In our facility/therapy work I am constantly looking for ways to can get my dog closer to our students, because I know that closeness time and time again will pay off in independence for the child. The better I can facilitate that close relationship/position between the dog and child, the more the child seems to accomplish. This means I need to know how to get the dog to perform a behavior in the most efficient manner. In addition, it is important that the dog enjoys what he is doing. As we all know, it isn't much fun being around a person or dog who is doing something because they have too.
Enter Clicker Training! I am awed at how much fun clicker training is for both my dog and I and how quickly we can get a useful behavior for a special child. However, I have struggled. Clicker training has called for me to make a mind shift-one where I ask what do I want the dog to do rather than what don't I want him to do. I have taken classes and read books but until now haven't found a really good daily resource.
Enter Quick Clicks! This book is SUPERIOR! I highly recommend it for beginners and for those of us who are "in process" clicker training. I even think seasoned clicker trainers would find this book valuable.
The organization of the book is probably its number one value. The authors have made it easy to use and find things. One of the important lessons I've learned in clicker training is the need to break down a behavior into small little steps. This book does a wonderful job of breaking down the 40 behaviors into simple, bite-sized steps. All I have to do is follow along. This not only saves brain time but aides in that shift in thinking that needs to occur-what do I want my dog to do. Another plus is the Index of Behaviors which gives a description of the behavior and points to the Chapter where it is outlined enabling me to find a behavior quickly. Included as well is a great list of websites, supplies and recommended reading.
The 40 behaviors presented include clicker fundamentals, basic obedience, tricks, games and even some exercises that make it easier to clip toenails and visit the vet, for example. I consider all the behaviors of value and worth to us as a working facility/therapy dog team.
And, the best part-No Jargon-just clear, forthright, everyday language!
Editors of The Healing Paw
A newsletter for everyone interested in using trained dogs to enhance the therapeutic and rehabilitation process