Components

TTouch combines an overarching philosophy,  observational skills, bodywork, leash skills, and equipment to help animals find physical, mental, and emotional balance, as a way of enhancing communication, cooperation, and harmony.

TTouch does not strictly fit into any traditional learning theory quadrant.  It does not use the escalation of pressure to create behaviour, nor does it rely solely on positive reinforcement, although it works well with Clicker training.

TTouch works to show animals what we want and make the steps as small and easy as possible to keep the learning process low-stress and logical.  This is what we refer to as “chunking down”.  This can be adapted to any exercise or request.  This avoids flooding, excessive pressure, or confusion from a lack of information.

One of the most versatile aspects about the Tellington TTouch Method is that it is not an “all or nothing approach”.

Our philosophy and attitude is just as meaningful as the specific approach and techniques.  Many people find that they can adapt their current program to include the mindfulness and respect that is paramount to the Tellington TTouch Method.  This can result in long lasting and effective results that builds your relationship with any animal you interact with.

The aim is not to just train an animal a specific cue for obedience, the aim is to help animals learn, and begin to have the self-control to act instead of simply re-acting to stimuli.

Building this self-confidence and self-control means that an animal can adapt and adjust to a variety of situations and settings, even if they have not specifically been exposed to them prior.

We do not use flooding, or encourage “learned helplessness” in animals.  The role of the handler is not to be the  alpha or dominant one, but rather enhance mutual trust and cooperation for a true partnership.