Boston and Newton were rescued late Wednesday evening from the side of the road. They had been abandoned and were taken right to the vet. Once we were able to get them on the road to recovery (within 24 hours) the clicker training began!

Already these two 8 week old puppies have mastered the cues for “sit” and “touch.” Touch can be used to build many other behaviors including a good “recall” (which they are doing really well at, too!-not shown in video).

The pups are learning name recognition and in this video Newton has started working on “paw!”

Many people ask if clicker training will work with puppies. Two days ago while driving down the road we rescued these two little guys that had been dumped on the side of the street.

Here they are learning to “sit” after just a few sessions of clicker training.

Flaco is a sweet, male pup (neutered this week and up to date on vaccines) who is in the ARF system and seeking his forever family. He was rescued from the streets and is a shy fellow and nervous.

Terrie of PAW (Positive Animal Wellness) is working with him on developing confidence and sociability. Via clicker training first steps are introducing Flaco to the sound that the clicker makes and helping him to make the association that “click” = “good things” (this case in the form of tiny bits of hot dog).

Slowly Flaco emerged and came closer.

The next phase involved giving Flaco the choice to touch his nose to Terrie’s hand to sniff the treat that was inside. Upon doing this he earned a “click” and a “treat” (the piece of hot dog).

As Flaco grew more comfortable he also earned clicks and treats for allowing Terrie to touch and pet him. Eventually he rolled onto his side and even let her rub his belly. This is all good progress for a first time session!

If you are interested in adopting Flaco, please contact ARF at www.arf.org.