Suzanne Clother – Understanding the Stimulus Gradient: Distance, Duration, & Intensity
Date: Thursday, July 9, 2020
Time: 3pm Pacific Time (Click here for time at FDSA (Pacific Time).
Fee: $19.95 – Registration required PRIOR to scheduled presentation time.
For the positive reinforcement trainer, a constant goal in any training session is to avoid pushing the dog over the threshold into being overwhelmed, frightened, reactive or activated. But how much is too much? or not enough? When do you move on the next step? What to do if you go too far? Understanding the stimulus gradient provides the answers.
The stimulus gradient is the trainer’s “mixing board.” Every training situation incorporates these three ingredients in varying proportions. Skillful training requires an understanding of how to adjust the individual ingredients, as well as knowing how distance, duration and intensity interact.
The stimulus gradient is key to:
- Creating appropriate “thin slices”
- Identifying clear criteria for progressions
- Effectively using distractions
- Successful counter-conditioning
- Helping reactive dogs
- Troubleshooting training issues
This webinar focuses on practical application of the stimulus gradient, including:
- Using distance
- Natural blocks & openings for duration control
- Controlling intensity
Whether your goals are high level performance or helping a first time pet owner, knowing how to play the trainer’s mixing board will take your training to a new level.
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