watch and still benefit from the experience.”

“I teach online and I was so impressed with everything that was available to use online and by how easy the conference website was to navigate! A+ from this teacher!”

“Each time I attend ClickerExpo (virtually or in-person), I am always impressed by the quality and thoughtfulness that goes into it. From the timing of breaks to the quality of slide shows, ClickerExpo is by far the best conference I've ever attended. It’s clear that a great deal of time, effort, and thought goes into making ClickerExpo a well-planned event that is an amazing experience for all who attend.”

“Phenomenal, mind-blowing. Should be a prerequisite for all dog trainers. Also a ton of fun! ”

“Fantastic mix of "super sciencey" lectures along with the live demos and Spotlight Labs. Getting to watch trainers coach others "live" and deal with the unexpected was a great thing to watch.”

“I love the live aspect of this conference. The speakers are very present, answer all questions, and are prepared. I also appreciate that they provide notes or slides prior to the presentation, which can be essential to people with a learning disability.”

“ClickerExpo outshines all other virtual conferences that I have attended—so much so that I have stopped attending many others.”

“ClickerExpo LIVE is a top-quality conference—great learning opportunities, at the leading edge of modern training, and excellent value for money. The knowledge I gain and the reinforcement I receive around my training and working with others is invaluable. The variety of sessions is wonderful, and I appreciate that they cover theory as well as practice. ”

“Never ceases to amaze me. The best virtual animal training conference out there! Very interactive and welcoming attendees and speakers. Easy-to-navigate platform.”

2021

“I loved it so much! So much warmth, caring, and empathy solidified everything we do as positive reinforcement trainers. I loved how everyone worked together so beautifully with teamwork and respect. I loved everyone's collaborative spirit. I cannot say enough positive things!”

“I loved the structure as well as the creativity of bringing in activities that really could only be done virtually. It was neat to see people in different places, dogs comfy in their own living rooms, and faculty interacting with their own animals.”

“ClickerExpo LIVE met and beat my expectations. Speakers were wonderful. Loved watching the teams work their dogs. The platform was easy to use.”

“I was so impressed with how the speakers were able to adapt to delivering their sessions virtually. I think it allowed for them to explore their capabilities and step out of their comfort zones to try something new. All of the sessions that I attended were informative and delivered learning that can be applied to my own training. I'm still amazed how well this whole weekend went and how much I was able to learn.”

“I've attended several online training conferences and by far this exceeded my expectations. I was very surprised by the amount of engagement and interaction there was, along with the opportunity to network virtually. Well done!”

“The caliber of instructor knowledge, credentials, and experience that I can access always amazes me. How smoothly it all ran was impressive, and even my dodgy internet connection did fine. Input on chat from attendees around the world made me feel WAY more connected and part of a community than I would have ever imagined. As always, it's stressful to try to choose between so many great classes, but knowing I have access to all of video recordings makes that endurable. I was just blown away by how much I felt like part of it all as I sat in front of my laptop alone in my house. Loved packing my brain with new ideas and knowledge. I found myself laughing out loud and, yes, shedding tears. AWESOME.”

“I was totally blown away by the ClickerExpo conference! All aspects of it were engaging, inspiring, and fun!”

“Watching all of the animals around the nation was amazing!! Calling my dog into the room to try a new training technique was also amazing.”

“I am not sure if "wow!" Is a strong enough word to describe the emotion I felt. Absolutely mind-blowing.”

“It was great. It really felt like a conference and not just a bunch of webinars. The mix of talk types worked really well... I loved the creative solutions. Dem-OH! was excellent, getting to see real-time coaching.”

2020

“Hands down, the best conference offered for professional trainers and behavior consultants. The line-up of presenters was amazing.”

“I love ClickerExpo! This is my third one and it lived up to my high expectations. I always leave ClickerExpo feeling re- energized, positive and with new training ideas.”

“Loved it! Well organized, superb line-up of speakers, and loads of fun.”

“I always come away from ClickerExpo with new ideas. It also helps me to continue to be creative with my own ideas about approaches to training.”

“This was my 5th ClickerExpo and it never gets stale! ClickerExpo is the standard by which all other conferences are measured.”

2019

“I can’t believe I’ve never been before! It was truly one of the best training/behavior events I’ve ever attended. It was so well organized and run. I loved every Session and Lab. I only wish I could have attended more!”

“Great opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, learn what's new in training and become inspired to add more to your training programs. It's a safe place to be a newbie when learning. A non-judgmental environment is promoted.”

