Clicker Magic: The Art of Clicker Training with Karen Pryor

Based on the standard training technique of positive reinforcement, this tape introduces the use of a clicker (included) for "applied operant conditioning" to educate dogs, cats, dolphins, and even fish. After Fido has performed a desired behavior--sat, for instance--his owner will snap a clicker and give Fido a treat; the combination of the sound/treat will let Fido know that he has "done the right thing." This type of training is not supposed to involve leashes or commands, but these things were used in many of the 24 "real" teaching sessions in the tape. Without oral commands, and in view of the many clicks going on--each one in praise of a different behavior--I don't see how the animal knows for which act it is being rewarded. I guess we can trust trainer Pryor that her system really does work, but her tape is so poorly produced it is honestly difficult to tell (this includes Pryor narrating in the background while training and speaking in the foreground). In view of the many other excellent videos available on this topic, such as The Pet School (VL-7/98), libraries can pass on this one. Aud: P. (K. Glaser)