Operant Conidtioning is the science of behavior that explains the functional relationship between environmental events and behavior.  Simply put, all living organisms (including humans) learn through trial and error that there are consequences for their actions.  These consequences either strengthens or weakens behaviors, and makes them more or less likely to reoccur in the future.

Classical Conditioning is also known as Respondant Conditioning or Pavlovian Conditioning, and is part of Operant Conidtioning.  Classical Conditioning is related to relfexes and bodily responses to neutral and unconditioned stimuli.  Most of the time this takes place with the presence of food.  As in Pavlov's experiment, the bell alone did not mean anything to the dogs--it was an unconditioned stimuli.  Paired a number of times with food, the bell took on the properties of a conditioned stimuli, meaning the dogs would start to salivate as an unconditioned response.  When the dogs heard the bell, after some repititions, they were conditioned that food was on its way and would begin to salivate.  The important thing t remember about Classical Conditioning is that it involves reflexes and bodily responses, things you have no control over.  If someone were to have a puff of air blown into their eye, it would be impossible for them not to blink.  No matter how hard you try to control this sort of reflex, you simply cannot.

No.  The StarMark Clicker and treats can be weaned away using a variable reinforcement schedule once your dog has learned the exercise.  Pull them out again when you want to teach your dog something new.  To help wean your dog away from treats, check out the Click and Play.  The Click and Play is a patenet pending design that combines a clicker and toy in one product.  Like the StarMark Clicker, it works on the principles of Operant and Classical Conditioning, but allows you to reward with food or interactive play.

Food is known as a primary reinforcer, meaning your dog cannot survive without food.  Try to find a treat that is very appealing to your dog.  If he still seems uninterested, offer him some of his regularly scheduled meal portion during training sessions.  Do not train your dog after a big meal.  If your dog prefers play to treats, check out the Click and Play, a patenet pending design that combines a clicker and toy in one product.

The StarMark Clicker was designed with ergonomics in mind.  It has been our experience working with thousands of clients that traditional clickers can be bulky and uncomfortable.  The user friendly StarMark Clicker feels comfortable wherever you hold it and is made from a lightweight and durable material.

Have you experienced missed clicks while training because you accidentally pressed the wrong end of a box clicker?  With the StarMark Clicker, there are no more missed clicks.  The raised button is easy to find and press, even if you are wearing gloves or have long fingernails.  The stainless steel clicker element will not rust.  Plus, the StarMark Clicker has a built in lanyard attachment. 

All members of your family, including your dog, need basic education.  Training is communication.  It has been proven that a trained dog is a happier, safer dog that can be allowed more freedom and interaction with you and others.  Foster effective communication by educating your dog to be a well-mannered Canine Good Citizen.  the use of obedience exercises in everyday situations will strengthen the bond between you and your dog and can help prevent, solve, and manage many problems.  For example, if your dog tends to get restless in new situations, use an obedience command such as sit to clearly communicate to your dog what his job is at that moment.  Clear leadership through obedience and education benefits dogs of any size, age, or temperament.

Training progress varies from dog to dog, no matter what method you choose to use.  Each dog is an individual and some will excel while others may take a little longer.  Patience and consistency is the key.  Make sure training remains a fun activity for you and your dog and you will enjoy the progress along the way.

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The Click and Play is made from a special non-toxic material, however it is not designed to be a chew toy.  The Click and Play was designed for fun interaction between the pet owner and dog.  Do not leave your dog unsupervised with the Click and Play.  As with any toy or bone it could be a potential choking hazard for your dog if small pieces a chewed off.

The Click and Play was specifically designed to be easy to hold by all sizes of dogs.  Larger dogs typically grab the rounded head, while smaller dogs grab it by a leg or around the waist.

Some dogs have more desire to play and to retrieve toys than others.  However, most dogs find the shape and texture of the Click and Playvery appealing.  Try using food when you first introduce the Click and Play to your dog.  Teach him that every time he hears the click, a food treat is to follow.  This will help peak your dog's interest.  Once your dog is eagerly awaiting a food treat, replace the treat with allowing him to play with the Click and Play.  Do not allow free access to the Click and Play--try to make training and play sessions a special time you and your dog share together.

Under normal circumstances, the clicker will not come out during play sessions.  We recommend the Click and Play to be used only under supervision by you. 

Part of the unique design of the Click and Play is its ability to float.  We recognize that many dogs love to retrieve toys in the water, so go ahead and have a great time!

The imbedded clicker is inset a specified distance so that your dog will not accidentally click it during play.

Proper fit is essential for the StarMark Collar to work properly.  Before fitting the StarMark Collar on your dog, prctice taking the collar apart by unsnapping and snapping the links together.  You may snap and unsnap the collar at any link.  Additional links (Add-A-Link) may be purchased separately, which allows the StarMark Collar to be used on any size dog.

To unfasten the collar, use your thum and forefinger to angle the links so the points are near touching each other.  Unsnap in a firm left-to-right rocking motion.  To fasten the collar, angle the links so the points are near touching each other.  Snap them together using a firm left-to-right rocking motion.