“Such a great learning experience whether you are a trainer, pet parent, vet/vet tech, or other animal-related profession. There is something for everyone no matter your skill level or profession.”

“I'm a pet owner, not a professional trainer, and wasn't quite sure if this was 'for me.' I figured that, if nothing else, it would be a fun 'mother & son' trip for me and my dog. And it was that, but also so much more! I learned so much. All of the speakers were just amazing, so incredibly knowledgeable and inspiring and encouraging and engaging. I wish I was 30 years younger and could start over and study animal behavior.”

“It's the best bang for your buck around. ClickerExpo provides the substance, the solid, useful knowledge and techniques, that we can take home and put into use immediately. It inspires us to WANT to dive in and do it. It's the best of both worlds.”

“It's so diverse, and so encouraging. I sat at a table with people who train dolphins, horses, and service dogs, and with two pet owners doing agility, yet we could ALL relate and take something away from the discussion. This is the overall theme of ClickerExpo in my book, and it's simply invaluable!”

“I have been to many many academic conferences. This was by far the best.”

“One of my favorite aspects of this event was that the science behind why this training works was discussed in great detail.”

“It's the best learning experience I've ever had.”

“I knew it would be good, but didn’t expect HOW good. The learning environment is unique, truly positive, inspiring, and so rich with information WITHOUT being boring or heavy. It was also life-changing to see speakers and fellow attendees whose experience level, accomplishments, skill, and connections I honestly worship, be so humble and regular people just like me…”

2018

“I love ClickerExpo and I try my best to attend every year. I leave rejuvenated, refreshed, and excited to get back home and get to work—tweaking my training plans after bringing home new information. I always learn something new, even after attending my 5th Expo. I never go home unsatisfied.”

“The teachers gave me invaluable solutions for my dog training practice— solutions that would be beneficial for any trainer. There was such a wide range of topics; whether you are a young or more mature trainer, there is a great opportunity for learning.”

“There really is nothing like ClickerExpo. It is such a beautiful, positive, thoughtful, kind place to learn and grow. I always leave inspired.”

“Before ClickerExpo, I had attempted to train a few animals but my confidence was very low. I felt confused and untrained myself! ClickerExpo was exactly what I needed. Three days of immersive, intelligent discussion with experts and peers. Reading concepts on paper is one thing, but hearing experts explain the concept in a way that really hits home? Completely priceless. I relished the ability to ask questions and try out mechanics in a safe space to ’try before you buy’ with a multitude of tools. I learned more than I ever expected. Beyond that, I fell completely in love with the study of animal behavior. I found a supportive and enthusiastic community that feels like home. When was the last time three days changed YOUR life?! Amazing. I will be back.”

Amazing experience! Such talented, knowledgeable speakers who were able to share their information so eloquently. I was able to geek out by delving deeper into topics I am well versed in and also was able to take on new concepts in formats that made the information incredibly accessible.

"So impressed with the breadth of knowledge and the varying levels of seminars offered. Everything from fun and fairly simple concepts to complex, academic lectures and Labs. I only wish I could have attended more of them! Some of the time blocks had multiple Sessions that I wanted to attend. It was hard to choose!"

"Truly, every speaker I was able to hear and every presentation I attended held a lot of value. The biggest advantage I get from ClickerExpo, though, is the renewal of interest and commitment to learning. I find myself a bit stagnant right about the end of the year, so Expo is a fantastic way to revive my love of training."

"Really blown away by the wide variety of topics and the accessibility and openness of the trainers. It was an open forum, not 'this is our way and it's the only way.' [Expo] was an exchange of ideas and [it] opened people’s eyes to the possibilities of all that can be accomplished."

"I loved the experience! The lectures and Labs were so informative, and everyone was so welcoming."

"Everyone was so friendly and welcoming. The energy was palpable as soon as you hit registration!"

"The best 3 days I spend all year. Such amazing talks, amazing faculty, amazing access to faculty for questions and conversations. A well-planned and well-staffed event."

2017

"Very applicable, and inspiring. I learned new ideas and had my understanding of old ideas revolutionized. I feel like the content is cutting edge and pushing the boundaries of training. The community is loving and supportive... I came away energized!"

"When it comes to dog training conferences, it's the best one. The caliber of speakers alone is reason enough, but I especially appreciate the overall non-judgemental attitude the staff takes towards trainers who may not be fully crossed over or involved in clicker training yet."

"Inspiring, validating, well-organized, comprehensive, and a great balance of topics, levels, sessions and labs."

What I learn is invaluable, as are the experiences I have with other conference goers and the presenters. Just being in that environment felt healing and inspiring.

