#136 - Try It: New Cue, Same Trick (and Why It Matters)

Enrichment for the Real World

What if you could teach your pet not just one way to understand a cue, but multiple ways — or even help them notice their own body as a signal? That’s the magic of cue transfers, and in this episode, Emily breaks down how to do it step by step.

From teaching a reliable sit with both verbal and hand cues, to empowering your pet to recognize when they need a safe space, cue transfers can make life easier, communication clearer, and your pet’s agency stronger. You’ll also learn common mistakes to avoid so you can set your learner up for success from the start.

TLDL (too long, didn’t listen): 3 Key Takeaways

1️⃣ Start with fluency. Make sure your learner really knows the behavior with one cue before you try to add another.

2️⃣ New cue first, old cue second. The new signal should predict the old one to create a strong, clear association.

3️⃣ Empower with environment & body cues. Cue transfers can help pets learn to self-regulate or respond to environmental triggers without needing you to step in.

For the full episode show notes, including the resources mentioned in this episode, go here.