To fit the StarMark Collar to your dog, unfasten the collar and approach your dog.  Angle the links so the links are near touching each other and then snap them together around your dog's neck using a firm left-to-right rocking motion.  Ensure that both hooks are set firmly on the bars.  The collar should fit snug and high around your dog's neck.  This is especially important for long-haired dogs.  Add or remove links as needed to ensure a proper fit.  If your collar is too loose, it may not be as effective, and you risk the collar gettting caught up on something, twisting, or popping off the dog.  Position the collar so the cord rests at the top of your dog's neck.  Attach the leash to the o-ring swivel.

To remove the StarMark Collar, have your dog sit, and then unsnap the collar at any link.  Angel the links so they are near touching each other and unsnap  unsing a firm left-to-right rocking motion.  Do not attempt to slip the collar over your dog's head.

This varies from dog to dog.  Make sure your dog has had enough time to get used to the StarMark Collar before you use any "pops."  you only need enough of a "pop" to encourage, discourage, or change a particular behavior in your dog.  The environment can play a big role in the strength of your "pop."  If your dog is overly stimulated by a lot of distractions, he may need a stronger "pop" than if you are enjoying a quiet training session in a distraction -free location.  your dog should not vocalize, panic, or show a fearful response when using the StarMark Collar.

The StarMark Collar was designed with nature in mind.  A mother will "correct" an out of line puppy in her litter by putting pressure on the nape of the puppy's neck.  When used correctly, the StarMark Collar gives your dog a similar sensation that is very natural and easily understood by your dog.  The StarMark Collar is a safe, humane way to help aid you and your dog in the training and communication process.  It is the perfect alternative to more aversive training collars.

Rubber toys are not typically used for training purposes.  While rubber toys are durable, they are used more as a chew or retrieval toy.  The Click & Play aids in training and provides a fun reward for your dog.  It is not meant as a chew toy or for unsupervised use.

Think of the Click & Play as a ball and clicker in one.  Tennis ball materials do no typically last very long and can be a dangerous choking hazard to your dog if it breaks in two, or the fuzzy covering rips off.  The Click & Play is made of a unique durable synthetic material that withstands strong jaws.  The Click & Play is not intended as a chew toy. 

Since dogs tend to chew on the rope it can break easily, creating a possible choking hazard to your dog.  The Click & Play does not have pieces that will easily break or be chewed off.  With the Click & Play you can train or just have fun playing with your dog.  The Click & Play is not intended as a chew toy.

The box clicker can be uncomfortable and bulky in your hand, and you can sometimes miss a click due to mistakenly pushing the wrong side.  The StarMark Clicker is an ergonomic design that is comfortable in your hand, and the raised button on the clicker makes it easy to find and press at the right time.  In addition, the clicking element inside is made of stainless steel and will not rust.

Made of metal, the traditional pinch collar has a much more menacing look than the StarMark Collar.  The metal can rust, which can stain the hair on a light colored dog, or can rub the hair off the neck area.  The links can also bend, causing the collar to off your dog at an inappropriate time.  The StarMark Collar was designed not to bend out of shape and is made of a high strength polymer with links that fit together similarly to a watchband.  The StarMark Collar will not stain the coat, and offers a gentler correction than the metal version.

Choke chains are made of metal, which can rust and stain the coat, or rub off the hair from the neck area.  The choke chain focuses all of the correction to only one part of the neck, making it necessary to use more physical force for a correction.  This can cause bruising of the neck with constant pulling or harsh corrections.  The StarMark Collar is designed to provide equal pressure around the neck, so it requires a much lighter touch and eliminates the need for harsh corrections.  When put on incorrectly, a choke chain will not release properly, and if caught on something can act as a dangerous noose.  The StarMark Collar will release the moment slack is provided to the leash.

While flat collars are good for keeping tags on your dog, they are not recommended for training purposes.  Dogs will learn to pull against these types of collars, and many will not break free if they are caught on something.  The StarMark Collar has the benefits of a great-looking design while still functioning as an effective, gentle training collar.

With a head collar, your dog may not pay attention while not wearing it as they are primarily used simply as an aid in leash walking.  It is not as easy to train your dog to walk properly on leash with this type of collar as it is with the StarMark Collar.  Head collars can also rub the hair off the nose and muzzle area, and many dogs are more restricted in action with their use.  Since the StarMark Collar fits similar to a flat collar, your dog will be more comfortable while wearing it and learning with it.  While there is a benefit to some types of head collars, the StarMark Collar is easier to use and has more versatile applications.

There are several ways you can use the Everlasting interactive toys: Fill the inside with Every Flavor Treats, your dog's food, or any treats he enjoys; Increase the challenge by capping off one or two ends with Everlasting Treats.  The Everlasting Treats can be inserted upside down or even into the center cavity of the toys for the ultimate challenge.