"Regardless of level of knowledge and experience, there is always something new to learn. Even taking fundamental level classes can encourage a person to reconsider how and why training is done a certain way. I came away excited to try new techniques and understanding new ways to train cleaner and more effective."

"I am new to clicker training as well as this community, and WOW. I am blown away, I feel apart of something truly spectacular and after this weekend I just want to run with the wind."

"Love learning new things and reviewing concepts I am already using or am aware of. Great networking with other like minded individuals. I leave feeling more confident in my own skills as well as being challenged to improve my skills as a trainer."

2016

“Expo has amazing information for everyone, whether they are an everyday pet owner, a trainer trying to cross over to more up-to-date methods, or a die-hard clicker trainer or behavior specialist who wants to continue learning (because there is always something new to learn!).”

“Sessions had such a wide range—from basic to advanced. There is something for everyone. The environment (people energy) was also the nicest I have been in for a conference.”

“ClickerExpo was amazing! What a great group of people! I’m left overwhelmed and will be integrating all the new information. Thank you!”

“I would recommend ClickerExpo to anyone interested in learning about clicker training or expanding his or her knowledge about animal behavior. Not only are the speakers brilliant, but the attendees are so welcoming and really make you feel like you are part of a great community.”

“It’s a wonderful opportunity to get a crash-course in science-based positive training. It’s also a great opportunity for advanced trainers to be reminded of what it was like when certain concepts weren’t obvious to us. I feel rejuvenated as a trainer, and can’t wait to get home to my animals and clients to apply what I learned.”

“This is an amazing opportunity to learn from the best in the business in their particular field of expertise. It is also a great opportunity to see old friends and meet new ones.”

“I value ClickerExpo for the quality of information, the atmosphere, and the energy. I think anyone who works with animals can benefit from it. I recommend Expo to all of my trainer friends and serious clients. I brought a newbie with me this year and she loved it!”

“The camaraderie was breathtaking. I never spent more than 5 minutes alone because new people would approach me and talk with me. I met so many wonderful people, and gained many new friends. ClickerExpo really emphasized that we can all learn something from each other."

“The quality and quantity of information presented in one place is unbeatable. You can’t help but become a better animal trainer.”

“The educational process and the gathering of some of the most amazing trainers in the country make Expo worth attending, of course, but the community of like-minded people is rejuvenating and encouraging. When we are isolated by the small number of R+ trainers in different areas of the country, it can be difficult to find the positive and not feel discouraged. ClickerExpo is like a shot of courage to carry on, continue with the message. It makes it feel like there is a growing community that can support one another.”

2015

".. a lovely, warm, supportive atmosphere where everyone was very respectful of one another's space and dogs, and there were lots of folks willing to help you when you needed it. So just that overall experience of being able to bring my dog and enjoy interacting with her in such a supportive, safe environment with like-minded folks was really the clincher for me."

"The speakers are brilliant, dynamic and keep me engaged and wanting more. I also love the camaraderie, being around so many like-minded people. And this year I caught up with friends I haven't seen in three years. An all around warm-hearted weekend."

"This was an extremely well run event with exceptional speakers and topics and an atmosphere of sharing and creativity that is unrivaled with any other professional conference I have been. I definitely plan to get back out as often as I can."

"Amazing organization! Everything was where it was, when it was supposed to be. Juggling so many simultaneous events is no small task, and yet you made it look easy - and with smiles! The one little snafu encountered (not getting both meal tickets for myself and my roommate) was handled with aplomb and a cooperative spirit. I had no doubts that it would be resolved, and it was."

"LOVE it. It keeps me motivated and gives me new insight to the research that is happening now and in the future. It is rewarding to see the techniques that are used by so many of the talented presenters work with anyone who tries it."

"I did not think I would like Clicker Training at all. I had tried using a clicker a few times, and it was awful, (my fault entirely) :). I learned so much and have changed my mind, now I am home practicing."

2014

"I absolutely loved the choice of speakers. When there are hard choices to make over which session or lab to attend, you know it's a good conference. I thought the location was superb!"

"It is a really great way to learn more and practice what I learn. I always enjoy meeting other trainers and seeing all the different dogs."

"Amazing! Everybody is so friendly and open-minded, all the sessions were just perfect and so practically orient! And the overall atmosphere is gorgeous!"

2013

"ClickerExpo was AMAZING! It was so fun being around so many positive people at once. I learned more than my brain could handle in one weekend and was so excited to get home and put everything I learned into practice. Everything flowed smoothly, meals were great, staff was very friendly and helpful, just all around awesome!"

