Peggy Hogan: Teaching Horses with Clarity, Kindness & Clickers [Episode 251]

In this episode of the Animal Training Academy podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Peggy Hogan, an esteemed positive reinforcement trainer known for her groundbreaking work with horses. Peggy’s journey into animal training began at a young age, fueled by a deep love for horses and a natural curiosity about communication between humans and animals. Over the years, she explored various training methodologies before fully embracing clicker training—an approach that prioritizes choice, consent, and clear communication.

Throughout this engaging conversation, Peggy shares her evolution from traditional training techniques to a force-free, consent-based approach that empowers horses to actively participate in their learning. She delves into the importance of shaping, capturing, luring, and targeting—techniques that allow horses to offer behaviors willingly, without pressure. We also explore her work with miniature horses, the development of start buttons and consent signals, and how positive reinforcement is transforming the equestrian world.

What You’ll Discover in This Episode:

🐎 Peggy’s early experiences with both horses and dogs and how they shaped her training philosophy. 🐎 The transition from Natural Horsemanship to clicker training and why she made the switch. 🐎 How shaping, capturing, and targeting create more engaged and willing equine learners. 🐎 The power of consent-based training, including start buttons and requested behaviors. 🐎 Real-life examples of how positive reinforcement has helped rescue horses and improved their welfare.

Why This Episode is a Must-Listen:

Peggy’s passion, expertise, and innovative approach to training offer valuable insights for anyone working with horses—or any species—who wants to build a relationship based on trust, choice, and communication. Whether you’re an experienced trainer or just beginning your journey with positive reinforcement, this conversation is filled with inspiring takeaways.

Engage With Us:

Subscribe to the podcast, share this episode with fellow trainers and equine enthusiasts, and join our growing community as we continue to explore science-based, ethical training practices.

Links:

• Peggy's website: https://www.clickertraininghorses.com/
• Peggy's online coaching: https://clickertraininghorses.com/store/index.php?route=product/category&path=59
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ClickerTrainingHorses/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clickertraininghorses/
• The Git Up R+ Challenge: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IKrLsOHnEeg 
• ATA 30 day $1 trial membership >>> https://atamember.com/thirty-day-trial/