Any treat or dog food can be used inside the Everlasting interactive toys.  Make dinner time more fun by filling the Everlasting interactive toys with your dog's regular meal portion instead of feeding him out of a bowl!

All our Everlasting interactive toys are made from a non-toxic, medical grade and food grade material that is completely safe for your dog.  The material is man-made and contains no latex.

The Everlasting interactive toys are dishwasher safe for easy clean up.  A bottle brush and warm water also works well.

Every Flavor Treats are scored in the center, so they easily break in half.  This will make them fall out of the toy openings much more easily.  You can also trim the small "fingers" of the holes, making the hole size larger so the food falls out more easily.

Since the outside of the Everlasting interactive toys is textured, it can have a gripping effect, sometimes making it difficult to insert the Everlasting Treats.  Using water to slightly dampen the outer rim of the toy will help make the Everlasting Treats insert more easily.  You can also use the handle of a spoon to help guide the treat into the cavity.

The Everlasting Interactive Toys are made of a proprietary elastomer-type material that was specially formulated for StarMark to hold up to tough chewers.  The material is tear-resistant and allows the toys to stretch and be pulled without tearing.

Since the Everlasting Interactive Toys are made from a soft material, dogs tend to enjoy chewing on them more than a hard plastic toy.  You will never have to worry about sharp edges as a result of chewing on our interactive toys, and they won't harm your dog's teeth and gums.

The holes in the Everlasting Interactive Toys are large enough to enable you to fill them with your dog's favorite treats or food, while still be challenging for your dog to get the treats out.  Because of the "petals" around the holes, there is no need to use peanut butter or anything else to keep the inner treats from falling out, unless of course you want to.

The Everlasting Treats are edible, digestible, and safe for your dog to eat.  They contain only food-based ingredients and are without any plastics or polymers.  Our treats are formulated using a patented process.  By using this method, our treats are harder, wear down like a natural bone, and generally last longer than competitor's products. 

As with any chew treat, if your dog is able to break off larger chunks or treats, you may consider monitoring your dog for choking and obstruction hazards.  Chew pieces and treats smaller than your pet's mouth may be a choking hazard.  As with any treat, supervise your dog while chewing. 

The Everlasting Treats come in five delicious flavors: Chicken, Liver, Vanilla Mint, Barbeque, and Veggie Chicken.  The Veggie Chicken flavor contains no animal protein and is completely wheat free.  The remaining flavors contain chicken.

The Every Flavor Treats contain both chicken and beef.

The Everlasting Treats were designed to fit into the Everlasting interactive toys, but dogs also enjoy them alone as a healthy snack anytime.

While the Everlasting Treats are nutrionally balanced, they are not intended to replace your dog's regular meals.  As with any treats, always take into account how much you feed your dog throughout the day to prevent overeating and weight gain.  Always feed your dog a healthy balanced diet.

Everlasting Treats are made from all food based ingredients, without plastics or polymers, so they are edible, digestible, and safe for your dog.  They are made to be hard and grind down gradually, similar to a natural bone without crumbling or breaking apart.  Everlasting Treats contain real flavors derived from natural ingredients to give them an irresistible taste.

Every Flavor Treats are a soft-moist treat your dog can easily eat without the mess of crumbs.  They are scored in the center to easily break in half and make the perfect training treat for any size dog.  They are also the perfect size to fit inside any of the Everlasting Interactive Toys.

The Easy Gliders and Fantastic Foam Balls float in water for fetching fun at a lake, beach, pool, or anywhere else.

The Easy Gliders are intended as an interactive toy for you and your dog to enjoy together and is not recommended as a chew toy.

Since the Easy Gliders and Fantastic Foam Balls are made from a soft, foam-like material, they are comfortable for your dog to hold in his mouth and you don't have to worry about sharp edges forming from teeth marks.

Though the Easy Gliders are soft, the material is very durable and puncture resistant.  Dogs can sink their teeth into it and even pull against it without much more than surface damage.  With normal retrieval use, the Easy Gliders hold up better than plastic and fabric discs.  The Easy Gliders are not intended as chew toys and should not be left unattended with your dog.

Though the Fantastic Foam Ball is soft, the material is virtually indestructible.  Dogs can sink their teeth into it without more than surface damage.  Plus, the material is safe on your dog's teeth and does not grind them down.

The Easy Glider is made of a patented soft foam material that will not cut or scrape your dog's mouth during play.  Because of the soft material, the Easy Glider will not develop soft edges and tends to be longer lasting than fabric or plastic discs.  The patent pending aerodynamic design allows the Easy Glider to fly straight and level, even for inexperienced throwers.  This design also makes the disc fly slower, making it easy for your dog to catch it in the air. 

The Fantastic Foam Ball is made from solid patented foam without any fuzzy covering that your dog could rip apart and swallow.  The material is extremely durable, floats, bounces, and withstands the strongest jaws.

The FarFlung has a telescoping arm, so you can easily adjust the distance you throw the ball.  Extended completely, you can throw a ball up to 100 yards!  It's also easy to pick a ball up off the ground without bending over.