"This is my third expo and I'm also a KPA-CTP. You would think I've seen it all by now. Not so! I give Stamford a Wow! precisely because there was new information, new concepts -- all expertly delivered, of course. Also a Wow! because the staff, volunteers and the sponsors all continued to be knowledgeable and helpful. What a group!"

"I really enjoyed ClickerExpo. It was a fantastic opportunity to explore interesting topics, hear wonderful presenters, and meet many people that I had only encountered "virtually" up until now."

"Now that I have a better understanding of ClickerExpo and have gotten much better at my use of the clicker and concepts, I really got alot out of this Expo. The trainers were wonderful and the hotel staff was great too. Really great experience at this one."

"The program seemed really together this year, and people asked really good questions. Everyone was friendly and seemed exceptionally outgoing."

"WOW All of the sessions I attended were great! There was too much to choose from and would have liked to be able to clone myself."

2012

"I am a person who really likes theory: I want to know WHY something works rather than just learning techniques by rote. I know that if I understand the learning theory principles, I'll be able to solve problems independently in unique ways suited to the particular situation. So, Clicker Expo was great for me!"

"Wish it was longer so I could sample each of the speakers at least once (and my favorites more than once!) Wish my brain could hold onto more information! Wish I could spend a month studying with each speaker! (When I win the lottery, I'll spend a year traveling to attend each speaker's seminars/training!)"

"I felt there was an atmosphere of openness and inclusion that was stronger than in previous expos I have attended - perhaps reflecting a maturing in philosophy, organizational growth, listening to the membership, etc. That was inspiring!"

2011

"The caliber of the presenters and even the attendees is clearly the best in the world! I also LOVED bringing my dog TD. TD got so many compliments on his cute looks...it made dad's head so big! The dogs at the event are a real high point. I was also impressed at how nice and affordable the hotel was."

"ClickerExpo was everything that my friend, who encouraged me to attend, said that it was and more. Wonderful experience, especially for my first expo. Excellent group of attendees, including the dogs, who wanted to increase their knowledge and network with other people who believe in positive training for animals (nice positive vibe all weekend!)."

" ...I was very impressed and wanted to take time to let you know why. It was a real growing experience in an atmosphere that made it possible to absorb some very useful and meaningful information. The ideas presented will benefit both me and my dog in ways I can't even imagine!"

"I was impressed with the learning sessions. The speakers/teachers I heard were expert professionals with good examples/videos to illustrate the information. The 2 lab sessions I attended with my dog were well organized and I had a chance to practice the timing of my clicks and some training techniques: luring, shaping. The instructor in my lab was kind and supportive but I was somewhat overwhelmed because I am a novice. The lab I attended w/o my dog was also helpful because I was able to observe some techniques on delivering effective cues in training."

"Staff was well prepared, everything seemed to flow seamlessly. The tech support was awesome - there were only a couple of tiny glitches and those were handled immediately. The hotel layout was easy to navigate and the pet area was lovely. Hotel staff was friendly and helpful."

2010

"It's a bargain. Where else can you listen to a dozen different trainers? Ordinarily I'd easily pay more than $20-30 for a listening/audit seat for one trainer -- and you bring all of them to the same place and give me choices of 3 talks + 2 labs several times a day for 3 days. Awesome deal!"

"The best qualified trainers, great information, great people, a lot of talent and knowledge in one place!"

"ClickerExpo is a one of a kind event that all trainers & enthusiasts should attend at least once."

2009

"I was thrilled! Click and Jackpot to YOU!! Honestly, I came away with so much insight. The presenters were friendly and generous. The attendees were really balanced, wonderful people who seemed to always be ready to share creative solutions, be helpful if someone needed a hand and I never sensed a condescending air when a more experienced trainer was assisting a beginner. As I drove home, I was trying to determine why this experience was delightfully different than other conferences I have attended. And then it dawned on me...not only was I enjoying myself, I hadn't heard ANY complaints from others...no griping, human barking, nobody muttering negativity under their breath! Bravo to Karen, Aaron and all of the production team responsible for putting together this Clicker Expo....a tremendous success!"

2008

"It's amazing to have so many expert trainers in the top of their respective areas in one conference AND it's wonderful that the integration together is so seamless (many lectures mentioned/referenced other lectures and faculty). I only wish I could've been in two places at one time to see more sessions! Also, it was great that all of the faculty were so open to questions even outside of the sessions—such a great 'dream team' of friendly trainers!"